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Average Price: $722
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$200
$1001+
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Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Fender California Malibu Special Acoustic-Electric Guitar Matte Black". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Discover the perfect harmony of style and sound with the Fender California Malibu Special Acoustic-Electric Guitar. This innovative instrument combines the exclusive small-body shape with a short scale, giving it a unique "slinkier" feel that invites exploration into new musical territories. With an all-solid construction that includes a Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this guitar delivers a balanced, articulate tone that excels both on stage and in the studio.
The Malibu Special doesn't just sound good; it mesmerizes with its sleek design. Its fully painted body and matching 6-in-line headstock provide an electrifying visual appeal, while the maple binding and chrome hardware add a touch of elegance. The lightweight mahogany neck, paired with a slim-taper "C"-shaped profile and pau ferro fingerboard, ensures a comfortable playing experience suitable for any style.
Equipped with a premium Fender- and Fishman-designed preamp system, this guitar lets you plug in and enjoy rich, natural sound without compromise. The optimized bracing reduces mass for superior resonance, while the upgraded bone nut and saddle enhance sustain. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a passionate beginner, the Malibu Special is designed to make a statement.
Key Features:
- Solid Sitka spruce top with solid mahogany sides and back
- Short scale, exclusive small-body shape for a unique feel
- Fender- and Fishman-designed preamp system
- Lightweight mahogany neck with slim-taper "C"-shaped profile
- Pau ferro fingerboard and bridge
- Maple binding and chrome hardware
- Comes with an F-620 Deluxe gig bag
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | California Series Malibu Special |
| Year | 2018 - 2019 |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars, Concert Acoustic Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | Concert |
| Color Family | Black |
| Fretboard Material | Pau Ferro |
| Model Family | Fender Malibu |
| Model Sub-Family | Fender Malibu Special |
| Neck Material | Mahogany |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | Undersaddle Piezo Pickup |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Fender California |
| Sides Material | Mahogany |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Spruce |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used in the construction of the Fender California Malibu Special Acoustic-Electric Guitar?
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The Fender California Malibu Special features a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, providing a warm and resonant tone.
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Is the Fender California Malibu Special suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the guitar includes an active preamp and undersaddle piezo pickup, making it well-suited for live performances with easy amplification.
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What is the neck profile of the Fender California Malibu Special Acoustic-Electric Guitar?
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The guitar features a slim-taper "C"-shaped neck profile, offering comfortable playability for various playing styles.
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Does the Fender California Malibu Special come with a gig bag?
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Yes, the guitar comes with an F-620 Deluxe gig bag for protection and easy transport.
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What is the fretboard material of the Fender California Malibu Special?
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The fretboard is made from Pau Ferro, known for its smooth feel and durability.
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Can the Fender California Malibu Special Acoustic-Electric Guitar be used with standard steel strings?
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Yes, it is equipped with Fender Dura-Tone Coated 80/20 bronze steel strings (.012–.052 gauge) for optimal performance.
Videos
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Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender California Malibu Special Acoustic-Electric Guitar Matte Black.
Features and functionality
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The Fender California Malibu Special uses Fishman Fluence pickups, which are noted for their versatility in both plugged and unplugged settings.
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Build quality
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The back and sides of the Malibu Special are routed from a single chunk of wood, similar to the Acoustasonic, affecting its acoustic resonance.
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User experience
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Some users find the sound of the Malibu Special to be "tinny" when unplugged, with a sound similar to the Acoustasonic but slightly louder.
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Comparisons
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Several users compare the Malibu Special unfavorably to Taylor, Martin, and Breedlove acoustics in terms of sound quality at the same price point.
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Use cases and applications
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The Malibu Special's unplugged volume might be suitable for apartment living, where a full-bodied acoustic might be too loud.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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