Review: Fender California Standard Redondo™ CE
Fender's California series of acoustics is a unique and timeless addition to the brand's legacy, offering a blend of classic Fender aesthetics and acoustic excellence. The California Standard Redondo™ CE is a true gem for any Fender enthusiast, combining the iconic dreadnought shape with Fender's signature style.
The Redondo™ Dreadnought boasts a classic design with a robust, deep tone and exceptional versatility. Its distinctive three-colour sunburst finish and six-in-line headstock instantly evoke memories of a Stratocaster, yet it remains an elegant and distinct instrument.
But here's where it gets interesting: the Redondo™ is more than just a pretty face. Its construction is a marvel of resilience and sturdiness, all while maintaining a lightweight feel. The all-laminate body, featuring a beautiful Spruce top and Sapele back and sides, is a sight to behold. The walnut fretboard adds a touch of elegance, showcasing the perfect marriage of form and function.
Playing comfort is a key feature. The dreadnought shape provides a spacious playing field, and the neck's slim C-shape makes it a breeze to navigate. With a 25.5-inch scale length and 12-inch fingerboard radius, it strikes a perfect balance between playability and tone.
The Redondo™ comes well-set up out of the box, with a smooth action and accurate intonation. Small details enhance its aesthetic appeal, such as the black body binding, dual-ring rosette inlay, and faded pearloid dot inlays. The 'Modern Viking' bridge, crafted from walnut, adds a unique touch to its overall design.
The sound is where the Redondo™ truly shines. It delivers a bright and sparkly tone with a strong emphasis on the top end. While the lows and mids are present, the guitar's signature is its shimmering high-end presence and powerful projection. Whether strumming or fingerpicking, the Redondo™ provides a snappy attack that cuts through without harshness.
The dreadnought body shape contributes to its impressive volume and projection, but its focused frequency range ensures it blends well with other acoustic instruments. Plugged in, the Redondo™ retains its sparkle, thanks to high-quality Fender electronics. The onboard tuner and volume/tone controls offer electric versatility, making it ideal for live performances or effects integration.
Sealed gear tuning machines ensure smooth and accurate tuning, while the classic in-line design and Fender headstock shape maintain the brand's iconic look. The tilt-back design provides consistent break angles, contributing to an even response and string feel. The in-line headstock is a unique feature, setting the Redondo™ apart from the dreadnought crowd.
The sound quality is exceptional. The Redondo™ offers a tight, controlled low end, balanced by a subtle, throaty midrange. The treble frequencies shine, adding focus and a snappy attack. Each note rings out with clarity, never sounding harsh, even with aggressive playing.
The Redondo™ excels in fingerpicking, too, thanks to its bright tone, which enhances clarity. It also handles bends well, especially with lighter gauge strings, making it suitable for lead playing. When electrified, it takes effects beautifully, making it a versatile choice for acoustic players who enjoy adding reverb, delay, or modulation.
In summary, the California Standard Redondo™ CE is an excellent all-rounder for those seeking a cutaway dreadnought with a bright, top-heavy tone. Its low price makes it an ideal first guitar for beginners or budget-conscious musicians, offering great value for money. If you have a collection of midrange-dominant guitars, this is a refreshing change.
With its comfortable playability, stunning appearance, and rock-solid construction, the Redondo™ is a reliable companion for any musician. Its classic sunburst finish, chocolate brown walnut fretboard, and iconic Fender headstock make it a head-turner. Whether you're a Fender purist or a newcomer, the Redondo™ is a guitar that won't disappoint.
So, if you're on a budget and seeking a cutaway dreadnought, the Redondo™ is a fantastic choice. It's perfect for home practice or open mic nights, offering a solid and versatile playing experience. Fender's attention to detail and fine-tuning of electronics make it a modern acoustic guitar that pays homage to the brand's iconic past while carving its own path.
