Duesenberg Starplayer CBR Catalina Green

Introduction

Duesenberg's Starplayer CBR Catalina Green arrives as a substantial update to the brand's respected semi-hollow line. Slated for release in May 2025 at a price of 2666, this guitar aims squarely at the professional and discerning enthusiast. It revisits the aesthetic codes of vintage sports cars while bringing significant changes under the hood compared to earlier Starplayer TV models. This hands-on test digs into its construction, electronics, playability, and sonic footprint, highlighting what distinguishes it within its segment.

Construction and Feel

The Starplayer CBR stands apart from earlier Duesenberg semi-hollow models thanks to its fully redesigned body. This version adopts a thinner, more focused semi-hollow construction built around a solid mahogany core with a maple top. The neck stays loyal to tradition: it's crafted from maple and joined with a classic set-in assembly, finished with a rosewood fingerboard.

• Body: Mahogany, semi-hollow
• Top: Maple
• Neck: Maple (set neck)
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 jumbo frets, vintage pearloid dots
• Binding: Single-ply cream on top

The neck profile is a medium D, measuring 20 mm at the first fret and 24 mm at the twelfth. This, alongside a 305 mm (12-inch) radius and 42.8 mm (1.67-inch) nut width, produces a comfortable feel that balances vintage character with modern accessibility. The overall weight approaches 4 kilograms, giving it substantial presence without crossing into unwieldy territory, though it is heavier than some would prefer for long sets.

Electronics and Controls

At the heart of the CBR's voice lies an SH configuration: a proprietary Duesenberg GrandVintage humbucker at the bridge and a Domino P90 single coil at the neck. The control scheme is streamlined and professional, a single volume and tone paired with a three-way toggle. While the official specs don't mention coil-splitting, field feedback suggests the switching delivers five distinct tones, blending bridge and neck in both full and split/parallel modes for expanded versatility without any discernible volume drop.

• Pickups: Duesenberg GrandVintage humbucker (bridge), Duesenberg Domino P90 single coil (neck)
• Controls: 1 x volume, 1 x tone, 3-way toggle
• Switching: Three base pickups positions plus two intermediate sounds

These combinations enable the CBR to jump from sharp and twangy cleans, through classic rock crunch, to smooth and soulful leads. Direct comparisons with earlier models show the new maple/mahogany construction sharpens articulation and focus, especially suited for players seeking clarity and a slightly leaner midrange with authoritative low-end punch.

Playability and Hardware

Setup out of the case is consistently low and fast, with no fret buzz reported. The jumbo frets and the 25.5-inch scale (648 mm) encourage wide bends and fluid runs, matching the feel of classic American instruments while maintaining European build refinement.

• Tremolo: Duesenberg Diamond Prestige system
• Machine Heads: Duesenberg Z-Tuner, nickel hardware throughout
• Custom black pickguard
• Vintage-style security-lock compatible strap buttons

The Duesenberg Diamond Prestige tremolo system receives particular praise for its feel: the vibrato arm is soft, stable in tuning, and provides nuanced control. Sustain is a strong point even with the trem system engaged, which is rare among semi-hollow guitars at this thickness.

The factory case echoes the instrument's deluxe intent: robust, well-padded, with a tailored fit and a premium look. This reinforces the sense of value despite a price tag north of mid-market offerings.

Visuals and Aesthetics

Finished in Catalina Green with a custom black pickguard, the Starplayer CBR draws clear inspiration from classic racing machines, fender curves, single-cream binding, and nickel hardware create an unmistakable visual profile. The aesthetic is both high-impact onstage and detailed up-close, enhancing the professional image.

Field Impressions and Verdict

Players transitioning from classic Starplayer TV models will feel significant differences. The CBR's tone is more focused and defined, retaining low-end power but trimming excess resonance. Extended switching allows nuanced soundscapes without volume loss, from sparkling clean to edge-of-breakup.

Tuning stability, setup, and hardware quality are unanimously praised. Security-lock strap buttons and a luxury case are standard, details in line with modern professional expectations. The nearly 4 kg weight is a trade-off: it anchors the instrument's presence but may demand consideration for gigging guitarists.

In this review's estimation, the Starplayer CBR Catalina Green delivers a tight synthesis of standout design, modern versatility, and traditional playability. In direct comparison to US-made competitors, its price becomes highly competitive, especially considering fit and finish. It stands as a genuine top-tier tool for the stage or studio, with few compromises.