Monoprice

Monoprice 610163 Cali Classic Sunburst Electric Guitar Beginner Kit

4.4 (48 reviews)

A budget-friendly double-cutaway electric guitar with SSS pickups, satin neck, and included gig bag for new players.

$96.99*
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated:Jun 04, 2026.Price and availability are subject to change.

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Overview

The Monoprice Cali Classic 610163 is built around a familiar double-cutaway solid body design that gives beginners access to an industry-standard platform without the premium price tag. It ships with three single-coil pickups delivering the bright, clear sound associated with this body style, paired with a satin-finished neck that keeps the hand moving smoothly across 22 frets. The 25.5-inch scale length and 9.5-inch neck radius match what you would find on guitars costing several times more, which means muscle memory and technique developed on this instrument translate directly to higher-end models.

Where the Cali Classic particularly stands out for its price is in upgradability. The large open electronics cavity is designed for easy access, so swapping out pickups, potentiometers, or wiring is a simple afternoon project rather than a commitment. This makes it an excellent platform for players who want to learn about guitar electronics and tone shaping without risking an expensive instrument. The included gig bag adds practical value for transport to lessons or jam sessions, and the finished frets mean there is no sharp fret-end discomfort that sometimes plagues ultra-budget guitars.

Key Features

Easy to Play: Indio Classic guitars are perfect for beginners or for players that need a practice or backup axe. They feature easy-to-play, "fast" satin necks and quiet, full sounding pickups.

Industry Standard Features: Indio Cali Classic Guitars boast industry standard features and sizes, just like the big name guitar companies, but at a fraction of the price. The Cali Classic features 22 frets, a 25.5" scale, and a 9.5" neck radius.

Real, Solid, and Affordable: Enjoy finished frets, full-range tone, and balanced weight distribution.

Fully Adjustable: Change the pickups or change the pots to make this Indio guitar your own. The large open cavity allows for complete customization. It is a great way to experiment with tone and aftermarket hardware, without destroying your primary piece.

Included Gig Bag: All Indio Cali Classic Electric Guitars ship with a protective Gig Bag to defend your axe against dings and scratches as you travel.

Specifications

Brand
Monoprice (Indio Series)
Model
610163
Guitar Type
Electric Guitar
Body Style
Double-Cutaway Solid Body
Number of Strings
6
Orientation
Right Handed
Pickups
SSS (3 Single-Coil)
Neck Finish
Satin
Frets
22
Scale Length
25.5"
Neck Radius
9.5"
Color
Sunburst
Includes
Gig Bag

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Priced well below comparable name-brand guitars while offering the same standard scale length, neck radius, and fret count.
  • Satin neck finish reduces friction for faster hand movement, especially helpful for beginners building technique.
  • Large open electronics cavity makes it easy to swap pickups and pots for tone experimentation.
  • Included gig bag provides immediate protection for transport and storage.
  • Balanced weight distribution and solid body construction give it a substantial feel without excessive heaviness.

👎 Cons

  • SSS pickup configuration lacks a humbucker option, limiting heavier or warmer tones without an aftermarket swap.
  • Stock pickups and electronics are functional but may benefit from upgrading as the player advances.
  • Only available in right-handed orientation, excluding left-handed players.
  • Does not include an amplifier, cable, tuner, or strap, so additional purchases are needed to start playing through a speaker.

Frequently Asked Questions

It features three single-coil (SSS) pickups, which produce the bright, articulate tone associated with classic double-cutaway electric guitars.
Yes. It has a satin-finished neck for a fast, comfortable feel, finished frets for smooth playability, and ships with a gig bag — everything needed to start learning right away.
Absolutely. The guitar has a large open electronics cavity specifically designed to make swapping pickups, pots, and other hardware straightforward without permanent modification.
The Cali Classic has a 25.5-inch scale length and a 9.5-inch neck radius with 22 frets, matching industry-standard dimensions found on much more expensive instruments.
No, this kit includes the guitar and a gig bag. An amplifier, cable, and other accessories would need to be purchased separately.