10 Best Acoustic Electric Guitars

The Fender CD-60SCE is an acoustic-electric guitar designed with the needs of beginner to intermediate players in mind. Its dreadnought body shape, paired with a Venetian cutaway, offers both a full sound and easy access to higher frets, making it versatile for various playing styles and settings, whether you're strumming by the campfire or performing at a coffeehouse.

The guitar's solid spruce top is a standard choice in the industry due to its noteworthy strength and vibrant sound, supporting a range of playing techniques from aggressive strumming to gentle fingerpicking. The mahogany back and sides complement this with warmth and depth, enhancing the overall tonal quality.

One of the standout features is the Fishman preamp and tuner system, which allows for seamless amplified performance. This system is praised for maintaining the guitar's rich acoustic tone while providing players the convenience of easy tuning and sound adjustments on the go. The neck of the CD-60SCE is crafted to be 'easy-to-play,' with a comfortable profile and walnut fingerboard. This design choice ensures a smooth playing experience, which is particularly beneficial for those still developing their technique or for seasoned players seeking comfort.

However, some might prefer a different tonewood than the walnut used for the fingerboard, as it can affect the brightness and sustain differently compared to more traditional choices like rosewood. Additionally, while the solid spruce top and mahogany body are excellent for sound, players looking for more exotic tonewoods might need to look elsewhere.

In essence, the Fender CD-60SCE stands out for its playability and sound quality in its price range, making it a solid choice for upcoming guitarists keen on exploring acoustic-electrics, especially those who appreciate the classic Fender style coupled with modern conveniences such as built-in electronics.

The Fender FA-25CE Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is designed with beginners in mind, making it a suitable choice for those just starting out, whether they're kids or adults. Its dreadnought body shape is known for delivering a bold and rich bass tone, which is particularly good for genres like country, folk, or bluegrass. Constructed with an all-laminate body and a walnut fingerboard, this guitar offers durability and a smooth playing experience. Its 'C' shaped neck profile is comfortable, making it easier for beginners to learn and improve their skills.

The guitar is equipped with onboard Fender FE-A2 electronics, simplifying amplification with an included tuner and controls for adjusting volume and tone. This feature is advantageous for players who want to amplify their sound for performances or practice sessions.

Weighing just 350 grams, the guitar is lightweight, which is great for younger or smaller players. Fender backs this guitar with a two-year limited warranty, ensuring peace of mind regarding defects in materials and workmanship. Given its accessible price and user-friendly features, the FA-25CE is an excellent entry-level option.

The Fender CD-140SCE Dreadnought Electro Acoustic Guitar is an appealing choice for intermediate to advanced players looking for quality sound and craftsmanship. Its dreadnought body shape is ideal for producing a robust and full acoustic sound, while the single-cutaway design facilitates easy access to higher frets, making solos and complex chords more manageable. The guitar uses a combination of spruce for the body and rosewood for the back, offering a balanced tone that is both warm and bright, suitable for various musical styles.

What sets this guitar apart is the Fender-exclusive Fishman CD-1 electronic pickup and pre-amp system, which provides a superior amplified sound. This feature makes it a great pick for live performances and recordings where consistent sound quality is crucial. The neck, made of mahogany, complements the walnut fretboard, providing comfort and ease of playability, crucial for longer sessions.

In terms of aesthetics, the sunburst finish and tortoiseshell pickguard give the guitar a classic, timeless look. The inclusion of a hardshell case offers excellent protection, particularly useful for musicians who travel frequently. Additionally, the guitar is backed by a 2-year warranty, reflecting Fender’s commitment to quality.

Despite these strengths, the guitar's heavier weight (4.54 kg) might be a drawback for some, especially during extended play. Also, while the instrument excels in amplified settings, players solely interested in acoustic play might find the electronics less essential. The guitar requires a 9V battery for its electronics, which could be cumbersome for those who prefer purely acoustic setups. This guitar is well-suited for players seeking a reliable and versatile instrument that excels in both acoustic and amplified settings.