Fender is widely renowned for its innovative and reliable instruments, and its acoustic bass offerings are no exception. The Fender CB‑60SCE Acoustic Bass is designed to provide players with a versatile, portable bass experience that bridges the gap between acoustic intimacy and the convenience of plug‑in amplification. In this review, we’ll delve into the key features, design, tonal characteristics, playability, and overall value of the CB‑60SCE to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your musical journey.
Design and Construction
Striking Acoustic Bass Aesthetics
The Fender CB‑60SCE sports a classic acoustic bass design with a modern twist. Featuring a cutaway body, this model provides not only an appealing visual style but also practical access to the upper frets—ideal for lead bass lines and melodic passages. The body shape is engineered to project a warm, balanced tone while remaining comfortable for both seated and stand‑up playing.
Quality Materials and Build
Fender’s attention to detail is evident in the construction of the CB‑60SCE:
- Laminated Spruce Top: The top is crafted from laminated spruce, a choice that offers durability and a bright, articulate response. Although a solid top may yield more resonance, the laminated spruce helps keep the instrument affordable and resistant to fluctuations in humidity and temperature.
- Laminated Back and Sides: Typically paired with the spruce top, the back and sides are made from quality laminated tonewoods (often mahogany or nato). This construction method provides a warm, balanced sound while enhancing the instrument’s stability—an important consideration for a portable acoustic bass.
- Comfortable Neck and Fretboard: The neck is made from nato, known for its strength and stability, and is paired with a smooth rosewood (or walnut) fretboard. Fender has designed the neck with a slim profile and gently rolled edges, ensuring that chord transitions and fast runs are comfortable even for extended playing sessions.
Ergonomics and Portability
Acoustic basses are often required to be played in various settings—from home practice to small gigs and outdoor performances. The CB‑60SCE’s design emphasizes portability without compromising on sound. Its compact size and light weight make it easy to transport, while the cutaway design ensures that players have full access to the fretboard.
Integrated Electronics
Built‑in Preamp and Pickup System
One of the defining features of the CB‑60SCE is its integrated electronics. As an “SCE” model, it comes equipped with a built‑in pickup and preamp system that allows you to amplify your sound effortlessly:
- Versatile Amplification: The integrated system captures the natural acoustic tone of the bass and delivers a clear, balanced sound when plugged into an amplifier, PA system, or recording interface.
- Onboard Controls: User‑friendly controls on the body let you adjust volume and tone, ensuring that you can tailor your sound to different performance environments. While the system might not offer the extensive tonal shaping found in high‑end models, it provides everything a beginner or intermediate player needs.
- Plug‑and‑Play Convenience: Whether you’re performing live or recording in a studio, the built‑in preamp ensures that you can quickly and easily transition from an unplugged practice session to amplified performance without additional gear.
Tone and Sound Quality
Rich, Warm Acoustic Bass Tone
Tone is crucial for any bass, and the Fender CB‑60SCE delivers a sound that is both rich and balanced:
- Deep Low-End Response: The dreadnought‑inspired body helps generate a deep, resonant bass tone that anchors your sound. This robust low end is essential for keeping rhythm and providing a solid foundation in any musical arrangement.
- Clear Mids and Articulation: The laminated spruce top contributes to a clear, articulate midrange, allowing you to express melodic lines and articulate bass riffs with ease. The result is a well‑rounded tone that can complement both acoustic ensembles and full‑band settings.
- Dynamic and Responsive: The CB‑60SCE responds dynamically to your playing style. Whether you’re plucking softly for a subdued, intimate sound or strumming with force for a more pronounced attack, the bass maintains a consistent, natural tone that adapts to your touch.
Amplified Performance
When plugged in, the integrated electronics faithfully reproduce the instrument’s natural acoustic voice:
- Balanced Amplification: The built‑in preamp ensures that the amplified sound retains the warmth and depth of the unplugged tone, making it suitable for live performances and recording sessions.
- Customizable EQ: While not as extensive as high‑end systems, the onboard controls allow you to fine‑tune the bass’s tone to match the acoustics of your performance venue, ensuring that you always sound your best.
Playability and Comfort
Ergonomic Neck and User‑Friendly Setup
Playability is a key factor in any instrument’s success, and the CB‑60SCE excels in this area:
- Slim Neck Profile: The comfortable nato neck features a slim profile that makes it easy to navigate the fretboard. This is especially important for bass players who need to move quickly between chords and scales.
- Smooth Fretboard: The rosewood or walnut fretboard offers a smooth, polished surface that minimizes friction and makes extended playing sessions more enjoyable. Clear fret markers assist with learning and ensure that even beginners can easily locate notes.
- Optimal Action: Out‑of‑the‑box, the CB‑60SCE is set up with a low action, which reduces finger fatigue and enables precise intonation. This “ready‑to‑play” quality means you can start practicing immediately without extensive setup adjustments.
- Cutaway Benefit: The cutaway design not only enhances the bass’s aesthetic appeal but also provides easier access to the upper frets, making it versatile for both rhythm and lead playing.
Suitable for a Range of Players
The Fender CB‑60SCE is designed to be accessible for both beginners and intermediate players:
- Beginners: Its affordable price point, comfortable playability, and integrated electronics make it an excellent entry‑level acoustic bass for those just starting out.
- Experienced Players: For those who have progressed beyond the basics, the CB‑60SCE still offers a solid foundation for practice, gigging, and recording, making it a versatile tool in any musician’s arsenal.
Value for Money
Affordable Without Compromise
Fender has managed to deliver a versatile acoustic bass that offers modern features at an affordable price:
- Competitive Pricing: The CB‑60SCE is priced to appeal to budget‑conscious players without sacrificing quality. It provides a range of features typically found in higher‑priced instruments.
- Durable Construction: The use of laminated woods not only helps keep costs down but also enhances durability, making the bass resilient to changes in temperature and humidity—ideal for travel and frequent gigging.
- Versatile Application: Whether you’re practicing at home, recording in the studio, or performing live, the CB‑60SCE offers a dependable, adaptable sound that can grow with your skills.
- Trusted Fender Quality: Fender’s longstanding reputation for producing reliable instruments adds confidence that the CB‑60SCE will serve as a long‑term companion on your musical journey.
Long‑Term Investment
For players looking to develop their acoustic bass skills without a hefty financial investment, the Fender CB‑60SCE represents a smart, long‑term investment. Its balance of sound quality, playability, and durability ensures that it can serve both beginners and more experienced players for years to come.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Integrated Electronics: The built‑in preamp and pickup system allow for convenient plug‑and‑play use, making it suitable for both practice and live performance.
- Balanced Tone: The combination of a laminated spruce top with laminated back and sides delivers a rich, warm acoustic tone with clear articulation and deep bass.
- Ergonomic Design: A slim neck profile, smooth fretboard, and accessible cutaway ensure that the bass is comfortable to play, even for extended sessions.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for money, making it an ideal choice for beginners and budget‑conscious players.
- Durable Construction: Laminated woods enhance stability and durability, ensuring that the instrument can withstand daily use and environmental fluctuations.
Cons
- Laminated Construction Limitations: While durable, laminated woods may not provide the same tonal depth and resonance as fully solid wood instruments.
- Basic Aesthetic: The design is straightforward and understated, which may not appeal to players seeking a more visually ornate instrument.
- Entry‑Level Electronics: The integrated preamp, while functional, may lack the advanced tonal shaping options desired by more experienced players.
- Setup Variability: Some units may require minor adjustments to action or intonation to perfectly match personal playing preferences.
Final Verdict
The Fender CB‑60SCE Acoustic Bass offers an impressive blend of affordability, functionality, and versatility. Its classic dreadnought-inspired design with a cutaway provides a warm, balanced acoustic tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles. The integrated Fishman preamp and pickup system enhance its appeal by allowing you to plug in and amplify your sound without losing the instrument’s natural character.
Ideal for beginners and intermediate players alike, the CB‑60SCE is built to be both durable and easy to play. Its slim, ergonomic neck and smooth fretboard ensure that it’s comfortable to use for extended practice sessions and live performances. While it may not deliver the full tonal richness of a fully solid wood acoustic bass, its laminated construction offers increased stability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for everyday use.
In summary, if you’re looking for a budget‑friendly acoustic bass that provides a balanced tone, integrated electronics, and a comfortable playing experience, the Fender CB‑60SCE is a smart investment. It delivers on the promise of Fender’s quality at an accessible price point—ensuring that your musical journey has a solid, dependable foundation.
Conclusion
The Fender CB‑60SCE Acoustic Bass is an excellent option for those who want to explore the world of acoustic bass playing without breaking the bank. Its well‑balanced tone, user‑friendly electronics, and comfortable playability make it a versatile instrument that adapts to a variety of musical settings—whether you’re practicing at home, recording, or performing live. With Fender’s reputation for quality and durability behind it, the CB‑60SCE is a reliable choice that can grow with you as your skills develop. Happy playing, and may this bass inspire your musical creativity!