Cort has expanded its acoustic guitar lineup with two striking new models, the MR500F-CED and the L100OCF-CED. These guitars feature solid red cedar tops finished in satin black, Fishman electronics, and a remarkably accessible price of $369.
Finding a quality acoustic guitar under $500 is easier than ever, but the abundance of options can make choosing the right one a challenge. Cort’s new offerings stand out, thanks to their unique blend of tonewoods and design elements that set them apart from the typical Sitka spruce and mahogany combinations.
While the MR500F-CED and L100OCF-CED are nearly identical in design, they are listed under different series. The L100OCF-CED belongs to Cort’s smaller-bodied Luce series, while the MR500F-CED is part of the MR series, which Cort describes as instruments offering “traditional design and modern features” with high build quality.
Both models showcase an elegant aesthetic with their solid-color satin black tops, ivory pickguards, and binding accented by black purfling. A circle of ivory on the rosette completes the look, while the layered mahogany backs and sides, paired with a natural satin-finished mahogany neck, create a pleasing contrast.
Cort’s choice of materials includes ovangkol for the fingerboard and bridge, an alternative to rosewood that keeps the price affordable without sacrificing quality. The guitars have a 25.5” scale length, die-cast tuners, and a PPS nut. Subtle differences in the nut width—43mm for the MR500F-CED and 45mm for the L100OCF-CED—make the latter more suitable for fingerstyle players.
Both models are equipped with Fishman Presys VT and S-Core pickup systems, with controls conveniently positioned inside the soundhole. These systems make the guitars performance-ready for open mic nights or live sessions. The MR500F-CED offers a fuller midrange response due to its dreadnought body, while the smaller-bodied L100OCF-CED provides a sweeter tone, ideal for lighter playing styles.
Cedar is a less common choice for affordable acoustic guitars, often reserved for nylon-string or high-end steel-string instruments. Cort highlights its advantages, stating that “cedar-topped guitars bring warmth and resonance to production models at an attractive price point.”
For comparison, premium brands like Lowden use cedar in their high-end guitars, such as the WL-25, which showcases cedar’s tonal warmth and depth. Cort’s use of cedar in these sub-$500 instruments brings this sought-after tonewood to a broader audience.
The MR500F-CED and L100OCF-CED are now available. For additional photos and specifications, visit Cort Guitars’ official website.
With their combination of aesthetics, build quality, and tone, these cedar-topped acoustics offer an enticing option for players seeking warmth and resonance in an affordable package.
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