What does the 'S' stand for in CD-60SCE?

The 'S' stands for 'Solid Top,' referring to the use of solid Sitka spruce rather than a layered laminate. This feature is significant as it provides better resonance and a tone that improves as the wood ages.

What does the 'CE' stand for in the model name?

CE stands for 'Cutaway Electric.' This indicates that the body has a scooped-out section near the neck for upper-fret access and is equipped with a preamp and pickup system for amplification.

Is the Fender CD-60SCE suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is specifically designed with beginners in mind, featuring an 'Easy-to-Play' neck with rolled fingerboard edges. These features make it more comfortable for those who have not yet developed finger callouses or hand strength.

What kind of wood is used for the top of the guitar?

The guitar uses solid Sitka spruce. Sitka spruce is a industry standard for acoustic tops due to its strength, elasticity, and ability to handle a wide dynamic range.

Does this guitar have a built-in tuner?

Yes, the integrated preamp system includes a digital tuner. This allows the player to tune the guitar without needing an external device or a mobile app.

What body shape is the CD-60SCE?

It is a Dreadnought body shape. This is the most popular acoustic guitar shape, known for its large size, high volume, and deep bass response.

Can I plug the Fender CD-60SCE into an amplifier?

Yes, as an electro-acoustic guitar, it features an internal pickup and a 1/4-inch output jack. You can connect it directly to an acoustic amplifier, a PA system, or an audio interface.

How does the sound of the CD-60SCE change over time?

Because it has a solid spruce top, the wood will 'open up' as it is played. This typically results in a richer, more complex tone with better harmonic sustain as the years pass.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The guitar typically retails for approximately £269. This price point places it in the high-value category for an instrument featuring a solid wood top and brand-name electronics.

How does the CD-60SCE compare to the Fender Newporter Player?

While both are electro-acoustics from Fender, the CD-60SCE is a traditional dreadnought, whereas the Newporter has a smaller, more unique body shape. The CD-60SCE generally offers more low-end 'rumble' due to its larger size.

Is this guitar good for fingerstyle playing?

While dreadnoughts are often preferred by strummers, the solid spruce top is highly responsive to a light touch. This makes the CD-60SCE versatile enough for fingerpicking styles.

What color options are available for this specific model?

This specific version of the CD-60SCE is finished in a high-gloss Black. This provides a sleek, modern look that contrasts with the traditional natural spruce finish found on other models.

Gear article

Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought Electro Acoustic Black

The Fender CD-60SCE is a dreadnought-style electro-acoustic guitar featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides. Positioned as a high-value instrument for both beginners and intermediate players, it combines traditional acoustic resonance with integrated electronics for amplified performance.

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Overview

The Fender CD-60SCE represents the 'Classic Design' series, effectively bridging the gap between entry-level laminate-top guitars and professional performance instruments. The 'SCE' designation indicates a single-cutaway body and electronics, allowing players easy access to the higher frets and the ability to plug into an amplifier or PA system. Finished in a high-gloss black, it retains the iconic Fender aesthetic while providing the structural integrity required for versatile playing styles.

Design and Construction

The primary feature of the CD-60SCE is its solid Sitka spruce top. Unlike laminate tops, solid wood vibrates more freely and matures over time, meaning the tonal quality generally improves with age and regular play. This is paired with mahogany back and sides to provide a balanced structural foundation. To enhance playability, Fender has implemented an 'Easy-to-Play' neck profile, which features rolled fingerboard edges to reduce hand fatigue for those developing their technique.

Sound and Character

As a dreadnought, the CD-60SCE is engineered for volume and projection. It delivers a 'colossal' acoustic sound characterized by a strong low-end response and crisp highs. The solid spruce top provides a wide dynamic range, allowing the instrument to respond sensitively to light fingerpicking or aggressively to heavy strumming. The 'rumbling richness' of the dreadnought shape makes it an ideal accompaniment for vocalists.

Electronics and Hardware

The guitar is equipped with an onboard preamp system that includes controls for volume and tone. A built-in digital tuner is also included, situated on the upper bout for easy visibility during performance. The cutaway design is essential for lead work, providing ergonomic access to the upper register that standard non-cutaway dreadnoughts lack.

Market Comparison

Within the sub-£300 price bracket, the CD-60SCE competes with models such as the Sigma DTC-28HE and the Fender Newporter Player. While travel-sized alternatives like the Yamaha APXT2 or Martin LX1E offer portability, the CD-60SCE provides the full-scale resonance of a larger body. It offers a more traditional 'Western' acoustic experience compared to the unique aesthetics of the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon or the 12-string capability of the Guild F-2512E.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the 'S' stand for in CD-60SCE?: The 'S' stands for 'Solid Top,' referring to the use of solid Sitka spruce rather than a layered laminate. This feature is significant as it provides better resonance and a tone that improves as the wood ages.
What does the 'CE' stand for in the model name?: CE stands for 'Cutaway Electric.' This indicates that the body has a scooped-out section near the neck for upper-fret access and is equipped with a preamp and pickup system for amplification.
Is the Fender CD-60SCE suitable for beginners?: Yes, it is specifically designed with beginners in mind, featuring an 'Easy-to-Play' neck with rolled fingerboard edges. These features make it more comfortable for those who have not yet developed finger callouses or hand strength.
What kind of wood is used for the top of the guitar?: The guitar uses solid Sitka spruce. Sitka spruce is a industry standard for acoustic tops due to its strength, elasticity, and ability to handle a wide dynamic range.
Does this guitar have a built-in tuner?: Yes, the integrated preamp system includes a digital tuner. This allows the player to tune the guitar without needing an external device or a mobile app.
What body shape is the CD-60SCE?: It is a Dreadnought body shape. This is the most popular acoustic guitar shape, known for its large size, high volume, and deep bass response.
Can I plug the Fender CD-60SCE into an amplifier?: Yes, as an electro-acoustic guitar, it features an internal pickup and a 1/4-inch output jack. You can connect it directly to an acoustic amplifier, a PA system, or an audio interface.
How does the sound of the CD-60SCE change over time?: Because it has a solid spruce top, the wood will 'open up' as it is played. This typically results in a richer, more complex tone with better harmonic sustain as the years pass.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The guitar typically retails for approximately £269. This price point places it in the high-value category for an instrument featuring a solid wood top and brand-name electronics.
How does the CD-60SCE compare to the Fender Newporter Player?: While both are electro-acoustics from Fender, the CD-60SCE is a traditional dreadnought, whereas the Newporter has a smaller, more unique body shape. The CD-60SCE generally offers more low-end 'rumble' due to its larger size.
Is this guitar good for fingerstyle playing?: While dreadnoughts are often preferred by strummers, the solid spruce top is highly responsive to a light touch. This makes the CD-60SCE versatile enough for fingerpicking styles.
What color options are available for this specific model?: This specific version of the CD-60SCE is finished in a high-gloss Black. This provides a sleek, modern look that contrasts with the traditional natural spruce finish found on other models.