Top Acoustic Guitars: Expert Picks and Reviews

Choosing the perfect acoustic guitar can be a journey filled with rich melodies, evolving tonalities, and intricate craftsmanship details. In this comprehensive guide, we dive deep into the world of acoustic guitars, presenting you with a curated list of the top options available, including today’s best deals.

By the end of this review, you will:

• Understand the unique features and sound characteristics that set each guitar apart.
• Discover the historical and cultural significance of iconic models in the guitar world.
• Identify which guitar aligns best with your musical aspirations and playing style.

What Are The Best Acoustic Guitars in 2023?

1. Yamaha FG800
2. Epiphone J-200 EC Studio
3. Taylor GS Mini
4. Takamine GN30CE
5. Squier by Fender
6. Fender American Acoustasonic Telecaster
7. Taylor 110e
8. Martin D-28
9. Fender CD-60S0
10. PRS SE P20E

1. Yamaha FG800

Why someone should buy: The Yamaha FG800 offers robust sound qualities, is affordably priced, and is a reliable option for both beginners and intermediate players looking for consistent performance.

Technical Features:

• Solid spruce top material
• Nato/Okume back and sides
• Nato neck
• Rosewood fingerboard and bridge

Review:

The FG800 offers an unmatched quality at its price range. It stands out for its superb projection and rich tones, suitable for various genres. Beginners will find its playability accommodating, while even professional players will appreciate the sound clarity. With its newly developed scalloped bracing, it amplifies projection and volume, ideal for budding guitarists.

Verdict:

This is the best acoustic guitar for beginner to intermediate players seeking quality and affordability in one package.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Beginner guitarists
• Anyone seeking a high-quality guitar without breaking the bank

2. Epiphone J-200 EC Studio

Why someone should buy: It captures the essence and heritage of the legendary Gibson SJ-200, providing a blend of classic aesthetics and modern electronics at an accessible price point.

Technical Features:

• Super jumbo body style
• Select maple body material
• Solid spruce top
• 1960’s SlimTaper™ D-shape neck profile
• Fishman Sonicore under-saddle pickup
• Presys preamp

Review:

The J-200 EC Studio is a testament to Epiphone’s dedication to quality. This guitar offers powerful projection whether you’re practicing in the studio, at home, or rocking out on stage. Combining the large super jumbo body with select maple back and sides and a solid spruce top, it offers an unmatched tone that’s both bold and clear. The inclusion of Fishman electronics ensures that its natural sound is accurately captured when amplified.

Verdict:

This is the best acoustic guitar for players who adore vintage aesthetics combined with modern features. Not only that – this guitar sounds great both on-stage and off.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Musicians who want a stage-ready guitar with a vintage vibe

3. Taylor GS Mini

Why someone should buy: This is the perfect guitar for players on the move, offering top-notch sound in a convenient size. Its range of tonewood options means every guitarist can find their perfect tone match.

Technical Features:

• Solid top construction
• Taylor’s unique slender neck design
• Short 23.5-inch scale length
• Ebony fretboard and bridge
• X-braced soundhole

Review:

The Taylor GS Mini has made its mark in the guitar community as the go-to travel companion. Just like many other Taylor guitars, it’s the right blend of comfort, portability, and unmatched sound. The rich acoustic voice of the GS Mini feels warm and inviting, while its compact design doesn’t compromise on tone or volume.

The solid top construction ensures longevity and vibrant sound, and the slender neck design means this guitar is comfortable to play for hours. And with a short scale length, this acoustic guitar is super easy to maneuver. We also love the ebony fretboard and bridge for enhanced clarity and durability.

Verdict:

For those in need of a high-quality, travel-friendly acoustic guitar, the Taylor GS Mini is an unbeatable choice. Its reputation is well-deserved, and its sound will win you over.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

The traveling musician, beginner players looking for a comfortable start, and anyone wanting a quality secondary guitar for impromptu jam sessions.

4. Takamine GN30CE

Why someone should buy: The GN30CE is the versatile choice for acoustic purists who occasionally need to plug in. The built-in tuner ensures you’re always pitch-perfect.

Technical Features:

• Solid spruce top
• Mahogany back and sides for a balanced, resonant sound.
• Under saddle pickup with TP-4TD Preamp
• 3-band EQ for tonal adjustments.
• Built-in tuner, allowing for quick and convenient tuning adjustments.

Review:

Takamine’s GN30CE presents itself as a reliable choice for guitarists looking to expand their sonic capabilities. Its rich and balanced acoustic tone is complemented by reliable electronics, making it ideal for both unplugged sessions and amplified gigs.

It comes with a built-in tuner, allowing for quick and convenient tuning adjustments, making it one of the best acoustic guitars for beginners.

Verdict:

A perfect marriage of acoustic richness and electronic convenience, the Takamine GN30CE is a must-have for players seeking versatility without compromising quality.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Guitarists who play both unplugged and amplified gigs
• Intermediate players looking to upgrade
• Anyone seeking the combination of traditional sound with modern adaptability

5. Squier by Fender

Why someone should buy: The Squier by Fender offers exceptional durability and sound quality at an affordable price. Its slim neck and full-bodied dreadnought tone make it an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned players.

Technical Features:

• Dreadnought body shape
• Chrome die-cast tuners
• Scalloped “X”-bracing

Review:

The Squier by Fender impresses with its playability and sound quality. Its all-laminate construction not only makes it durable but also ensures that it maintains its tonal quality over time. Whether you’re performing or playing in the studio, this is a great guitar.

The slim neck is a plus for beginners, offering comfort and ease of play.

Verdict:

An excellent choice for those seeking quality and affordability in one package.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Beginners
• Intermediate players
• Those on a budget

6. Fender American Acoustasonic Telecaster

Why someone should buy: This guitar breaks barriers, offering unparalleled versatility in both electric and acoustic realms. It’s the ultimate choice for musicians seeking a wide spectrum of tonal possibilities in one instrument.

Technical Features:

• Acoustic Engine
• 3 distinct pickup systems (Fishman Under-Saddle Transducer, Fishman Acoustasonic Enhancer, and Fender Acoustasonic Noiseless™ magnetic pickup)
• Patent-pending Stringed Instrument Resonance System (SIRS)

Review:

Fender’s Acoustasonic Telecaster is a testament to the brand’s innovative spirit. Offering both the warmth of an acoustic and the bite of an electric, it stands out as a versatile beast. The guitar’s ability to switch between tones is not just a gimmick; each sound profile is detailed, clear, and authentic.

The Acoustic Engine delivers diverse tonal combinations, providing a sonic palette for every style, and the three distinct pickup systems cater to every tonal need. The Stringed Instrument Resonance System provides a deep resonance and rich sound.

Verdict:

For those yearning for a guitar that refuses to be pigeonholed into a single genre, the American Acoustasonic Telecaster is an unmatched marvel. It’s not just a guitar; it’s a sonic journey.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Musicians who often switch between acoustic and electric sounds
• Experimentalists in search of diverse tones
• Anyone seeking the best of both acoustic and electric worlds in one instrument

7. Taylor 110e

Why someone should buy: Taylor’s 110e offers unparalleled sound clarity and depth that elevates every acoustic session. The built-in ES2 pickup also makes it a breeze to electrify your performance, providing versatility for every setting.

Technical Features:

• Expression System® 2
• Solid spruce top
• ES2 pickup
• Layered walnut back and sides

Review:

The Taylor 110e is a testament to Taylor’s craftsmanship, with a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. The sound is clear, with a punchy midrange and rich undertones, making it versatile for all playing styles and genres. This is down to its layered walnut back and sides.

The spruce top ensures exceptional projection and clarity, and the ES2 pickup ensures enhanced sound capture and easy plugin capabilities.

Verdict:

If you seek a dynamic, versatile, and beautifully crafted acoustic guitar, the Taylor 110e is an excellent choice that promises to be a reliable companion for intimate gigs and grand stages, as well as recording or practicing in the studio.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Musicians who enjoy the punch of a dreadnought and the versatility of electric options
• Those looking for a comfortable playing experience

8. Martin D-28

Why someone should buy: The Martin D-28 isn’t just an instrument; it’s an heirloom. Renowned for its unmatched resonance and historical significance, it’s an investment in a legacy of sound.

Technical Features:

• East Indian rosewood body
• Non-scalloped, forward-shifted X-brace
• Modern neck profile
• High-performance taper

Review:

The Martin D-28 is a celebration of rich history, craftsmanship, and pure acoustic prowess. The sound quality is as legendary as the names associated with it, offering a deep, warm, and balanced tone suitable for all music styles. Complete with an East Indian rosewood body, you’re bound to get that profound bass and rich overtones.

The high-performance taper ensures a smooth playing experience, and the non-scalloped, forward-shifted X-brace enhances the guitar’s tonal balance.

Verdict:

A masterpiece in every sense, the Martin D-28 stands tall as an acoustic icon. For those looking to own a piece of music history without compromising on playability or sound quality, the D-28 is an unmissable choice. Whether you’re strumming in a quiet room, recording in a studio, or playing on stage, the D-28 promises to be a cherished companion.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Historians, professionals, and enthusiasts alike

9. Fender CD-60S

Why someone should buy: The Fender CD-60S is a high-quality, versatile guitar that’s perfect for beginners and intermediate players. Its bundle includes essential accessories, offering great value for money.

Technical Features:

• Mahogany body 
• Natural finish for a classic loo
• Scallop “X”-bracing
• Enhanced sound projection
• Walnut wood fretboard
• Gloss Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish

Review:

The Fender CD-60S stands out for its ease of play and quality sound. Its mahogany construction not only gives it a warm tone but also a stylish appearance

 The inclusion of an instructional DVD and other accessories makes it a comprehensive package for learners.

It’s an asset in any musician’s collection.

Verdict:

This instrument is an excellent investment for beginners and intermediate players looking for a high-quality guitar with all the necessary accessories.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Beginners starting their musical journey
• Those looking to upgrade to a versatile instrument

10. PRS SE P20E

Why someone should buy: The PRS SE P20E is a professional-grade instrument in a compact form, making it perfect for intimate sessions and travel. Its mahogany construction ensures a rich, warm sound that’s perfect for various genres.

Technical Features:

• All-mahogany body
• Fishman GT1 pickup system
• Ebony fretboard and bridge enhance playability and sustain.

Review:

The PRS SE P20E is a delightful surprise packed in a compact body. It proves that size isn’t a determinant of sound quality. Its build quality, tonal character, and electronics make it a must-have for any serious guitarist. The all-mahogany body ensures a rich and warm tonal quality, and the Fishman GT1 pickup system captures the natural sound with precision. It’s an instrument that’s as delightful to look at as it is to play, with PRS’s iconic bird inlays and a striking headstock design.

Verdict:

If you want a guitar that’s portable, sounds incredible, and is aesthetically pleasing, the PRS SE P20E should be high on your list. It’s a parlor-sized wonder with the heart of a giant.

This Guitar is Perfect For:

• Those looking for a compact guitar without compromising on sound quality
• Traveling musicians and songwriters who need a reliable companion on the go

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Acoustic Guitar for You

Selecting the perfect acoustic guitar is not just about finding a good-looking instrument. From materials to body shape, there’s a lot to think about. Are you looking for the best budget acoustic guitar and great acoustic guitar deals, or are you a professional on the search for the top acoustic guitars on the market?

Let’s dive deep into the intricate details of choosing an acoustic guitar that meets your needs.

Understand the Importance of Tone Woods

The wood from which an acoustic guitar is made, often referred to as its “tone wood,” plays a critical role in shaping the guitar’s tone. Different woods resonate in distinct ways, emphasizing various parts of the sound spectrum. Understanding the inherent tonal qualities of different woods can greatly assist in your decision-making process.

Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most commonly used tone woods:

Spruce:

Spruce offers a broad dynamic range with crisp articulation, making it suitable for various playing styles. It’s known for its clear, loud sound with pronounced highs. It’s usually a pale color with occasional visible grain patterns. Many acoustic guitars will list “solid Sitka spruce” as one of their specifications.

This wood is most commonly used for the top (or soundboard) of the guitar due to its ability to resonate sound efficiently.

Mahogany

This type of tonewood delivers a warm sound with an emphasis on the midrange frequencies. It also offers a natural compression, which is beneficial for strummers. This wood is known for its reddish-brown hue with a straight grain pattern. It’s popular for both top and body construction, especially in guitars designed for blues or fingerpicking.

Rosewood:

Rosewood produces a deep bass and sparkling highs, resulting in a rich and full sound. It’s known for resonant quality and complex overtones. Its appearance is usually dark brown with often intricate grain patterns. Rosewood is typically used for the back and sides. It’s a dense wood, which can contribute to a guitar’s sustain.

Maple:

Maple emphasizes the upper-middle tonal spectrum, resulting in a bright sound. It has a quick note decay, making each note clear and distinct. This makes it ideal for live settings. Maple is usually a pale color with unique, often quilted or flamed grain patterns and is commonly found in the back and sides of jumbo and archtop models.

Cedar:

Cedar responds well to a light touch, making it ideal for fingerstyle players. It offers a warm, mellow ton and a reddish-brown hue, often darker than spruce. This type of wood is preferred for classical or fingerstyle guitars.

Choosing the Right Body Shape

The acoustic guitar’s body shape significantly affects its playability. The body influences so much more than user fatigue; acoustic guitar bodies can also change the guitar’s tone and sound, so it’s important you choose the right one when looking for the best acoustic guitar for you.

Dreadnought: A dreadnought guitar is the most popular acoustic guitar’s shape, known for its bold, rich sound suitable for all styles and music genres. A dreadnought acoustic guitar is versatile and projects sound well.

Parlor: Smaller in size, these guitars offer a focused, intimate sound. These smaller-bodied acoustic guitars are great for fingerstyle and light strumming. This is why, much like a classical guitar, they’ll often come with nylon strings. They’re also great body shapes for children and beginners who don’t want to start off with a big, bulky guitar.

Jumbo: With its large body, a jumbo body shape produces a loud and robust tone, ideal for powerful strumming and live performances.

Auditorium and Grand Auditorium: These guitars offers a balanced shape that combines the best of both dreadnought and parlor styles. This type of body shape is versatile and ergonomic, which makes it a great option for beginners and intermediate players who are just finding their style and genre.

Determine Your Budget

Deciding on a budget is arguably one of the most crucial steps in your guitar-buying journey. It not only sets boundaries for your options but also ensures you get the best value for your money, depending on your skill level. For example, a complete beginner who has never picked up a guitar before should avoid spending thousands on a professional-level guitar with all the bells and whistles.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what you can expect at different price points.

Beginner (Under $300):

Beginner acoustic guitars often use laminated woods, which, while being sturdy and less susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature, are less resonant than solid woods. This may result in a less rich sound compared to more expensive acoustic guitars with different tone woods.

While quality can vary, many renowned brands, such as Fender and Yamaha, offer reliable and durable models for beginners. These guitars are constructed to be forgiving to new players. This is to ensure minimal fatigue for those long practice sessions and help a new player get comfortable with the shape of the guitar.

You’re likely to find basic features on a beginner guitar, including simple bridges. Some might come with built-in tuners or basic pickups.

Although beginner acoustic guitars won’t offer the nuanced tones of higher-priced guitars, many models in this range deliver a more than satisfactory sound for beginners.

Guitars in this price range are best for those who are just starting out and are unsure of their long-term commitment to the instrument. They’re also great for learning and casual play.

Looking for the perfect beginner guitar for a kid? Try these.

Intermediate ($300 – $1000):

Many intermediate acoustic guitars feature a solid top wood, which significantly improves sound quality. The back and sides may still be laminated, but higher-quality laminates than those found on beginner models are often used.

There’s a notable improvement in craftsmanship with this priced acoustic guitar. The fretwork is smoother, the necks are more comfortably shaped, and the overall build quality is consistent.

Apart from better tuners and bridges, guitars in this range often come with built-in electronics for amplification. You can also purchase your own guitar amp.

Some might also have cutaways for easier access to higher frets. With better materials and construction, these acoustic guitars provide a fuller, richer sound with better resonance and sustain.

This is the best acoustic guitar type for players who have some experience and are looking to upgrade their beginner models. An intermediate guitar is ideal for serious learners, gigging musicians on a budget, or enthusiasts.

Professional ($1000 and above):

At this range, expect all-solid-wood construction. Premium woods like high-grade spruce, rosewood, and mahogany are used, often with detailed inlays and bindings that you simply won’t find on lower-priced models. Professional-grade acoustic guitars showcase the pinnacle of craftsmanship. From the bracing pattern inside the guitar to the finish, every detail is meticulously handled.

These guitars often come with advanced electronics, special inlays, unique tuners, and other premium features. The electronics in these guitars are of high quality, ensuring the amplified sound is as natural as possible.

A professional acoustic guitar will produce a nuanced, resonant, and loud sound that can fill rooms. The sound quality is articulate, with pronounced lows, mids, and highs.

Guitars in this price range are best for seasoned players, professionals, studio musicians, and those who are looking for outstanding sound and build quality. They’re also great for guitar enthusiasts who are ready to invest in an instrument that can last a lifetime.

When determining your budget, it’s essential to consider your skill level, long-term goals, and the features that are the most important to you. Don’t buy a guitar with hundreds of additional features if you know you won’t use them.

It’s always a good idea to play a guitar in person before buying, ensuring the sound and feel align with your expectations. Remember, sometimes the best guitar for you might not be the most expensive one, but the one that resonates with your heart and fingers.

Acoustic vs. Acoustic-Electric Guitars

In the vast world of guitars, many budding musicians and seasoned players will come across both acoustic and acoustic-electric models. Both have their unique features, advantages, and considerations. Let’s delve deeper to better understand these distinctions.

What’s the Difference Between a Standard Acoustic and an Acoustic-Electric?

At their core, both standard acoustic guitars and acoustic-electric models are fundamentally acoustic instruments. They produce sound through the resonance of the guitar’s body and the vibration of the strings.

However, the primary difference lies in the electronics:

Standard Acoustic Guitars: These instruments don’t have any built-in electronics. They rely solely on their body’s natural resonance to project sound. You’ll often see these guitars in intimate settings or solo performances where amplification isn’t a priority.

Acoustic-Electric Guitars: These are acoustic guitars equipped with built-in electronics, typically an acoustic guitar pickup system and a preamp. The pickup captures the vibrations of the strings, and the preamp amplifies the signal. Most acoustic-electric models also have onboard tone controls, allowing players to modify the sound before it reaches an amplifier or PA system.

Looking for the perfect electric guitar? Click here.

The Benefits of Having Built-In Electronics:

Versatility for Performances: These types of acoustic guitars shine in larger venues. With built-in electronics, they can easily be plugged into an amplifier or PA system, ensuring the sound reaches every corner of the venue, even in a noisy environment.

Recording Ease: For those looking to record their music, the built-in electronics offer a cleaner and more direct sound input, reducing the need for external microphones. This can be particularly useful for home recording setups where minimizing ambient noise is essential.

Sound Shaping: With onboard tone controls and sometimes even built-in effects, players have the added advantage of shaping their sound right from the guitar, allowing for real-time adjustments during performances. If you’re looking to sculpt your sound even more, you may want to invest in a guitar pedal.

Considerations When Choosing:

If you anticipate playing in larger venues or environments where amplification is crucial, an acoustic-electric is almost a necessity. Conversely, if you’re mainly playing in smaller, intimate settings, a standard acoustic might suffice.

Owning an acoustic-electric guitar also means thinking about amplification. Do you have an acoustic guitar amplifier or access to a PA system? It’s essential to ensure the amplified sound quality matches the guitar’s natural tone.

Acoustic-electric models, with their added electronics, can sometimes be more expensive than their standard acoustic counterparts. It’s worth considering if the additional cost aligns with the benefits you’re seeking.

Some purists believe that the natural resonance of a standard acoustic guitar is unparalleled. If you value the raw, unaltered sound of an acoustic, you might lean towards a standard model. On the other hand, if you appreciate the flexibility and enhancement options an onboard preamp provides, an acoustic-electric might be your pick.

Frequently Asked Questions: Discovering the Best Acoustic Guitars

What is considered the best acoustic guitar?

The term “best acoustic guitar” is subjective, as it varies based on individual preferences, playing style, and budget. However, frequently mentioned in discussions about the best acoustic guitars are models like the Martin D-28, Taylor 110e, and Gibson SJ-200.

It’s essential to try multiple guitars to determine which one resonates most with your musical needs and taste.

Which guitar brand has the best sound quality?

Several brands are renowned for their exceptional sound quality in the world of acoustic guitars. Brands like Martin, Taylor, and Gibson often come to the forefront in terms of sound excellence. However, the “best” sound quality is also influenced by individual preferences, the specific model, and the type of music you intend to play. Thus, while these brands are celebrated for their consistent sound quality, the best way to find your perfect fit is to play and listen to various guitars.

What is the best acoustic guitar money can buy?

If money is no object, some of the best acoustic guitars one might consider are the Martin D-45, Gibson SJ-200, and the limited editions from Taylor. These guitars are not only built with the finest materials but also showcase unmatched craftsmanship.

That said, the term “best” is subjective, and sometimes, the most expensive guitar might not necessarily be the best fit for every guitarist. Always prioritize your playing style, tonal preferences, and comfort when choosing a guitar.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the acoustic guitar world can seem daunting, but armed with the right knowledge, the journey becomes an exciting exploration. Whether you’re swayed by the allure of tonewoods, the intricacies of body shapes, or the modern conveniences of built-in electronics, there’s an acoustic guitar out there tailored for your musical aspirations.

Remember, the best acoustic guitar is not just about price or brand; it’s about how the instrument resonates with you personally. May your choice bring you countless hours of inspiration, creativity, and, above all, the joy of making music.