What is the body shape of the Fender CB-60SCE?

The CB-60SCE features a compact concert body shape. This design is smaller and more streamlined than a traditional jumbo acoustic bass, making it more comfortable to hold and play for extended periods.

Does this bass have a solid or laminated top?

The instrument features a solid spruce top. Solid wood tops are generally preferred over fully laminated tops as they offer better resonance, higher volume, and a more complex tonal character that improves as the wood ages.

What electronics are included in the CB-60SCE?

It is equipped with a Fishman CD preamp system. This system includes a built-in tuner and dedicated controls for adjusting the bass and treble frequencies, alongside a master volume knob.

What materials are used for the back and sides?

The back and sides are constructed from laminated mahogany. Mahogany is known for providing a warm, woody tone that complements the brightness of the spruce top, while the lamination adds structural stability.

Is the CB-60SCE easy to play at higher frets?

Yes, the instrument features a single-cutaway body design. This allows the player's hand to reach the higher frets more easily than on a non-cutaway acoustic bass.

What is the fretboard material?

The fretboard is made from laurel. Laurel is a common alternative to rosewood that provides a similar smooth feel and durable playing surface for sliding across strings.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Fender CB-60SCE typically retails for approximately GBP 259. This price point makes it an accessible option for those looking for a quality electro-acoustic bass without a premium investment.

How does the concert shape affect the sound compared to a jumbo bass?

The concert shape produces a clearer, more defined sound with a focus on the mid and high frequencies. While it may have slightly less natural acoustic volume than a jumbo bass, it is often easier to manage when amplified.

Can this bass be used for live performances?

Yes, thanks to the integrated Fishman electronics, it can be plugged directly into an amplifier or PA system. The on-board EQ allows the player to shape the sound to fit the acoustics of the venue.

How does it compare to the Fender FA-450CE?

While both are Fender electro-acoustic basses, the CB-60SCE uses a solid spruce top for a brighter tone, whereas models like the FA-450CE often feature different aesthetic finishes and body materials like flame maple.

Is a tuner built into the guitar?

Yes, the Fishman CD preamp includes an integrated digital tuner. This allows the player to check and adjust their tuning quickly between songs without needing an external clip-on or pedal tuner.

What kind of sound character does the mahogany body provide?

The mahogany body contributes a rich and powerful sound profile. It helps balance the 'snap' of the spruce top by adding lower-midrange warmth and sustain to the instrument's overall voice.

Gear article

Fender CB-60SCE Electro Acoustic Bass

The Fender CB-60SCE is a compact, concert-bodied electro-acoustic bass guitar designed for comfortable playability and clear, rich resonance. It features a solid spruce top combined with mahogany back and sides, integrated with a Fishman CD preamp system for amplified performance.

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Overview and Construction

The Fender CB-60SCE is part of Fender's Classic Design series, specifically engineered to provide a more manageable physical profile than traditional jumbo-sized acoustic basses. The instrument is built with a concert-sized body, which is notably slimmer and more compact, making it an accessible choice for both bassists and guitarists transitioning to the instrument.

A key feature of the construction is the use of a solid spruce top, a tonewood favoured for its brightness and projection. This is paired with laminated mahogany back and sides, which provide structural durability and add warmth to the overall sound. The neck features a laurel fretboard designed for smooth transitions across the strings.

Electronics and Hardware

To ensure versatility in live and recording environments, the CB-60SCE is equipped with a Fishman CD preamp system. This electronic suite includes controls for volume, bass, and treble, allowing the player to sculpt their amplified output to suit different musical contexts. The preamp also includes a built-in digital tuner to ensure the instrument remains in pitch without the need for external peripherals.

Sound Character and Playability

The combination of a solid spruce top and a concert body shape results in a sound that is described as crystal-clear and rich. While smaller acoustic bodies can sometimes lack low-end presence, the CB-60SCE focuses on a punchy, defined mid-range and clear treble response.

Playability is enhanced by the single-cutaway design, which permits easier access to the upper frets. The streamlined neck profile and laurel fretboard are intended to facilitate a seamless playing experience, reducing the physical strain often associated with larger-scale acoustic basses.

Target Audience and Comparison

This instrument is primarily suited for beginners, students, or professional players seeking a reliable practice instrument for acoustic sessions. Its price point, typically around GBP 259, positions it as a competitive entry-level to mid-range option.

Compared to alternatives like the Ibanez AEGB24E or the Martin 000CJrE, the Fender CB-60SCE offers a balance of traditional Fender aesthetics and proven Fishman electronics. While jumbo models like the Tanglewood Reunion Pro series may offer more unplugged volume, the Fender concert shape prioritises ergonomic comfort and amplified clarity.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body shape of the Fender CB-60SCE?: The CB-60SCE features a compact concert body shape. This design is smaller and more streamlined than a traditional jumbo acoustic bass, making it more comfortable to hold and play for extended periods.
Does this bass have a solid or laminated top?: The instrument features a solid spruce top. Solid wood tops are generally preferred over fully laminated tops as they offer better resonance, higher volume, and a more complex tonal character that improves as the wood ages.
What electronics are included in the CB-60SCE?: It is equipped with a Fishman CD preamp system. This system includes a built-in tuner and dedicated controls for adjusting the bass and treble frequencies, alongside a master volume knob.
What materials are used for the back and sides?: The back and sides are constructed from laminated mahogany. Mahogany is known for providing a warm, woody tone that complements the brightness of the spruce top, while the lamination adds structural stability.
Is the CB-60SCE easy to play at higher frets?: Yes, the instrument features a single-cutaway body design. This allows the player's hand to reach the higher frets more easily than on a non-cutaway acoustic bass.
What is the fretboard material?: The fretboard is made from laurel. Laurel is a common alternative to rosewood that provides a similar smooth feel and durable playing surface for sliding across strings.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Fender CB-60SCE typically retails for approximately GBP 259. This price point makes it an accessible option for those looking for a quality electro-acoustic bass without a premium investment.
How does the concert shape affect the sound compared to a jumbo bass?: The concert shape produces a clearer, more defined sound with a focus on the mid and high frequencies. While it may have slightly less natural acoustic volume than a jumbo bass, it is often easier to manage when amplified.
Can this bass be used for live performances?: Yes, thanks to the integrated Fishman electronics, it can be plugged directly into an amplifier or PA system. The on-board EQ allows the player to shape the sound to fit the acoustics of the venue.
How does it compare to the Fender FA-450CE?: While both are Fender electro-acoustic basses, the CB-60SCE uses a solid spruce top for a brighter tone, whereas models like the FA-450CE often feature different aesthetic finishes and body materials like flame maple.
Is a tuner built into the guitar?: Yes, the Fishman CD preamp includes an integrated digital tuner. This allows the player to check and adjust their tuning quickly between songs without needing an external clip-on or pedal tuner.
What kind of sound character does the mahogany body provide?: The mahogany body contributes a rich and powerful sound profile. It helps balance the 'snap' of the spruce top by adding lower-midrange warmth and sustain to the instrument's overall voice.