Washburn acoustic guitars blend a legacy of craftsmanship with rich tone, delivering exceptional value for players at any level.
Table of Contents
Why We Like the Washburn Acoustic
The Washburn Acoustic WA90CETBB is a standout choice for new players seeking a complete, ready-to-play package or for gigging musicians needing a reliable backup. It delivers features normally found on more expensive instruments, offering impressive tonal flexibility and stage-ready electronics without a hefty price tag. For a first guitar or a dependable workhorse, its value is hard to overstate.
Key Features of the Washburn Acoustic
Dreadnought Cutaway Body
This model uses the popular dreadnought body shape, known for producing a powerful, full-bodied sound with a strong low-end response. The added cutaway provides excellent access to the upper frets, making it easier to play solos and intricate melodies that would be a struggle on a traditional dreadnought.
Versatile Tonewood Combination
The guitar features a Linden top paired with Okoume back and sides. This combination yields a surprisingly balanced and projective tone. Linden provides brightness and clarity for individual notes, while Okoume offers a warm, mahogany-like midrange that keeps chords from sounding thin or brittle.
Barcus Berry Onboard Electronics
The integrated Barcus Berry LX4 preamp system is a true game-changer at this price. It allows you to plug into an amplifier or PA system for live performance. The system includes a built-in digital tuner and a 4-band EQ with controls for bass, mid, treble, and presence, giving you total command over your amplified sound.
Complete Starter Package
This isn’t just a guitar; it’s a comprehensive kit designed to get you playing immediately. It includes all the essential accessories a new player needs: a gig bag for transport, a strap, picks, a clip-on tuner, an extra set of strings, and even a folding guitar stand for safe storage.
Reliable Tuning and Hardware
Washburn equipped this model with chrome diecast tuners that provide smooth, stable tuning. For a beginner, few things are more frustrating than a guitar that won’t stay in tune. These tuners hold their pitch well, ensuring a more enjoyable and productive practice or performance session.
Specifications
| Body Style | Dreadnought with Cutaway |
| Top Wood | Linden |
| Back & Sides Wood | Okoume |
| Electronics | Barcus Berry LX4 Preamp with 4-Band EQ |
| Built-in Tuner | Yes, integrated into preamp |
| Tuners | Chrome Die-cast |
| Finish | Transparent Black Burst, Gloss |
| Included Accessories | Gig bag, strap, tuner, picks, stand, extra strings, string winder |
Performance and Real-World Use
Unplugged, the Washburn Acoustic WA90CETBB delivers the classic, room-filling voice you expect from a dreadnought. It’s an excellent companion for strumming chords, with a robust low-end and midrange that supports vocals nicely. While it may not have the complexity of a solid-top guitar costing three times as much, its tone is clear and satisfying for practice, songwriting, and casual jam sessions. The neck is comfortable for most hand sizes, and the overall setup is quite playable right out of the box, which is a major win for new guitarists.
Plugging in is where this guitar truly punches above its weight. The Barcus Berry LX4 system is responsive and easy to use, making the Washburn Acoustic a fantastic option for your first open mic night or playing with a band. The EQ controls are effective for shaping your sound, allowing you to add shimmer with the presence knob or cut through a mix by adjusting the mids. The built-in tuner is accurate and a huge convenience. This instrument is ideal for the student who wants to explore amplification or the seasoned player who needs an affordable, plug-and-play guitar to take to gigs without risking a more prized instrument.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for the price point.
- Wide variety of models and body styles available.
- Comfortable playability, often good for beginners.
- Rich brand history dating back to the 19th century.
- Many models feature attractive aesthetics and finishes.
Cons
- Lower resale value compared to brands like Martin or Taylor.
- Quality control can be inconsistent on entry-level instruments.
Washburn Acoustic on Amazon.
What Customers Are Saying
Most buyers find the Washburn acoustic-electric guitar to be an outstanding value, especially for beginners or as a reliable backup instrument. Customers consistently praise its surprisingly full, balanced sound and attractive finish, noting that the build quality exceeds expectations for its price point. Reviewers also frequently highlight the comprehensive accessory pack as a major bonus, providing everything needed to start playing immediately. A minority of customers mention that while the included accessories are serviceable, they are of basic quality. Others note that the guitar truly shines after a professional setup to lower the string action for optimal playability.
The Bottom Line
The Washburn acoustic is an ideal instrument for the advancing beginner or intermediate player seeking a significant upgrade without an exorbitant price tag. Its greatest asset is a comfortable and highly playable neck that encourages hours of practice, though this value-focused design sacrifices some of the rich tonal nuance found in premium-tier guitars. For players who prioritize feel and craftsmanship on a budget, this instrument is a confident and highly recommended purchase.
More Product Photos
For broader buying guidance, see independent testing resources such as Consumer Reports.
