The Fender DE FA-135 Concert All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar is a popular choice for beginners and intermediate players alike, offering a combination of quality construction and affordability. Here’s an in-depth review of this guitar, focusing on its design, sound quality, playability, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The Fender DE FA-135 features a concert body shape, which is slightly smaller than a dreadnought, making it more comfortable to hold and play, especially for smaller players or those who prefer a more compact instrument. The all-mahogany construction, including the top, back, and sides, gives the guitar a warm and resonant tone, while also adding to its aesthetic appeal with a rich, dark finish.
The neck is made from nato wood, which is often used as a more affordable alternative to mahogany, offering similar tonal properties. The fretboard is rosewood, providing a smooth playing surface and a traditional look. The guitar also features a scalloped X-bracing, which not only helps to reinforce the top but also enhances the guitar’s resonance and projection.
Sound Quality
Thanks to its all-mahogany construction, the Fender DE FA-135 produces a warm, mellow tone with a strong midrange presence. This makes it particularly well-suited for genres like folk, blues, and singer-songwriter styles, where a rich, balanced tone is desired. The concert body shape helps to focus the sound, providing clarity and articulation, which is especially beneficial for fingerstyle playing.
While it may not have the booming low end of a dreadnought, the FA-135 offers a more controlled and focused sound, which is ideal for both solo performances and playing with a band. The sound projection is decent, making it suitable for small to medium-sized venues or for practice sessions at home.
Playability
One of the standout features of the Fender DE FA-135 is its playability. The neck has a slim profile, making it easy for players of all levels to navigate the fretboard. The action is set up nicely out of the box, though some players may prefer to have it adjusted to their personal preference. The concert size makes it a comfortable choice for extended playing sessions, as it’s less bulky and easier to handle than larger-bodied guitars.
Value for Money
Considering its price point, the Fender DE FA-135 offers excellent value for money. It combines quality materials, solid construction, and a pleasing tone in an affordable package. It’s an ideal choice for beginners who want a reliable instrument to start with or for intermediate players looking for a backup or practice guitar that doesn’t break the bank.
Conclusion
The Fender DE FA-135 Concert All-Mahogany Acoustic Guitar is a well-rounded instrument that provides a great balance of tone, playability, and value. Its warm, rich sound and comfortable design make it a versatile choice for a variety of playing styles, especially for those who prefer a more focused tone. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player looking for a solid acoustic guitar, the FA-135 is definitely worth considering.
This guitar stands out as a solid, affordable option for those who want the classic Fender feel and sound without investing in a higher-end model. Its combination of aesthetics, playability, and tone makes it a great addition to any guitarist’s collection.