Fender CD-60S Acoustic Guitar Review Mahogany Design and Sound Quality Tested

Description

Rich Sound and Timeless Design

The Fender Acoustic Guitar, CD-60S, caught my eye with its classic dreadnought design and all-mahogany construction. Picking it up for the first time, I immediately noticed its solid build and the glossy finish that gives it a polished, professional look. The mahogany top, back, and sides are more than just aesthetically pleasing—they contribute to the guitar’s rich, warm tone that resonates beautifully whether you’re strumming chords or picking melodies. I’ve always been drawn to instruments that feel as good as they sound, and this one checks both boxes.

Its rounded walnut fingerboard and “C”-shaped mahogany neck are incredibly comfortable to play. Sliding up and down the fretboard felt effortless, even during longer jam sessions. For someone like me, who appreciates both smooth playability and a classic look, this guitar strikes the perfect balance. While it may not have flashy inlays or exotic materials, its simplicity is its charm.

Performance and Sound Quality

Let me tell you, the sound from this dreadnought body is nothing short of impressive. The scalloped “X” bracing enhances the resonance, giving the guitar a full-bodied tone that carries well. Whether I was playing soft fingerstyle pieces or strumming with some serious gusto, the sound remained balanced across all ranges. The lows were deep and satisfying, the mids were clear, and the highs sparkled just enough without overpowering the mix.

One feature that stood out was its phosphor bronze strings. These are light gauge, making them easier on the fingers, especially for beginners. I handed the guitar to my cousin, who’s just starting out, and she was amazed at how comfortable it felt. The string tension is just right, too—not too tight, not too loose—which helps maintain a consistent sound. That being said, more experienced players will also appreciate its versatility. For me, it worked great whether I was strumming folk tunes or trying out a few country licks.

Key Benefits

• Rich and balanced sound thanks to the all-mahogany construction and scalloped bracing.
• Comfortable playability with its “C”-shaped neck and smooth fretboard.
• Durable and solid build that feels reliable in your hands.
• Light gauge strings make it beginner-friendly without compromising tone.

Flaws That Couldn’t Be Ignored

While I genuinely enjoyed the overall experience, there are a few areas for improvement.

• The glossy finish, while beautiful, tends to attract fingerprints and smudges easily.
• It’s slightly heavier than some other acoustics, which might be a concern for players who prefer lighter instruments.
• No onboard electronics, so you’ll need an external mic or pickup if you plan to plug in for performances.

These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re worth pointing out for anyone considering this model.

Competing Products

Compared to some competing brands, like Yamaha’s FG800 or Ibanez’s AW54, the CD-60S stands out for its superior craftsmanship and tonal quality. The Yamaha FG800, for instance, offers great sound but lacks the same warmth you get from this guitar’s all-mahogany body. On the other hand, Ibanez’s AW54 has a similar vibe but doesn’t feel as comfortable to play, especially for longer sessions. Both alternatives are solid choices, but the Fender’s smooth neck and balanced tones make it a more versatile option.

For those looking for onboard electronics, you might consider other models like the Fender CD-60SCE. However, if you’re fine with sticking to an acoustic-only setup, this guitar is a fantastic pick.

Value for Money

In terms of quality for price, this guitar delivers exceptional value. It’s rare to find an instrument that offers such rich sound and premium build materials at a budget-friendly price point. The fact that it includes features like chrome die-cast tuners and a hard-tail bridge system—which keep tuning stable and setup hassle-free—only adds to its appeal. For beginners, it’s a steal. For seasoned players, it’s a reliable workhorse that won’t break the bank.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely. While it’s not the fanciest guitar on the market, it excels in the areas that matter most: sound, playability, and durability.

Additional information