Answering the question “which acoustic-electric cutaway guitar should I buy?” this guide highlights five solid options across beginner to intermediate levels. These guitars feature cutaways for effortless access to higher frets, built-in electronics for amplified play, and reliable builds suitable for practice rooms, classrooms, and small gigs. The top picks are best for beginners seeking an easy introduction, players upgrading from starter gear, and performers who need stage-ready versatility. Below is a quick comparison table to help you choose at a glance.
| Product | Best for | Key Feature | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washburn WA90CE | Beginners to intermediate players; live performances | Okoume back and sides, cutaway, built-in tuner | Washburn |
| Fender FA-125CE | First-time players seeking balanced tone | Laminate spruce top, basswood back/sides, comfortable neck | Fender |
| Fender CD-60SCE | All-around versatility with reliable preamp | Solid mahogany top (with dreadnought body), Fishman pickup | Fender |
| Fender California Redondo CE | Stage-ready players needing classic Fender tone | Laminate spruce top, basswood back/sides, cutaway | Fender |
| Best Choice Products Starter Kit | Absolute beginners wanting everything in one package | All-in-one kit with amp, gig bag, strap, and more | Best Choice Products |
Washburn WA90CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Kit
The WA90CE offers a dreadnought cutaway with Okoume back and sides and a gloss Transparent Black Burst finish. This model includes a built-in tuner and is designed as a reliable all-around instrument suitable for living room practice, small gigs, and stage use. Best for players who want a full-size dreadnought feel with straightforward electronics and a dependable build. A potential limitation is its laminate construction, which may not deliver the same nuances as solid woods in extreme dynamics or long-term tone aging.
Why this pick: The cutaway access makes upper-fret playing easier for blues, folk, and guitar-driven performances. Washburn’s 130-year heritage is highlighted in the design and playability, making it an attractive entry point for learners who value tradition and stage-ready sound.
Fender FA-125CE Dreadnought Cutaway
Designed for beginners, the FA-125CE pairs a laminate spruce top with basswood back and sides to produce a balanced, versatile tone. The cutaway facilitates high-fret access, while the nato neck and smooth fingerboard offer comfortable playability for learners and players exploring new genres. Best for newcomers who want a reliable, affordable entry into acoustic-electric playing with a consumer-friendly setup. A limitation to note is that laminate tops may not provide the same tonal complexity as solid woods over time.
Why this pick: A beginner-friendly option that keeps tone and playability as primary concerns, with an easy setup that supports quick learning and stage-ready amplified performance.
Fender CD-60SCE All-Mahogany Dreadnought Cutaway
The CD-60SCE uses a solid mahogany top with scalloped X-bracing for enhanced resonance and projection, paired with a cutaway for higher fret accessibility. The Fishman pickup/preamp system ensures reliable amplification for practice rooms and on-stage performance. Best for players who want a robust, all-mahogany tone and long-term tonal consistency, while avoiding overly bright or brittle top-end. Limitation: solid tops can be more sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, requiring careful climate control.
Why this pick: Solid-wood top delivers a fuller, richer voice with strong projection, making it a strong choice for players who value dynamic range across genres, from folk to light rock.
Fender California Redondo CE Acoustic-Electric
The Redondo CE emphasizes a classic dreadnought cutaway with a bright, powerful tone designed for stage presence. It features a spruce top with basswood back and sides for balanced projection and durability. Best for players who perform live and want consistent sound with comfortable playability during long sets. A potential caveat is that the tone may skew brighter than all-mahogany builds, which might not suit players seeking a darker, mellower voice.
Why this pick: The guitar’s bold projection and iconic Fender aesthetic make it an appealing option for performers who want reliability on gigs and in rehearsal spaces, with easy upper-fret access for solos.
Best Choice Products Starter Kit
This all-in-one kit includes a cutaway acoustic-electric guitar, amplifier, gig bag, strap, picks, tuner, and extra strings. Best for absolute beginners or shoppers who want a complete package with minimal additional purchases. The built-in amp and practice features support quiet practice and immediate feedback on amplified tone. Caution: some beginners may prefer to try a guitar with a more refined setup before investing in an all-in-one package, to ensure the neck feel and setup match personal playing style.
Buying Guide
What should you look for in an acoustic-electric cutaway?
Focus on a comfortable neck profile, a reliable pickup/preamp system, and a cutaway that grants easy access to higher frets. For beginners, consider bundled kits to simplify setup and practice routines. For performers, prioritize tone projection, durability, and a pickup that sounds natural when amplified.
Solid wood vs. laminate tops
Solid tops, such as mahogany, offer richer resonance and dynamic response but can be more sensitive to humidity and temperature. Laminate tops tend to be more durable and stable for beginner or casual players, with a consistent tone across climate changes. Choose based on climate and playing frequency.
Electronics and amplification
Look for a reputable pickup/preamp combo with a straightforward control layout. Built-in tuners are a nice bonus for practice and quick on-stage setup. If you plan frequent amplified performances, test the guitar’s acoustic-to-electric balance to avoid excessive brightness or muddiness in various venues.
Playability and comfort
A cutaway should feel natural in your fretting hand. Check neck width, back contour, and fretboard radius to ensure easy barre chords and solo runs. If possible, try guitars with a slightly thinner neck if you have smaller hands or a preference for quicker shifts between frets.
Durability and maintenance
Consider the case or gig bag included, finish durability, and the ease of restringing. Electro-acoustic guitars with visible electronics may require occasional battery checks and preamp maintenance, especially for frequent stage use.
Summary of top picks
- Best overall for beginners and performers: Fender CD-60SCE (solid mahogany top, reliable preamp).
- Best value all-in-one kit: Best Choice Products Starter Kit (amp, bag, and accessories included).
- Best for stage presence: Fender Redondo CE (bold projection and iconic look).
- Great mid-range option: Washburn WA90CE (quality build with upper-fret access).
- Balanced starter option: Fender FA-125CE (easy playability and versatile tone).
FAQ
- What is a cutaway guitar good for? A cutaway provides easier access to upper frets, beneficial for leads and solos across musical styles.
- Do acoustic-electric guitars sound different when plugged in? Some players notice amplified tone differences due to preamp design; many models aim for natural acoustic amplification.
- Is a solid top worth it for beginners? Solid tops offer richer tone but can require more climate control and care. Laminate tops are often more forgiving for new players.
- Should I buy a bundle kit or individual components? Bundles are convenient for beginners, while individual components allow personalized selection for tone and gear quality.
- What maintenance does an electro-acoustic guitar require? Regular restringing, battery checks for active preamps, and humidity control for wood necks and tops.