Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package vs Fender CP-60S Solid Top Parlor Size Acoustic

Price Comparison

The Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package is priced at $62.99, making it significantly cheaper than the Fender CP-60S Solid Top Parlor Size Acoustic Guitar Bundle, which retails for $269.99. This means the Fender option is about 328% more expensive than the Ashthorpe model. For beginners or those on a tight budget, the Ashthorpe package offers a more accessible entry point into the world of acoustic guitar playing, with its complete starter kit included in the price.

Included Accessories

The Ashthorpe package comes with an impressive array of accessories, including a gig bag, three picks, a shoulder strap, a digital tuner, a pitch pipe, an extra set of strings, and an instructional sheet. In contrast, the Fender bundle also provides a gig bag, tuner, strap, strings, and picks, plus additional resources like Fender Play online lessons and an Austin Bazaar instructional DVD. The inclusion of educational materials from Fender may appeal to beginners looking for guidance, but Ashthorpe's all-in-one package is hard to beat for sheer variety at a lower price.

Build Quality

The Fender CP-60S boasts a solid spruce top complemented by laminated mahogany back and sides, which generally enhances sound quality and durability compared to the laminated basswood used in the Ashthorpe guitar. However, the Ashthorpe guitar is designed specifically for beginners, ensuring that it is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a good choice for students and teens. Despite the differences in materials, both guitars are built to suit their target audiences, with Ashthorpe focusing on accessibility and Fender emphasizing quality craftsmanship.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound quality, the Fender CP-60S is likely to have an edge due to its solid spruce top, which is known for producing a richer and more resonant tone. The Ashthorpe guitar is designed for beginners and offers an impressive tone and bright sound, making it suitable for learning. While the Ashthorpe's sound is adequate for new players, those who progress may find themselves yearning for the fuller sound that the Fender can provide. Therefore, players who prioritize sound quality may lean towards the Fender option.

Size and Comfort

The Ashthorpe guitar features a full-size body measuring 38 inches in length, making it a versatile choice for a variety of playing styles. Meanwhile, the Fender CP-60S has a smaller parlor-sized body, which is designed to be compact and comfortable for beginning players. This smaller size may be particularly advantageous for younger or smaller individuals who may struggle with a full-sized guitar. Ultimately, the choice of size may depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the player.

Brand Reputation

Fender is a renowned brand in the music industry, widely respected for its high-quality instruments and innovative designs. The CP-60S is part of Fender's Classic Design series, which is known for its reliability and performance. On the other hand, Ashthorpe is more of an entry-level brand, catering primarily to beginners. While both brands have their merits, those who prioritize brand prestige may find Fender to be the more appealing option, despite the higher price point.

Sales Rank

The Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package has a sales rank of 103, indicating its popularity among consumers looking for an affordable and complete starter package. In contrast, the Fender CP-60S has a sales rank of 68,114, suggesting it does not sell as frequently as the Ashthorpe model. This significant difference in sales rank may reflect the Ashthorpe's strong position in the beginner market, while the Fender guitar may be more suited for experienced players seeking higher-quality instruments.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package and the Fender CP-60S Solid Top Parlor Size Acoustic Guitar Bundle ultimately depends on your needs as a player. If you're a beginner seeking an affordable, comprehensive starter kit, the Ashthorpe model at $62.99 provides excellent value. However, if you're willing to invest more for superior sound quality and brand reputation, the Fender CP-60S, with its solid spruce top and additional educational resources, could be the better choice at $269.99. Consider your budget, skill level, and personal preferences when making your decision.