Fender has long been synonymous with quality, and its acoustic lineup is no exception. The Fender CD‑60SCE is the acoustic‑electric version of the popular CD‑60S series. Offering classic dreadnought aesthetics with modern enhancements, the CD‑60SCE aims to deliver great acoustic tone along with the versatility of built‑in electronics. In this review, we’ll explore the design, construction, tone, electronics, playability, and overall value of the CD‑60SCE, helping you decide whether it’s the right instrument to kickstart or elevate your musical journey.
Design and Construction
Classic Dreadnought with a Modern Twist
The Fender CD‑60SCE retains the time‑honoured dreadnought body shape—a design celebrated for its robust projection and balanced tonal response. What sets the “CE” (Cutaway Electro) model apart is its cutaway design, which not only enhances the guitar’s visual appeal but also provides easier access to higher frets. This makes the CD‑60SCE an attractive option for players who want the traditional dreadnought sound while enjoying the flexibility required for more advanced playing techniques.
Quality Materials and Build
Fender has made thoughtful material choices in the CD‑60SCE:
- Solid Spruce Top: The use of a solid spruce top is a significant advantage. It allows the guitar to produce a bright, articulate sound with dynamic responsiveness. This solid top, even in an entry‑level instrument, offers a richer tone compared to fully laminated alternatives.
- Mahogany Back and Sides: The back and sides, often crafted from mahogany (or quality laminates thereof), contribute warmth and depth to the guitar’s overall tonal character. While some higher‑end models use fully solid wood throughout, Fender balances cost and performance here to maintain affordability without sacrificing quality.
- Ergonomic Neck and Fretboard: The CD‑60SCE features a slim, comfortable neck paired with a smooth rosewood fretboard. Fender’s attention to the ergonomics means that chord transitions and scale runs are effortless—a critical factor for beginners and gigging musicians alike.
Aesthetic Appeal
The overall look of the CD‑60SCE is understated yet classic. Fender’s minimalist finish lets the natural grain of the wood shine through, complemented by subtle inlays that mark key fret positions. The cutaway not only adds visual interest but also signals its acoustic‑electric credentials, making it a versatile choice for both unplugged practice and amplified performance.
Sound Quality and Tonal Characteristics
Rich, Dynamic Acoustic Tone
The heart of any acoustic guitar lies in its tone, and the CD‑60SCE excels in delivering a vibrant sound:
- Bright and Articulate: Thanks to the solid spruce top, the CD‑60SCE produces a clear, bright tone that responds dynamically to the player’s touch. Whether you’re strumming chords or picking individual notes, the guitar is capable of producing a spectrum of sounds from sparkling highs to warm lows.
- Balanced Frequency Response: The traditional dreadnought body shape contributes to a balanced frequency range. The bass is full and resonant, the mids are well‑defined, and the highs are crisp without being overly harsh. This balance makes the guitar suitable for a variety of genres, from folk and country to rock and pop.
Amplification and Electronics
One of the major advantages of the CD‑60SCE over its purely acoustic siblings is its integrated electronics:
- Built‑in Preamp and Pickup: The CD‑60SCE comes equipped with a quality pickup system that captures the natural acoustic tone of the instrument. Whether you’re playing in a small café or recording in a studio, the built‑in preamp ensures that the sound is faithfully reproduced when amplified.
- Onboard Controls: With user‑friendly controls, you can adjust volume and tone directly from the guitar. Some models even include a built‑in tuner, making it convenient for on‑the‑go tuning before gigs or practice sessions.
- Versatility in Performance: The ability to switch from acoustic to amplified sound seamlessly adds to the CD‑60SCE’s versatility. For beginners looking to perform live or for those who want to record without investing in external mics, the integrated electronics are a significant plus.
Playability and Comfort
Beginner‑Friendly Features
The Fender CD‑60SCE is designed with ease of play in mind:
- Smooth Neck and Fretboard: The ergonomic design of the neck, combined with the smooth rosewood fretboard, makes it easier for new players to form chords and navigate scales. This can reduce finger fatigue, encouraging longer practice sessions and quicker progress.
- Cutaway Design: The cutaway not only improves aesthetics but also provides enhanced access to the upper frets. This is particularly beneficial for soloing or playing lead parts and adds to the guitar’s overall playability.
- Well‑Set Action: Out of the box, the action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) on the CD‑60SCE is typically set at a comfortable level. This means you can start playing right away without the need for immediate setup adjustments, a key advantage for beginners.
Overall Comfort
Every detail of the CD‑60SCE—from the neck profile to the body contours—has been designed to maximize comfort. Whether you’re playing for an hour or an entire gig, the instrument is engineered to support extended play without causing undue strain.
Value for Money
Affordable Yet Feature‑Rich
One of the standout features of the Fender CD‑60SCE is its exceptional value:
- Competitive Pricing: Positioned as an entry‑level instrument, the CD‑60SCE is priced very competitively, making it accessible to beginners without compromising on essential features.
- Integrated Electronics Without a Premium: The addition of quality built‑in electronics usually comes at a higher cost, but Fender manages to incorporate these features while keeping the guitar affordable. This makes it an ideal option for players who want both unplugged and amplified versatility.
- Durable Build: Fender’s reputation for quality ensures that the CD‑60SCE is built to last. For new players, investing in an instrument that won’t need frequent repairs or upgrades is a major plus.
Long‑Term Investment
While the CD‑60SCE is aimed at beginners, its construction and features are robust enough to serve you well as your playing skills develop. Its versatile tone, ease of play, and reliable electronics mean that it can continue to be a valuable instrument even as you progress, making it a sound investment for your musical future.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Solid Construction: The use of a solid spruce top, combined with quality back and sides, delivers a dynamic, responsive tone.
- Built‑in Electronics: Integrated preamp, pickup, and onboard controls provide versatility for both practice and performance.
- Enhanced Playability: The comfortable neck, smooth fretboard, and cutaway design make for an instrument that is easy to play, especially for beginners.
- Classic Dreadnought Design: Offers robust projection and balanced tonal response suitable for various musical styles.
- Excellent Value for Money: Combines quality materials and modern features at an entry‑level price.
Cons
- Laminated Back and Sides: While cost‑effective, the use of laminate may not provide the same depth of resonance as fully solid wood construction.
- Basic Aesthetics: The design is minimalist, which might not appeal to those seeking more decorative elements.
- Limited Upgradability: As an entry‑level guitar, some advanced players may eventually outgrow its capabilities.
- Electronics Quality: Although the built‑in electronics are solid for the price range, they may not match the performance of higher‑end acoustic‑electric systems.
User Feedback and Market Reception
Across various online forums and review sites, the Fender CD‑60SCE has been well‑received:
- Beginners and Hobbyists: Many appreciate the instrument’s balance of acoustic warmth and amplified versatility. Its ease of play and reliable tone make it a favorite among those just starting out.
- Live Performers: Players who perform regularly value the convenience of the built‑in electronics and the ability to quickly plug in without sacrificing acoustic integrity.
- General Consensus: The CD‑60SCE is often recommended for its excellent value proposition—it provides many features typically reserved for more expensive guitars while staying within an affordable price range.
These positive reviews underscore Fender’s commitment to offering quality instruments that cater to a broad range of players—from novices to semi‑professional musicians.
Final Verdict
The Fender CD‑60SCE Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar stands as a versatile, affordable, and reliable option for anyone looking to explore both acoustic and amplified performance. Its combination of a solid spruce top, quality mahogany back and sides, and user‑friendly electronics delivers a rich, articulate tone that adapts to various playing styles.
For beginners, the CD‑60SCE’s comfortable playability and well‑set action can make the difference between a frustrating learning experience and an inspiring one. Meanwhile, the integrated electronics open up opportunities for live performance and recording without the need for costly external gear. Although there are trade‑offs—such as the use of laminate in some parts and a straightforward aesthetic—the overall package makes the CD‑60SCE a compelling choice in the entry‑level acoustic‑electric market.
Whether you’re practicing at home, recording demos, or performing live, the Fender CD‑60SCE is designed to support your musical growth while delivering consistent performance and value. It is an instrument that not only meets the immediate needs of a beginner but also grows with you as your skills and ambitions evolve.
Conclusion
In summary, the Fender CD‑60SCE Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar offers an impressive blend of traditional acoustic charm and modern electric versatility. Its solid spruce top and carefully engineered design provide a dynamic, responsive sound that’s well suited for both unplugged and amplified settings. With its comfortable playability, integrated electronics, and exceptional value for money, the CD‑60SCE is a smart investment for beginners and intermediate players alike.
If you’re looking for an instrument that can serve as your gateway into the world of acoustic and acoustic‑electric performance, the Fender CD‑60SCE should be at the top of your list. It embodies Fender’s longstanding reputation for quality while offering features that meet the evolving needs of today’s musicians. Happy strumming!