Fender California Deluxe Kingman Bass CE WN Black Acoustic Bassguitar

Fender California Deluxe Kingman Bass CE – Compact acoustic power

Fender California Deluxe Kingman Bass CE combines a traditional acoustic bass tonal foundation with modern electronics for live performance. The Kingman Bass CE is the right choice for players who want a portable instrument without sacrificing depth. Its short 30‑inch scale keeps the body small yet resonant, while the built‑in Fishman preamp lets you plug directly into a PA. The sleek black gloss finish makes it stage‑friendly, and the cutaway grants easy access to higher frets. Fender California Deluxe Kingman Bass CE brings Fender’s iconic low‑end into a versatile, stage‑ready package.

Unique design elements that set it apart

What makes this model stand out is the Newporter‑style auditorium body, a slim profile that feels lighter than a full‑size acoustic guitar yet delivers full bass presence. The combination of walnut and mahogany tonewoods adds a rich mid‑range character, while the cutaway design enables seamless melodic runs. Integrated Fishman CD‑1 electronics feature a built‑in tuner and a six‑band EQ, giving you studio‑grade tone control on stage.

Body construction and tonal character

The body of the Kingman Bass CE is crafted to balance projection and comfort, a crucial factor for acoustic‑bass players who perform live.

• The top wood is solid Sitka spruce, delivering bright attack and strong dynamic response.
• Back & sides: Laminated mahogany — warm low‑end and sturdy resonance.
• Finish: Gloss black polyurethane — protects the wood while adding a sleek visual appeal.

Neck dimensions and playability

A comfortable neck profile is essential for navigating the 20‑fret fingerboard with speed and accuracy.

• The 762 mm scale length provides a short‑scale feel that reduces stretch without sacrificing bass response.
• Fingerboard radius: 241 mm — gentle curvature for smooth bends and easy chordal work.
• Nut width: 38.1 mm — narrow enough for quick fingering yet stable for string tension.
• Fingerboard material: Walnut — smooth surface that enhances note clarity.

Electronics, hardware and tuning stability

Reliable electronics turn an acoustic instrument into a fully amplified workhorse, a must‑have for modern gigs.

• It uses a Fishman CD‑1 preamp pickup system that provides clean piezo capture with low‑noise output.
• Built‑in tuner: Yes — instant tuning on stage without extra gear.
• EQ controls: Six‑band (bass, mid, treble) — lets you shape tone to suit any venue.
• Bridge: Modern Viking — solid intonation and easy string changes.
• Nut & saddle: Micarta — enhances sustain and minimizes string buzz.
• Tuners: Closed die‑cast with split shafts — robust and precise tuning stability.
• Strings: Phosphor bronze .045‑.100 — balanced tension for rich acoustic tone.

Ideal players and musical contexts

The Kingman Bass CE is the right choice for acoustic‑bass enthusiasts who need a low‑profile instrument that still packs a deep, punchy sound. It serves solo folk performers looking for a portable bass that can be amplified for small venues. Band members who want a bass that blends with acoustic guitars yet cuts through a live mix will appreciate the built‑in EQ and tuner. Its short scale suits players with smaller hands or those transitioning from electric bass to acoustic. Whether you’re rehearsing, busking, or headlining a stage, this bass offers the flexibility to move from intimate settings to full‑band arrangements without missing a beat.