Gear article

Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 DS Sunburst

The Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 DS is a full-sized acoustic guitar featuring a laminated spruce top and mahogany body, finished in a classic Sunburst gloss. Part of Fender’s entry-level acoustic range, it is bundled with a hard-shell case to provide a complete solution for developing guitarists.

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Overview and Design

The Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 DS represents a refined iteration of one of Fender's most popular acoustic models. The 'V3' designation indicates the third version of this instrument, which incorporates aesthetic and material upgrades over its predecessors. The guitar is built to the traditional dreadnought specification, known for its large, deep body that maximizes volume and bass response.

The V3 model features a Sunburst finish and introduces a walnut fingerboard and bridge, replacing the synthetic materials or rosewood found on older iterations. Visual refinements include a mother-of-pearl acrylic rosette and smaller dot inlays on the fingerboard, providing a more sophisticated appearance than typical entry-level instruments.

Construction and Materials

The instrument utilises a laminated spruce top supported by scalloped X-bracing. Scalloping the braces involves removing wood from certain areas to allow the top to vibrate more freely, which typically enhances dynamic range and clarity. The back and sides are constructed from laminated mahogany, a choice common in acoustic guitar manufacturing for its durability and balanced tonal qualities.

The neck is crafted with a 'C-shaped' profile, designed to accommodate a wide variety of playing styles and hand sizes. The use of laminated woods ensures the guitar is less susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity compared to solid-wood instruments, making it a reliable choice for travel or changing environments.

Playability and Tone

As a dreadnought, the CD-60 is characterised by its bold, projecting tone and rich resonance. The combination of spruce and mahogany provides a clear high-end with a warm mid-range. The 20-fret walnut fingerboard offers a smooth surface for fretting, while the gloss finish on the body and neck provides a traditional tactile feel.

The instrument is designed primarily for flatpicking and heavy strumming, where the dreadnought body shape excels at producing significant volume. However, the scalloped bracing ensures that lighter touches are still audible, providing enough versatility for fingerstyle practice.

Transport and Accessories

A significant inclusion with this specific model is the Fender hard-shell case. Unlike many entry-level guitars that are sold without protection or with only a basic gig bag, the hard-shell case provides structural support and protection against impacts. This makes the V3 DS package particularly suitable for students who need to transport their instrument to lessons or rehearsals safely.

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Frequently asked questions

What body style is the Fender CD-60 V3?
The CD-60 V3 is a dreadnought, which is a large-bodied acoustic guitar known for its volume and deep bass response.
Is the top of the guitar solid or laminated wood?
The CD-60 V3 features a laminated spruce top, which offers enhanced durability and resistance to environmental changes compared to solid wood.
What is the benefit of the scalloped X-bracing?
Scalloped X-bracing reduces the mass of the internal supports, allowing the spruce top to vibrate more freely for better clarity and dynamic range.
What materials are used for the fingerboard and bridge?
This version of the CD-60 uses walnut for both the fingerboard and the bridge, providing a smooth playing surface and a refined aesthetic.
Does this model come with a case?
Yes, the Fender CD-60 V3 DS package specifically includes a hard-shell case for safe transport and storage.
What neck profile does the CD-60 V3 have?
The guitar features a comfortable 'C-shaped' neck, which is designed to be easy to play for beginners and experienced players alike.
What wood is used for the back and sides?
The back and sides of the instrument are constructed from laminated mahogany, contributing to a warm and balanced acoustic tone.
What are the decorative features of the V3 model?
The V3 includes an upgraded mother-of-pearl acrylic rosette and smaller dot inlays on the fingerboard for a more premium look.
What type of finish is applied to the guitar?
The guitar features a high-gloss finish, specifically in a Sunburst colour, which protects the wood and gives it a classic appearance.
Is this guitar suitable for beginners?
Yes, its combination of a comfortable neck, reliable construction, and included hard case makes it a popular choice for those starting their guitar journey.
How many frets does the walnut fingerboard have?
The Fender CD-60 V3 fingerboard is equipped with 20 frets.
Why is a dreadnought shape chosen for this model?
The dreadnought shape is chosen because it is the industry standard for achieving a bold, loud tone that projects well in various acoustic settings.