Fender SA-105CE Electro Acoustic Guitar Review: Affordable Versatility for Beginners
The Fender SA-105CE Electro Acoustic Guitar is an entry-level model designed to bridge the gap between acoustic and electric guitars. As part of Fender’s mission to provide high-quality instruments at a budget-friendly price point, the SA-105CE offers a versatile sound, robust build, and built-in electronics for easy amplification.
This guitar is particularly well-suited for beginners and intermediate players who want an affordable option that can perform in both unplugged and amplified settings. Below, we’ll dive into the features, sound, playability, and overall value of the Fender SA-105CE to help you decide if it’s the right guitar for you.
Key Features of the Fender SA-105CE
- Body Style: Dreadnought cutaway
- Top Wood: Laminated spruce
- Back and Sides Wood: Laminated basswood
- Neck Material: Nato
- Fretboard Material: Walnut
- Bridge Material: Walnut
- Electronics: Built-in preamp with a 3-band EQ and tuner
- Scale Length: 25.3 inches (643 mm)
- Number of Frets: 20
- Finish: Gloss finish
- Hardware: Chrome die-cast tuners
The SA-105CE combines classic dreadnought aesthetics with modern features, making it a versatile choice for players who want to explore different musical styles.
Design and Build Quality
The dreadnought cutaway design is the first thing you’ll notice about the Fender SA-105CE. This body style provides a large, resonant sound chamber for powerful projection, while the cutaway gives players easier access to the upper frets, making it ideal for lead playing and fingerstyle techniques.
The guitar’s laminated spruce top offers durability and a bright tonal profile, while the laminated basswood back and sides keep the overall weight light. Although laminated wood doesn’t resonate as deeply as solid wood, it’s much more resistant to temperature and humidity changes, making the SA-105CE a dependable option for travel or gigging.
The nato neck is smooth and comfortable, while the walnut fretboard provides a soft, warm tone and good durability. The gloss finish adds a polished look and helps protect the guitar from scratches and wear over time.
Electronics
One of the standout features of the Fender SA-105CE is its built-in electronics, which include a preamp with a 3-band EQ and tuner. These electronics make it easy to plug the guitar into an amplifier, PA system, or audio interface for performances or recording sessions.
The 3-band EQ allows players to adjust the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies to achieve their desired tone, while the onboard tuner ensures quick and accurate tuning adjustments on the go.
The electronics are intuitive and user-friendly, making the SA-105CE a fantastic option for beginners looking to explore the world of amplified acoustics.
Sound Quality
Acoustic Performance
The dreadnought body delivers a loud, bold sound with plenty of low-end resonance. The laminated spruce top adds brightness and clarity to the tone, making it suitable for various genres like folk, pop, rock, and even light blues.
However, as expected from a guitar in this price range, the tonal depth is somewhat limited compared to guitars with solid wood tops. That said, the SA-105CE offers a well-balanced sound that’s more than sufficient for beginners and casual players.
Amplified Performance
When plugged in, the built-in preamp shines. The 3-band EQ provides plenty of tonal customization, allowing players to shape their sound to suit different musical contexts. Whether you’re performing at an open mic night or recording a demo at home, the SA-105CE’s electronics make it a versatile tool.
The amplified tone retains much of the guitar’s natural acoustic character, with the added bonus of adjustable volume and tonal clarity.
Playability
The low action on the Fender SA-105CE makes it comfortable to play, reducing the effort required to press down the strings. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it minimizes finger fatigue during practice sessions.
The 25.3-inch scale length and slim neck profile ensure that the SA-105CE is easy to handle for players with smaller hands. The cutaway design provides additional access to the higher frets, making it suitable for both rhythm and lead playing.
Durability and Maintenance
The laminated construction ensures that the SA-105CE can handle changes in temperature and humidity better than guitars made from solid wood. This makes it an excellent option for players who travel frequently or perform in varying environments.
The chrome die-cast tuners are reliable and help maintain tuning stability, even during extended playing sessions. With proper care, including regular string changes and cleaning, the SA-105CE will remain in great shape for years to come.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable Price: Great value for an electro-acoustic guitar.
- Built-In Electronics: Preamp with a 3-band EQ and tuner for versatile amplified sound.
- Cutaway Design: Easy access to higher frets for lead playing.
- Durable Construction: Laminated wood offers resilience to environmental changes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Low action, slim neck profile, and user-friendly electronics.
Cons:
- Lack of Tonal Depth: Laminated wood limits resonance compared to solid wood guitars.
- Basic Electronics: While functional, the preamp and EQ may not satisfy more advanced players.
- Limited Volume: Acoustic projection isn’t as strong as higher-end dreadnought models.
Who Should Buy the Fender SA-105CE?
The Fender SA-105CE is an excellent choice for:
- Beginners: Its affordable price, comfortable playability, and built-in electronics make it an ideal starter guitar.
- Casual Players: Perfect for hobbyists who want a versatile acoustic-electric guitar.
- Performers on a Budget: The preamp and EQ make it gig-ready without breaking the bank.
- Travelers: The durable, lightweight design is great for players on the go.
Final Verdict
The Fender SA-105CE Electro Acoustic Guitar is a fantastic entry-level option for players looking for an affordable guitar that performs well in both acoustic and amplified settings. Its combination of comfortable playability, versatile electronics, and classic Fender aesthetics make it a strong contender in the budget acoustic-electric guitar market.
While it may not satisfy the tonal demands of advanced players or professionals, the SA-105CE offers excellent value for beginners and casual musicians. If you’re searching for a reliable, easy-to-play electro-acoustic guitar to start your musical journey or enhance your practice routine, the Fender SA-105CE is a solid choice.