Used Fender FR50CE Resonator

The Fender FR50CE Resonator is a versatile acoustic-electric resonator guitar that combines the classic, soulful sound of a resonator with the convenience and playability of a modern electric guitar. The "CE" in the model name signifies its cutaway and built-in electronics. A "used" model means its condition can vary, but its core features remain the same.

Here is a detailed breakdown of its key features:

Core Concept & Construction

• Resonator Design: The heart of this guitar is its spun aluminum resonator cone and spider bridge, which are the components that produce the classic, metallic, and loud tone associated with Delta blues and slide guitar. The body is a classic dreadnought shape with two distinct "F" holes on the top.

• Acoustic-Electric: The "E" in the model name stands for "Electric," indicating that this instrument is built for amplified performance. It features a unique dual-pickup system, making it incredibly versatile.

• Tonewoods: The guitar typically features a laminated spruce top and laminated mahogany back and sides. While not solid wood, this construction provides a balanced and warm tone that complements the bright sound of the resonator cone.

• Cutaway: The "C" in the model name stands for "Cutaway," a modern feature that provides easy access to the higher frets, which is particularly useful for slide and lead playing.

Electronics

• Dual-Pickup System: This is a standout feature of the FR50CE. It has two different pickups:

  • Fishman Resonator Pickup: An undersaddle-style transducer pickup that captures the traditional acoustic resonator sound with clarity when plugged in.

  • Fender Telecaster Single-Coil Pickup: A magnetic pickup in the neck position that delivers a classic, warm, and clear electric tone. This allows you to play the resonator more like a traditional electric guitar.

• Blending Controls: The guitar has independent volume controls for each pickup, and a single master tone control. This allows you to blend the signals from both pickups to create a custom sound, from a pure acoustic resonator tone to a dirty electric blues sound.

Playability

• Round Mahogany Neck: The neck has a comfortable, round "C" shape, which makes it easy to transition from a standard acoustic or electric guitar. The fretboard is typically made of sonokelin or rosewood.

• High Action: While it can be played with standard fingering, resonators are often set up with slightly higher action to accommodate slide playing. The FR50CE is known for having an action that is high enough for slide but still comfortable enough for fingering chords.

Overall Impression

A used Fender FR50CE Resonator is an excellent choice for:

• Blues and Slide Players: The combination of the classic resonator sound and the dual pickup system makes it a versatile tool for both acoustic and electric blues playing.

• Gigging Musicians: Its unique dual-pickup system and the ability to blend the two signals make it a flexible instrument for the stage, capable of producing a wide range of tones.

• Players looking for a unique sound: The FR50CE is not a standard acoustic guitar, and it provides a distinctive and soulful tone that will stand out in any musical setting.