Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $636
Standard/Professional
$200
$1001+
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Price History
Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Fender California Series Malibu Special". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Fender California Series Malibu Special is a captivating blend of classic Fender style and acoustic versatility, making it an ideal companion for songwriters and performers alike. With its distinctive okoume construction, this acoustic-electric guitar delivers a warm, rich tone with remarkable sustain that resonates beautifully whether unplugged or amplified. The slim "C"-shaped neck, crafted from mahogany, provides exceptional comfort during extended sessions, allowing you to focus entirely on your creativity without fatigue.
Plug into the Fishman Flex Body preamp system and unlock a world of sonic possibilities. This advanced system includes a body sensor and piezo pickup, offering you the ability to blend signals for a perfectly tailored sound. Equipped with volume, tone, and phase controls, the Malibu Special ensures your performance is always at its best, whether you're strumming by the campfire or on stage.
From the Pau Ferro fingerboard to the authentic bone nut, every detail of this guitar is designed for performance and style. Vintage-style tuning machines and a period-correct pickguard bring a touch of nostalgia, while the Modern Viking walnut bridge ensures stability and precise intonation. The Malibu Special is not just an instrument; it's a gateway to limitless musical expression.
Key Features:
- Top, back, and sides made of okoume for richer tone and enhanced sustain
- Slim "C"-shaped mahogany neck for comfortable playability
- Pau Ferro fingerboard with 14 fret-to-body count
- Real bone nut and Modern Viking walnut bridge
- Vintage-style tuners and period-correct pickguard
- Fishman Flex Body preamp with body sensor, piezo pickup, and blend control
Product specs
| String Type | Steel |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | Malibu |
| Back & Sides Wood | Solid Okoume |
| Top Wood | Solid Okoume |
| Top Finish | Satin |
| Binding | Maple |
| Neck Wood | Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Slim C |
| Radius | 15.75" |
| Fingerboard Material | Pau Ferro |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Maple Dots |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Scale Length | 24.1" |
| Nut Width | 1.69" |
| Nut/Saddle Material | Bone (nut) |
| Tuning Machines | Vintage Style |
| Electronics | Fishman Flex Body |
| Strings | Fender Phospher Bronze, .012-.052 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Gig Bag |
FAQs
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What is the body shape of the Fender California Series Malibu Special?
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The Fender California Series Malibu Special features a compact parlor-sized body shape, which is unique to Fender and offers a comfortable playing experience with an articulate voice suitable for various musical styles.
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What type of wood is used for the Fender Malibu Special's top and back?
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The top and back of the Fender Malibu Special are made from solid Okoume, providing a warm and resonant tone with a satin finish for a sleek look.
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How does the neck of the Fender Malibu Special feel for players?
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The Malibu Special has a slim C-shaped mahogany neck, known for its comfortable and easy playability, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced players.
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What electronics are included in the Fender Malibu Special?
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The Fender Malibu Special is equipped with Fishman Flex electronics, which offer a natural amplified sound and flexible control for live performances.
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Is the Fender Malibu Special suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Fender Malibu Special includes Fishman Flex electronics, making it well-suited for live performances with its easy amplification and control options.
Videos
Fender
California Series Special Guitars with Aaron Lee Tasjan | Fender Acoustics | Fender
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender California Series Malibu Special.
Use cases and applications
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The Malibu's neck feel is similar to a Fender electric, appealing to electric guitar players transitioning to acoustic.
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The Malibu’s compact size is suitable for casual evening strumming on a terrace or deckchair, offering comfort for relaxed play.
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Owners frequently use the Malibu as a "couch guitar," highlighting its ease of play for casual settings.
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User experience
Comparisons
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Some suggest considering Yamaha models in the same price range for alternative options.
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The Yamaha FG800's full-size dreadnought can be unwieldy for smaller individuals, whereas the Malibu’s smaller body suits those needing a compact option.
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A Gretsch Jim Dandy Parlour guitar is suggested as another compact, affordable alternative, suitable for outdoor or casual play.
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Build quality
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Some report the Malibu's smaller size can result in a "toy-like" feel, potentially impacting tonal richness compared to larger models.
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The Malibu Player series features a painted Fender headstock, which adds a premium touch to its aesthetic appeal.
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The dark blue satin finish not only looks appealing but is also praised for its quality in the Midnight Satin variant.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
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