Fender FA Series Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar review for beginners with full bundle insights

Description

Introduction to the Fender Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Bundle

I’ve been exploring acoustic guitars for a while, and the Fender Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar – Natural Bundle with Gig Bag, Tuner, Strings, Picks, Fender Play Online Lessons, and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD FA Series Natural caught my eye. Fender is a name that instantly resonates with quality, but does this bundle deliver on its promises? After testing it, I can confidently say it’s a solid choice for beginners, though there are aspects worth discussing.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed was how lightweight this guitar feels for its size, weighing in at just 9.18 pounds. Its all-laminate construction with a lindenwood top and mahogany back and sides not only makes it sturdy but also visually appealing. The natural finish is subtle yet classic, blending elegance with simplicity. The dark-stained maple fretboard contrasts well with the body, adding a touch of sophistication.

That said, the materials—while durable—don’t quite offer the resonance of solid wood options. However, for the price, the basswood body and nato neck provide a reliable and durable foundation, especially for beginners or casual players.

Superior Sound Quality

This guitar produces a full-bodied tone thanks to its scalloped “X” bracing. While playing, the sound projection was impressive, especially for a budget-friendly instrument. I used the D’Addario EJ16 Phosphor Bronze strings it came with, which provide a balanced sound profile. The bass is clean without overpowering the mids and highs, making it versatile for strumming or fingerpicking.

One thing I appreciated during my testing was how the mahogany back contributes to the warmth of the sound. However, if you’re someone who thrives on deep resonance, you might notice a slight lack of depth compared to higher-end models.

Playability and Comfort

The slim neck design makes this guitar incredibly easy to play, even for those with smaller hands. I had my younger cousin, who’s just starting, try it out, and she loved how comfortable it felt. The fixed bridge system ensures stability, and I didn’t encounter any tuning issues even after extended playing.

For someone transitioning from an electric to an acoustic guitar, the light string gauge (.012-.053) is a welcome feature. It reduces finger fatigue, allowing for longer practice sessions. The bundle also includes a digital tuner, making it easy to keep the guitar tuned without fuss.

Key Benefits

• Affordable Learning Package: The bundle includes everything you need to start, from a gig bag to an instructional DVD.
• Durable and Lightweight: Perfect for traveling musicians or beginners who need a robust instrument.
• Great Sound for the Price: The scalloped bracing and quality strings deliver solid sound projection.

Weaknesses

• Limited Resonance: The laminate construction doesn’t provide the richness of solid wood guitars.
• Basic Accessories: While functional, the included tuner and gig bag could feel underwhelming for more advanced players.

Competing Products

Comparing this guitar to other beginner acoustic models, I’d say it holds its ground well. The Yamaha FG800, for example, offers a solid spruce top, delivering richer tones but comes at a slightly higher price. In contrast, the Fender bundle wins in terms of inclusivity, as it provides all necessary accessories.

The Epiphone DR-100 is another contender in the same price bracket. While it boasts a similar build quality, its sound lacks the clarity found in this Fender model, particularly in the midrange. If you’re looking for a complete starter pack, the Fender bundle is a better value.

True Value

This guitar is a textbook example of affordable quality. It’s designed with beginners in mind, offering a combination of playability, style, and sound quality that’s hard to beat at this price. The inclusion of extras like Fender Play Online Lessons and an Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD makes it a comprehensive package, especially for those just stepping into the world of music.

While it may not cater to seasoned professionals, it delivers incredible value for money for its target audience. It’s a reliable choice for anyone starting their acoustic journey—easy to play, durable, and versatile for various genres. The bundled accessories might not be premium, but they’re functional and serve their purpose effectively.

This acoustic guitar package is a practical and thoughtful option for beginners or anyone looking for a second guitar to casually play at home or on the go.