What is the primary wood used for the top of the Fender CD-140SCE?

The guitar features a solid spruce top. Solid spruce is highly regarded for its versatility and its ability to sound better as the instrument ages.

What type of body shape does this guitar have?

It has a dreadnought body shape. This design is known for producing a bold, rich sound with significant volume and presence.

Does the CD-140SCE include a cutaway?

Yes, it features a Venetian cutaway. This curved indentation in the body allows the player to reach the higher frets more comfortably.

What materials are used for the back and sides?

The back and sides are made from laminated ovangkol. This wood choice contributes to a full mid-range and bright treble response.

Is this guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes, it features an 'easy-to-play' neck profile. This is designed to be comfortable for those still developing their hand strength or technique.

Can the Fender CD-140SCE be plugged into an amplifier?

Yes, it is an electro-acoustic guitar. It comes equipped with an onboard preamp and pickup system for live performance and recording.

What genres of music best suit this instrument?

It is highly versatile and works well for rock, folk, country, roots music, and blues. The dreadnought shape and spruce top provide a balanced tone for various styles.

What is the typical price for this model in the UK?

The typical price for the Fender CD-140SCE in this configuration is approximately £339. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current promotions.

How does the sound of this guitar change over time?

Because it uses a solid spruce top, the wood matures and opens up as it is played. This typically results in a richer and more resonant tone over the years.

What distinguishes the Sunburst version of this guitar?

The Sunburst version features a traditional aesthetic finish that fades from a darker outer edge to a lighter centre. It is paired with a classic Fender-style headstock.

How does the CD-140SCE compare to a jumbo guitar like the Guild F-2512E?

The CD-140SCE is a dreadnought, which is generally more balanced and manageable in size than a jumbo. Jumbo guitars like the Guild offer more bass and volume but can be physically harder to hold.

Is the neck profile different from vintage Fender acoustics?

Fender describes this model as having a 'modern' eye for craftsmanship with an easy-to-play neck. This generally implies a slimmer, more ergonomic feel compared to older, bulkier acoustic necks.

Gear article

Fender CD-140SCE Dreadnought Electro Acoustic Sunburst

The Fender CD-140SCE is a dreadnought-style electro-acoustic guitar featuring a solid spruce top and a Venetian cutaway. Designed for versatility across genres like folk, rock, and country, it combines traditional acoustic construction with integrated electronics for live performance.

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Overview

The Fender CD-140SCE Dreadnought Electro Acoustic is a contemporary instrument designed to balance heritage aesthetics with modern playability. As part of Fender's acoustic line, it is built to provide a reliable platform for both home practice and stage performance. The 'Sunburst' finish provides a classic aesthetic that aligns with the brand's long-standing visual tradition, complemented by a signature Fender headstock.

Construction and Materials

The guitar utilizes a 'Solid Top' construction method, specifically employing solid spruce for the soundboard. Solid spruce is favoured in guitar making for its ability to improve tonally as the wood ages. The back and sides are constructed from laminated ovangkol, a tonewood known for providing a full mid-range and bright treble response.

To aid playability, the instrument features a Venetian cutaway, which allows the player easier access to the upper frets. The neck is designed with an 'easy-to-play' profile, intended to reduce hand fatigue for developing players and professionals alike.

Sound and Character

Due to its dreadnought body shape, the CD-140SCE produces a bold, rich, and distinctive acoustic volume. The combination of spruce and ovangkol results in a versatile sonic profile. It is capable of handling diverse playing styles, including:

Rock and Folk: Providing the necessary volume and mid-range punch.
Country and Blues: Offering bright trebles for lead licks and a responsive low-end for rhythmic playing.
Roots Music: Delivering a traditional, warm character suitable for acoustic ensembles.

Performance and Electronics

As an electro-acoustic model, the CD-140SCE is equipped with onboard electronics to allow for amplification. This makes it suitable for live performance and studio recording where a direct signal is required. The integrated preamp system typically includes controls for volume and tone shaping, ensuring the guitar's natural dreadnought character is translated accurately through a PA system or acoustic amplifier.

Market Comparison

Within the mid-range electro-acoustic market, the CD-140SCE competes with several notable alternatives. Compared to the Sigma DTC-28HE, it offers a similar dreadnought experience but with Fender's specific neck ergonomics. Players seeking a smaller footprint might look toward the Yamaha APXT2 or Martin LX1E, though these lack the full-bodied resonance of the CD-140SCE. For those desiring more ornate designs or different body volumes, the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon or Guild F-2512E provide jumbo-sized alternatives, whereas the CD-140SCE serves as a more traditional, all-purpose middle ground.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary wood used for the top of the Fender CD-140SCE?: The guitar features a solid spruce top. Solid spruce is highly regarded for its versatility and its ability to sound better as the instrument ages.
What type of body shape does this guitar have?: It has a dreadnought body shape. This design is known for producing a bold, rich sound with significant volume and presence.
Does the CD-140SCE include a cutaway?: Yes, it features a Venetian cutaway. This curved indentation in the body allows the player to reach the higher frets more comfortably.
What materials are used for the back and sides?: The back and sides are made from laminated ovangkol. This wood choice contributes to a full mid-range and bright treble response.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?: Yes, it features an 'easy-to-play' neck profile. This is designed to be comfortable for those still developing their hand strength or technique.
Can the Fender CD-140SCE be plugged into an amplifier?: Yes, it is an electro-acoustic guitar. It comes equipped with an onboard preamp and pickup system for live performance and recording.
What genres of music best suit this instrument?: It is highly versatile and works well for rock, folk, country, roots music, and blues. The dreadnought shape and spruce top provide a balanced tone for various styles.
What is the typical price for this model in the UK?: The typical price for the Fender CD-140SCE in this configuration is approximately £339. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current promotions.
How does the sound of this guitar change over time?: Because it uses a solid spruce top, the wood matures and opens up as it is played. This typically results in a richer and more resonant tone over the years.
What distinguishes the Sunburst version of this guitar?: The Sunburst version features a traditional aesthetic finish that fades from a darker outer edge to a lighter centre. It is paired with a classic Fender-style headstock.
How does the CD-140SCE compare to a jumbo guitar like the Guild F-2512E?: The CD-140SCE is a dreadnought, which is generally more balanced and manageable in size than a jumbo. Jumbo guitars like the Guild offer more bass and volume but can be physically harder to hold.
Is the neck profile different from vintage Fender acoustics?: Fender describes this model as having a 'modern' eye for craftsmanship with an easy-to-play neck. This generally implies a slimmer, more ergonomic feel compared to older, bulkier acoustic necks.