Pricing and availability
Average Price: $100
Budget/Beginner
$200
$601+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
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Description
Discover the perfect harmony of size and sound with the Fender MA-1. This 3/4 size acoustic guitar is thoughtfully designed for budding musicians and seasoned players alike, offering an exceptional playing experience that rivals its full-sized counterparts. Crafted with a beautifully grained sapele back and sides, the MA-1 delivers a rich, full-bodied tone that resonates with warmth and clarity.
Ideal for school programs or personal practice, this guitar's compact size makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more manageable instrument. The upgraded tuners ensure stable intonation, allowing you to focus on your music without frequent adjustments. With the iconic Fender headstock logo gracing its design, the MA-1 is as stylish as it is functional. Whether you're strumming at home or performing on stage, this guitar's sweet sound and durable build won't disappoint.
Key Features:
- 3/4 size acoustic guitar
- Sapele back and sides for a rich tone
- Upgraded tuners for stable intonation
- Ideal for beginners and students
- Includes gig bag for easy transport
Product specs
| Brand | Fender |
| Model | MA-1 3/4 Steel |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 2012 - 2017 |
| Made In | China |
| Categories | Acoustic Travel Guitars |
| Active Preamp | No |
| Back Material | Sapele |
| Body Shape | Travel |
| Color Family | Natural, Tan |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Model Family | Fender MA |
| Model Sub-Family | Fender MA-1 |
| Number of Frets | 18 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | None |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Series | Fender Classic Design |
| Sides Material | Sapele |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Agathis |
| Wood Top Style | Plain |
FAQs
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What is the body size of the Fender MA-1 acoustic guitar?
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The Fender MA-1 is a 3/4 size acoustic guitar, making it a compact option suitable for travel and for players with smaller hands.
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What materials are used in the construction of the Fender MA-1?
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The Fender MA-1 features a top made of Agathis, with the back and sides constructed from Sapele, and a Rosewood fretboard.
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Is the Fender MA-1 acoustic guitar suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Fender MA-1 is an excellent choice for beginners due to its smaller size, which is easier for young or smaller players to handle.
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Does the Fender MA-1 come with a pickup for amplification?
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No, the Fender MA-1 does not include a pickup. It is a purely acoustic guitar without built-in electronics for amplification.
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How does the Fender MA-1 maintain stable tuning?
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The Fender MA-1 is designed with stable tuning in mind, featuring quality tuning machines that help keep the guitar in tune longer.
Videos
Musician's Friend
Fender MA-1 3/4 Size Steel String Guitar
Fender MA-1 3/4 Size Steel String Guitar
Musician's Friend
Fender MA-1 ★ Travel Guitar
KR MUSIC HOUSE
In Defense of Cheap (inexpensive) guitars. Fender MA-1 3/4 size acoustic
Jack Thomas 26
Fender ma-1
asc24hoth
Reviews
PROS
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Solid tuning pegs ensure stable tuning
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Smooth playing neck enhances comfort and playability
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Compact size makes it great for travel and practice
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Good value for the price point
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Ideal for beginners, especially children
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Nostalgic appeal for some players
CONS
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Small body limits sound projection
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Fretboard may be slightly too wide for string placement
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Sound can sometimes be a bit tinny
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender MA-1.
Comparisons
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The Fender MA-1 was preferred over the Ibanez and Yamaha JR1 for its sound and weight balance, though the Yamaha ATX was noted for good sound but felt awkwardly heavy.
Source -
A user compared the Fender MA-1 to the Gretsch Jim Dandy, which is slightly more expensive but praised for its quality at around £98.
Source -
The Fender MA-1 was compared to the Gretsch Jim Dandy, which some describe as sounding like a "cardboard box," highlighting the MA-1's better sound clarity.
Source -
The Fender MA-1's smaller body is noted for being easier to record in studio settings than dreadnoughts, providing a balanced sound without overwhelming bass frequencies.
Source
User experience
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One owner, while happy with the Fender MA-1, prefers a full-size Sigma for its sound and fret space, indicating easier chord playing on larger guitars.
Source -
Some owners of the Fender MA-1 report it as a decent, budget-friendly option for beginners, priced around $140 USD.
Source -
Owners appreciate the lighter weight of the Fender MA-1, making it easier to handle for extended playing sessions, especially in casual settings like couch playing.
Source
Use cases and applications
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Smaller guitars like the Fender MA-1 can be beneficial for players with small hands, offering easier playability without sacrificing too much in terms of sound quality.
Source -
The Fender MA-1's 23" scale makes it particularly comfortable for small-bodied guitar enthusiasts seeking portability without sacrificing playability.
Source -
The Fender MA-1 is favored by players who often record, as its smaller size avoids bass-heavy sound issues common with larger guitars.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 3 Reviews and 4 Ratings
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359
Nice
I didn't expect a big sound from this small guitar. Bought this for traveling guitar but mostly I play at home.
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208
the best instrument
i don't know if its because this was my first guitar and it's just nostalgia but i am convinced this is the best guitar ever.
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fender MA-1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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