For musicians, particularly those with a fondness for Fender’s electric legacy, finding the right acoustic guitar can feel like a quest. Fender aims to bridge that gap with the California Standard Redondo™ CE, a dreadnought-style acoustic that draws heavily on the visual cues and playability associated with its iconic electric instruments. Released as part of the California series, the Redondo CE isn’t simply an acoustic guitar; it’s a deliberate attempt to capture the Fender feel in a different format, offering a familiar aesthetic and comfortable playing experience for devoted fans.
The California Standard Redondo™ CE immediately stands out with its design. The guitar’s three-color sunburst finish and six-in-line headstock are instantly reminiscent of a Fender Stratocaster, a visual connection that sets it apart from many traditional acoustic guitars. This isn’t a case of simply slapping a Fender logo on an existing design; the instrument is thoughtfully constructed to evoke the brand’s electric heritage. Christopher Hockey, writing for Mixdown Magazine, notes the guitar is “immediately reminiscent of a Stratocaster without looking out of place.”
Construction and Playability
Despite its striking appearance, the Redondo™ CE is designed with practicality in mind. Mixdown Magazine’s review highlights its surprisingly lightweight yet resilient construction. The guitar features an all-laminate build, combining a Spruce top with Sapele back and sides, complemented by a walnut fretboard. This combination isn’t just visually appealing; it contributes to a sound that is both clear and resonant. The dreadnought body shape, a classic choice for acoustic guitars, provides a robust and versatile tone, although the cutaway allows for easier access to higher frets.
The neck profile is a key element of the Redondo™ CE’s playability. The review describes it as having a “nice, slim C shape that isn’t at all cumbersome,” making it comfortable for players of various hand sizes. With a 25.5″ scale length, a 12″ fingerboard radius, and 20 frets, the guitar offers a familiar and balanced feel. Importantly, the Redondo™ CE arrives well-setup from the factory, boasting a “slick action and solid intonation,” minimizing the need for immediate adjustments.
Sound and Aesthetic Details
The choice of tonewoods in the California Standard Redondo™ CE isn’t arbitrary. The Spruce top and Sapele back and sides work in harmony to produce a sound that is both balanced and pleasing. The guitar’s aesthetic details further enhance its appeal. A black body binding, an inlaid dual-ring rosette, and faded pearloid dot inlays add subtle touches of elegance. These details, while not essential to the guitar’s sound, contribute to its overall visual appeal and perceived value.
Fender’s California series too includes the Malibu and Newporter models, each with its own distinct character. The Malibu, reminiscent of guitars favored by surfers and beatniks in the 1960s, offers a gentle tone suited for fingerpicking. The Newporter, with its unique body shape, delivers a more assertive sound, capable of both mellow ballads and raucous energy. However, the Redondo™ stands out for its balance and ease of play, according to Mixdown Magazine, making it the most accessible of the three.
A Fender Acoustic for the Dedicated Fan
The Fender California Standard Redondo™ CE isn’t trying to reinvent the acoustic guitar. Instead, it successfully translates the Fender experience into a new format. It’s a guitar designed for players who appreciate the brand’s aesthetic and playability, and who want an acoustic instrument that feels like a natural extension of their electric Fender guitars. The combination of classic dreadnought construction, comfortable neck profile, and thoughtful design details makes it a compelling option for both beginners and experienced players.
The California series, including the Redondo CE, represents Fender’s commitment to expanding its presence in the acoustic guitar market. By drawing on its rich history and iconic designs, Fender has created a line of acoustic guitars that are both familiar and innovative. The Redondo™ CE, in particular, embodies this approach, offering a unique blend of Fender heritage and acoustic performance.
Fender continues to refine its acoustic offerings, and players can expect further developments in the California series. For those interested in exploring the range, the latest information and reviews are available on the Mixdown Magazine website. Mixdown Magazine provides ongoing coverage of new releases and gear reviews.
Do you have experience with the Fender California Standard Redondo™ CE or other Fender acoustics? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow musicians!
