Fender PM-180E Mandoline ACB
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
The PM-180E is a fantastic entry point into bluegrass and folk music. It's well-built, sounds surprisingly good amplified thanks to the Fishman pickup, and the comfortable neck makes it easy to play. This is a great option for beginners or anyone wanting a reliable, affordable mandolin for practice and casual gigs.
Product Description
- Fender PM-180E Mandoline ACB
- Mandolin with Pickup
- Style: A-Style
- Top: Laminated spruce
- Back and sides: Laminated mahogany
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Walnut
- Snowflake fingerboard inlays
- Matt neck finish
- Neck profile: V
- Fretboard radius: 457 mm (18")
- Nut width: 28.4 mm (1.12")
- Bone nut
- 21 Frets
- Pickup: Fishman System
- 3-Ply black pickguard
- Walnut bridge
- Open tuners with pearloid knobs
- Chrome hardware
- Factory strings: Fender Phosphor Bronze Mandolin Strings (.011 - .040)
- Colour: Aged Cognac Burst
- Incl. gig bag
PROS
- • The Fishman System pickup delivers a clear, amplified tone ideal for performance.
- • Laminated spruce top provides a surprisingly bright and responsive sound for its class.
- • Walnut fingerboard offers a comfortable playing experience with smooth action.
- • The V-shaped neck profile is familiar and comfortable for many guitar/mandolin players.
CONS
- • Laminated construction, while durable, lacks the nuanced tone of solid wood instruments.
- • Open-gear tuners aren't as precise as geared tuners, potentially requiring more frequent retuning.
- • Aged Cognac Burst finish can feel a little thin and less refined than higher-end finishes.
Product Video
Key Features
Body Style
A-Style
Top Wood
Laminated Spruce
Back & Sides
Laminated Mahogany
Strings
Fender Phosphor Bronze Mandolin Strings (.011 - .040)
Scale Length
341 mm (13.43")
Weight
1.4 lbs (approximately)
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Frequently Asked Questions
It's a solid performer; not the absolute best, but offers a good balance of clarity and volume for the price, avoiding overly harsh tones.
The 'V' shape is a common profile, so guitarists should find it familiar and comfortable, though mandolin string tension is notably higher.
They're serviceable to get started, but upgrading to higher-quality strings will noticeably improve the tone and sustain – a common first upgrade for many players.
