Squier Sonic Mustang MN 2TSB

Squier Sonic Mustang MN 2TSB review

The Squier Sonic Mustang MN 2TSB is an inexpensive, short-scale electric guitar with a straightforward layout: two ceramic single-coil pickups, a three-way toggle, and a fixed bridge. Its 610 mm scale length, equivalent to 24 inches, gives it a compact feel compared with a standard long-scale guitar. At a listed price of 148, it is aimed at beginners, casual players, and guitarists looking for an affordable instrument to modify.

Reviews describe the guitar as light, attractive, and enjoyable to play once it is properly set up. Experiences with the factory adjustment vary. Some owners received an instrument with good intonation and comfortable action, while others reported string buzz, tuning trouble, or a need to adjust the bridge and neck. That difference matters: the Mustang can be ready to play out of the box, but buyers should not assume every example will arrive perfectly adjusted.

Specifications and build

• Body: Poplar, in two-color sunburst
• Neck and fingerboard: Maple, with black dot inlays
• Scale length: 610 mm (24 inches)
• Fingerboard radius: 241 mm (9.5 inches)
• Nut width: 42 mm (1.650 inches)
• Frets: 22 narrow, tall frets
• Pickups: Two ceramic single coils
• Controls: Master volume, master tone, and three-way toggle
• Bridge: Six-saddle, string-through-body top-load hardtail with block saddles
• Included case: No

The maple neck is bolted to the body. Owners often praise its smooth feel and comfortable shape, and one review describes it as a C-shaped neck. The short scale can make fretting and string bends feel easier, particularly for newer players or anyone who prefers a compact instrument. Some owners changed the factory strings for heavier sets, such as 10, 46, to suit their preferred tension and feel.

The 22 frets receive generally positive comments. Several players found them well seated and free of sharp edges, though one reviewer recommended polishing them, and another reported fret ends that needed attention. Build quality appears good for the price, but individual instruments can still benefit from a close inspection.

Sound and playability

The two single-coil pickups give the Mustang a bright, clear sound. Owners describe the tone as detailed and lively, with useful clean and lightly overdriven sounds. One reviewer found the pickups more impressive and brighter than those in a less expensive guitar bought at the same time. Another felt the pickups were somewhat shrill, while a different owner considered them low in output. These impressions are not necessarily contradictory: the guitar's bright character may suit players who want definition, but may call for careful amplifier settings if they prefer a warmer tone.

The simple controls make it easy to move between the two pickups and adjust the overall volume and tone. Some players find the stock pickups versatile enough for everyday practice and general use. Others see the guitar as a good starting point for upgrades, including a different bridge pickup or replacement tuners. One owner installed a higher-output pickup in the bridge position for a thicker, heavier sound.

The fixed bridge has no tremolo. That keeps the setup uncomplicated and suits players who do not need a vibrato arm. The sealed tuning machines generally hold tuning, according to owners, although some report slack or imprecise adjustment. A few players corrected tuning and string buzz with minor setup work. Others changed the tuners, strings, or both. Reports of a volume control cutting out during play also suggest checking the electronics on arrival.

Setup and value

Factory setup is the main caveat. Reviews range from guitars that needed little more than tuning to instruments with problems in action, intonation, or tuning stability. Neck, bridge, and nut adjustment may be needed, and players unfamiliar with guitar setup may prefer help from a technician. The supplied instrument does not include a case or gig bag, so protection during storage and transport is an extra consideration.

At this price, the Squier Sonic Mustang MN 2TSB offers a compact scale, a comfortable maple neck, and a bright two-pickup sound. Its appearance also wins praise, with owners calling the sunburst finish attractive and the instrument notably light. The short scale will not suit everyone, and the basic hardware may invite future changes. Still, for a beginner or a player seeking an affordable platform for experimentation, it is a convincing option, provided the setup is checked rather than taken for granted.