Many acoustic players seek guitars that blend natural acoustic tone with flexible electronic amplification. The following selections emphasize ease of use, reliability, and value for players transitioning between unplugged and amplified play. Each option suits different styles—from traditional dreadnought to modern cutaway designs—while offering built-in electronics or ready-to-play bundles. Use the buying guide below to compare features like tonewoods, electronics, and included accessories to fit your playing needs and budget.
| Product | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric | Acoustic-Electric | Yes (pickups for amplification) | Gig bag, cable, tuner, strap, picks |
| Fender Acoustasonic Player Telecaster Acoustic-Electric | Acoustic-Electric | Acoustic Engine, blend voices | Gig bag |
| Fender Redondo Player Acoustic-Electric | Acoustic-Electric | Onboard electronics with strong natural voice | Gig bag, strap, tuner, picks, etc. |
| Fender FA Series Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric | Acoustic-Electric | Onboard electronics with tuner | Gig bag, strings, DVD |
| Best Choice Products Beginner Acoustic-Electric Starter Set | Acoustic-Electric Bundle | Amplifier, headphone jack | Gig bag, strap, picks, more |
Best Choice Products Beginner Acoustic-Electric Starter Set
This all-in-one starter kit includes an acoustic-electric guitar with a cutaway body design, along with an amplifier, gig bag, strap, and picks. The guitar offers both acoustic and amplified electric tones, allowing players to switch between unplugged practice and amplified performances easily. The amplifier provides a headphone jack for quiet practice, making it suitable for homes or apartments. The setup targets beginners and intermediate players seeking a complete, ready-to-play package without additional purchases. The guitar’s 41-inch, all-wood construction aims to deliver a balanced tonal response across strings and frets.
Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Bundle
The CD-60SCE combines a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides for a full, resonant voice. The cutaway design facilitates upper-fret access, while scalloped X-bracing enhances resonance and projection. The all-mahogany finish and refined appointments give this model a classic look and feel. The included bundle adds versatility for beginners and intermediate players seeking reliable tone and practice tools, including a gig bag, instructional DVD, and essential accessories. This guitar is well-suited for players prioritizing traditional acoustic tone with dependable amplification.
Fender Acoustasonic Player Telecaster Acoustic-Electric
The Acoustasonic Player Telecaster combines two pickup systems — Fender Noiseless and Fishman under-saddle transducer — to deliver a broad palette of acoustic and electric voices. The Acoustic Engine enables blending voices for versatile tones, suitable for live performances and studio work. This model is designed for players who want a modern, hybrid instrument with a focus on sonic versatility and on-stage adaptiveness. The included gig bag offers practical protection during travel and gigs.
Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Kit
This beginner-friendly package includes a Squier Stratocaster electric guitar, Frontman 10G amp, padded gig bag, and essential accessories. While primarily an electric kit, it presents a contrasting option for players who want to explore electric tones with a familiar, beginner-focused bundle. The kit’s entry-level pricing and Fender’s legacy of craftsmanship make it a practical choice for learners seeking a complete setup with guided lessons via Fender Play.
Fender Redondo Player Acoustic-Electric Bundle
The Redondo Player offers a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides for a commanding voice. Its 6-in-line headstock and slim-taper neck profile reflect Fender’s design ethos, delivering comfortable playability and a rich, resonant tone. The bundle typically includes a gig bag, strap, tuner, strings, and more, making it a balanced choice for players seeking a versatile instrument with strong amplified performance potential. The guitar’s dynamic, no-compromise construction supports a wide range of genres.
Fender FA Series Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Bundle
The FA Series combines a dreadnought body with a cutaway for upper-fret access, paired with onboard Fender FE-A2 electronics and a built-in tuner. All-laminate construction enhances durability and resilience to environmental changes, making it a reliable option for players who frequently travel or perform in varying climates. The bundled case, strings, and instructional DVD contribute to a complete learning-to-playing experience, while preserving a robust, balanced acoustic voice when amplified.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Acoustic Players
- Acoustic vs. Acoustic-Electric: Decide whether you primarily play acoustically or want amplification on stage. Acoustic-electric guitars include pickup systems and preamps for plugging into amplifiers or PA systems, which is essential for live performances.
- Tonewoods and Build: Solid tops (like spruce) typically offer stronger projection and dynamic range, while mahogany back and sides can yield a warmer, mid-range emphasis. Cutaways improve access to higher frets, useful for more complex chords and solos.
- Electronics Quality: Look for reliably tuned preamps, built-in tuners, and intuitive volume/tone controls. Some models offer voice blending across multiple pickup systems for tonal versatility.
- Playability: Neck profile, fretboard radius, and string tension affect comfort, especially for beginners. A slender neck or satin finish can aid smoother fretting and speed.
- Included Accessories: Bundles can save time and money but verify the quality of included gig bags, straps, tuners, cables, and extra strings. A good case or gig bag is critical for protection during transport.
- Use Case: Consider genre, performance setting, and venue size. A versatile instrument with reliable amplification is valuable for singersongwriter setups, small venues, and studio work.
- Budget and Value: Bundles offer convenience, but always compare individually priced components to ensure the bundle’s overall value meets your needs.
- Brand Reliability: Brands with long-standing reputations in both acoustics and electronics are often safer bets for long-term satisfaction and resale value.
- Maintenance: Regular string changes, humidification for wood, and proper cleaning extend instrument life. Some bundles include care items like polishing cloths and string winders to simplify upkeep.
Across these options, players can find instruments that blend authentic acoustic tone with practical amplification, helping expand practice and performance opportunities. Consider your preferred play style, environment, and future needs when selecting a guitar that accommodates acoustic and amplified playing alike.