Fender CD-60S Acoustic Guitar Review Mahogany Dreadnought Style for Beginners and Experts

Description

Craftsmanship and Build Quality

The Fender CD-60S Right Handed Acoustic Guitar immediately strikes a chord with its mahogany body and top. The warm, rich tones of mahogany are complemented by the guitar’s scalloped “X”-bracing, which not only enhances resonance but also adds structural integrity. Holding it feels solid and well-balanced, yet not overly heavy. The rolled fingerboard edges, part of Fender’s “Easy-to-Play” neck design, genuinely make fretting and chord transitions smooth. I noticed that even after long practice sessions, my fingers didn’t feel as strained, which is a huge plus for both beginners and seasoned players.

The Walnut fretboard adds a nice touch of elegance while maintaining durability. From the hard tail bridge system to the light phosphor bronze strings, every element feels thoughtfully designed. However, while the all-mahogany design is visually stunning, it might not appeal to those looking for brighter tones typically found in spruce-top guitars.

Sound Quality and Performance

If there’s one thing that stood out, it’s the rich and warm tone this guitar delivers. The mahogany back and sides, combined with the solid mahogany top, produce a sound that’s both deep and resonant. Fingerpicking on this guitar felt incredibly satisfying, as each note came through clean and distinct. Strumming, on the other hand, had a fullness that filled the room. It’s not the loudest acoustic guitar I’ve used, but the tonal quality more than makes up for it.

One thing I did notice is that it shines best in intimate settings. Whether I was playing on the couch or jamming at a small gathering, the sound felt personal and inviting. However, in larger venues, it might need a bit of amplification to truly stand out.

Key Benefits

• Solid mahogany top enhances tonal depth and warmth.
• Easy-to-Play neck design reduces finger fatigue.
• Scalloped “X”-bracing improves resonance and durability.
• Rolled fingerboard edges add comfort during extended play.
• Light phosphor bronze strings provide a softer touch and crisp sound.

Limitations

• The all-mahogany body may lack the brightness that some players desire.
• It’s not the loudest dreadnought guitar; amplification might be needed for larger spaces.
• The hard tail bridge system, while reliable, limits tonal flexibility for advanced players.

Target Audience

This guitar feels like it was crafted with beginners and intermediate players in mind. The Easy-to-Play neck is perfect for those just starting their guitar journey. Even my nephew, who’s been learning for a few months, found it incredibly comfortable to use. For seasoned players, it’s a great secondary guitar for casual jam sessions or as a travel companion. That said, professionals looking for a high-performance instrument for gigs might want something with more advanced features.

Product Comparisons

Stacking the Fender CD-60S against other guitars in its range, such as the Yamaha FG800 or the Epiphone DR-100, revealed its strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha FG800, for instance, uses a spruce top, which produces a brighter tone that some players might prefer. However, the CD-60S’s mahogany construction gives it a richer and more organic resonance. The Epiphone DR-100, while more affordable, lacks the scalloped “X”-bracing and doesn’t offer the same level of craftsmanship seen in the Fender.

Where the CD-60S wins is in playability. The rolled fingerboard edges and Easy-to-Play neck design are features that competitors like Yamaha and Epiphone don’t emphasize as much. That makes a huge difference for beginners or anyone who values comfort during long practice sessions.

Price Performance

Looking at the price-to-quality ratio, this guitar provides excellent value. Its build quality, sound performance, and comfort features place it in a sweet spot for those who want a reliable instrument without breaking the bank. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but the combination of solid mahogany construction and Fender’s reputation for durability makes it worth the investment. If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on sound and build, this guitar strikes a good balance.

Final Thoughts on Positives and Negatives

While the Fender CD-60S doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, its classic dreadnought body shape and attention to detail make it a standout option for its price range. The mahogany tonewood, coupled with the Easy-to-Play neck, creates an instrument that’s as enjoyable to hold as it is to play. Sure, it’s not perfect—its tonal range might not suit everyone, and it’s not the loudest guitar in the room. But for those who value warmth, comfort, and craftsmanship, it checks a lot of boxes.

Additional information