Fender CD-140SCE Electro Acoustic Guitar with Case – Natural

Quick Product Summary

The Fender CD-140SCE Electro Acoustic Guitar in Natural is a versatile cutaway dreadnought designed for players who want strong unplugged acoustic performance, easy playability and dependable electronics for live use or recording.

Its solid spruce top is paired with laminated ovangkol back and sides and quartersawn scalloped X bracing, giving the CD-140SCE a broad, clear acoustic voice that works equally well for chord-based accompaniment, flatpicking and lighter fingerstyle playing.

Fender's comfortable Easy-to-Play mahogany neck with rolled fingerboard edges makes the guitar particularly approachable, while the cutaway provides easier access further up the neck. When it is time to plug in, the Fishman CD-1 pickup and preamp system gives you Volume, Bass and Treble controls together with a convenient onboard tuner.

A Fender hardshell case is included, adding significant value and providing proper protection for storage, rehearsals, lessons and transport.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Fender
Series	Classic Design
Model	CD-140SCE
Model Number	0970213321
Finish	Natural
Condition	New
Body Style	Cutaway Dreadnought
Top	Solid Spruce
Back & Sides	Laminated Ovangkol
Fingerboard	Walnut
Electronics	Fishman CD-1 Pickup/Preamp with Tuner
Main Appeal	Solid-top electro acoustic with comfortable neck and included hard case
Best For	Singer-songwriters, strumming, live performance, lessons and home recording
Included	Hardshell Case

What's Included?

• Fender CD-140SCE Electro Acoustic Guitar – Natural

• Fender Hardshell Case

• ✘ No Additional Accessories Included

Why Choose The Fender CD-140SCE?

Solid Spruce Top

The solid spruce soundboard is one of the most important features of the CD-140SCE. Spruce is highly versatile, responding well to everything from lighter picking to energetic strumming, making this a strong all-round acoustic guitar rather than one restricted to a particular technique or style.

Ovangkol Back And Sides

Fender pairs the spruce top with laminated ovangkol back and sides. This gives the CD-140SCE a more distinctive specification than the mahogany-backed models found lower in the Classic Design range while retaining the durability and consistency associated with laminated acoustic construction.

Comfortable Fender Easy-to-Play Neck

The mahogany neck uses Fender's Easy-to-Play profile with rolled fingerboard edges. Those softened edges help the walnut fingerboard feel less abrupt in the fretting hand, making the guitar comfortable for beginners while remaining perfectly suitable for experienced musicians.

Cutaway Dreadnought Body

A dreadnought is an excellent choice when you need strong rhythm presence, projection and a broad tonal balance. The cutaway gives the CD-140SCE additional flexibility by making higher frets easier to reach for melodic playing, chord extensions and lead work.

Fishman CD-1 Electronics

The Fender-exclusive Fishman CD-1 pickup and preamp means the guitar is ready for an acoustic amplifier, PA system or recording interface. Onboard Volume, Bass and Treble controls give you practical tonal adjustment, while the integrated tuner makes quick tuning checks considerably easier during rehearsals and performances.

Hardshell Case Included

Unlike many electro acoustic guitars in this part of the market, the CD-140SCE comes with a hardshell case. That is a meaningful benefit if the guitar will regularly travel between home, lessons, rehearsal rooms or live venues.

Fender CD-140SCE vs Popular Alternatives

Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought

The CD-60SCE is the more affordable route into Fender's cutaway solid-top electro acoustic range. It combines a solid spruce top with laminated mahogany back and sides and Fishman electronics. The CD-140SCE steps up to laminated ovangkol back and sides and includes a hardshell case, making it the stronger package for players expecting to travel regularly with their instrument.

Fender CC-140SCE Concert

The CC-140SCE shares much of the CD-140SCE's specification, including a solid spruce top, laminated ovangkol back and sides, comfortable Easy-to-Play neck, Fishman electronics and hard case. Its key difference is the smaller Concert body. Choose the CC if comfort and fingerstyle-friendly proportions are priorities; choose the CD-140SCE for the broader dreadnought feel and stronger rhythm-oriented presence.

Fender Highway Series Dreadnought

The Highway Dreadnought is a much more modern stage-focused Fender design, using an ultra-thin 2.25-inch chambered body and Fishman Fluence electronics. It is better suited to players prioritising electric-guitar-like comfort and regular amplified use. The CD-140SCE is the stronger choice if you want the feel and unplugged response of a traditional full-bodied acoustic dreadnought.

Yamaha FGX800C

The Yamaha FGX800C is another popular solid-spruce-top cutaway electro acoustic, using nato/okume back and sides and Yamaha System66 electronics. It is a logical alternative if you favour the Yamaha FG design. The Fender distinguishes itself with its rolled-edge Easy-to-Play neck, Fishman system, ovangkol construction and included hardshell case.

Who Is The Fender CD-140SCE For?

The CD-140SCE makes particular sense for players looking for one acoustic guitar that can comfortably cover home, rehearsal, recording and live performance.

It is well suited to:

• Singer-songwriters

• Acoustic rhythm guitarists

• Beginners looking for a guitar they can grow into

• Intermediate players upgrading from an entry-level acoustic

• Electric guitarists adding a full-size acoustic to their collection

• Live musicians who need built-in electronics

• Players who regularly travel to lessons or rehearsals

• Home recording musicians

• Worship and church musicians

• Folk, pop, country, rock and acoustic performers

Looking for advice on choosing the right Fender acoustic guitar, cutaway dreadnought or electro acoustic setup? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store at our Birmingham showroom.

Suitable Genres And Uses

The dreadnought body makes the CD-140SCE particularly effective for strumming and vocal accompaniment. Open chords have the body and projection needed to support a singer, making it a natural fit for pop, rock, folk and country.

It is also capable of more delicate work. The solid spruce top responds well to changes in picking strength, so lighter fingerpicked arrangements and quieter acoustic passages remain clear and expressive.

For live work, the Fishman electronics allow the guitar to connect directly to an acoustic amplifier, PA system or suitable DI setup. That makes it practical for solo performers, bands, open-mic nights, worship environments and regular gigging.

Solid-Top vs Laminate Acoustic Guitars: Why Does It Matter?

The solid spruce top is one of the main reasons to consider the CD-140SCE over a more basic acoustic guitar. The soundboard is the part of an acoustic guitar that does much of the work of converting string vibration into audible acoustic sound, so its construction has a significant influence on responsiveness.

Fender combines that solid soundboard with laminated ovangkol back and sides. This provides a sensible balance for an everyday electro acoustic: the solid top handles much of the instrument's tonal response while the laminated back and sides offer practical durability for a guitar likely to be transported, rehearsed and performed with regularly.

Compatibility & Recommended Pairings

The Fender CD-140SCE can be used completely unplugged or connected to a wide range of acoustic equipment.

It is well suited to:

• Acoustic guitar amplifiers

• PA systems

• Mixing desks through a suitable DI box

• Audio interfaces

• Acoustic preamp and DI pedals

• Loop stations

• Reverb and delay pedals

• Vocal-and-guitar performance systems

A quality instrument cable is required for amplified use.

For live players, an acoustic preamp or DI can provide additional control when connecting to unfamiliar venue PA systems. A soundhole feedback suppressor can also be useful when working at particularly high stage volumes.

Story & Context

The CD-140SCE sits within Fender's Classic Design acoustic family, a range built around recognisable traditional acoustic body shapes while incorporating features intended to make the guitars comfortable and practical for contemporary players.

Rather than trying to reproduce a particular vintage Fender acoustic, the CD-140SCE concentrates on useful everyday features: solid-top construction, a cutaway, onboard Fishman electronics, rolled fingerboard edges and straightforward controls.

Within the range, the CD-140SCE represents a step beyond the more affordable CD-60SCE by combining its dreadnought format with upgraded back and side material and a hardshell case. That makes it particularly relevant to players looking for a long-term working acoustic rather than simply a first instrument.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Fender
Series	Classic Design
Model	CD-140SCE
Model Number	0970213321
Orientation	Right-Handed
Finish	Natural
Body Shape	Dreadnought Cutaway
Body Top	Solid Spruce
Body Back	Laminated Ovangkol
Body Sides	Laminated Ovangkol
Body Finish	Gloss
Body Binding	Multiple
Bracing	Quartersawn Scalloped X
Cutaway	Yes
Rosette	CD Series Pearloid
Soundhole	100 mm Diameter
Neck Material	Mahogany
Neck Shape	Fender Easy-to-Play with Rolled Fingerboard Edges
Neck Finish	Gloss Urethane
Neck Binding	1-Ply Black
Fingerboard Material	Walnut
Fingerboard Radius	12" / 305 mm
Scale Length	25.3" / 643 mm
Number Of Frets	20
Fret Size	Vintage
Position Inlays	3 mm Pearloid Dot
Nut Material	Graph Tech NuBone
Nut Width	1.69" / 43 mm
Truss Rod	Dual-Action
Electronics	Fishman CD-1 Pickup/Preamp
Controls	Volume, Bass, Treble
Tuner	Integrated Electronic Tuner with On/Off Switch
Battery Indicator	Low Battery Indicator Light
Bridge	Walnut
Bridge Pins	White with Black Dots
Tuning Machines	Chrome Die-Cast
Hardware Finish	Chrome
Pickguard	1-Ply Tortoiseshell
Strap Buttons	Standard Chrome
Factory Strings	Fender Dura-Tone 880L Coated 80/20 Bronze .012-.052
Case	Hardshell Case

Specification Note

An exact individual instrument weight has not been supplied, so no estimated weight has been added.

Power Requirements

The Fishman CD-1 is an active pickup and preamp system, so battery power is required when using the guitar's amplified output and onboard tuner.

A low-battery indicator is built into the preamp to provide a warning when the electronics require attention.

No power is required when playing the CD-140SCE purely as an unplugged acoustic guitar.

For amplified use, connect the guitar to an acoustic amplifier, PA system, suitable preamp or audio interface using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Fender CD-140SCE is a very strong all-round choice for someone who wants a proper solid-top electro acoustic without immediately moving into premium pricing.

Its biggest strength is the complete package. You get the projection and versatility of a cutaway dreadnought, a solid spruce top, comfortable rolled-edge neck, practical Fishman electronics and a hardshell case.

That combination makes it particularly easy to recommend to players moving beyond their first acoustic guitar or musicians who need an instrument that can move between home, rehearsal and live performance without requiring immediate upgrades.

Best suited for: Singer-songwriters, progressing players and musicians needing one versatile acoustic for home and stage.

Main benefit: Strong acoustic fundamentals combined with practical gig-ready electronics.

Standout feature: Solid spruce dreadnought construction with Fishman CD-1 electronics and a hardshell case included.

Value proposition: A comprehensive electro acoustic package with features that reduce the need to purchase essential upgrades separately.

Customers usually upgrade from: Entry-level laminate acoustic guitars, beginner dreadnoughts and basic non-electro acoustic models.

Most commonly paired with: Acoustic amplifiers, PA systems, quality instrument cables, capos and acoustic DI/preamp pedals.

Our tip: If you perform regularly, spend some time setting the onboard Bass and Treble controls for your particular amplifier or PA rather than automatically running everything at maximum. A small EQ adjustment can make a major difference in a live mix.

Showroom feedback: The rolled fingerboard edges are one of the most immediately noticeable benefits, particularly for players moving up from a more basic acoustic, while the included hard case makes this an especially practical package for lessons, rehearsals and gigs.

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you're choosing one of the UK's most established, independent family run music retailers since 1987.

Our Birmingham team is made up of knowledgeable musicians who understand the practical differences between acoustic body shapes, solid and laminated tonewoods, pickup systems and neck profiles.

Whether you're choosing your first serious acoustic, upgrading to an electro acoustic for live work or comparing several dreadnoughts, we're here to offer useful, straightforward advice before and after your purchase.

When you shop with Fair Deal Music, you can buy with confidence thanks to:

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new, used, pre-owned and ex-display equipment

• Competitive prices on leading music brands

• Secure UK-wide delivery

• Flexible finance options available, subject to status

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• A large Birmingham showroom

• Secure online ordering

• Decades of experience with new and pre-owned musical equipment

Trade In. Trade Up. Save More.

Thinking about upgrading? Your next piece of gear could cost less than you think.

We're always happy to consider part exchanges and trade-ins on a wide range of musical instruments and equipment. Whether you're looking to upgrade your guitar, keyboard, amplifier, drum kit or studio gear, your existing equipment could help reduce the cost of your next purchase.

Simply get in touch with our team for a no-obligation valuation, and we'll be happy to discuss the options available.

It's an easy way to unlock the value of the gear you no longer use while making your next instrument even more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Fender CD-140SCE suitable for a beginner?

Yes. The Easy-to-Play neck and rolled fingerboard edges make it approachable for newer players, while the solid top, electronics and cutaway mean it has enough capability to remain useful well beyond the beginner stage.

What is the advantage of a dreadnought acoustic guitar?

Dreadnoughts are popular because they provide a broad, powerful sound that works particularly well for strumming and vocal accompaniment. They are also versatile enough for flatpicking, lighter fingerstyle work and general-purpose acoustic playing.

Does the cutaway affect what I can play?

The cutaway makes it easier to reach frets higher up the neck. That is useful for melodic passages, lead playing and more adventurous chord voicings without changing how you normally play around the lower frets.

Can I connect the CD-140SCE directly to a PA?

Yes. Its Fishman electronics provide an instrument-level output suitable for connection to appropriate amplification equipment. A DI box or acoustic preamp can be useful when connecting to professional PA systems, particularly where longer cable runs are involved.

Does the onboard tuner work without an external tuner pedal?

Yes. The Fishman preamp includes an integrated electronic tuner, allowing you to check tuning directly from the guitar.

Is this guitar suitable for fingerpicking?

Yes. Although the dreadnought body is especially popular with strummers, the solid spruce top responds well to lighter playing. Players dedicated exclusively to fingerstyle may also wish to compare it with a smaller Concert-bodied model such as the CC-140SCE.

Can I change to lighter strings?

Yes. The guitar leaves the factory with .012-.052 acoustic strings. Moving to a lighter gauge can reduce string tension, although a setup may be worthwhile after a substantial gauge change to maintain optimum neck relief, action and intonation.

Is the CD-140SCE suitable for recording?

Yes. You can record its natural acoustic sound with microphones or use the Fishman output with a suitable audio interface. Combining a microphone with the direct pickup signal can also provide additional tonal flexibility during mixing.

CD-140SCE or CD-60SCE?

The CD-60SCE is an excellent choice when keeping the initial cost down is the priority. The CD-140SCE makes more sense if you want the ovangkol back and sides specification and particularly value having a hardshell case supplied as part of the package.

CD-140SCE or CC-140SCE?

Both offer similar materials and features, but the body shape is the main deciding factor. Choose the CD-140SCE Dreadnought for stronger rhythm presence and a larger traditional acoustic feel. Choose the CC-140SCE Concert if you prefer a more compact body against your picking arm and torso.

The Fender CD-140SCE Natural brings together the features that matter most in an everyday electro acoustic: a solid spruce top, versatile dreadnought body, comfortable neck, useful Fishman electronics and proper protection from the included hardshell case. It is a particularly strong option for players looking for an acoustic that can comfortably progress from home practice to rehearsal, recording and live performance.

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