Looking for the perfect sound from your 12 string guitar? Look no further-we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll provide all the information you need to find your ideal acoustic 12 string and make sure it’s ready to serenade your friends, family and neighbors with stellar tunes. So if you’re ready to take your music to the next level, let’s get started!
Best acoustic 12 string guitar 2023
- Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar (Editor’s Pick)
- Vangoa 12 String Guitar, Acoustic-electric (Best Overall)
- Vangoa 12 String Gutiar, Acoustic-electric (Budget Friendly)
- Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Fender Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar
- Taylor Academy 12-N Nylon String Acoustic Guitar
- Ibanez Performance 12-String Acoustic Guitar
1) Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
The Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar is a monument to musical brilliance, striking a balance between workmanship and versatility that appeals to both experienced and new musicians.
Visual Beauty: Natural Colour Elegance
A natural colour palette gives the Yamaha FG820 12-String Acoustic Guitar a majestic look. The spruce and mahogany design produces a visual and sonic ensemble. With each strum, this instrument becomes a musical and beautiful masterpiece.
Spruce and Mahogany Harmony: A Symphony
The Yamaha FG820’s rich, warm tonal symphony comes from the harmonic blend of spruce and mahogany. The sturdy spruce top gives each note a crisp, balanced sound, while the mahogany body evokes depth. It’s a sonic canvas, not just an instrument.
Nato Wood Neck with Rosewood Fretboard Redefined Playability
Nato wood neck and rosewood fretboard redefine playability with comfort and precision. You smoothly play each note, creating accurate and resonant melodies. The fretboard’s silky motion turns every touch into a musical journey, enabling you to explore your imagination.
Phosphor Bronze Strings: A Soundscape
The Yamaha FG820’s phosphor bronze strings create a clear, balanced sound. Each strum explores tonal variations, blending high and low frequencies. These strings respond well to complex fingerpicking and aggressive strumming.
Harmonic Stability: Fixed Guitar Bridge
The Yamaha FG820’s fixed guitar bridge technology ensures precise and in tune notes. This engineering marvel keeps your melodies in perfect harmony, letting you confidently explore a variety of musical styles.
Durability and Excellence for Lifelong Passion
The Yamaha FG820’s craftsmanship is outstanding and durable. This instrument becomes a friend for years of musical exploration, with each note telling a narrative. The FG820 shows passion and durability in practise and live performances.
A 12-string configuration opens musical possibilities
The Yamaha FG820’s 12-string design opens new musical avenues. This configuration adds complexity to your playing, making it suitable for folk and country. Every chord and melody on the FG820’s 12 strings invites you to construct a musical tapestry.
Ergonomic and Lightweight: A Symphony of Comfort
The Yamaha FG820’s 7-pound weight and 42.5 x 20.7 x 6.1-inch dimensions make musical discovery easy. Its lightweight design lets players of all ages and sizes express their creativity.
Finally, the Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar showcases musical innovation and craftsmanship. Its adaptable 12-string arrangement, spruce and mahogany harmony, and playability invite investigation let beginners and experts to create acoustic masterpieces. The FG820 is your musical friend whether you’re strumming chords or fingerpicking tunes.
Must Read – Best left handed acoustic guitar
Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Paul Capps
Pros:
- Solid spruce top provides exceptional tone
- 12-string configuration adds a full sound to your playing
- Lightweight design makes it easy to play for extended periods of time
- Fixed bridge system keeps the guitar in tune
- Comfortable size for players of all ages and sizes
Core feature
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Color | Natural |
| Neck Material Type | Nato Wood |
| Fretboard Material Type | Rosewood |
| String Material Type | Phosphor Bronze |
| Hand Orientation | Right |
2) Vangoa 12 String Guitar, Acoustic-electric
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar is a work of art in sound and affordability, welcoming artists of all levels on a rich and versatile musical journey.
Visual Delight: Brown Symphony
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar looks elegant in brown. The sapele wood on its top, torso, back, and neck adds visual refinement and draws attention to the intricate craftsmanship below.
Harmony: Sapele Wood Symphonies
The Vangoa’s sapele wood blend delivers a warm, rich tone symphony. The sapele wood top, body, and back create an acoustic environment that captivates the senses and invites you to explore your creative expression with every chord and song.
Playful Walnut Wood Fretboard
Walnut wood fretboards are precise and comfortable, elevating your playability to aesthetic greatness. The fretboard’s silky motion turns each touch into a lyrical journey, making accurate and resonant notes easy. Your music expresses your ingenuity.
Electronic and Acoustic Fusion: Versatile Soundscapes
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar’s pickups enable diverse sounds. The combination of electric and acoustic capabilities lets you experiment with different sounds, enhancing your performances. From intimate acoustic melodies to spectacular solos, this guitar is your canvas.
Bronze elegance: Strings of Brilliance
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar’s bronze strings enhance your performance. Each strum adds brightness to your tunes with a crisp, balanced tone. These strings sound great when strumming chords or picking complicated tunes.
A Melodic Companion: Precision in Tune
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar’s tuning mechanism keeps your melodies in tune and easy to play. The guitar’s tuning ability enhances your musical expression on stage or in the studio.
Made for Excellence: Durability Redefined
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar’s craftsmanship is outstanding and durable. With each note, this instrument joins your melodic journey, encompassing years of practise, concerts, and musical research.
A 12-String Symphony Reveals Possibilities
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar’s 12-string configuration opens up new options. This arrangement gives your performance depth and complexity with a symphony of folk and rock tones. You weave a musical tapestry with every strum.
Melodic Companion: Playability and Comfort
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar, weighing 10.47 pounds and 43.31 x 15.75 x 4.72 inches, makes melodic exploration comfortable and immersive. Its ergonomic design lets players of all levels express their creativity.
In conclusion, the Vangoa 12 String Guitar is a musical marvel at an affordable price. Its sapele wood body, walnut wood fretboard, and pickup setup allow beginners and experts to create musical masterpieces. The Vangoa 12 String Guitar let you express melody with acoustic richness or explosive tones.
Must Read – Best acoustic guitar pickup
Vangoa 12 String Guitar, Acoustic-electric First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Doctor McFarland Studios
Pros:
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- Sapele top, back, and sides provide a warm
- Combination pickup configuration allows for amplified performances
- Bronze strings add a bright and clear tone to your playing
- Comfortable size for most players
- Versatile instrument that’s perfect for experimenting
Core feature
| Brand | Vangoa |
| Color | Brown |
| Top Material Type | Sapele |
| Body Material | Wood |
| Back Material Type | sapele |
| Neck Material Type | Sapele Wood |
| Fretboard Material Type | Walnut Wood |
| Guitar Pickup Configuration | combination |
| String Material Type | Bronze |
3) Vangoa 12 String Gutiar, Acoustic-electric
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar invites musicians of all backgrounds to enjoy a symphony of sound that is both high-quality and affordable.
The Allure of Brown: A Visual Symphony
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar’s brown colour invites artistic expression. The sapele wood top, body, back, and neck form a harmonious look that invites musical exploration.
Deep Melody: Sapele Wood Harmony
Sapele wood, woven throughout the Vangoa’s design, creating a warm, complete tapestry of tunes. The spruce top and laminated sapele back and sides create a rich, deep tone. A universe of sound opens up with each chord and strum.
Walnut Wood Fretboard for Playability
The walnut wood fretboard brings precision and comfort to your playing, enhancing musical expression. The fretboard’s smooth motion lets you play crisp, resonant notes easily. Musical journeys express your artistic voice.
Electric and Acoustic Fusion: Sonic Versatility
The pickup setup of the Vangoa 12 String Guitar opens unlimited sound possibilities. It unlocks tones that fit your musical narrative by combining electric and acoustic capabilities. From heartfelt acoustic tunes to dazzling performances, this guitar expresses your creativity.
Bronze elegance: Strings of Brilliance
Bronze strings on the Vangoa 12 String Guitar lend shine to your sound. Each strum creates a symphony of clean, balanced tones, brightening your tunes. These strings sound great whether strumming chords or playing complicated melodies.
Unwavering Tuning: Precision Harmony
With its precision tuning feature, the Vangoa 12 String Guitar keeps each note in tune. This melodic ally lets you confidently explore musical worlds. On stage or in the studio, your songs are properly tuned.
Excellence and Durability in Craftsmanship
angoa 12 String Guitar workmanship is durable and excellent. This instrument becomes your musical partner with each note, ready for years of practise, performances, and creative exploration.
Balance Tool: Light and Comfortable
The Vangoa 12 String Guitar is comfortable and balanced at 9.58 pounds and 42 x 16 x 5 inches. Ergonomic design makes playing seamless and engaging for players of all skill levels.
In conclusion, the Vangoa 12 String Guitar combines sound quality with price. Its sapele wood body, walnut wood fretboard, and variable pickup setup allow beginners and experts to create musical masterpieces. The Vangoa 12 String Guitar takes you on a melodic voyage of artistic expression with acoustic resonance or thrilling melodies.
Must Read – Best pedals for acoustic guitar
Vangoa 12 String Gutiar, Acoustic-electric First Hand Review Video
Video Source: The Good Doctor
Pros:
- Spruce top and laminated sapele back and sides provide a rich
- Combination pickup configuration allows for amplified performances
- Bronze strings add a bright and clear tone to your playing
- Lightweight design makes it easy to play for extended periods of time
- Comfortable size for most players
Core feature
| Brand | Vangoa |
| Color | Natural |
| Top Material Type | spruce |
| Body Material | Laminated |
| Neck Material Type | Sapele Wood |
| Fretboard Material Type | Walnut Wood |
| Guitar Pickup Configuration | combination |
| String Material Type | Bronze |
4) Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a masterpiece that invites both seasoned and aspiring players to explore its musical possibilities.
The Beauty of Dark Violin Sunburst
The Ibanez AEG 12-String Guitar is stunning in a dark violin sunburst. This gorgeous colour matches the craftsmanship and invites inquiry, revealing the symphony within.
The Marriage of Spruce and Sapele: Tonal Brilliance
The warm and rich tones of spruce wood on top and sapele wood on the body, back, and sides create a harmonic union. The guitar’s tone captivates the soul with every chord and pluck.
Made for Play: Sapele Wood Comfort
With careful ergonomics, the sapele wood neck, back, and sides make playing pleasant and natural. The smooth wood action makes generating accurate and resonant notes easy, allowing your musical expression to bloom.
Comfort for Long Play: Ergonomic Design
The Ibanez AEG 12-String Guitar is built for long-term use, ensuring comfort. Its ergonomic contours fit your body, making it a sonic companion and a comfy creative outlet.
Sonic Versatility: Piezo Power
The Ibanez AEG 12-String Guitar’s piezo pickups stand out. This innovation gives your music a clear, natural amplified sound, enabling sonic versatility. Guitar becomes an expressive tool for your musical tale.
Harmony: 634 Millimetres
The 634-millimeter scale length and 12-string Ibanez AEG Guitar increase your melodic spectrum to include many tones. Each note has a symphony of possibilities, from resonating lows to sparkling highs.
Customised Tone Control for Artistic Precision
The Ibanez AEG Guitar lets you customise your tone. The tone control tool lets you adjust your tones so each note matches your artistic vision.
Reinvented: Lasting Craftsmanship
The Ibanez AEG 12-String Guitar’s craftsmanship ensures durability and quality. Each strum and pluck showcases its timeless artistry, taking you on a melodious trip through years of musical study.
Lightweight Musical Comfort
The lightweight Ibanez AEG Guitar, at 8 pounds and 42 x 18 x 6 inches, welcomes musicians of all backgrounds. Its compact size makes musical expression pleasant and immersive.
In conclusion, the Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar combines workmanship and adaptability into a musical masterpiece. Its elegant design, piezo pickup arrangement, and ergonomic characteristics allow beginners and experts to create harmonious masterpieces. The Ibanez AEG Guitar is your constant companion for acoustic resonance or explosive tunes.
Must Read – Best left handed acoustic guitar
Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Musical Instruments
Pros:
- Piezo pickup configuration provides clear .
- Spruce top and sapele/spruce back .
- Lightweight design makes it easy to play for extended periods of time.
- Comfortable sapele wood neck .
- Versatile instrument that’s perfect for both acoustic .
Core feature
| Brand | Ibanez |
| Color | Dark Violin Sunburst High |
| Body Material | Spruce |
| Back Material Type | Sapele, Spruce Wood |
| Neck Material Type | Sapele Wood |
| Guitar Pickup Configuration | Piezo |
| Hand Orientation | Right |
| Scale Length | 634 Millimeters |
5) Fender Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar
The painstakingly built Fender Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar delivers a harmonic symphony for both seasoned performers and beginners.
Visual Beauty: Mahogany Natural Beauty
See the Fender Hellcat-12 Guitar’s stunning natural color. A mahogany body gives every note vitality and warms your senses, complementing this aesthetic marvel.
Fishman Preamp with Tuner Enhances Sound
Fishman preamps with built-in tuners enhance the Fender Hellcat-12’s musical journey. This technological marvel lets you explore new audio realms and enhance your musical performances.
Steel Strings, Hardtail Bridge System Harmonic Clarity
Clear steel strings give the Fender Hellcat-12 a balanced, expressive sound. With a hardtail bridge mechanism, this guitar’s tuning stability lets you play songs without retuning.
Ergonomic Design: Longer Play
Ergonomic Fender Hellcat-12 design makes long play sessions enjoyable. This instrument fits your body, letting you play for hours without strain.
Scalloped Bracing Boosts Sonic Clarity
The scalloped bracing of the Fender Hellcat-12 enhances tone. This design feature gives each note life, making your melodies lively and nuanced.
Exceptional craftsmanship: Built to Last
In the Fender Hellcat-12, every detail is crafted. The result is a guitar that’s beautiful and constructed to last, following you through your musical adventure.
Suitable for Many Playing Styles
With its versatility, the Fender Hellcat-1 may be played in many ways. From subtle fingerpicking to vigorous strumming, this instrument flawlessly expresses your creative vision.
Built-in Tuner Gives Harmonic Precision
Integrated tuner on Fender Hellcat-12 delivers harmonic perfection. This tool allows effortless tweaking, delivering excellent performances on stage or in the studio.
Harmonic Companion of Size and Comfort Combined
For size and comfort, the Fender Hellcat-12 weighs 10.4 pounds and measures 45.74 x 17.5 x 7 inches. Comfortably and easily, this harmonic companion fits your musical path.
In summary, the Fender Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar celebrates workmanship, adaptability, and sound quality. This instrument embodies musical expression with its resonant mahogany body and sophisticated design. If you’re a beginner or an expert, the Fender Hellcat-12 will enrich your musical journey with its timeless tone.
Must Read – Best acoustic guitar pickup
Fender Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Fender
Pros:
- Piezoelectric pickup configuration provides clear.
- Mahogany body, hardtail bridge system.
- Comfortable mahogany neck and scale length of25.5 inches
- Comfortable size for most players
- Versatile instrument that’s perfect for both acoustic.
Core feature
| Brand | Fender |
| Color | Natural |
| Body Material | Mahogany |
| Guitar Pickup Configuration | Piezoelectric |
| String Material Type | Steel |
| Hand Orientation | Right |
| Guitar Bridge System | Hardtail Bridge |
6) Taylor Academy 12-N Nylon String Acoustic Guitar
Look at the Taylor Academy 12-N Guitar’s stunning natural hue. The ebony top and fretboard add to its overall appeal and provide every note a warm, rich sound.
Comfortable Melodic Canvas: Sapele Wood Back and Neck
Sapele wood back and neck make the Taylor Academy 12-N pleasant to play. This smooth motion ensures precise note accuracy and truthfulness.
Enhancing Your Music: Nylon Strings
Accept the Taylor Academy 12-N’s nylon strings, which give it its unique sound. These strings sound clear and balanced, making them ideal for classical, flamenco, and fingerstyle playing.
Plastic and Wood Construction: The Perfect Balance
The guitar’s plastic and wood body is lightweight and durable. A reliable and durable collaborator will accompany your musical path.
Tone Tapestry: 25.5-Inch Scale Length
Taylor Academy 12-N’s 25.5-inch scale lets you construct a tapestry of tones to match your musical vision. You can explore a wide range of sounds with its 6-string design.
Meticulously Crafted to Last
Each aspect of the Taylor Academy 12-N is carefully designed to ensure a stunning aesthetic and a durable instrument that will last.
Ebony Fretboard Reverberation
Explore a resonant cosmos as you play the ebony fretboard. This player-instrument harmony enhances your musical expression.
Harmonic Companion: Size and Comfort
The Taylor Academy 12-N, at 10 pounds and 46 x 19 x 8 inches, strikes a balance between size and comfort, making your musical journey easy and enjoyable.
The Taylor Academy 12-N Nylon String Acoustic Guitar embodies Taylor’s tradition of excellence with timeless design and unmatched tone. Whether you’re a seasoned musician looking for a unique tonal character or an ambitious artist starting out, the Taylor Academy 12-N may enhance your melodic tale with its unique resonance and superb craftsmanship.
Must Read – Best mics for acoustic guitar
Taylor Academy 12-N Nylon String Acoustic Guitar First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Guitar Interactive Magazine
Pros:
- Ebony top and sapele/spruce body provide a warm and rich tone
- Nylon string configuration provides a unique and mellow sound
- Comfortable sapele wood neck and ebony fretboard
- Comfortable size for most players
- Versatile instrument that’s perfect for players who want a unique tonal flavor
Core feature
| Brand | Taylor |
| Color | Natural |
| Top Material Type | Ebony Wood |
| Neck Material Type | Sapele Wood |
| Fretboard Material Type | ebony |
| String Material Type | Nylon |
| Scale Length | 25.5 Inches |
7) Ibanez Performance 12-String Acoustic Guitar
The guitar’s natural color complements the mahogany body, back, and neck. This blend warms each note you strum or pluck.
Rosewood Fretboard: Your Melody
The rosewood fretboard is comfortable for your fingertips. A smooth motion produces precise, accurate notes, creating a clear soundscape.
The Power of 12 Strings: Symphony
The intricate and deep Ibanez Performance 12-String is ideal for those looking to add dimension to their playing. The 12-string setup enhances your musical story with a Symphony of Sound.
Mighty Dreadnought: Shape Versatility
The guitar’s dreadnought body shape generates a powerful sound that fits many musical styles. Folk, rock, or everything in between, a flexible canvas awaits your creativity.
Left-handed player: perfectly adapted
The left-handed Ibanez Performance 12-String’s meticulous craftsmanship allows all guitarists to enjoy its lyrical possibilities. Left-handed guitarists are welcome to explore their musical passions.
Durable Craftsmanship: Every Detail
The Ibanez Performance 12-String is a trustworthy musical partner made with care. Each element is carefully engineered to last and resonate with excellence.
Lightweight Partner: Extended Play Comfort
At 7.04 pounds, the instrument is comfortable for long sessions. Its 14.96 x 3 x 35.43-inch size makes it ideal for musicians of all ages and sizes.
The Ibanez Performance 12-String Acoustic Guitar resonates with artists who want to explore 12 strings’ harmonics. The Ibanez Performance 12-String creates a rich, clear sound that captures the heart and soul of your song, whether you’re a seasoned musician seeking depth or an aspiring performer starting out.
Must Read – Best nylon strings for acoustic guitar
Ibanez Performance 12-String Acoustic Guitar First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Pakenham Music
Pros:
- Mahogany body and neck, rosewood fretboard.
- 12-string configuration adds a unique.
- Lightweight and compact design makes.
- Left-handed orientation is perfect for left-handed players.
- Affordable option for players on a budget.
Core feature
| Brand | Ibanez |
| Color | Natural |
| Neck Material Type | Mahogany |
| Fretboard Material Type | Rosewood |
| Hand Orientation | Left |
Best Acoustic 12 string guitar 2023-Complete Buying Guide
12 string acoustic guitars have an unmistakable sound – even for those who have never played one. They feature a unique combination of six courses of two strings tuned in unison, which creates a brighter and fuller sound than their 6-string counterparts. This signature tone is sought after by many musicians, especially those who want to provide accompaniment to their own singing while they perform.
Besides the extra strings, a 12 string acoustic guitar has some important differences that set it apart from other types of guitar: the neck width is often slimmer; the fret spacing is sometimes tighter; and it’s not uncommon to find them with specialized bridge designs. All these variables play a part in creating different tones and feels for each individual 12 string acoustic guitar.
When you’re shopping for a 12 string acoustic guitar you’ll want to consider:
- the type of wood used to construct its body
- whether or not it has electronics built in
- features such as pickguards and bindings
It’s also important to remember that playing any new instrument takes practice – so make sure you buy one that feels comfortable in your hands!
Photo Source: oldtimemusic.com
Benefits of Playing a 12 String Acoustic Guitar
The 12 string acoustic guitar is a great choice for players of all levels, from beginners to professionals. Although the build and technique can be more difficult than a 6 string guitar, playing a 12 string offers many benefits. From expanded tone and complexity to increased difficulty and skill-building opportunities, there are many reasons to enjoy this type of instrument.
- Tonal Expansion: The primary benefit of playing a 12 string acoustic guitar is the expanded tonal possibilities it offers. This is often referred to as “chorus effect” due to the distinct sound of two strings being played together on each note. This bigger, fuller sound adds richness and depth to any piece of music, adding texture and complexity that wouldn’t otherwise be possible with just six strings.
- Finger Styling: Unlike other types of guitars, playing a 12 string takes more finger dexterity due to the number of strings being played together at once. This can help players become more accurate with their fingering techniques, developing their speed and accuracy in making chords or solo passages even more precise.
- Skill Builder: For new players just starting out on guitar, learning how to play on a 12 string gives them an opportunity challenged their skill level while not having complex chords or difficult pieces presented as learning material. Taking this approach can give these beginning players an edge in transitioning from one chord or pattern to another or help them get used to reading both tablature notation as well as standard music notation faster than with other types of guitars where fewer notes are being played at once.
Types of 12 String Acoustic Guitars
12 string acoustic guitars come in several distinct types and can be used for a variety of music styles ranging from folk to country and blues. Understanding the unique features of each type can help you choose the guitar that best suits your needs and style.
- Steel-String 12 Strings: Steel-string 12 strings are usually vintage-styled guitars, although some modern designs exist as well. These guitars feature a durable metal body with a standard wooden neck. They have bigger bodies than most 6 string models but are otherwise designed for regular six-string playability and sound. They either have steel or bronze strings, each with 6 pairs of strings tuned in octaves to produce a dramatic sound effect on chords and melodic lines when strummed or fingerpicked together.
- Nylon String 12 Strings: These guitars are generally smaller than their steel string counterparts and they use nylon or gut strings instead of metal windings around their cores. The tone is softer and warmer than the steel version, making them ideal for classical music, jazz arrangements, psychedelia or just classic fingerstyle playing on their own. Whereas steel strings might give some tension over the fretboard, nylon strings stretch more allowing easier execution when attempting complicated techniques such as bends or slides properly without over stretching the fretboard’s bounds which can be sometimes uncomfortable for new players to deal with at first. The tonal quality produced by this particular type is also usually appreciated more by jazz musicians who specifically select these type of twelve pitch instruments to lay down smooth runs without any problem whatsoever.
- 12 String Banjos: This type is becoming increasingly popular for its distinctively bright twangy tones which have become more commonly associated in more mainstream styles like bluegrass and country music thanks to its high tonal projection range up among other things. Because there isn’t much room behind the bridge head, banjos typically only utilize 5 pairs of strings tuned in unison rather than octaves which gives them a much brighter acoustic sound while still maintaining that unmistakable twangy roughness that made it famous long before it reached larger audiences. They’re popular instruments within certain genres but are often overlooked by those unfamiliar with this particular style given how hard it can be sometimes to make them standout in mixers due having not as wide ranges as compared to other types available out there today though this hasn’t always been true given past experiments done with different tuning methods which showcased they potential they still hold nonetheless even if not quite up there any longer amongst top sellers at least yet anyway.
Photo Source: Sweetwater.com
Important Considerations When Buying a 12 String Acoustic Guitar
When shopping for a 12 string acoustic guitar, there are several important factors to consider in order to get the best possible instrument for your needs. Here are some of the primary considerations that should be kept in mind when making your purchase:
- Body Type: Choose from a dreadnought or jumbo body type based on your playing style and desired tone. A jumbo body offers more projection and bass tones, while a dreadnought is usually deeper and louder.
- Top/Back Material: This should not be overlooked as it can greatly influence the sound of the guitar. Solid woods are highly preferred because they offer better sound projection and resonance than any laminated or pressed materials. Look for models constructed with solid spruce, cedar, or mahogany tops and back panels.
- Neck & Fingerboard: Your choice in neck material and fingerboard type can further shape the sound you want to achieve on your 12 string acoustic guitar. Mahogany or maple necks retain tuning better, while rosewood fingerboards provide crisp articulation when playing chords and single notes.
- Hardware: Look for high quality die-cast tuners with smooth gear mechanisms, as well as bridge pins made from dense materials such as ebony, plastic or bone to reduce unwanted noise transfer from impacting strings. Also consider if electric pickup features are necessary from your acoustic model so you’re able to tune electronically on stage performances without feedback distortion.
By keeping these features in mind when selecting an acoustic guitar, you will be able to find an instrument that satisfies all of your technical requirements at an affordable price point. With this knowledge and comparison shopping between different models online or at music stores, you will be able to get the highest quality 12-string craftsmanship available!
Top 12 String Acoustic Guitar Brands
There are many respected guitar brands available for those in the market for a quality 12-string acoustic guitar. Whether you want an affordable entry-level instrument or a top of the line model from one of the most trusted names in music, knowing which brands to look out for will narrow your search and make it easier to find the perfect guitar. Popular 12-string acoustic models come from manufacturers such as Taylor, Fender, Epiphone, Martin, Ovation, Seagull, Yamaha and Takamine.
- Taylor – One of the premier manufacturers of acoustic guitars has put out some amazing 12-strings such as their popular 712 and 812 models. Taylor’s attention to detail and craftsmanship makes these instruments perfect for studio use or live gigs.
- Fender – The iconic Stratocaster design has been translated beautifully into a full sized 12-string as well! The CD-140SCE is a great choice if you want something that looks classic but still has plenty of modern features like an extra slim neck profile and onboard preamp. Its spruce top gives it plenty of projection for any amount of volume you plan on using onstage or off.
- Epiphone – Looking to get a quality 12-string at an affordable price point? The EJ200CE jumbo cutaway comes with all the features that one expects from Epiphone – solid construction, great sound, plus premium features like Grover tuners and Fishman electronics make this an ideal instrument for beginning players on up!
Tips for Buying the Best 12 String Acoustic Guitar
When it comes to acoustic 12 string guitars, there can be an overwhelming range of options to choose from. In order to make sure you get the best sounding guitar for your needs and budget, the following information will guide you through the basics of shopping for an acoustic 12 string guitar.
- Playability: You want to look for a guitar with a good neck profile, fingerboard size and fret width that are appropriate for your playing style and hand size. Avoid models with heavy strings as this can make playing difficult or cause discomfort. The depth of the body should be comfortable as well – one that is too narrow or shallow won’t hold its tune very well while one that is too deep may cause fatigue while playing.
- Tone: Look at the tonewoods used in construction; different woods create different tones when played so select one based on your desired sound. Consider whether solid tops or laminated tops would give a better tone – usually solid tops are higher quality but also more expensive. Also check out sound hole shape and placement as this changes a guitar’s resonance when played. Make sure the bridge of the instrument is properly shaped and fits snugly against the body so you have good sustain in notes played near it.
- Hardware: Pay attention to tuning machines, nut material and saddle material – these should all be quality materials that won’t easily break or wear down over time even with regular use. Also consider bridges; some models come with adjustable bridges which can allow for more preferred intonation adjustments later on if needed.
These basic tips should help inform your decision when buying an acoustic 12 string guitar – with knowledge about what kind of features you want, you’ll be able to pick out a model that best suits your music preference and skill level!
Care and Maintenance of 12 String Acoustic Guitars
Taking good care of your 12 string acoustic guitar is essential in ensuring it performs at its best and that it lasts a lifetime. With regular maintenance, your 12-string acoustic guitar can sound great for years to come.
After you are done playing, start by wiping off fingerprints, sweat or other dirt from the strings and body of the guitar with a soft and dry cloth. Make sure to avoid cleaning it harshly with anything containing alcohol as this can damage your instrument’s finish.
If you find any surface blemishes on the strings, neck or body of the guitar such as dings or scratches, you can use polishing cream to restore the worn out finish without damaging any part of the guitar.
You should also take into account changes in humidity and temperature, which can cause issues such as warping in guitars with laminate tops or necks that have become twisted due to environmental changes. You should invest in a quality humidifier that is specifically designed for guitars if you live in an environment that doesn’t offer optimal conditions for keeping your 12 string acoustic in tip-top shape.
It is also important to inspect all hardware on your guitar regularly and make sure it’s all tight. The screws on machines heads should securely fasten them onto your instrument’s headstock so that they don’t come loose during playing or when being transported around between performances.
Finally, make sure to check if strings are rusting and when needed replace them with new ones regularly so that they don’t lose their brightness of tone. It is especially important with 12 string guitars since they contain twice as many strings than their 6 string counterparts and therefore need more frequent restringing sessions even with normal use!
Conclusion
Ultimately, the right acoustic 12-string guitar for your needs will depend on your budget and the type of music you intend to play. We explored a wide range of options, from budget-friendly instruments that can be used for beginners and as practice instruments to higher-end professional instruments crafted from quality materials with superior sound and playability. Some features like pickup systems and other electronics also impact price.
Choosing the right acoustic 12-string guitar can be a daunting task, but with some research and guidance it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We hope our buying guide has helped you make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the right instrument for you.
FAQ’s
What is the best sounding 12-string guitar?
The best sounding 12-string guitar can vary depending on personal preference and the specific model. Some popular and high-quality options include Taylor, Martin, and Gibson.
What is the easiest 12-string guitar to play?
The easiest 12-string guitar to play can depend on the player’s skill level and the specific model of the guitar. Some 12-string guitars have a slimmer neck and lower action which can make it easier to play.
Who is famous for playing a 12-string guitar?
Famous musicians known for playing a 12-string guitar include Roger McGuinn of The Byrds, Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin and Pete Seeger.
How much does a good 12-string guitar cost?
A good 12-string guitar can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the brand and model.
What is the most high quality guitar?
The most high-quality guitar is a subjective matter, as personal preference and playing style can affect one’s opinion on the best guitar.
Did Led Zeppelin use a 12-string guitar?
Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page used a 12-string guitar on the song “Black Mountain Side” .
What is the best sounding acoustic guitar ever made?
The best sounding acoustic guitar ever made is a subjective matter, as personal preference and playing style can affect one’s opinion on the best guitar.
Is it worth buying a 12-string guitar?
It can be worth buying a 12-string guitar if the player is looking for a unique and rich sound, however, it is a personal preference and it depends on what style of music the player is playing.
Do 12-string guitars sound better?
Some people prefer the sound of a 12-string guitar because of its rich and complex tone, while others prefer the sound of a 6-string guitar.
What was Kurt Cobain favorite guitar?
Kurt Cobain’s favorite guitar was a Fender Mustang.
John Frary is an author, musician, and CEO of theacousticguitar.com dedicated to providing comprehensive and unbiased reviews of acoustic guitars and equipment. With decades of experience in the music industry, John is a trusted authority on all things related to guitars. He is committed to helping guitar enthusiasts of all levels find the perfect instrument and gear for their needs. Through his website and books, John shares his knowledge and expertise to help others achieve their musical goals.