Introduction
The Yamaha CPX600 is an exceptional medium jumbo acoustic-electric guitar, featuring a cutaway design and quality electronics for amplified performance. This review provides an in-depth look at the CPX600, covering its construction, sound, playability, and suitability for guitarists seeking a versatile instrument.
With its solid spruce top and nato back and sides, the CPX600 delivers a balanced and resonant acoustic tone, while the System 65A preamp ensures the guitar also excels when plugged in. The CPX600 is an excellent choice for intermediate and advanced players looking for a durable, great-sounding acoustic-electric for live gigs and recording sessions. Its high-quality build, smooth playability, and flexible electronics make it a versatile option for various musical genres.
Body and Construction
The Yamaha CPX600 features a full-size dreadnought body with a comfortable medium jumbo cutaway design. This provides easy access to the higher frets while retaining the balanced bass response that dreadnought guitars are known for.
The top is made of solid Sitka spruce, which gives the CPX600 a loud and clear tone with excellent resonance and sustain. Spruce is a popular choice for acoustic guitar tops due to its lightweight and responsive nature.
The back and sides are constructed from nato, also known as Eastern mahogany. Nato has a focused midrange, warm lows, and clear treble tones. It provides a balanced and versatile sound across various styles of playing. The wood is also highly durable.
The CPX600 has a rosewood fretboard and bridge. Rosewood has long been valued in acoustic guitars for its density, stability, and rich overtones. The smooth rosewood fretboard facilitates comfortable and fast playing across the neck. The rosewood bridge transfers vibrations efficiently for a full and projecting tone.
This guitar comes in three distinct finish options: vintage tint, old violin sunburst, and black. The vintage tint has an understated and mature look. The old violin sunburst finish emanates a classic, vintage vibe. The black finish option provides a modern and sleek aesthetic.
Electronics and Preamp
The Yamaha CPX600 comes equipped with Yamaha’s System 65A preamp and piezo pickup system, designed to accurately reproduce the guitar’s natural acoustic tone when plugged in. The preamp features several key components to provide flexibility and control over the amplified sound.
At the heart of the system is the piezo pickup built into the bridge. This allows the guitar to be plugged into an amplifier, PA system, or recording interface to be heard alongside other instruments. The piezo effectively captures the CPX600’s warm, balanced tone and wide dynamic range.
To shape the amplified tone, the CPX600 has onboard bass, middle, and treble EQ controls. This 3-band equalizer allows you to boost or cut frequencies as needed for the room or mix. There is also a built-in tuner for quick and accurate tuning on the fly.
One especially useful feature is the feedback suppressor. This helps minimize unwanted feedback squeals and howling when playing the CPX600 live at high volumes. The preamp filters out problem frequencies that can cause feedback.
Overall, the electronics package on the CPX600 provides plenty of tonal control and flexibility for live performances and studio work. The balanced pickup and EQ options allow the natural acoustic sound to shine through while giving the ability to tweak and optimize the tone as needed. Guitarists will appreciate the robust electronics that make the CPX600 stage and studio-ready right out of the box.
Sound and Playability
The Yamaha CPX600 produces a rich, warm, and balanced acoustic tone perfect for fingerstyle playing or energetic strumming. The solid spruce top provides excellent resonance and projection, while the nato back and sides add warmth and fullness to each note.
When plugged in, the CPX600 retains its natural acoustic sound beautifully thanks to the high-quality System 65A preamp and piezo pickup. The amplified tone is accurate and balanced across the frequency spectrum, cutting through FOH or monitor mixes with ease. The preamp’s EQ controls allow for fine tuning of the lows, mids, and highs as needed.
In terms of playability, the CPX600 features a comfortable neck profile that feels smooth and inviting. The action is set low and buzz-free from the nut to higher frets, making chords and lead lines a breeze to play. The rosewood fretboard facilitates smooth gliding up and down the neck.
This is an exceptionally versatile acoustic-electric guitar suitable for all styles of music. The warm, resonant tone works great for mellower genres like folk, country, and soft rock. When driven harder, the CPX600 also handles pop, rock, blues, and more aggressive strumming without breaking up. Overall an excellent all-rounder.
CPX Series Overview
The Yamaha CPX series has a long history of producing high-quality acoustic-electric guitars. First introduced in the 1970s, the CPX lineup focuses on offering versatile, stage-ready acoustic-electrics suitable for live performances.
The CPX600 sits in the middle of the current CPX range. It’s a step up from the entry-level CPX500III, with its solid spruce top and nato back/sides (vs laminate construction on the 500). The CPX600 provides an excellent balance of playability, electronics, and tone at a mid-range price point.
Compared to other models, the CPX600 has a warmer, balanced tone perfect for singer-songwriters. The all-solid CPX700II and CPX1200II offer more projection and dynamic range. However, they come at a higher cost.
For guitarists wanting great amplified acoustic tone and stage-ready electronics, the CPX600 hits a sweet spot. It provides professional features and quality far beyond its price tag. Many players find the CPX600 offers comparable performance to the pricier 700/1200 models.
The street price of the CPX600 is typically $699-$749 USD brand new. This makes it an incredible value in the acoustic-electric market. For those seeking a high-quality, versatile electro-acoustic that won’t break the bank, the CPX600 is hard to beat. It’s an excellent choice for gigging musicians and developing artists.
Accessories and Bundles
The Yamaha CPX600 comes with either a high-quality hardshell case or a padded gig bag, depending on the model. The case and gig bag provide protection during transportation and storage, keeping your guitar safe from bumps, dings, and the elements.
The hardshell case features plush interior lining to prevent scratches and dents. The snug fit holds the guitar securely in place. The durable exterior protects against impacts. The included gig bag is heavily padded and has backpack straps, making it easy to carry. An exterior pocket provides storage for small accessories.
Some CPX600 models also include a few handy accessories like picks, a strap, and cables. Having these extras allows you to start playing right out of the box. The included strap and cables are high-quality to withstand frequent use.
Yamaha sometimes offers special bundle deals on the CPX600. These can include amplifiers like the Yamaha THR series, effects pedals such as reverb or delay, clip-on tuners, and other complementary gear. Purchasing a bundle packs great value, giving you everything needed to play amplified or recorded. Bundles tailored specifically to the CPX600 provide synergy between the paired gear.
Comparison with Yamaha APX Series
The Yamaha CPX600 can be compared to the guitars in Yamaha’s APX series, which are also high-quality acoustic-electric models. The main differences between the CPX and APX series come down to body style, sound characteristics, and features.
The Yamaha APX models, like the APX600 or APX700II, generally have smaller concert or dreadnought style bodies compared to the medium jumbo CPX body. The APX concert shape produces a more articulate, focused, and brighter acoustic tone.
On the other hand, the CPX600’s medium jumbo body generates a warmer, more balanced, and resonant acoustic voice. The CPX models are known for their "big" acoustic sound.
In terms of electronics, the CPX600 uses the System 65A preamp while the APX models use the System 66 preamp. Both offer quality amplification and reproduction of the natural acoustic tone. The APX models tend to have more advanced preamps overall.
When it comes to making a choice between the CPX600 and an APX model, consider your preferred body style and tonal characteristics. The APX concert and dreadnought bodies are better suited for players who want more articulation and cutting projection.
The CPX600’s medium jumbo shape is ideal if you prefer a rich, warm, and nuanced acoustic voice. Both Yamaha series offer excellent quality and electronics, so choose based on the sound profile you desire.
Ideal Users
The Yamaha CPX600 is an ideal acoustic-electric guitar for intermediate to advanced level players looking to upgrade their rig. Its high-quality construction and versatile electronics make it suitable for more seasoned guitarists who want a reliable instrument that can keep up with their developing skills.
The medium jumbo body produces a balanced and resonant acoustic tone perfect for singer-songwriters who accompany their vocals. The cutaway design also provides unfettered access to the higher frets, allowing for advanced soloing and lead playing. The onboard preamp and piezo pickup faithfully capture the CPX600’s warm, organic sound – crucial for live performers who need their acoustic tone accurately reproduced through a PA system.
The CPX600’s excellent amplified tones make it a great choice for recording artists looking to track professional-sounding acoustic guitar parts in the studio. Between its acoustic resonance and flexible preamp EQ controls, it can produce a variety of tones – from bright and crisp to warm and bassy. The feedback-fighting electronics also allow it to be played at higher volumes in the studio without problematic feedback.
With its quality appointments, musical voice, and versatile electronics, the Yamaha CPX600 is an ideal acoustic-electric guitar for intermediate to pro players who rely on their acoustic instrument for live gigs and studio work. It provides an inspiring platform for developing artistry across various musical contexts.
Related Gear
When purchasing the Yamaha CPX600, there are some additional accessories and gear that can help you get the most out of this fantastic acoustic-electric guitar. Here are some recommendations:
Amplifiers
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Yamaha THR5A – This mini guitar amp is designed to accurately reproduce the CPX600’s tone. Its amp models and effects provide versatility.
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Fender Acoustasonic 40 – A great amp for acoustic guitars, with 40 watts of power and Fender’s Acoustasonic technology to deliver a rich, natural tone.
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Fishman Loudbox Mini – Compact and lightweight amp that’s easy to transport to gigs. Provides crisp, full-range amplification.
Effects Pedals
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TC Electronic Hall of Fame Reverb – Add lush, pristine reverbs to your acoustic tone with this pedal’s high-quality algorithms.
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MXR M-134 Analog Chorus – Thickens up your sound with vintage analog chorus tones. Helps fill out your sound.
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Xotic EP Booster – Boost your guitar signal without altering your EQ. Helps cut through the mix live.
Accessories
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Ernie Ball Earthwood Bronze Acoustic Strings – Custom set with an ideal gauge for the CPX600. Provides a bright, defined tone.
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Snark SN5X Clip-On Tuner – Accurately tunes your CPX600 and clips discretely onto the headstock. Easy to use on stage.
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Guitar Stand – Safely store your CPX600 on a stand like the Hercules GS414B A/G when not playing it. Protects your investment.
With the right additional gear, you can maximize the potential of the Yamaha CPX600 during practice, recording, and live performances. Consider these recommendations to complement your new acoustic-electric guitar.
Conclusion
The Yamaha CPX600 is an excellent choice for intermediate to advanced acoustic guitarists looking for a versatile instrument suitable for both live performances and studio recording. Its high-quality construction, featuring a solid spruce top and nato back and sides, produces a rich, balanced tone perfect for various musical genres.
The onboard System 65A preamp and piezo pickup system accurately reproduce the CPX600’s natural acoustic sound when plugged into an amplifier or PA system. This makes the guitar a great option for gigging musicians. The smooth playability, thanks to the comfortable neck profile and medium jumbo cutaway body, also lends itself well to prolonged practice and playing sessions.
Overall, the Yamaha CPX600 offers fantastic value for money. Given its quality components, versatile electronics, and access to the trusted Yamaha brand name, this acoustic-electric guitar punches well above its mid-range price point. For guitarists wanting a reliable, stage-ready acoustic guitar that also sounds great unplugged, the CPX600 is easy to recommend.