The Fender CD‑60S has earned its reputation as one of the best entry‑level dreadnought acoustics on the market. Favoured by beginners and budget‑conscious players alike, the CD‑60S marries classic design with modern playability. In this review, we’ll delve into its design, construction, tone, playability, and overall value to help you decide if this Fender model is right for your musical journey.
Design and Construction
Classic Dreadnought Aesthetics
At first glance, the Fender CD‑60S stands out with its traditional dreadnought silhouette. This body shape has long been celebrated for its robust projection and balanced tonal response. Fender has maintained a clean, minimalistic look with subtle design touches that pay homage to its rich heritage without overwhelming the player with flashy details.
Quality Materials
One of the key features of the CD‑60S is its construction:
- Solid Spruce Top: Unlike some entry‑level models that rely solely on laminates, the CD‑60S features a solid spruce top. This choice contributes to a bright, clear, and articulate tone that belies its affordable price. The solid top allows the guitar to respond dynamically to your playing style, offering both warmth and clarity.
- Mahogany Back and Sides: While the back and sides are often made from laminate or alternative tonewoods in budget models, the CD‑60S uses mahogany (or laminated mahogany, depending on the market) to add depth and warmth to its sound. This combination helps create a balanced tone with punchy bass and crisp highs.
- Comfortable Neck and Fretboard: Fender has designed the neck to be slim and comfortable, ideal for beginners who are still developing finger strength. The smooth rosewood fretboard facilitates easy chord transitions and precise finger placement, reducing finger fatigue during long practice sessions.
The careful selection of materials and the thoughtful design ensure that the CD‑60S offers a solid platform for both practice and performance. Its construction is consistent with Fender’s reputation for quality, providing durability and reliability that can last through years of playing.
Sound Quality and Tone
Bright and Articulate Sound
The heart of any acoustic guitar is its tone. The Fender CD‑60S shines in this department due to its solid spruce top. When strummed, the guitar produces a bright, clear sound that is immediately appealing. The top’s responsiveness allows for dynamic playing, whether you’re gently fingerpicking or strumming hard for a full‑sounding rhythm.
Balanced Frequency Response
The dreadnought shape inherently supports a broad frequency range. In the CD‑60S, this translates to:
- Strong Bass: The large body helps generate a deep, resonant low end, perfect for rhythm playing and chord strumming.
- Clear Midrange: The midrange is well‑defined, ensuring that vocals and lead lines sit nicely in a mix.
- Sparkling Highs: The solid spruce top contributes to bright, articulate highs without becoming harsh.
These characteristics make the CD‑60S versatile enough for a range of musical genres, from folk and country to rock and pop. Whether you’re practicing at home, recording a demo, or performing live at an intimate venue, the guitar’s tone adapts well to different playing styles.
Playability and Comfort
Beginner‑Friendly Design
For beginners, comfort and ease of play are paramount. The Fender CD‑60S is engineered with this in mind:
- Ergonomic Neck Profile: The slim, contoured neck makes it easier for novices to form chords and navigate scales. This design reduces the effort required to press down the strings, allowing for extended playing sessions without discomfort.
- Optimal Action: Out of the box, the CD‑60S typically features a well‑set action (the height of the strings above the fretboard). This balance minimizes fret buzz while ensuring that the strings are not too high, which can be discouraging for new players.
- Intuitive Fretboard Layout: The rosewood fretboard is smooth and inviting, with clear marker inlays that assist with learning finger positions and chord shapes.
These features combine to create an instrument that not only sounds good but also feels great to play. The natural playability of the CD‑60S encourages consistent practice, which is essential for developing technique and building confidence as a guitarist.
Value for Money
Affordability Meets Quality
One of the biggest selling points of the Fender CD‑60S is its value proposition. Positioned as an entry‑level instrument, it is priced competitively without compromising on quality. Here’s why it offers excellent value for money:
- Solid Construction at a Low Price: Incorporating a solid spruce top into a budget guitar is not common, but Fender manages to do so without inflating the price. This ensures that beginners can access a guitar that offers dynamic sound and durability.
- Consistent Performance: The CD‑60S is known for its reliable playability right out of the box. Minimal setup adjustments mean that you can start playing immediately, reducing initial frustration for new players.
- Brand Reliability: Fender’s longstanding reputation in the music industry adds a layer of trust. When you invest in a Fender, you’re not just buying a guitar—you’re investing in a legacy of quality and innovation.
For those who are just starting their musical journey, the CD‑60S provides a robust, versatile platform that grows with the player. Its blend of affordability, quality construction, and excellent tone makes it a standout option among beginner acoustics.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent Tone for the Price: The solid spruce top delivers a bright, dynamic sound that outperforms many other guitars in the same price range.
- Beginner‑Friendly Playability: A slim neck, smooth fretboard, and well‑set action make the guitar easy to play and comfortable for extended practice.
- Classic Dreadnought Design: Its traditional body shape provides robust projection and a balanced tonal response, suitable for various musical styles.
- Reliable Build Quality: Fender’s attention to detail and quality control ensures a durable instrument that can withstand the rigours of daily practice.
- Great Value for Money: Combining quality materials and construction with an affordable price point, the CD‑60S is a smart investment for beginners.
Cons
- Laminated Back and Sides: While the solid spruce top is a major plus, the laminated mahogany back and sides may not deliver the same depth and resonance as fully solid wood construction.
- Basic Aesthetics: The minimalist design might not appeal to players seeking a more ornate or visually striking instrument.
- Limited Upgradability: As an entry‑level guitar, the CD‑60S might eventually prompt more advanced players to upgrade to a higher‑spec instrument as their skills improve.
- Action Adjustments May Be Needed: Although it generally comes well‑set, some units might require minor adjustments to optimize playability based on individual preference.
Real‑World User Feedback
Across various guitar forums, review sites, and YouTube demonstrations, the Fender CD‑60S has garnered praise for its balance between cost and performance. Many beginners and casual players commend its:
- Responsive Sound: Users appreciate the guitar’s ability to deliver a full‑bodied tone despite its entry‑level price.
- Ease of Play: Feedback often highlights the comfortable neck and low action as critical factors that keep new players motivated.
- Durability: Fender’s reputation for quality is reflected in the CD‑60S, with many reviews noting its robust construction and reliability over time.
The overall consensus in the guitar community is that while no instrument is perfect for every player, the CD‑60S consistently meets the needs of those entering the acoustic world.
Final Verdict
The Fender CD‑60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar stands out as an excellent choice for beginners and budget‑conscious musicians alike. It manages to balance affordability with a quality construction that delivers a dynamic, engaging sound. Its comfortable playability and classic design make it a reliable companion for practice, performance, and everyday playing.
If you’re new to acoustic guitar or are seeking an upgrade from a lower‑quality instrument, the CD‑60S offers a solid foundation. It provides the tonal richness and playability required to nurture your skills while ensuring that your investment is both sensible and enduring.
In summary, the Fender CD‑60S is a testament to Fender’s commitment to quality—even in the entry‑level market. For those who value a bright, articulate tone, a comfortable playing experience, and a durable instrument that won’t break the bank, the CD‑60S is a highly recommended option. Whether you’re strumming at home, recording demos, or performing at local gigs, this guitar is designed to support your musical journey every step of the way.
Conclusion
The Fender CD‑60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is more than just an entry‑level instrument—it’s a gateway into the world of acoustic music. With its solid spruce top, comfortable playability, and reliable construction, it provides beginners with the essential tools to learn and grow. Although it may have some limitations compared to higher‑end models, its exceptional value for money and classic design make it a smart choice for anyone looking to start their acoustic journey. With the CD‑60S in hand, you’re not only investing in a guitar; you’re investing in your future as a musician.