
Brand/Model: Fender CD-60CE
Number of Strings: 6
Hand Orientation: Right
Body Material: Mahogany/Spruce top
Neck Material: Nato
Fretboard Material: Rosewood
Price Range: Under $300
Our Rating: 9.2/10
Fender CD-60CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Review

The Fender CD60CE is the acoustic electric version of the acoustic CD60. While Squier is there to dabble in the affordable range, the CD60 Series enables you to get the best of both worlds – the Fender name and an affordable price!
To get real with you, this guitar is a simple instrument for the beginner. While it’s a no-thrills git, it’s the perfect entry level guitar to get you looking like a pro in front of your buddies.
While it does have some nice Fender touches, such as the Scalloped X Bracing and Fishman Isys III System, it does have some cost cut-backs. This model has the natural finish with a laminated spruce top and nato back and sides – the same laminated pieces as the black and sunburst finishes.
The mahogany model has laminated mahogany. The body has a standard dreadnought shape with a cutaway.
When it comes to tonal quality, the Fishman allows for great amplification. While it’s not the best that Fender has to offer, it does consist of an on-board active preamp and built-in tuner. The sound performance is right for its price range. Compared to the competition, it packs an impressive punch.
Tonal quality is balanced, and it will help to make even the most untalented guitar player sound decent. That’s a bonus that’s invaluable!
Pros
- Price
- Fishman pickup system
- Scalloped X bracing
- Hard case included
- Multiple finishes
Cons
- Glued-in strap pegs
Fender CD-60CE Guitar Reviews
It should come as no surprise that there are very few complaints about the Fender CD60 acoustic electric guitar. For under 300 bucks, you should expect to get a quality guitar that performs as exactly as marketed, even for a Fender. And, that’s exactly what you get!

However, there has been a decent complaint about the glued-in strap pegs that can come out and inevitably cause damage to the guitar. No kidding! However, keeping an eye on the components that make up your instrument will surely prevent a devastating disaster.
Very few complaints report defective guitars from the get go, but with proper inspection upon box opening and with a few extra bucks for a warranty, your purchase will remain protected.
So, what’s the positive? Buyers love that this guitar doesn’t break the bank. It also fits the skill level of many intermediate players and even pro players as a decent and knock-around guitar. For a beginner, it’s perfect! They love the strings, the aesthetic appeal, and the easy playability.
- Laminated Spruce Top, Laminated Nato back and sides
- Scalloped X Bracing
- Fishman Isys III System with Active On-Board Pre-Amp and Tuner
Alternative Acoustic-Electric Guitars to Consider
The Fender family is a reputable one, that’s why our alternatives to consider are Fender-related. If you decide this guitar is worth the buy, you definitely need to check out a complete package kit for the same price! As a beginner, you mightn’t have all the equipment you need, so check out the Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar for the complete kit.
The Fender T-Bucket 300CE acoustic electric is also under 300 dollars and features the same scalloped X bracing and Fishman pickup system. You don’t have to spend extra for this gorgeous guitar. In this same family is the Fender T Bucket Cutaway that’s stunning and has a Graphtec NuBone nut. We love the finish options on this one too!
Last, but not the least, is the Fender Sonoran SCE (not a single complaint about this guitar at time of writing!) and the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat acoustic electric guitars. They’ll push the price up a bit, but they’re a solid guitar for a solid player looking for affordability and smashing aesthetic appeal!
This guitar makes our list of the ultimate acoustic electric guitars under $300.
Finally, if you are willing to consider an electric-acoustic that is not from the Fender family, check out our A-Z of the best electro-acoustic guitar brands for more options.
Fender CD-60CE FAQ
What kind of Strings does the Fender CD60 come with?
The acoustic electric guitar comes pre-strung with phosphorus bronze steel strings, Dura-tone coated acoustic strings to be exact. The gauge is light.
What is the Action Level of the Strings?
This factor does depend on the seller. However, many buyers report that the action may be a little high for complete beginners. However, with the truss rod you can adjust the action yourself to your liking on this guitar.
Are there any Extra Accessories that come with Fender’s CD60CE Guitar?
The only extra freebie is the hard-shell case that comes with the purchase. All other necessities such as extra strings, amp, cable, and the like will need to be purchased separately.
Does the Hard Case Lock?
Yes, the provided hard case does have a locking mechanism. You will be provided with two keys to open and lock the case.
Can a Shoulder Strap be Attached to Fender’s CD60CE?
The Fender acoustic electric guitar does come with two pre-installed strap pegs/buttons for instant strap use.
Does this CD60CE Acoustic Electric Fender have a Compensated Saddle?
This Fender guitar does have a compensated saddle that has a staggered profile to make intonation more accurate.
What does the CE Stand For?
The CE means Cutaway with Electronics. This means that this is an acoustic electric guitar with electronics and a cutaway design.
Is this CD60CE Guitar Good for a Child to Play?
This is a full size guitar, however, with light gauge strings, it should be suitable for an older child to play.
Hardware/Electronics You’ll Need:
This purchase only includes the guitar and a hard case. You can check out the Fender CD-60SCE for the complete package that includes everything you’ll need to get started. If you prefer to buy your own equipment, you’ll need:
- Amp
- Cable
- Extra strings
- Strap
- Humidifier
- Picks (optional)
- Capo (optional)
Check out our extensive list of good accessories for your guitar for anything else you might be missing out on!
Standout Features of the Fender CD-60CE:
- Aesthetic appeal
- Easy to use
- For all skill levels
Our Verdict on Fender’s CD60CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar
To strum it up, the Fender CD-60CE is a superb guitar for the price if you want to start learning or have a casual guitar on the side. For you pros, you might end up finding yourself attached when you’re not rocking it out with your Martin!
Further Reading:
- 4 Best Small Body Acoustic Electric Guitars for Adults & Children (+ Options for Little Hands)
- 5 Best Acoustic Electric Guitars For Beginners – Top Learner Instruments for Adults & Teens in2025
- 7 Best Acoustic Electric Guitars Under $200: We Review the Top Budget Options for2025
- Best Acoustic Electric Guitar Under $1000 In2025 – Top Rated & Superb Quality
- Best Acoustic Electric Guitar Under $300 In2025: Get a Top Quality Instrument for the Right Price
Trent is a music lover, musical instrument player and passionate audio afficionado.