2002 Fender FR-50 Resonator Guitar

Fender FR-50 models seem to still be in production, but this one was built rather early-on when they were still made in Korea. It's an interesting instrument because it features a "squashed" 000-size body shape that's reminiscent of a Kalamazoo KG-11 or Regal Junior Jumbo.

It's also got a "spider bridge" resonator cone -- like the kind in Dobros -- and a fast, modern-style neck profile. The cone and spider bridge are both a little heavier-built than American-made components, though, so as a result it's not as loud or punchy as a "real" Dobro, Beard, or what-have-you. It still has "that sound" that cuts in a midsy frequency range, however, and it remains more stable in use than your average flattop guitar. I think it'd make a great "utility guitar" to have around for recording use.

Anyhow, it needed a bit of a "glorified setup" and it got just that. It plays spot-on and fast, now, and is ready to go.

Repairs included: a fret level/dress, new compensated saddle, cleaning, and setup.

Top wood: ply spruce

Back & sides wood: ply mahogany

Bracing type: ladder (cone!)

Bridge: spider-style, synthetic saddle

Fretboard: rosewood

Neck wood: mahogany

Action height at 12th fret: 3/32” bass 1/16” treble (fast, spot-on)
String gauges: 52w, 40w, 30w, 22w, 16, 12 custom set

Neck shape: slim-medium C

Board radius: ~14"

Truss rod: adjustable (but nearly maxed-out)

Neck relief: straight

Fret style: medium

Scale length: 24 3/4"

Nut width: 1 11/16"

Body width: 15"

Body depth: 4"

Weight: 5 lbs 9 oz

Condition notes: it's very clean save for very mild wear to the hardware and some very small scratches here and there on the body. It looks "shopworn" more than anything else, though the fretboard does have some marks and scratches on it especially in the first 3 frets.