1 vs 1 Comparison
We take a look at two popular items, the Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought and the Dean EX RES Exhibition with Aphex. Our tests and reviews can help point you towards models and brands that suit your needs. This article is part of a series called Top 10 Best Rated Electric Acoustic Guitars Below $500 in 2023
Let's get started by taking a close look at the Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought.
One of Fender’s most popular options in this market, the CD-60SCE is a great solid top guitar, with big sounds and a classic look for not a lot of cash.
Next up is the Dean EX RES Exhibition with Aphex.
Dean are well known for making metal-oriented guitars for the likes of Michael Schenker and the late Dimebag Darrell, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have a fair few acoustic options in their lineup. The electro acoustic we’ve picked is the EX RES Exhibition, with the ‘Resurrection’ graphics. It’s a choice out of left field for those looking for something different.
Examining the Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought
We’ve got a Venetian cutaway which makes it very, very easy to get to the upper frets, and the rolled fingerboard adds to the smooth playing. The tone is, as you'd expect, superb from this big bodied, no-nonsense guitar. It thunders along even without being plugged in (view the top cables here), which makes it a good choice for people who want the versatility of being able to play acoustically or electrically. Much of this is thanks to the clever scalloped x-braces in the body of the guitar.
Reasons to buy the Dean EX RES Exhibition with Aphex
We really have to begin with the look. In-your-face graphics on the top, with a white finish on the rest of the body and headstock, complimented by V-shaped inlays, and a skull on the 12th (click here for 12 string guitars). It all looks incredibly rock n roll. It won’t be to everyone’s tastes, but if you like this kind of thing, then there aren’t many guitars out there cooler than this one.
HEAD TO HEAD COMPARISON | |
|---|---|
Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought |
Dean EX RES Exhibition with Aphex |
| KEY FEATURES | |
+ Old school looks |
+ Super ergonomic neck profile |
| WHAT OUR TEAM THOUGHT | |
It’s not often you find a Fender electric acoustic guitar at this price, which is why we’ve decided to include it in our best ten under $500. You’re getting a really high quality mid-range guitar for not a lot of money here, with Fishman electronics and one of the best necks on the list. Highly recommended. |
There are almost no competitors to this guitar in this price bracket. If you want something different for under $500, then this is it. Unashamedly inspired by its metal brothers, it’s incredibly eye-catching, but has the features and finish to really back it up. We couldn’t not put this guitar on our list. |
Want to find out more?
You might also be interested in Music Critic's in-depth article on this topic, Top 10 Best Rated Electric Acoustic Guitars Below $500 in 2023.
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