Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $515
Standard/Professional
$200
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
The Fender California Traditional Series Malibu Special is an acoustic guitar that seamlessly blends classic Fender style with modern playability. Designed for musicians who crave a unique and robust sound, this short-scale acoustic is perfect for both strumming and fingerstyle playing. The Malibu Special stands out with its compact body and slim-taper neck, making it exceptionally comfortable to hold and play for extended sessions. Its all-solid construction, featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and solid mahogany back and sides, delivers a rich, resonant tone with plenty of clarity and volume.
The guitar's signature 6-in-line headstock nods to Fender's electric legacy, while its scalloped X-bracing enhances resonance and projection. The onboard Fishman preamp system ensures that your tone remains true and full when amplified, making it ideal for gigs and studio recordings. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a budding singer-songwriter, the Malibu Special offers a versatile sonic palette that adapts to your unique musical expression.
Key Features:
- Solid Sitka spruce top with solid mahogany back and sides
- Short-scale neck (24.1 inches) for enhanced playability
- Slim-taper, C-shaped neck profile
- Scalloped X-bracing for improved resonance
- Fender-exclusive Malibu body shape
- Fishman preamp system with volume, bass, treble controls
- 6-in-line Fender headstock for a classic look
- Walnut fingerboard and bridge
- Nickel hardware
The Malibu Special is not just a guitar; it's an invitation to explore new musical horizons with every strum.
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | California Traditional Series Malibu Special |
| Year | 2020 |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars, Concert Acoustic Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | Concert |
| Color Family | Brown, Natural |
| Finish Style | Satin |
| 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 Traditional |
| Sides Material | Mahogany |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Mahogany |
FAQs
-
What type of wood is used in the construction of the Fender California Traditional Series Malibu Special?
-
The Fender Malibu Special features a mahogany top, back, and sides, which contribute to its warm and balanced tone.
-
Is the Fender Malibu Special suitable for live performances?
-
Yes, the Fender Malibu Special is equipped with an active preamp and an undersaddle piezo pickup, making it ideal for amplified performances.
-
How many frets does the Fender Malibu Special have?
-
The Fender Malibu Special has 20 frets, providing a comfortable range for both rhythm and lead playing.
-
What is the neck material of the Fender Malibu Special, and how does it affect playability?
-
The neck of the Fender Malibu Special is made from mahogany, offering a smooth and comfortable playing experience with a warm tone.
-
Does the Fender Malibu Special have a unique body shape?
-
Yes, the Fender Malibu Special features a concert body shape, which is compact and offers a balanced sound suitable for various musical styles.
Videos
Scott Leak
Fender Malibu Special Mahogany
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender California Traditional Series Malibu Special.
Build quality
-
Owners describe the Malibu as feeling like a toy, with cheaply cut nuts leading to intonation issues and tuning pegs that seem flimsy.
Source
Features and functionality
Setup and maintenance
-
Switching to Elixir strings has been reported to improve sound quality, though not significantly. Proper setup is essential for better playability.
Source
User experience
-
Some owners appreciate the guitar mainly as a collectible or wall piece, valuing its aesthetic and sentimental connection to Alkaline Trio rather than its playability.
Source -
The guitar is noted as very fun to play, with some players finding it hard to put down after trying it in-store.
Source -
The guitar is seen as adequate for learning purposes, with comfort being a notable highlight.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Initial purchase prices have significantly increased, with some paying up to seven hundred dollars due to its collector status, despite its perceived low craftsmanship.
Source
Comparisons
-
Yamaha guitars in the same price range are recommended as worthy alternatives to consider.
Source
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
More Fender Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Artist usage
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
equipboardGear IQ 4934
-