Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 Acoustic Guitar, Black

Quick Product Summary

The Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 Acoustic Guitar in Black is an affordable full-size steel-string acoustic designed for beginners, students, songwriters and players who want a dependable guitar for everyday home use.

Its classic dreadnought body combines a laminated spruce top with laminated mahogany back and sides, supported by scalloped X-bracing. Fender pairs this with a mahogany C-shaped neck, walnut fingerboard and traditional 25.3-inch scale, creating familiar acoustic-guitar proportions suitable for chords, strumming, flatpicking and general practice.

The gloss Black finish, matching black pickguard and chrome hardware give this version a smart, understated appearance while retaining the uncomplicated acoustic design that makes the CD-60 such an approachable first or second guitar.

At A Glance

Feature	Details
Brand	Fender
Model	CD-60 Dreadnought V3 DS
Series	Classic Design
Finish	Black
Condition	New
Body Shape	Dreadnought
Top	Laminated Spruce
Back & Sides	Laminated Mahogany
Neck	Mahogany, C Shape
Fingerboard	Walnut
Scale Length	25.3" / 643mm
Main Appeal	Affordable full-size Fender dreadnought
Best For	Beginners, students, strumming, songwriting and home practice

What's Included?

• Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 Acoustic Guitar in Black

• ✘ No case or gig bag included

• ✘ No Additional Accessories Included

Fair Deal Quality Control Assessment

Every new guitar supplied by Fair Deal Music is checked before leaving the shop.

For the Fender CD-60 V3, our team checks the general playing condition, neck, frets, tuners, bridge, strings and overall functionality before dispatch.

This gives you additional confidence whether you're choosing your first acoustic guitar or adding an affordable dreadnought to your collection.

Setup & Final Check

The CD-60 V3 is checked and set up before leaving Fair Deal Music.

As with any acoustic guitar, setup can shift slightly during transport because changes in temperature and humidity affect the neck, strings and action. Moving to a significantly different string gauge or tuning may also require adjustment.

Why Choose The Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3?

Full-Size Dreadnought Body

The dreadnought shape gives the CD-60 V3 a substantial acoustic voice and plenty of projection for everyday playing. It is particularly well suited to rhythm guitar, open chords and singer-songwriter accompaniment.

Spruce And Mahogany Construction

A laminated spruce top is paired with laminated mahogany back and sides, giving this entry-level Fender a traditional acoustic construction designed for dependable everyday use.

Scalloped X-Bracing

The top uses scalloped X-bracing, an important structural element that supports the soundboard while allowing it to vibrate effectively.

Comfortable C-Shaped Mahogany Neck

The mahogany neck uses Fender's familiar C-shaped profile, with a 43mm Graph Tech NuBone nut and 12-inch-radius walnut fingerboard. These are conventional steel-string acoustic dimensions that provide a comfortable foundation for chords and single-note playing.

Traditional Acoustic Simplicity

There are no onboard electronics to configure or power. The CD-60 V3 concentrates on the fundamentals of acoustic playing, making it an excellent choice for lessons, practice and songwriting.

Comparison Against Popular Alternatives

Fender CD-60 V3 vs Fender CD-60S

The CD-60S is the logical step up for players who want an upgraded Fender dreadnought. Its key advantage is a solid spruce top rather than the CD-60 V3's laminated top. Choose the CD-60 V3 for straightforward value; consider the CD-60S if a solid soundboard is higher on your priority list.

Fender CD-60 V3 vs Fender CD-60SCE

The CD-60SCE is better suited to players who intend to plug into an acoustic amplifier or PA regularly. It adds onboard electro-acoustic capability and a cutaway for easier access higher up the neck. The CD-60 V3 is the simpler and more affordable choice when acoustic playing is the priority.

Fender CD-60 V3 vs Fender California Standard Redondo

The California Standard Redondo takes a more contemporary Fender approach to the dreadnought format. It is worth considering for players wanting a different visual identity and specification, while the CD-60 V3 remains the stronger option for somebody seeking a straightforward traditional-style first acoustic.

Who Is The Fender CD-60 V3 For?

The CD-60 V3 is particularly well suited to:

• Beginners buying their first full-size acoustic guitar

• Students taking regular guitar lessons

• Players learning open chords and rhythm techniques

• Singer-songwriters working on new material

• Electric guitarists wanting an affordable acoustic at home

• Players who prefer the larger feel of a dreadnought

• Musicians who do not need onboard electronics

• Guitarists looking for a straightforward second acoustic

Suitable Genres & Playing Styles

The dreadnought format makes the CD-60 V3 well suited to pop, rock, folk, country, singer-songwriter material and general rhythm guitar.

Its full-size body particularly suits strumming and chord accompaniment, although it can also be used for flatpicking and fingerstyle playing. Players who find larger acoustic bodies uncomfortable may prefer a concert or smaller-bodied alternative.

Is A Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Right For You?

A dreadnought is a full-size acoustic body shape known for strong projection and a substantial low-end response. This makes it particularly useful for singers accompanying themselves, rhythm guitarists and players who want plenty of acoustic presence.

The trade-off is physical size. Smaller players may find a compact concert guitar more comfortable when seated. If you want a traditional full-size acoustic experience with plenty of room-filling sound, the Fender CD-60 V3 is a strong place to start.

Looking for advice on choosing your first acoustic guitar, dreadnought or complete beginner setup? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Story & Context

The CD-60 forms part of Fender's Classic Design acoustic range, which centres on familiar acoustic body shapes and accessible specifications. The model has become a popular choice for beginning guitarists as well as more experienced players who want an inexpensive second dreadnought.

The V3 keeps that formula deliberately straightforward: traditional dreadnought proportions, spruce-and-mahogany construction, scalloped X-bracing and no unnecessary electronic features.

That simplicity is a major part of its appeal. The CD-60 V3 gives a developing player a traditional full-size acoustic platform without requiring a large initial investment.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 Black
Series	Classic Design
Orientation	Right-Handed
Body Shape	Dreadnought
Body Material	Laminated Spruce Top with Laminated Mahogany Back and Sides
Body Top	Spruce
Body Back	Laminated Mahogany
Body Sides	Laminated Mahogany
Body Finish	Gloss Polyurethane
Colour	Black
Bracing	Scalloped X
Rosette	White Pearloid Acrylic
Neck Material	Mahogany
Neck Shape	C Shape
Neck Finish	Gloss Urethane
Fingerboard Material	Walnut
Fingerboard Radius	12" / 305mm
Number Of Frets	20
Fret Size	2mm
Scale Length	25.3" / 643mm
Nut Material	Graph Tech NuBone
Nut Width	1.69" / 43mm
Position Inlays	White Pearloid Dot
Truss Rod	Dual-Action
Bridge	Walnut
Bridge Pins	White with Black Dots
Tuning Machines	Die-Cast
Hardware Finish	Chrome
Pickguard	1-Ply Black
Factory Strings	Fender Dura-Tone 880L Coated 80/20
Factory String Gauge	.012-.052

Does The Fender CD-60 V3 Need An Acoustic Guitar Amp?

No. This version of the CD-60 V3 is a traditional acoustic guitar without an onboard pickup or preamp, so you do not need an amplifier for normal acoustic playing.

If you already know that you will regularly perform through a PA or acoustic amplifier, the Fender CD-60SCE is worth considering because it provides built-in electro-acoustic functionality.

Recommended Accessories

The CD-60 V3 pairs naturally with:

• Dreadnought gig bag or hard case

• Clip-on guitar tuner

• Guitar stand

• Acoustic guitar strap

• Picks in several thicknesses

• Spare acoustic guitar strings

• Capo

• String winder and cutter

A suitable case or gig bag is especially useful if the guitar will regularly travel between home, school, lessons or rehearsals.

Fair Deal Music Expert Verdict

★★★★★ 5/5

The Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 in Black is a strong first acoustic guitar for somebody who wants a recognisable brand, traditional full-size dreadnought proportions and a straightforward specification at an accessible price.

Its greatest strength is simplicity. It gives beginners the essential acoustic experience without making them pay for electronics or additional features they may not yet need.

Best suited for: Beginners, students, singer-songwriters and players wanting an affordable full-size acoustic.

Customers usually upgrade from: Borrowed instruments, very basic starter acoustics or smaller beginner guitars.

Most commonly paired with: A dreadnought gig bag, clip-on tuner, guitar stand, capo and spare strings.

Our tip: Tune before every practice session and keep the guitar away from radiators or extreme changes in temperature. A well-tuned and properly stored acoustic is much more enjoyable to learn on.

Showroom feedback: The CD-60 V3 is an easy recommendation when somebody wants a traditional dreadnought without paying for electronics or features they do not need. The Black version also has a particularly clean, understated appearance.

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.

Based in Birmingham, our knowledgeable musician-led team has decades of experience helping beginners, students and experienced players find instruments that genuinely suit their needs.

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

• Expert advice from knowledgeable musicians

• Carefully checked new and pre-owned instruments

• Guitars checked and set up before leaving the shop

• A large Birmingham showroom

• Friendly support before and after your purchase

• Secure online ordering

• UK delivery options

• Decades of experience supplying guitars and musical equipment

• Specialist knowledge across new, used and pre-owned gear

Buying your first acoustic guitar can raise plenty of questions about body size, strings, cases, tuners and setup. If you're unsure whether a dreadnought such as the CD-60 V3 is right for you, our team can help by phone, online or in-store.

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-60 V3 suitable for a beginner?

Yes. Its traditional full-size dimensions, simple acoustic construction and C-shaped neck make it a strong choice for somebody learning on a steel-string acoustic.

Is the Fender CD-60 V3 full size?

Yes. It uses a full-size dreadnought body with a 25.3-inch scale length and 43mm nut width.

Does the Black CD-60 V3 have a solid spruce top?

No. This model uses a laminated spruce top with laminated mahogany back and sides. Players specifically looking for a solid spruce top should consider the Fender CD-60S.

Is the CD-60 V3 good for strumming?

Yes. The dreadnought body is particularly well suited to chord-based playing, rhythm guitar and singer-songwriter accompaniment.

Can I use it for fingerstyle guitar?

Yes. Although its larger dreadnought body naturally suits strumming, there is no reason it cannot be used for fingerstyle or flatpicked playing.

What strings does Fender fit from the factory?

Fender supplies the CD-60 V3 with Dura-Tone 880L coated 80/20 acoustic strings in .012-.052 gauges.

Can I fit lighter acoustic strings?

Yes. A lighter set can reduce string tension and may be more comfortable for some beginners. A significant gauge change can alter neck relief and action, so a fresh setup may be worthwhile.

Can I plug the CD-60 V3 into an amplifier?

Not directly. This model does not include built-in electronics. If regular amplification is important, an electro-acoustic such as the Fender CD-60SCE will be more convenient.

How should I look after the Black gloss finish?

Use a clean, soft guitar cloth to remove fingerprints and dust. Avoid household polishes or abrasive cleaners, and keep the instrument away from strong heat sources and major humidity changes.

Should I choose the Black or Natural CD-60 V3?

The construction and main specification are the same, so the choice is primarily aesthetic. The Black version has a sleek, contemporary appearance, while Natural displays the traditional spruce-top look.

The Fender CD-60 Dreadnought V3 Acoustic Guitar in Black is a straightforward, versatile choice for anyone who wants a full-size acoustic for lessons, songwriting and everyday playing. Its classic dreadnought format, simple construction and distinctive gloss-black finish make it an especially appealing first Fender acoustic.

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