Product Review

The Fender FM-62SCE Mandolin

As the popularity of music in the Country and Bluegrass genres continues to grow more people are adding the mandolin to their sound. Many companies have responded to this need including the venerable Fender.

The FM-2SCE is one of Fender's higher end mandolins. It comes in burgundy, black (both shown), sunburst, and blue burst. All of the instruments feature an rosewood fingerboard, hollow double cutaway body, with a spruce top and maple back and sides, and a built in pickup with volume and tone controls.

As for sound, the FM-2SCE performs admirably both acoustic and electric. The option to play amplified without needing a mic or to spend several thousands on a more expensive instrument is what sets this mandolin apart. The sound is far better than cheaper models. It is excellent for the beginner with money to spend or the intermediate player.

One word of caution. When a black model was ordered for test purposes three instruments were sent to the store all with scratches and finish imperfections that were very noticeable. In each case Fender was aware it was a customer ordered instrument. In each case they sent an instrument that was imperfect and had wax on the inside. As a long time Fender player I was disappointed. If you choose to buy a FM-2SCE check the finish first. Then plug it in and play away.

See you at the next hootenanny