Why Aren't People Buying Fender's Paramount Acoustic Guitars?!

[@festushaggen2563]

As far as I’m concerned, Yamaha owns the budget acoustic market. I’ve rarely found one that didn’t impress. I’d buy a Yamaha over a Fender any day. Just my 2 cents.

[@TrevorBoggs]

Agreed, Yamaha’s quality is incredibly consistent, even on their lower end stuff.

[@misorodzinak8829]

I have an older Yamaha F310 - a very cheap guitar, yet I would recommend it without hesitation to people who want to learn to play. Mine has a lot of visual flaws from the factory, but it plays very well, and can handle some abuse as well.

[@chrischoemortgage]

And right above Yamaha would be Alvarez Yairi. Sold my Taylor’s and kept my FGX5 and DYM60HD

[@Jojopal333]

Agreed Yamaha has standards beyond so many other mid priced Acoustics. I’ve owned many Yamahas. I now have the honor of owning a handcrafted hand built LS36. Absolutely a masterpiece. OK I’m bragging sorry.

[@svenmorgenstern9506]

Yep. Had one person push me towards Fender, but every other person (including music teachers) said "Yamaha". Still can't play worth beans, but I own 3 that sound good, look purty and are eminently playable. Plus are very affordable.

[@brooksroman2918]

A very simple solution would be to bring back the “Squier” name on cheap acoustics (like the FA-135, CD60) and start manufacturing “Fender” acoustics in Mexico with Martin and Taylor. Also, adopt a singular headstock shape and use the same logos as on the electric guitars. Boom, Fender’s acoustic concerns are solved. I will be sending them an invoice for this consultation.

[@d_ressu]

Tbh I think the California series is an awesome example of what their acoustics could look like.

[@lowellcalavera6045]

If you're over 50, you remember that Fender put out really crappy acoustics for many, many years. (My first guitar was a Kingman, and it was horrible). It's a hard reputation to overcome. More recently, the California series! 😂 They just sound thin, and flat. I did play a mahogany Paramount, and it sounded pretty decent, but it's too late. I've gone Yamaha and Guild, and there no compelling reason to change.

[@Scrat6061]

I have the PD-220E and am extremely happy with it. I am exclusively a finger-style player and find it to be super responsive with a well balanced sound and great action.

[@SamVecchio]

Cooper could make a soggy cardboard shoebox sound incredible. Let me demo it for real life expectations 😂

[@katjoe1974]

I have never been impressed with a fender acoustic guitar- and I work at a music store that’s a fender dealer. Quality seems not all there, tone leaves a lot to be desired. Yamaha and Ibanez both deliver much better instruments for the money

[@robg1996]

Martin and Taylor are too great to be surpassed. The person shopping for an “iconic” acoustic guitar is not going to buy a Fender

[@balsavor1]

For one, the low end is very "thuddy" and has no articulation. The pickguard is, in my opinion, gaudy. I agree the open pore is a bad choice. The comment below mine, I think, says Yamaha owns the budget guitar market and they certainly do. I own a Yamaha Fg800 that would blow these two out of the water and I only paid $150 for it. Sorry Fender, but you just don't have it in the acoustic market.

[@cherrypickerguitars]

So glad you addressed this issue! When they first appeared in music stores, I took a new student in to find his first “decent” acoustic guitar. We both played 12 - 15 budget to intermediate level guitars and left the store with a Paramount! Hell, I even bought a Fender Paramount T-shirt! I thought they were phenomenal for the $ ! I can’t believe I don’t see more of them! Peace

[@rossgill7462]

Great discussion. There was a major omission, though. No mention of Godin guitars when you were comparing manufacturers near the beginning. I get that some (many?) people prefer American-made guitars to those made in China but what about North American-made guitars such as those made just across the border in La Patrie, Quebec, Canada? They make some excellent guitars too. I have my eye on a 12 fret solid mahogany back and sides solid spruce top parlor guitar. It goes for around $1,150 Canadian which would be under $900 USD. From a proud Canadian.

[@ed_music1834]

Excellent discussion guys and phenomenal playing again by Cooper. I tried the parlor version and its actually excellent. All solid construction and great playability. Yeah I think people are really turned off when they hear Made in China or Indonesia but some of these are made phenomenally great. You might prolly come across a bad one but hey keep on looking. The best way to really determine if their good is to actually play and feel the instrument.

[@robstein682]

Thank you guys for making this video. I bought a PS-220e all mahogany, partly due to the demonstration you guys did on the series a few months ago. I absolutely love this guitar, the price was right ($830 or so at the time), it feels amazing, and I love the sound. Could not care less that it wasn't made in America, it's a fantastic guitar.

[@Chemist1076]

Me too...

[@jdstan9650]

My beginner guitar was a Fender acoustic, action & playability was poor...couldn't wait to get something better. Probably because of that, I have never considered buying another one. BTW Chris, thanks to your review video, I own a Yamaha FG5 & ❤ it! How would you compare the FG3 to this Fender dreadnought?

[@duderama6750]

Your first Fender sounds like my F 15. Sounds great but plays poorly. Stiffest action ever.

[@joq702]

My experiences with fender acoustics has not been impressive. I owned an FA-15 and exactly same - I had a f-15 and it was so difficult to play. So stiff. The acoustic Fenders at Guitar stores are always poorly set up when I go to play them. They are muffled and tinny. I think it is because they just sit there and no one really plays them.

[@ShowseeTravels]

Making it in the USA or Mexico makes sense. I won’t buy anything that’s made in China if given a choice. I own guitars that are made in the USA or Japan, but I’ve strongly considered buying made in Mexico.

[@Bliggick]

I looked at the Sunburst Parlour and it was a very attractive guitar but I thought it was too expensive for an import guitar but I didn't realize it came with a hardshell case. I ended up buying an Art & Lutherie Parlour for a quarter of the price of the Fender. It is made in Canada, flawless construction, feels good to play, and rings for days.

[@JRJ2000]

My brother and I have several guitars from them and their sister companies. I.E. Seagull, Simon & Patrick, Godin. They are fantastic for the price. In my opinion, they punch way above their weight class.

[@StopMoColorado]

Ditto

[@joq702]

The Godin brands are incredible for the money. I have a few and the sustain on both was as good as any I’ve played. I get to go to Sweetwater often and play Taylor, Breedlove, Martin, Gibson, and I can honestly say the Godin brands are really great. They are truly up there head to head for me in the 750-1100 pricing. I cannot afford more than that so I never play beyond my realistic purchase cap. It would tease me too much. I have no real experience for a good opinion on higher end guitars (beyond $1100). My preference of course. Love the warmth and construction. I have a Simon and Patrick songsmith concert hall, I kept, and it is so fun to play, tremendous sustain and tone up and down the fretboard. I like the S&P and not Seagull only because of the look. I like a traditional styled headstock.

[@didier6315]

PM2 de luxe was a wonderful Guitar

[@Jones9guitars]

I bought a PM - 1 Standard about 3 years ago and love it. I've played it on stage at venues of various sizes and through several sound systems with just the D. I. and it always sounds great. It's also great acoustically in a campfire situation.

[@extraordinary_ordinary]

I just picked up a PS-220E and I think it's a great guitar with great value. I chose it over a Gibson G-00 and a Martin 000-10E. And for reference, my go-to acoustic is a Taylor 414ce.

[@todddammit4628]

To me, Fender's acoustic line feels half-assed. It just seems like they bought some off-the-shelf over-seas guitars and slapped their logo on it.

[@skydog1153]

I have a PM-2 deluxe parlor that i bought second hand in 2018. It's 1st gen paramount and I bought it based solely on the price/vs specs. The value (for what I paid) is untouchable. I firmly believe that even at twice what I paid for it, it would be worth it. It's a lovely guitar in every way.

[@didier6315]

Yes PM2 de Luxe. Over the top Guitar ❤

[@douglasboyd8475]

They are beautiful guitars, but I played one at guitar Center and the action was extremely bad. So bad that I would be afraid to buy it.

[@larryshields2302]

Im going to take a moment to say I really admire your video quality. I just watched one of your videos from 6 years ago and damn!!!! You guys are killing these demo's/videos now. Great Job!

[@MrNocaster]

If I were able to choose an Iphone made in China vs USA, I would buy the Iphone made in USA. I also shop locally, go to locally family owned restaurants, pharmacies, and I don't go through the self checkout at any business. Regardless of where Fender acoustic guitars are made, assembled, or price range, when I hear an acoustic guitar sound in my head, it doesn't stem from a Fender acoustic guitar.

[@dxcman1]

I'm sure Fender makes a fine acoustic, but in that range I'd personally be looking at Yamaha's and others. LL16M is in that range, plus the FS3/FG3 and both are fantastic.

[@Wobbz9413]

Yes. No comparison. Yamahas all the way. I own an LL16D, an LL16/12 and an FG820. Just amazingly good guitars. The all solids sound AMAZING, but im not a wood snob and for an everyday player, the 820 is just an unbelievable guitar for the little it cost me. Love my Yamahas, and wanting an FG850 now.

[@paulkline3011]

Totally agree. I have a 1972 Yamaha FG200, FG800 and an FG3. All phenomenal guitars. I got the FG800 free on Facebook Marketplace. Long story how that happened but it plays and sounds as good as the FG3 with the A.R.E treatment. Kind of makes me think that the A.R.E is BS. Regardless. Yamaha acoustics are awesome. I don't care they are not American made. Everything else is made over seas.

[@Wobbz9413]

@@paulkline3011 A.R.E. definately makes a tonal difference. But the 800 will improve over time. These are just facts, as is the quality and value of yamaha guitars. Good choice.

[@teleguy5699]

Sadly, Yamaha makes very few lefty's. I was going to buy one that was recommended, but it was not made. They only have one higher end model in lefty and it's a Jumbo. It would have been my 1st acoustic and it seemed too much guitar for a bedroom player.

[@sc12100]

No one is buying them because there are better options at their price points.

[@777jdferris]

It’s really a pretty solid guitar at though for $830.00. Probably the best within that range. I’d take that over a Martin D-10e. But it’s close.

[@randypressley4145]

I noticed an immediate difference between the two guitars. I think Chris nailed It! The gloss finish was inferior to the satin finish. I love the Fender name! The satin finish Fender is a huge step in the right direction! Solid woods are good!

[@matthewf1979]

Do you remember the Fender acoustic guitars from the CBS era? How about the acoustic guitars from the 90’s and early 00’s? They have a huge uphill battle with people that experienced their previous offerings.

[@mateuszt6498]

This series, to me, is the greatest value on the market in terms of anything guitar. I own one - bought it last month. I've played many from this series, never a bad one. Heck, I have a beautiful Martin D-18, but still love the Fender. I own the Ovangkol Orchestra model. Under $1000, all solid wood, with a VERY NICE case and humidifier? What a deal! Already saving for a parlor from the same range. Just fantastic value, sound and playability.

[@antilaw9911]

I just bought the blonde one. Super happy! Traded another fender dark wood mahogany maybe? Towards it. Absolutely nothing wrong with this guitar. The sound and tone is well balanced and jumps out like it's supposed too. As my other guitar sounded like it had a sock or pillow in it dampening it. Kinda dead. Very classy this guitar and the case comes with very very nice!! I'm getting my bridge cut down for lowest action possible how I like it.

[@moshehtaffe]

I love Fender and they're pretty af so im buying one too. first acoustic electric

[@HAULHipHop]

Fender should label their cheap, laminate acoustic guitars with the Squire brand, and keep the fender name on guitars with solid tops and up.

[@aluminati9918]

Great analysis. Honestly Fender don’t stand a chance as long as you get a Martin Mexican made Road series D10 at a few $$ more. With the Martin, at 12 ft away you look like a pro. With the Fender you kind a will look like a beginner. (Sorry Fender guys) And I’m saying this as a dyed in the wool 100% Fender guy myself.

[@JoeMurphysGuitarlessons]

Because Fender acoustics are pretty awful, or at least the ones I've ever played

[@joecooper1703]

I'd love a mid-range Mexican-made Fender acoustic, or even a high-end American-made Fender acoustic. Especially now, with relations with China becoming heated. It's time to start buying products made by allies, democracies with good worker protections.

[@sopwithcamelus]

Yes.

[@teleguy5699]

Mexican made guitars are great for the price. The Fenders and my Taylor are nice. You are right, we need to move away from depending on China. We are gradually moving that way.

[@Gratefulman1965]

I didn’t buy a fender acoustic because I bought a Gibson 50’s J-50. As for problems with fender acoustics. They have a negative Public opinion. My personal experience is they are inferior in build and tone. This does not include the new paramount series. The older ones in the 70’s and 80’s I hated them. They were garbage for the most part. Love my new Gibson though.

[@greg6509]

I love the open pore! It's just what an acoustic guitar should look like, an acoustic guitar shouldn't look like a piece of plastic. Thanks for making the video!

[@Diosprometheus]

I own a Fender Paramount Mandolin and prefer t over my Epiphone and Hal Leonard started mandolin. I also own the Paramount banjo and the Resonator Guitar. I think these instruments the bomb. The are well-made and sound fantastic. The instruments are beautiful. Very Happy and very loyal to the Fender brand even though I have Gibsons, including a 1954 ES-295 the first guitar that my mom bought me many, many years ago and D'angelico, Guilds and others.

[@justinthyme2666]

If I were looking to spend $800-900 in a new acoustic, it would be on Yamaha Red Label 3 series or the L 16 series, depending on the sound I wanted. I will say, after discovering I really didn’t care for trying to learn on an electric, I bought a used Tim Armstrong hellcat Fender acoustic and really loved it. People loved to kid me because I don’t have a hellcat personality, but it was a very fun and nice sounding guitar

[@paulkline3011]

I just bought a FG3. Phenomenal guitar. It doesn't even have bone nut/saddle and it sounds incredible. I played it against a D18, D28, J45 and it blew them all away to my ears. $830 compared to $3000+ for the other guitars. Ya. I'm happy with my Yamaha!!! 😃

[@normadicn5700]

I got one on sale with hardcase for 300£. But the sound was awful. Just got a storia which mahogany top compared to the Fender PM2 which is all solid mahogany. Finally, Fender needs to go back to drawing board for acoustic guitars.

[@BaktaBak3]

We have the early model Fender Paramount Series guitars (the parlours ) and love them. All solid wood with electronics. They're great ! Sound great !

[@chiefkikyerass7188]

It's much harder for a budget manufacturer to become a premium...because they are just that budget....however ...if your a premium manufacturer and decide to market budget..it works...basic marketing

[@texhaines9957]

Having a local shop is great. I need to buy stuff from them to keep them in business. Otherwise, it might be 90 miles tobuy guitar strings. They don't carry everything. I haven't seen or played a Fender Paramount, a Santa Cruz, Larrivee, or Preston Thompson to try one. I have gotten pretty fussy with the neck profile, scale, and nut because of injuries to the fretting hand. Thanks, Cooper and Chris.

[@jameswhite1450]

There isn’t anything about those guitars that would tempt me into picking one up. I’m just being honest. The polyurethane look is a turnoff and on camera it looks thick. Imho Maybe Fender should look up here in Canada for building a shop. We have a good exchange rate at present and good tariffs. We have decent wood and manpower. I’m sure they’ve looked up here as we’re not far away lol. I don’t know much about the business but at first blush it strikes me as doable. My 2 cents.

[@charlesbolton8471]

After finishing the video, I want to say that I think you are spot on with moving production to Japan or Mexico. Honestly, Mexico really would be a great choice for Fender. They could even offer a nitro finish to compete with Gibson. Speaking of Gibson I think it would be awesome if they moved Epiphone production to Mexico. I’m also surprised that you never mentioned (and so far no one is the comments has either) the Spring Hill series of acoustics that Fender made in 90s in Spring Hill, TN right outside of Nashville and just down the road from GM’s Saturn factory. Those Spring Hill guitars were excellent and comparable to similar Martins. I owned a Fender acoustic for several years in the 90s. I bought it used so I’m not really sure what year it was made (I also don’t remember for sure where it was made but I think it was Korean), but it definitely had been discontinued a few years before I bought it. It was a model called the LaBrea. Mine was apparently the top of the line in that series. It was flame maple top, back, and sides in a transparent amber finish. It was my second acoustic guitar. The first was from Ovation’s budget brand Applause. The Fender sounded much better acoustically, but the Applause had better electronics and the neck was slightly better from a playability standpoint although the body shape (even though it was a shallow bowl) tried hard to negate the neck’s playability. I still think Ovations look cool, but there is no way I would ever buy another one. I would definitely consider a North American made Fender acoustic if the option existed, and they offered something unique from the competition.

[@ltcuaa]

why mention what you can't buy?

[@charlesbolton8471]

@@ltcuaa Why mention what you can’t buy? The best reason to do so is to make companies aware of demand for products that aren’t currently available.

[@MurrayWilliams]

The Paramounts tick a lot of boxes. The only problem with those guitars is they just don't sound great. They don't resonate well. They tend to be very thumpy in the low end and lack clarity on the top end. Every time I've tried them, there are better sounding guitars on the rack around them. I had strong hopes for the Paramounts because the Gretsch acoustics have been surprisingly good. It's the same company so ... unfortunately no, they just don't go. I have MUCH more luck with the Yamaha guitars in the lower-end of the market. Those are great. They almost always sound great. It's surprising to find a Yamaha that doesn't sound good. I love Fender. I want them to succeed. They still have work to do on their acoustics.

[@WolfCat5102]

You two are the best. I love your honest reviews. I have been considering the PO-220 on and off since they were released. I just haven't been able to decide. They seem to be made well and have a great sound, plus they come with a hardcase. I kinda like the pickguard, but I agree with Cooper on the purfling and rosette; don't hate it but don't love it either.

[@timelwell7002]

I've tried a few of Fender's Paramount acoustics - and I thought they were very good. Sadly people are extremely brand-led, and as Chris and Cooper rightly surmize, the guitar buying public have a pre-conceived idea that just because Fender have traditionally foucssed on building electric guitars, that somehow they can't be any good at making acoustics. The Paramount series demonstrates how wrong this pre-conception is.

[@ryanmccutcheon4298]

I would have one of these in a heartbeat. To improve popularity, they need to have these made in Mexico or Japan. China just carries a huge stigma when it comes to guitars.

[@MrTonequest]

Agree 100%

[@sgtmac62]

We DO NOT want production guitars from CHINA. Owners, simply don't sale them. Refuse to. I did. Not starving yet. Adds integrity to your shop.

[@machineoutlivestheman1192]

Was heavily involved in this project for Fender. Glad to see it getting some love. Fender Acoustic have had some home runs over the years, but the challenge was always fighting the perception that they could be perceived as anything but a budget line. A dilemma not shared on the electric side or the business. This project was a ton of fun, tons of passionate experienced acoustic folks. The result was wonderful. Cool little corner of brand DNA.

[@MrTelecosta]

Tell me something if possible, why did you guys decided to put the strap pin in that location? Sure it’s more electric guitar like, but I have to say I really dislike it visually. It just seems wrong on a acoustic.

[@machineoutlivestheman1192]

@@MrTelecosta For the reason you’d mentioned. The guitar balances more easily with the strap pin that position.

[@floriansipos9397]

Great job, congrats! Tell me, please, why is PM3 all-mahogany discontinued? That is a really great instrument.

[@CocoKoi321]

Prove it

[@Benson.BereTV]

Hey man. Thank you people for working on it. I love my PO220e. Its a very great guitar. I mean the only constructive part that will make this to sell at 700-800 guitar? Is to add grover and better poly coat on the sides. Its to thick. But still sounds good!

[@bassvibasics479]

To be honest it's the curse of the F-word. Fender simply aren't regarded in the market as a manufacturer of quality acoustics. Slap the name Guild on it and they'd probably sell.

[@PC85X]

I bought the PD220e about two weeks ago. Absolutely love it. Sounds amazing acoustically. Very good action and fret work. Subtle electronics, so no obnoxious plastic squares on your nice guitar. Very happy and would recommend it. Better than the Taylor 114 which I was considering, and I'm a Taylor fan boy.

[@Deefoz]

I’m torn between this or am A3M from Yamaha.

[@PC85X]

@@Deefoz After owning the Fender for over a month, I'm still in love with it. I'm not a badge snob, so a Fender acoustic and their reputation means nothing if the guitar sounds and plays nice. I can honestly say that unless I fall in to money to commission a build to my spec/preference that this is a forever guitar.

[@Benson.BereTV]

So excited. Bought one few days ago from thoman at 380 euros. It will ship soon with a full setup and elixir strings.

[@mozartsmate6358]

​@@DeefozGet one of these..

[@mozartsmate6358]

Best Acoustic neck I've ever played,.. and I've been around a long time.. Superb guitar.

[@stevewilliams2895]

damn these went up alot, i picked up a PM-3 which is a auditorium about 2 years ago, they were 510 dollars brand new with a hardshell case. all solid mahogany top back and sides.

[@Gratefulman1965]

I’m going to chime in one more time. Another company that suffered early on but overcame a negative image is Alvarez. The Yairi association has helped a lot but the old 70’s Alvarez guitars I own and love them and the new ones are consistently solid instruments. Back in the day though Alvarez suffered like fender continues to do. Fenders issue in my opinion is they are not fully vested in the vision of producing competitive acoustic instruments. If they were to put out an all American made fender acoustic again, I would be interested. I feel they just don’t care to venture outside of they’re comfort zone of electrics and amps.

[@robertdillon9989]

The open pore finish just sounded way better than the 5# lacquered dreadnought !!!!. Sorry, I’m a Taylor long term owner. Player x over 50 yrs. For what it’s worth. Oh, and the buyer, doesn’t have to get over anything! We are the buyer , the manufacturer has to innovate to make US happy damn it ! Or screw them. I’ll just buy old gear. The stigma on Fender acoustics is a hangover from many years of incompetence in acoustic building that they finally got over !

[@charlesbranch4120]

Thanks for the great information and advice for potential buyers and Fender, not to mention other manufacturers. It is becoming more difficult to find music stores nearby where guitars can be looked at up close and personal. That's part of the reason that I bought a lower-priced B-stock demo all-solid African mahogany (Khaya spp.) back & sides, Torrefied European spruce top concert/auditorium guitar "Designed in Bend, Oregon (an 8-hour drive), Crafted in China" from the east coast, tried it out and gave it to my son-in-law guitarist for a Christmas gift a year ago. Described in the catalog as a semi-gloss finish, which was thinner with warm, open, and inviting tones, than the signature verse I bought for myself a month later. Yes, GAS strikes everyone. I think (therefore I am... often wrong) I may be done buying guitars with my current collection. I'm with Ted's guitar philosophy. Manufacturers in North America can look to other guitar companies for examples of improved QC from other countries. PRS-SE, Taylor Academy-300 series, Breedlove's crafted in China models that return to Oregon for final inspection and set-up before shipping (some settling of contents may occur- corn flakes). Humidification is a nice addition. Taylor educated me well on that subject. Education of the consumer? Yes, do that! Alamo Music is really, really good at that! Thanks y'all and here's hoping everyone had a "Happy Groundhog Day!" From the winter-spring-winter-spring-winter-...? weather wonderland.

[@guyincognito320]

I don't even want a US guitar, because they're not worth the money. The economy is screwed up, it should be more level, which they could do by subsidizing local manufacture and putting tariffs on imports. But that's not happening any time soon. Luckly, Recording King, Blueridge, Yamaha etc all make superior import guitars to these Fenders. I like the Paramounts because they're flashy, unlike Martin style guitars, but the nuts are just too narrow. My hands are too big to play fingerstyle on them. A 43mm nut dreadnought is totally valid but a concert/OM guitar is bound to be a fingerstyle guitar in some capacity and that narrow nut makes it seem to me like they're not all that serious when it comes to the acoustics game. I also like the Fender headstock Newporters because they're cool and eye catching, and they sound totally decent, but they have the same tight string spacing like an electric guitar, and there's a homely electronics panel on the side. (Some giggers want that, which is fair enough). Also, the big name companies always mess around with the fretboard woods. You either get ovangkol, pau ferro, laurel (which is truly hideous), or richlite, sometimes on a 1700 dollar guitar, with a plastic fretboard. I resent that corporate penny pinching. It's not about tone, it's just that I'm always touching and looking at the fretboard, and I want the correct wood to be there. Charge an extra 50 bucks or something. Manage the environmental side, do whatever it takes. Recording King, Blueridge, Yamaha, etc all make fantastic import models with traditional tonewoods and overall a better pro-tier sound than these Fenders. I do love Fender's design and feel, in all their guitars, but in acoustics they need to improve a bit imo, even as they already have with their current gen of all-solids. I hope they will.

[@trevorgwelch7412]

I want but can't find the Yamaha LL-16 Sunburst . LL-TA can't be found . Strange . Hmmmmmm

[@bryanwalters9574]

I played that exact model dreadnaught at my local guitar center and was blown away. I’ve never played a square shoulder dread that sounded so good finger picked. The top was so responsive. Great value as well.

[@guyincognito320]

But the nut width makes it a flatpicker only imo. Putting a Strat nut and all the eccentric decorations makes Fender look noobish and unserious with these.

[@mozartsmate6358]

Fantastic neck on these..

[@calebbhawkins]

I haven’t found one yet that had the correct neck angle, I’ve tried 7 of the current generation of the series and they all needed neck resets. The first round of them I saw looked and felt cheap and flimsy. I’ll stick with Eastman.

[@guimarboy]

Another problem is that at that price point, there is loads of other all solid wood guitars available. They are fine looking guitars. Those Fender custom shop acoustics were never going to take off especially the California ones. The lead singer of Midland plays a red one in concert.

[@choiceblade]

I listened to Judas Priest in the very early eighties...live. SO, I can't hear hair guy, but I CAN hear the more wealthy fellow. Who mixed the sound for ya?

[@bilbak2010]

I have a Fender F75 MIJ that I bought in 1980. It is why I continue to look at Fender as a great choice. The sound on these is phenomenal. I so want Fender to be a major player because I absolutely love it.

[@czedicartist8955]

My F-75 is also a MIJ model with original soundhole label and MIJ sticker on the back of the headstock. It’s 50 years old this year and is rich, warm and perfect for my finger style playing. I also have a newer Made in USA Martin D-16RGT and a vintage MIJ Epiphone PR-650N but MUCH prefer the Fender. I guess beauty is in the eye of the beholder, whatever it is the F-75 is my keeper.

[@redryderaus]

Why does "American made" automatically make it better? 🤔I'm asking from outside the USA if you didn't guess. If even Americans aren't buying an "American made" product then maybe there is something in that. Just trading on "American made" can only forgive so many product faults.

[@kensims76]

The Fender USA Springhill series nearly established them as a high quality acoustic contender. Sadly they dropped the line. Fender fans want to love their acoustics, but we need to see three things: 1. A visible delineation between high end and low end. 2. Longevity and commitment to good acoustics. 3. A consumer focused price point.

[@travisbartley58]

I had a Fender DG8 I sold it I disliked the neck my hand was cramped playing cowboy chords. Ibanez and Yamaha make decent acoustic guitars under $500.00

[@charlesbolton8471]

I’m going to go ahead and make a comment while being only 6 minutes into the video. Fender definitely has a less than stellar reputation with acoustic instruments over years which is in and of itself unfortunately because as you already pointed out with the Custom Shop Acoustics there have been great Fender acoustics over the years. That being said, I think Fender’s current hardship with acoustics is 100% tied to country of origin. It’s interesting that Chris would bring up IPhones (one of which I’m using to type this comment). However, Apple doesn’t give us a choice in country of origin. Either we get a Chinese IPhone or we don’t get an IPhone at all. I would gladly pay extra for one made in the US or even anywhere other than China. Luckily, we still have that option in musical instruments even though I honestly feel that we are rapidly headed towards losing it. The thing about Chinese Fender acoustics is that there are North American made options for the same price including Mexican Taylors and Martins and the Canadian brands under the Godin umbrella. Additionally, for those who don’t have an issue with buying a Chinese guitar there is probably a better speced and better quality Eastman in the same price range as Fender. At least Eastman is a Chinese company that apparently takes better care of their employees instead of it being an American or European owned company building guitars in China to enhance the company’s profits. Had to add an edit as soon as I restarted the video. Major misconception about the history of Fender. Fender absolutely WAS NOT founded to build a more budget friendly guitar than Gibson. They were able to charge less for their instruments than a Les Paul, but only because their cost of materials and labor were much lower and their instruments were easier to build. Make no mistake about it their market was the same professional musicians that were buying Gibsons and other established brands. I’ve never researched prices on Gibsons lower priced models in the 50s but I would imagine that an ES-125 was probably similarly priced to Tele or Esquire.

[@eugenehavens]

Excellent comment, and a good distinction to mention Eastman as a Chinese luthier done right. It will take the boutique attitude Eastman has to overcome a low-end reputation. They've shown it's possible.

[@ronmoore1219]

I’m of the same mindset.

[@TheCelticlion]

Bought a CD 60 SCE new as my first guitar. It is complete rubbish. Took it to a highly recommended luthier for strings and set up. There is just so much wrong with it. it's unplayable after 7/9 fret. bridge/saddle have been put on wrong. Think they might have used all the sub standard parts and used them on one guitar and just put a quality sticker on it to make up the numbers and get rid of it. Not played now for 3 months as it is so depressing and I cannot progress until I get another guitar or get this one repaired, even though with all the work I've been told it will never be as good as it should be. Extremely disappointed with Fender. Never again

[@James-oh1wp]

These are great looking guitars in my humble opinion … would like to see you do a sound comparison with similar priced guitars

[@darrenwilliamson9325]

I don't know why they (Fender) don't know how to make a proper acoustic guitar. I recently played a smaller one (the Ava) and it was good. Then I went on to one of the mid-sized ones. I was tuning it up and was on the high E string. The string broke and the pin came out. I'm thinking, "The quality hasn't changed."

[@ToddMelanson]

Chris and Cooper, you guys are the bomb. I trust your reviews, insights, etc. Keep making these videos, I love them. Of course, liked and subbed. Thanks. The whole "it's 90% easier to sell to your existing customers" was right on point. That's Fender in a nutshell.

[@nohillforahighstepper]

People aren't buying Fender acoustics because historically, Fender acoustics sound really bad.

[@CaptainOfMyBurden82]

Don’t forget about Eastman. They’re killin it with the value oriented import all solid wood guitar.

[@RADThird1]

Alamo isn't an Eastman dealer so you won't see them mentioned in an Alamo video and I get that. They are trying to sell what they stock.

[@MADguitar]

Because you can buy a Seagull for a few hundred bucks that will play and sound better than a Fender acoustic, as good as a gibson acoustic and almost as good as a Martin.

[@OscarGuitare]

The problem with Paramounts is their fingerboard width. Even if you're used to a strat, acoustics need a wider board for finger picking, or comfortable flat picking. But they honestly sound amazing and most cutaways sold out. Also very lightweight.

[@SteveMc870]

Agree. I love my mahogany Paramount except for the nut being too narrow.

[@michaellaverty1844]

Cooper can make any bad guitar sound great. Not saying these guitars are crap but……

[@nickc3930]

I have the paramount PD-220E and love it, first solid body I've bought and a serious upgrade from my old budget guitar. I have upgraded bridge and pins and a good set up and it sounds seriously amazing!! Highly recommend

[@cooloutac]

so does the top unsanded and sharp edge part of the body rough up your arm? Thats the only thing stopping me.

[@nickc3930]

@@cooloutac no, I don't have that issue at all.

[@cooloutac]

@@nickc3930 oh my mistake I was thinking of the PO version

[@stevebernard221]

The Dreadnaught in the vid is a decent guitar for sure. Just my opinion.....:) Fender has the ability to make a killer acoustic. They own the resources to do so. However, comparing this Fender line up to other overseas made instruments of similar price just don't work out in their favor. Other overseas brands or makers can match USA standards and quality (and by this I mean what the general public assumes the quality of USA guitars are). I have experienced many overseas guitars (electric and acoustic) that have been mind blowing in comparison to USA made instruments. What the Big brands need to do is have their overseas lineup made to spec, the same as it would be in the USA. Unfortunately, they chose to only spend a particular amount of money for a "good" guitar (to maximize profit) instead of spending a little more money for an amazing guitar (provide closer competition to their USA models). The quality that people complain about in relation to most overseas products, and in this case...guitars...is a reflection of company greed, not skill of what overseas builders/luthier's can produce.

[@MelodyMaker]

Folks had some bad experience with Fender acoustics back in the 80's when the set up from the factory was poor and installed with wrong gauge strings. The memory never left for those in the age demographic who have money to spend. There are boutique builders seldom referenced on this channel who have deserved attention. As an example, "Godin's" line up from Canada is great value! The Kamloops B.C. boutique factory "Riversong's" River Pacific won MMR magazine's "Best Acoustic Guitar of 2022". Why would anyone want Fender on their head stock when a) the resale value will be poor given their reputation for electrics over acoustics, b) the tremendous selection available now, c) the mystique of owning something unique.

[@joq702]

Spot on agree with your comments.

[@cmmorrissey4]

So just a little confused. Normally I agree with your videos but again confused here. You did a video about a year ago on these guitars and I would say was about 90% positive. You liked the looks, the purfling, the price seemed good based on the upgraded pick up and case, etc. Now a lot of the things you liked you seem to not like. I realize you've had time to get more info, but it seems a little odd to come back and go negative on the guitar that you seemed to recommend people buy previously. I have a Paramount dreadnaught with the vintage burst finish and love it. The sound is awesome, the look is killer, and the quality is great.

[@b-stainton123]

Personally I love the paramount series. I tried them all and the one that's stuck with me is the Palor... Its more unique at the price range than what other companies offer. If you looking for a dreadnought there's alot more options.

[@jambajoby32]

The paramount parlor size (Chris’ guitar) is amazing! I despise acoustics entirely but that’s the one & only I’d ever even strum!

[@michaelk5507]

I've got the parlor too. It's all solid wood. Isn't heavy. Has a lovely thin finish. Looks really good, and I think it has a really, really, good sound. Warm, but balanced in the trebble. Truthfully, it sounds bigger and better than many full-size dreadnoughts I've heard/played in a simililar price range. And it came with a hardcase, so you get a lot of guirtar for your money. But, it's the image that's the problem, which is a real shame.

[@Allagi22]

There's nothing wrong with them, I'm sure they play decently but that doesn't mean there is a good reason to buy a Fender acoustic. Why would you? The premium brands are well established like Martin, Gibson, Taylor etc. and there are so many options for budget acoustics many of which are available for less than a Fender acoustic and perform as good if not better. Then you have a brand like Yamaha where you can get a great budget acoustic, and a fantastic high end acoustic, and everything in between at different price points from the same company. Fender doesn't have the clout or reputation to have any real impact on the acoustic guitar market.

[@PaulGAckerman]

I fell in love with Taylor Guitars after hearing a CD in the late 90s called Sounds Of Wood and Steel. Maybe producing a CD album or EP of prominent Fender players and guitars (such as San Antonio's own Cooper Greenberg) would help people understand Fender's value in the acoustic market.

[@VamboMarbleEye]

It used to be that anything made to British standards or them closely followed by Japan was the gold standard for craftsmanship, but those days are gone. Mexican, Korean and even Chinese made guitars aren’t easily identifiable in comparison to UK, Japanese and US guitars. The traditionalists don’t like to hear that but it’s true

[@cph630]

I came into Alamo & tried the OM sized Fender Paramount & the playability & tone was not at all what I was hoping for. It’s a nice looking guitar, but I thought the tone was kind of dead, & the setup didn’t even play as well as some of the similar priced Breedlove or Guild guitars.

[@josephsanson4727]

Being a lefty I hate Fender. They absolutely don’t care what kinda crap they send to us. Yes I’ve owned the Mexican and American models and they consistently suck when it comes to lefties. It’s pretty pathetic when you think about how it was a lefty that got them the majority of their attention.

[@winejock]

Great lesson in marketing, guys! This is one of the best videos you've done. Thank you for your observations and explanation of what is happening in the guitar market, especially in the mid-tier range. That is where the majority of guitar players are most likely looking, including myself. Hope Fender and some of the other manufacturers can zero in on the price/quality "sweet spot" Chris is talking about. Players need to get away from judging based on perceived brand quality and prestige. Everyone will sell, buy and play more guitars that way!

[@teleguy5699]

I know it has to do with manufacturing and time and effort, but it blows me away that if I said I was buying a $2,000 electric guitar people would question why, but you read the same forums and these people all have 4 to 5,000 dollars Martins, Taylors, Gibson's and such and can have 2 or 3 of them. BTW, I have a Taylor 214ce-K. Word is, "budget" Taylors play and sound almost as well as their big guns. Reminds me of Audi who makes sure the VW isn't too good. Why buy the more expensive one?

[@geeeeeee3]

Got enough commercial there boys. Wow what a mistake I made suffering through all your money making.

[@Gauchograd99]

A family member has an old Martin people have offered over $20k for, and that was my first contact with an acoustic guitar (about 30 years ago). In college, a guy had a Fender acoustic and it was a "toss around" guitar (not solid wood, etc) and it was ok to mess around with. When I FINALLY decided I wanted an acoustic I researched a ton online (videos, reviews, specifications, etc.) before going in and getting hands-on. What I found in playing different acoustics was there was only two real contenders for me: Taylor and Yamaha (I wasn't a fan of the "Martin Sound" especially from lower cost models). In the end, it was a Taylor GT that felt best to me and my shorter fingers. Fenders just don't sound amazing... nothing stands out to me in a Fender acoustic and they almost all sounded muffled either due to wood quality, finish, bracing, or all the above. I won't get into the Acoustasonics (sp)... they don't make logical sense to me. They aren't resonant acoustics and don't sound great via the electronics.

[@chenzhu9308]

I almost bought the fender acoustic because of the look.. but soon I went back to Taylor and Martin for their sound. Fender acoustic doesn’t sound so great

[@paul_sebastian1154]

One thing that bugs me about Fender acoustics is the front strap button placement, I’ve been tempted by the Paramount series a few times, but just can’t quite get it. For me I’d choose a Yamaha at this price point or a Guild. Not bashing Fender, I own 3 Strats and really love those.

[@randykirby2866]

I’m with you on that. I’ve come close to buying one a couple of times but that is the reason why I didn’t.

[@paulketchupwitheverything767]

I noticed the strap button position at the start of the video and thought it unusual, but then it's similar to where the button is on many electric guitars. I'm interested to find out how it feels. I've bought acoustic guitars without a front button fitted and automatically drilled the hole in the heel "because that's just where it goes" (and there is the wood depth to accommodate it). I can see now that it doesn't take too much to glue a small piece of wood on the inside of the body to support a screw and button anywhere you want.

[@nathanhaley2565]

They don’t sell because we all remember the Fender acoustic guitars that were straight up garbage. The paramount series is a huge improvement, but the name on the headstock needs to be associated with quality

[@jacobmoore9657]

I bought one. As a fender acoustic guy. I have a 48 year old Fender F-15 I have an 11 Year old CD60CE all mahogany with slotted bridge that’s a workhorse. My only two guitars total $350 in price combined and I’ve been playing for 15 years. I wanted an upgrade only because I’m wanting a solid wood guitar not due to any problem I’ve had. Looked at the Yamaha FG3, Alverez MD60/MD70, Recording King RD318, Eastman E6D/E8D and pretty much everything in between for an all solid wood guitar under $1,000. Everyone in the world told me to get the Yamaha or Alverez. I think all of them held their weight equally and all worth more than their price tags. But with the fender you get built in electronics, all of the embellishments, bone nut and saddle. And probably one of the best fender acoustics ever manufactured. I was leaning towards the fender over the Yamaha and then… I found the FD-220E blemished for $600 and couldn’t pass it up.

[@jacobmoore9657]

Three month review, still f’kn love it. It’s great. Wouldn’t trade it for a guitar twice its value.

[@Happyboymargarine]

Fender made this guitar and some guy was selling it used and I bought it and it was like a fender Ensenada model and it had this incredible wood on the back and sides it was all solid back and sides Probably the best sounding guitar I’ve ever had I regret getting rid of it. I can’t remember exactly what it was but it was a fender and it was I think in Ensenada Mexico guitar best guitar .

[@rexrathtar3893]

Fascinating discussion this one, guys. Well done. Some buying decisions are logical, but many are also subject to emotional biases. It can be really difficult to put the brand and coutnry assumptions to one side. It definitely helps to actually get your hands on the instruments.

[@Wobbz9413]

Yep. I buy with my hands, ears and eyes. In other words, it has to have nice feel, needs to sound awesome and needs to look amazing with great qc. Thats why I own three Yamahas.

[@octaviodominguez7772]

problem is fender is coming to a market that already has insane competition and quality control is just greater in for example Taylor and martin

[@be.kind.to.animals]

You guys can make a matel brand guitar sound good! Really enjoy your videos and demos.

[@sweettoof9002]

They made crap acoustic guitar for decades. I see Fender and think crap for acoustics.

[@anthonyb2334]

As a old dude who has played for 60 years, I’ve owned several Fender acoustics over the early years. They were BAD. But I found the Fender Paramount series to be a well put together instrument. I purchased the Paramount Parlor 2nd generation version with Rosewood back and sides. Great little guitar. Very nicely appointed. Good action (not great) out of the box. Gloss finish could be a little thinner and the tuners better. In the current price point, it’s pretty good, a fun and easy guitar to play. Amped up, it sounds much bigger. And I get nuts when folks say they wouldn’t buy anything made in China. As you said, how about your iPhone? Try and build a house today without China products. I wish EVERYTHING was made in America. But it’s not! Thank you for your videos In general, I think Fender’s past reputation hurts them. Plus, there are other import guitars, like Yamaha, and EPI inspired by Gibson guitars that look and sound great. Plus, they were gloss finish in the earlier version. Open pore? Looks cheap, looks like a cheaper guitar. Fender can make a Paramount guitar that sells. I think the last version was better. That’s my opinion.

[@steves.5342]

I agree completely (as another old guy who started playing back in the 60's). Fender's problem is the Fender acoustics years ago were NOT good, the sound was ok but they were not particularly easy to play and I wouldn't have recommended one to any beginner regardless of how inexpensive they were. If you spend a lot of time making a not-so-great product, you can't really be surprised if sales fall flat even if you've changed build quality; at least not overnight.

[@jerryodom7358]

I would really like to see the Paramount played with modifications of real bone nut and bridge, low action, ease of playability, and a better pick-up..because it could have been better….

[@michaellacy8510]

My son has a low end Fender Dreadnought acoustic that he bought as a beginner. I think it was under $200. The sound is only acceptable. But, playability is awesome, which is IMO the most important characteristic for a beginner guitar.

[@HC_GUITAR]

Alvarez mid price guitars have a thin finish that is really well done!!

[@midwestg4105]

Great video and ideas for Fender. I have a Fender acoustic/electric and like it alot .

[@rjlchristie]

14:30 ~ Jose Ramirez III, one of the world's all time greatest luthiers would have disputed the claim made in this clip that thinner finishes always produce a superior sound. He considered the finish, in particular poly-urea finishes, to play an integral part in propagating soundboard vibration and facilitating a better sound.