Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This monoprice cali classic electric guitar review covers a solid-body instrument designed for straightforward playability. It features a maple neck and a rosewood fretboard with 22 frets. The guitar uses an SSS pickup configuration, meaning three single-coil pickups. It is a full-size, right-handed model with a 25.5-inch scale length. The body is a standard double-cutaway design. These specs make it a classic template for electric guitar players who want a traditional layout without extra complexity.
What stands out
- Maple neck paired with a rosewood fretboard
- SSS (three single-coil) pickup configuration
- 22-fret neck with a 25.5-inch scale length
- Standard full-size solid body construction
- Right-handed orientation with a double-cutaway shape
Who it fits
Good fit for
This guitar suits discerning beginners who need a reliable, no-frills instrument. It also fits experienced players seeking an affordable backup or practice guitar. The classic double-cutaway body and standard scale length make it easy to handle. The three single-coil pickups provide bright, clear tones suitable for rock, blues, and pop styles. If you want a traditional setup without complex wiring or extra switches, this model matches your needs.
Who should skip it
You should look elsewhere if you require active electronics or humbucker pickups. This model only includes standard single-coils, which may not deliver the high-output sound some metal players prefer. It is also right-handed only, so left-handed players cannot use it. If you need a guitar with a tremolo bridge, this fixed bridge design will not meet that requirement. The basic gig bag included offers minimal protection for travel.
Verdict: The Monoprice Cali Classic is a straightforward, spec-based electric guitar that delivers classic tones through its SSS configuration. It is a practical choice for players who value traditional design and reliable construction over modern features.
Key specs explained for this model
Body Type: solid
A solid body has no hollow chambers inside the wood. This design reduces feedback at high volumes and provides a consistent tone. You get a stable instrument that works well for various genres. It is the standard choice for electric guitarists who want durability and reliable sound projection without acoustic resonance interference.
Pickup Configuration: SSS
SSS means the guitar has three single-coil pickups. This setup offers bright, clear tones with strong articulation. You can switch between positions to change the sound character. It is ideal for blues, pop, and classic rock styles. Compare this to humbucker setups if you prefer thicker, warmer tones with less noise.
Neck Material: maple
Maple necks are known for their stiffness and bright tonal response. They provide a smooth playing surface that allows for fast movement. This material helps maintain tuning stability over time. You will find this common in many professional instruments. It pairs well with various fretboard materials to create a crisp attack.
Number of Strings: 6
This guitar includes six strings, covering the standard range for most music. You have access to the full spectrum of chords and melodies used in popular music. This configuration is versatile enough for beginners and experienced players. It allows for complex arrangements without needing a bass or twelve-string alternative.
Design and Build Quality
The Monoprice Cali Classic features a solid body constructed for durability and stability. According to the listing, the neck is made of maple, which typically offers a bright attack and smooth feel. You can choose between a rosewood or maple fretboard, allowing you to select the surface texture that suits your playing style. The instrument includes 22 frets, providing ample range for lead work and chord voicings. It is a right-handed model with six strings, fitting standard musical arrangements.
Size matters for comfort and transport. The listing specifies full-size dimensions, measuring 42 inches in length, 17 inches in width, and 5 inches in height. This footprint ensures a familiar playing experience for those accustomed to standard electric guitars. The solid body design helps minimize unwanted feedback during live performances or high-volume recording sessions. You get a consistent tone that remains stable regardless of stage volume.
The finish is available in black, offering a classic aesthetic that hides wear well. The SSS pickup configuration consists of three single-coil pickups. This layout delivers clear, articulate tones suitable for blues, rock, and pop styles. The guitar comes with a gig bag for protection during transit. These specifications make it a practical choice for beginners or experienced players seeking a reliable, no-frills instrument for everyday use.
Setup and Everyday Use Guide
The Monoprice Cali Classic is a full-size instrument with a 25.5-inch scale length. This standard measurement provides consistent string tension, which helps with intonation accuracy across the fretboard. You will find a 9.5-inch neck radius, a curve that balances comfortable chord playing with ease for bending strings. The guitar includes 22 frets, giving you access to a wide range of notes. It is designed for right-handed players and comes with six strings.
The SSS pickup configuration consists of three single-coil pickups. This setup allows you to blend bright, clear tones for clean sounds and sharper attacks for lead lines. The solid body construction minimizes unwanted feedback during live performances or high-volume practice sessions. You can rely on the maple neck for a smooth playing surface, though the specific fretboard material depends on the variant you choose.
Daily use is straightforward. The guitar comes with a gig bag for transport, making it easy to move between home practice and gig locations. Its standard dimensions of 42 inches in length and 17 inches in width fit typical gig bags and cases. The design prioritizes essential features without unnecessary complexity. This makes it suitable for beginners learning the basics or experienced players seeking a reliable backup instrument. The straightforward layout means you can focus on playing rather than managing complex controls. It is built to handle regular practice routines and occasional performances with stability.
Before You Buy This Guitar
Before you buy the Monoprice Cali Classic, consider what else you need to make it playable. This solid-body guitar has no built-in amplifier, so you will need an amp and a cable to hear it. Check your current gear compatibility. Most standard cables work, but ensure your amp has an input jack. The 25.5-inch scale length is standard, meaning replacement strings are widely available and easy to find. You do not need exotic parts. Upkeep is straightforward. Keep the maple neck and rosewood fretboard clean with appropriate cloths. Avoid extreme humidity to prevent warping. This model sits alongside other options in the 1 Electric Guitars category as a no-frills choice. It lacks advanced electronics or locking tuners. If you want a reliable, basic instrument for practice or simple gigs, this fits well. It is not for players seeking complex switching options. Focus on your core needs: a sturdy body and clear tone.
Check before you buy
- Verify you have a compatible amp and cable ready for use.
- Confirm the 25.5-inch scale length suits your string tension preference.
- Ensure you have basic cleaning cloths for the maple neck.
- Check if the standard SSS configuration meets your tone needs.
The product at a glance
Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black
Best for: beginners seeking a classic single-coil sound
- Neck Material
- maple
- Pickup Configuration
- SSS
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid
- Number of Frets
- 22
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The Monoprice Cali Classic is a right-handed, full-size solid body electric guitar with a black finish. It features a maple neck, 22 frets, and a 25.5-inch scale length. The SSS pickup configuration includes three standard single-coil pickups. This instrument is designed for discerning beginners and experienced players seeking an affordable, quality option. It comes with a gig bag and offers classic design elements.
Pros
- Solid body construction for sustain
- Maple neck with rosewood or maple fretboard options
- Three standard single-coil pickups
- Includes a gig bag
Cons
- Only available in right-handed orientation
- Fixed 25.5-inch scale length
- Standard single-coil pickups only
Good fit if
- You are a beginner looking for an affordable instrument
- You prefer a classic solid body design
- You want a guitar that includes a gig bag
Skip if
- You need a left-handed model
- You require humbucker pickups
- You prefer a shorter scale length
Verdict: The Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar is a practical choice for beginners and experienced players who want a traditional single-coil sound. It suits those who prioritize classic design and included accessories over specialized hardware.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black |
|---|---|
| Neck Material | maple |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Hand Orientation | right-handed |
| Body Type | solid |
| Number of Frets | 22 |
| Target Audience | Beginners |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 42 × 17 × 5 inches |
| Size | Full Size |
| Model | 610160 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Monoprice Cali Classic suitable for beginners?
Yes, this guitar is designed specifically for beginners. It features a full-size body and a standard scale length that provides consistent string tension. The SSS pickup configuration offers a traditional single-coil sound that is easy to understand and versatile for learning various styles without complex switching.
What type of pickups does this guitar have?
The Monoprice Cali Classic uses an SSS pickup configuration. This means it has three single-coil pickups located at the neck, middle, and bridge positions. This setup delivers a bright, clear tone typical of classic electric guitars, allowing you to achieve crisp sounds for rock, pop, and blues.
Does the Monoprice Cali Classic come with an amplifier?
No, this instrument is sold as a guitar only. You will need to purchase a separate amplifier and an instrument cable to hear the sound. As a solid-body model, it requires external amplification to function, so ensure you have the necessary gear ready for your first session.
What are the physical dimensions of this guitar?
The Monoprice Cali Classic measures 42 inches in length, 17 inches in width, and 5 inches in height. These dimensions classify it as a full-size instrument. The solid body construction ensures stability, while the specific measurements provide a familiar feel for players accustomed to standard electric guitar sizes.
Is this guitar right-handed or left-handed?
The Monoprice Cali Classic is designed for right-handed players. The controls and string orientation follow the standard right-handed layout. If you are left-handed, you would need to look for a specific left-handed model or restring a right-handed guitar, which may affect playability and balance.
What is the scale length of this guitar?
This model features a 25.5-inch scale length, which is the standard measurement for many electric guitars. This length provides consistent string tension across the fretboard, aiding in intonation accuracy. It allows for comfortable bending and fretting, making it a practical choice for players of all skill levels.
What finish options are available for this model?
The listing highlights the Black finish as a primary option. This solid body color provides a classic aesthetic that matches various music styles. The black finish is durable and hides minor wear well, making it a practical choice for beginners who want a timeless look without frequent touch-ups.