Epiphone DR 100 and Fender FA 100 are priced in the same price range, so there is no need to wonder why a lot of people often compare these two guitars against each other. As they both are dreadnought acoustic guitars, less experienced guitarists will certainly find the choice difficult to make. Well, we have discussed both products before in different articles. Epiphone DR 100 was put against Epiphone DR 150, and we found that both products are of decent values. On the other hand, Fender FA 100 was pale compared to the slightly pricier Fender CD 60. Now, which budget guitar is better, Epiphone DR 100 or Fender FA 100?
Both models have very identical body shapes as they both are designed as dreadnought guitars. However, they use very different materials. Both models have Spruce tops. But, Epiphone DR 100’s back and sides are constructed of mahogany. On the other hand, Fender FA 100 relies heavily on basswood. Actually, the Spruce top of Fender FA 100 is laminated, while the rest of the body is made of basswood. Mahogany is usually more preferable compared to basswood. The sonic qualities as well as the durability are, more often than not, more superior than basswood. Mahogany is reasonably solid and durable, with decent warmth and pronounced mids. Meanwhile, basswood is light and extremely soft. Basswood is very vulnerable to damage. Basswood sounds flat, though the midrange is somewhat muscular. Nevertheless, Epiphone DR 100 is certainly more durable than Fender FA 100, and while the audio characteristics may depend more on your personal taste, Epiphone DR 100 will most probably sound richer and more versatile for various types of usage.
About usage and play style, Epiphone DR 100 is a better choice that can help you adapt to more types of guitar. This is because Epiphone DR 100’s neck has the standard scale length, 25.5”, and 1.69” nut. Meanwhile, Fender FA 100 is a little bit shorter and smaller, with 25.3” scale length and 1.65” nut. Both models have Pearloid dot inlays, but different hardware. Epiphone DR 100 is armed with premium nickel tuners while Fender FA 100 is equipped with die-cast tuning machines. See also: Epiphone DR-100 Vs Yamaha FG700S.
Epiphone DR 100 Vs Fender FA 100
| Epiphone DR 100 | Fender FA 100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Epiphone | Fender |
| Key features | - The fingerboard of the DR-100 is constructed from rosewood - It has a select spruce top - It features a 14-degree headstock that gives you more pressure at the nut - Finishes available in ebony, natural and vintage sunburst - Mahogany body - Select Spruce top - 25.5 Scale | - Protective Fender black nylon gig bag included. - Under the natural glossy Basswood top, the time tested quartersawn X bracing adds to the distinct FA 100's projection and top stability. - Enjoy optimal playability through any season from the hex adjustable truss rod in the neck that will counteract the string tension from the 12-52 gauge Fender Duratone strings (hex/allen truss rod wrench included). |
| Price | ||
| Customer Ratings* | 4.5 out of 5 stars | 4.3 out of 5 stars |
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Decision
As Epiphone DR 100 and Fender FA 100 come at the same price range, it is generally better to opt for Epiphone DR 100. Epiphone DR 100 will last longer and will be more versatile than Fender FA 100.