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Average Price: $230

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$100

$501+

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Description

Discover a new dimension of sound with the Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin, where classic craftsmanship meets modern electronics. This mandolin is designed to offer musicians a seamless transition from unplugged practice sessions to amplified performances, thanks to its full-range pickup. The solid spruce top combined with a rosewood fingerboard ensures a bright and resonant tone, making it a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned players alike. The FM-52E's carefully crafted body allows for easy playability and a comfortable feel, while its mandolin-style bridge provides excellent tuning stability. Whether you're strumming in a bluegrass band or adding a folk flair to your latest composition, the FM-52E delivers a consistent and vibrant sound that stands out.

Beyond its stellar sound quality and reliable construction, this mandolin offers the added advantage of an acoustic-electric build, allowing you to plug in and amplify your music without losing its natural warmth. Its sleek design and robust materials make it both visually appealing and highly durable, ready to withstand the rigors of regular use. Perfectly bridging the gap between traditional acoustic tones and modern amplification, the Fender FM-52E is a versatile instrument that will grow with you as you explore new musical horizons.

Key Features:

  • Solid spruce top for bright, resonant sound
  • Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Full-range pickup for enhanced amplification
  • Mandolin-style bridge for superior tuning stability
  • Acoustic-electric design for versatile performance options

Product specs

Brand Fender
Model FM52E Mandolin
Finish Sunburst
Year 2010s
Made In China
Categories Mandolins

FAQs

Does the Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin require a special amplifier?

The Fender FM-52E can be plugged into any standard guitar amplifier, but using an acoustic amp will better preserve the mandolin's natural tone.

What kind of music is the Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin suitable for?

This mandolin is versatile and well-suited for genres like bluegrass, folk, and country, offering both acoustic warmth and electric amplification.

How does the Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin differ from a purely acoustic mandolin?

The FM-52E features built-in electronics for amplification, allowing it to be used in live performances and recording situations where more volume or effects are needed.

What are the key features of the Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin?

The FM-52E features dot position inlays, a 2-ply black pickguard, 4-ply body binding, and "F" soundholes, contributing to its aesthetic and acoustic qualities.

Is the Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin suitable for beginners?

Yes, the FM-52E is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable playability and built-in electronics, making it easy to transition from practice to performance.

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Fender FM52E Mandolin Demo | PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Fender FM52E Mandolin Demo | PMTVUK by PMTVUK

Fender FM52E Mandolin Demo | PMTVUK

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Fender FM52-E Mandolin for Sale At Orangepawnshop by Stephen Stern

Fender FM52-E Mandolin for Sale At Orangepawnshop

Stephen Stern

Stephen Stern

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin.

Comparisons

  • Owners describe the Fender FM-52E as mellower and rounder than similar Ibanez and Epiphone mandolins, making it suitable for folk and country music.

    Source
  • It's been noted that the FM-52E can struggle to compete acoustically with louder instruments like banjos and fiddles.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The FM-52E's acoustic volume is comparable to non-amplified mandolins, making it suitable for casual settings like living rooms, porches, or campfires.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The model includes a pickup installed on an acoustic body, similar to other acoustic-electric instruments, maintaining typical acoustic projection.

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  • The instrument's electronics remain functional even when cosmetically worn, indicating durability.

    Source
  • Fender FM-52E pickups are often considered subpar, with users suggesting a microphone for better amplified sound after ensuring proper setup.

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Value and pricing

  • A user reported purchasing the FM-52E with a brand new Gator hard case for 150€, highlighting its appeal as a budget-friendly option.

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Build quality

  • The FM-52E's top is likely laminate, affecting volume and projection in acoustic settings.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find serial number identification challenging, as existing databases may not cover all mandolin serial prefixes.

    Source
  • Guitarists transitioning to mandolin find the action harder due to higher tension and shorter fret intervals; adjusting to personal comfort is advised.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • D'Addario EJ67 nickel-wound strings are recommended for balanced unplugged and plugged sound, while EJ73 strings offer a warmer tone with easier playability for guitarists.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fender FM52E acoustic/ electric mandolin | Vintage Guitar® magazine

vintageguitar.com

The Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin delivers a pleasant surprise for guitarists venturing into the mandolin world. Praised for its affordability and easy playability, this A-style mandolin offers a nice tone and a fast neck that makes it an enjoyable transition from six to eight strings. Its laminated spruce top and nato sides ensure a sturdy build, while the built-in single-coil pickup, although slightly noisy, adds versatility by offering an electric mandolin sound. Despite being a budget model, its vintage finish and cool sound make it a worthy addition to any musician's arsenal, especially for those looking to explore new sonic avenues.

positive

3.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 6 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Steve Garrigan uses Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin

Steve Garrigan

Singer, Guitarist

Kodaline

...
Verified via YouTube

Steve could be seen using this mandolin at :18s on the song 'Love Like This'.

See how Tony Catania uses Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin

Tony Catania

Guitarist

The Jason Bonham Band

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo, Tony Catania can be seen with a Fender FM-52E Acoustic-Electric Mandolin.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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