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Photo provided by Yamaha Guitars
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The Yamaha CPX-600 is a standout option for Guitar Thrills Magazine readers looking for a reliable, stage-ready acoustic-electric that doesn't compromise on tone or playability. Featuring a medium-jumbo cutaway body, solid spruce top, and Nato back and sides, it delivers a rich, balanced acoustic sound with excellent projection. The slim neck and shorter 25" scale make it incredibly comfortable for extended sessions, while Yamaha’s System 65A preamp and SRT piezo pickup ensure a natural, articulate tone when plugged in—perfect for both live gigs and home recording. With refined details like an abalone rosette and multiple finish options, the CPX-600 offers pro-level feel and aesthetics at a price that makes sense for intermediate to advanced players stepping up their game.
That is a concept that you don’t often consider in this manner “articulating tone”. Why is that important? Especially with what is considered as an intermediate guitar model from Yamaha. Articulating tone is essential because it allows a guitarist to convey emotion, dynamics, and musical intent with clarity—whether on stage or in the studio. A well-articulated tone ensures that every nuance, from delicate fingerpicking to aggressive strumming, translates to the listener without being lost in muddiness or distortion. For example, players like John Mayer rely on articulate tone to emphasize the expressive phrasing in songs like “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room,” where each note carries emotional weight. Similarly, fingerstyle legends like Tommy Emmanuel depend on tonal clarity to highlight complex rhythmic and melodic interplay. In acoustic-electric models like the Yamaha CPX-600, a system that preserves articulation—like Yamaha's SRT piezo pickup—allows the guitar to retain its natural voice even when amplified, making it ideal for performers who value precision and expression.
While many guitars at this entry level can be considered a steppingstone into the world of guitar playing. The Yamaha CPX-600 provides reasons for a long-term investment. Here is why:
The Yamaha CPX-600 stands out as a long-term companion for several compelling reasons:
Durable Construction
Built with a spruce top and nato body, the CPX-600 offers the reliability Yamaha is known for. Its sturdy build quality ensures it can handle years of regular play, travel, and temperature changes without compromising its integrity.
Comfortable Medium Jumbo Body
Its medium jumbo body strikes a balance between full-bodied sound and playability, making it versatile for both live gigs and studio work. The slim body depth and cutaway also make it easy to access higher frets and stay comfortable over long sessions.
Built-In Electronics for Growth
Equipped with a Yamaha System65A preamp and piezo pickup, the CPX-600 is ready for the stage or studio from day one. For players who start acoustic and eventually want to perform plugged-in, this feature ensures the guitar grows with you.
Consistent Playability
The nato neck and rosewood fingerboard are smooth and responsive, while the overall neck profile makes it easy for players of all skill levels to develop their technique without battling the instrument.
Reliable Tuning Stability
Its die-cast tuners provide solid tuning stability, reducing the maintenance needs over time and letting players focus on creativity rather than constant retuning.
Timeless Design
With Yamaha's sleek finishes and traditional styling, the CPX-600 won’t look dated in five or ten years. Its aesthetic appeal adds to its longevity as a cherished instrument.
Comparable guitar models: ;
· Fender CD-60SCE – Great for beginners with solid Tonewood’s but lacks the refined electronics and slimmer feel of the CPX-600.
· Epiphone AJ-220SCE – Warm tone and affordable, though the neck and body can feel bulky compared to Yamaha’s sleek, ergonomic design.
· Takamine GD30CE – Known for clean sound and good build, but the CPX-600 offers more stage-ready reliability and a more balanced tonal response.
· Ibanez AEG50 – Slim and playable with built-in electronics but doesn’t quite match Yamaha’s consistent craftsmanship and tuning stability.
Why Yamaha Wins:
The CPX-600 blends professional-grade features with beginner-friendly comfort, backed by Yamaha’s unmatched reliability. From living room jams to live gigs, it’s the guitar you won’t outgrow.
The Yamaha CPX-600 is equipped with the System 65A preamp and a piezo pickup, delivering reliable, high-quality amplified tone that’s ideal for live performance, practice, or recording.
System 65A Preamp Features:
Piezo Pickup:
Why It Matters:
The electronics make the CPX-600 more than just an acoustic—it’s a plug-and-play performer’s guitar, ready for open mics, coffeehouse sets, or worship services without needing additional pedals or preamps. And the tone you get plugged in is clear, natural, and musical.
“The Yamaha CPX-600 proves that you don’t need to break the bank to get stage-ready tone, reliable electronics, and a design that feels built for the long haul. It’s a true workhorse with the soul of a performer.” – Guitar Thrills Magazine
