Gear article

Fender Redondo Player Electro Acoustic

The Fender Redondo Player is a dreadnought-style electro-acoustic guitar designed to bridge the gap between traditional acoustic resonance and electric guitar playability. Featuring a solid spruce top and an integrated Fishman Flex preamp system, it is engineered for versatile performance in both live and studio settings.

Fender Redondo Player Electro Acoustic Candy Apple Red
Fender Redondo Player Electro Acoustic Candy Apple Red
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Overview and Construction

The Fender Redondo Player is part of the California Series, distinguished by its bold aesthetics and unconventional approach to acoustic guitar design. The instrument features a solid spruce top, which provides clarity and dynamic range, paired with sapele back and sides. The large dreadnought body shape is intended to maximise volume and projection.

A key design feature is the inclusion of a slim "C"-shaped neck, which takes inspiration from Fender's electric guitar lineage. This design choice aims to provide a more comfortable transition for electric guitarists or those with smaller hands, differing from the thicker, V-shaped profiles often found on traditional acoustic models.

Electronics and Hardware

For amplified performance, the Redondo Player is equipped with a Fishman Flex preamp system. This onboard setup is designed to capture the natural acoustic character of the tonewoods while providing the player with precise control over their output. The system is low-profile to maintain the guitar's sleek visual lines.

Hardware stability is addressed through a design that emphasises tuning reliability, making it suitable for touring musicians who require a consistent instrument for stage use. The aesthetic is rounded off with a striking Candy Apple Red finish, typically associated with Fender's iconic solid-body electrics.

Yamaha APXT2 3/4 Electro Acoustic Black
Yamaha APXT2 3/4 Electro Acoustic Black

Tone and Character

The combination of the large Redondo body and the solid spruce top results in a rich, warm tone with significant depth. The sapele back and sides contribute to a balanced frequency response, ensuring that the low-end warmth of the dreadnought shape is complemented by clear mid-range and crisp highs. This tonal profile makes the instrument effective for both heavy strumming and intricate fingerstyle playing.

Market Position and Comparisons

Positioned within the mid-range market at approximately £339, the Redondo Player competes with several other electro-acoustic models. Compared to the Fender Newporter Player, the Redondo offers a larger body for more volume. In contrast to smaller travel-sized options like the Yamaha APXT2 or the Martin LX1E, the Redondo is a full-scale instrument designed for maximum natural projection.

While high-end alternatives like the Taylor Presentation PS14ce offer luxury appointments and exotic woods, the Redondo Player focuses on providing a professional-grade Fishman system and solid-top construction at a more accessible price point. It sits alongside other distinctive acoustics like the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon in terms of bold, non-traditional styling.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the body shape of the Fender Redondo Player?
It features the Redondo body shape, which is Fender's unique take on the classic dreadnought. This larger body style is designed to produce more volume and a deeper bass response.
What tonewoods are used in the construction of this guitar?
The guitar utilizes a solid spruce top for brightness and projection, paired with sapele for the back and sides. Sapele offers a warm, consistent tone similar to mahogany.
Which electronics system is installed in the Redondo Player?
The instrument is fitted with a Fishman Flex preamp system. This system is designed to provide natural sounding amplification with simple, discrete controls.
How does the neck profile feel compared to other acoustics?
It features a slim 'C'-shaped neck similar to a Fender electric guitar. This makes it feel thinner and faster than many traditional acoustic guitar necks.
Is the top of the guitar solid or laminate?
The Fender Redondo Player features a solid spruce top. Solid tops are generally preferred over laminates because they vibrate more freely and improve in tone as they age.
What is the typical price range for this model?
The Redondo Player is typically priced around £339 in the UK market. This places it in the competitive mid-range category for electro-acoustic guitars.
What colour is this specific model?
This specific version comes in a Candy Apple Red finish. This is a classic Fender finish often seen on Stratocasters and Telecasters.
Is this guitar suitable for live performances?
Yes, it is designed specifically for performance. The combination of a large body for acoustic volume and the Fishman preamp for plugged-in use makes it highly versatile.
How does the Redondo compare to the Fender Newporter?
The Redondo has a larger dreadnought-style body compared to the Newporter's mid-sized auditorium shape. The Redondo offers more bass and volume, while the Newporter is more compact.
Can I use this guitar for recording?
Yes, the solid spruce top provides the clarity needed for microphone recording, while the Fishman Flex system offers a direct output option for studio work.
What kind of player is the Redondo Player best suited for?
It is ideal for players who want a bold look and a powerful sound. The slim neck also makes it a great choice for electric guitarists moving to acoustic.
Does the guitar stay in tune well?
Fender describes the instrument as having stable tuning, which is essential for both practice and professional live use. The hardware is designed for reliability.