Whether you’re looking to play classic Delta blues, modern electric hybrids, ragtime or jazz, the right acoustic guitar is essential for getting the right sound. With so many options out there, finding the perfect fit can be daunting. That’s why we’ve put together this complete guide to help you find the best acoustic guitar for blues that will suit your needs and playing style. So grab your pick and let’s get started!
Best Acoustic Guitar for Blues 2023
- Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcar(Editor’s Pick)
- Martin Guitar StreetMaster Acoustic Guitar(Best Overall)
- Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar(Budget Friendly)
- Taylor 150e Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Takamine Nex Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Takamine G Series Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Cordoba C9 Crossover Classical Acoustic Guitar
1) Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcar
The Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcar showcases Gretsch Guitars’ craftsmanship. This instrument is a sound marvel and a timeless aesthetic, making it a popular choice for musicians of all genres.
Material Symphony, Awe-Inspiring Tone
The Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcar’s top, body, and back are made of Rosewood, Aluminium, and Mahogany for a great sound. This balance and warmth ensures that every note resonates with magnificent richness.
Made for Comfort and Performance
The Mahogany neck and Rosewood fretboard blend comfort and playability. With a 25-inch scale length and 6 strings, this instrument easily accommodates fingerpicking and forceful strums. The smooth Rosewood fingerboard enables your fingertips to
ance across the frets, improving your playing experience.
Canvas for Musical Mastery
You can explore blues, country, or any genre that stirs your spirit with the Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcar. Its warm, welcoming Mahogany body adds soul to your tunes. The Mahogany neck smooths your fingertips’ trip.
Unveiling the Classic Roundneck
The Gretsch G9200’s roundneck gives your playing a vintage feel. A contoured neck makes playing comfortable and allows smooth fretboard movement. The design honours the classics while meeting modern musical demands.
Gretsch Guitars’ Legacy of Excellence
The Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcar represents Gretsch Guitars’ tradition of excellence. The guitar’s natural colour highlights its beautiful wood grain, showcasing its craftsmanship. This guitar has a charming body constructed of rosewood, aluminium, and mahogany with a soft mahogany back.
Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcars are masterpieces of tone and craftsmanship. With its balanced resonance and timeless design, it guides your songs to new sound horizons. A magnificent masterpiece that combines past and present, the Gretsch G9200 Roundneck Boxcar will elevate your musical experience.
Must Read – Best baritone acoustic guitar
Gretsch G9200 First Hand Review Video
Video Source : GAK
Pros:
- The 25-inch scale length allows for wider fret spacing, making it easier to play complex chord shapes and riffs.
- The rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface that is easy on the fingers, making it ideal for long practice sessions.
- The combination of rosewood, aluminum, and mahogany wood used in the top of the guitar provides a unique and distinctive tone that is perfect for a variety of musical styles.
- The natural color of the guitar allows the beauty of the wood grain to shine through.
- The guitar is manufactured by Gretsch Guitars, a well-respected brand that is known for producing high-quality instruments.
CORE FEATURE
| specifications | Round neck |
| specifications | Mahogany body |
| specifications | Mahogany neck |
| specifications | 25 scale length |
| specifications | Rosewood fingerboard |
| Brand | Gretsch Guitars |
2) Martin Guitar StreetMaster Acoustic Guitar
The Martin Guitar StreetMaster Acoustic Guitar combines exceptional craftsmanship, adaptability, and stunning looks. Whether you’re an experienced musician or a beginner, this guitar will improve your skills.
Dark Mahogany Marvel: An Ode to Elegance
The Martin Guitar StreetMaster’s dark mahogany colour exudes refinement. This guitar’s top, back, body, and neck are made of the finest mahogany, giving your melodies warmth and balance to shine.
Smooth Playability and Sonic Richness
The Martin Guitar StreetMaster’s rosewood fretboard offers smooth playing that inspires exploration. Rosewood’s silky feel improves playing and adds to the guitar’s beauty.
Professional Sound and Aesthetic Are Perfect Together
Its professional tone and aesthetic charm make the Martin Guitar StreetMaster more than just an instrument. This guitar is designed for studio recording and live performances to give your song a memorable sound. Its 000-15M model number reinforces its Martin guitar heritage.
Nickel Strings: Durability’s Heart
Nickel strings signify resilience and lifespan on the Martin Guitar StreetMaster. With these sturdy strings, your guitar can withstand innumerable tunes and performances and retain its charm.
Musical Expression Canvas
The versatile 6-string Martin Guitar StreetMaster attracts beginners and pros. Right-handed players benefit from its right-hand orientation. A harmonising blend of mahogany and rosewood, this guitar inspires fingerpicking and strumming.
Your Path to Musical Excellence
The Martin Guitar StreetMaster Acoustic Guitar is your buddy and creative canvas on your musical journey. Its handcrafted beauty, superior materials, and deep tonality invite acoustic exploration and artistic expression.
Release your inner virtuoso and enjoy aesthetic-sound synergy. Inspire your music with the Martin Guitar StreetMaster Acoustic Guitar, a marvel of elegance, precision, and musical quality.
Must Read – Best acoustic guitar case
Martin Guitar 000-15M First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Wilson Guitars
Pros:
- The Martin Guitar Streetmaster Acoustic Guitar has a professional sound and appearance that is perfect for both studio recording and live performances.
- The premium handmade construction of the guitar ensures a high level of quality and durability.
- The guitar is made from high-quality mahogany, which provides a warm and rich tone that is perfect for a variety of musical styles.
- The playability of the guitar is enhanced, making it easy for both beginners and experienced players to play.
- The guitar is part of the Martin 15 series, which is a highly respected line of guitars known for their quality and consistency.
CORE FEATURE
| specifications | PROFESSIONAL SOUND APPEARANCE |
| specifications | GEARED FOR GIGS |
| specifications | PREMIUM HANDMADE GUITARS |
| specifications | PLAYABILITY ENHANCED |
| specifications | MARTIN 15 SERIES |
| Brand | MARTIN |
3) Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
Craftsmanship and ingenuity create the stunning Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, which captivates guitarists with its quality, versatility, and beauty. This guitar is your constant companion on the way to musical glory, regardless of your skill level.
Traditional and Modern Dance: Red and Brown Variants
The sleek red and brown Fender CD-60S combines history with innovation. These colours are modern and appealing, taking you on a melodic trip. The guitar’s mahogany top, back, and sides create a balanced, mellow sound.
Playability Elegance and Sonic Grandeur
The Fender CD-60S’s mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard create a playability and sonic harmony. The mahogany neck surrounds you in luxury, while the fretboard’s soft smoothness invites your fingertips to glide across it.
Sonic Horizons: Pickup Configuration Revealed
The Fender CD-60S seamlessly transitions from intimate acoustic resonance to amplified grandeur thanks to its innovative combo pickup arrangement. This adaptability makes it suitable for engaging live performances and appealing studio recordings. Every note is a colourful brushstroke on the canvas of sound, painted colours that reflect life.
A Melodic Canvas: 20 Possible Frets
With its rosewood fretboard and 20 frets, the Fender CD-60S opens up unlimited musical possibilities. Whether you’re fingerpicking or strumming, this guitar’s fret count is your canvas.
Accepting Phosphor Bronze Resonance Brightness
Fender CD-60S strings are precisely woven from phosphor bronze, known for its bright and clear tone. This powerful resonance accentuates strumming and fingerpicking, giving your music brilliant tones.
A Fender Legacy: Quality and Craftsmanship
Fender’s dedication to quality is evident in the CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar. The chrome die-cast tuning devices add modern style, while the 12-inch fingerboard radius appeals to discerning musicians.
Melody Mastery Odyssey Begins
The Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is ideal for beginners starting out or virtuosos perfecting their tuning. Its premium materials, versatile pickups, harmonious playing, and stunning aesthetics create an instrument that matches your goals.
Enter a world where every strum, pluck, and chord evokes a range of emotions. The Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar combines passion, creativity, and acoustic brilliance to take your music to new heights.
Must Read – Best acoustic guitar strap
Fender CD-60S First Hand Review Video
Video Source: PMTVUK
Pros:
- The chrome die of the Fender Cd-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar provides a sleek and modern look.
- The 12 fingerboard radius of the guitar allows for easy playability and is perfect for players who prefer a more traditional feel.
- The high-quality mahogany body and neck provide a warm and balanced tone that is perfect for a variety of musical styles.
- The combination pickup configuration allows players to plug the guitar into an amplifier for live performances or recording sessions.
- The hardtail bridge system of the guitar ensures that the strings stay in tune, even after extended playing sessions.
CORE FEATURE
| specifications | Chrome Die |
| specifications | 12 Fingerboard Radius |
| specifications | Case Not Included |
| Brand | Fender |
4) Taylor 150e Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Taylor 150e Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is the pinnacle of Taylor expertise. Its natural hue attracts musicians of many genres with its timeless beauty. A harmonic blend of Ebony and Sapele woods on the top, back, and sides gives this guitar a heartfelt and balanced sound that strikes hearts.
Making Sounds: Ebony and Sapele Synchronisation
The Taylor 150e’s Ebony and Sapele woods create a unique and appealing sound. This combination creates a tonal masterpiece with warmth and balance in every note. The dreadnought body shape enhances the soundscape and provides a solid canvas for musical expression.
Comfort and Melody Symphony
Sapele wood neck and Ebony fretboard create a melodic symphony of playability and aural richness. The neck-fretboard interface is smooth and fluid, allowing your fingers to move freely.
Harmonic Revelation: 12-string setup
The Taylor 150e’s 12-string design creates a magical and powerful soundscape. This innovative configuration produces a rich, harmonically layered tone perfect for fingerpicking and strumming. Every chord creates a rich, immersive tapestry of resonances around your tunes.
Taylor’s ES2 Pickup System Electrifies Performance
Taylor’s ES2 pickup technology allows plug-in and amplification for the 150e. This combination of acoustic purity and electronic convenience makes your live and recorded performances shine.
Legacy of Flexibility and Excellence
The versatile Taylor 150e Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar from Taylor’s 100 series is high-quality. Top-quality woods like ebony, sapele, and spruce create a genre-spanning sound.
Enjoy a melodic journey with the Taylor 150e Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic.Electric Guitar opens a world of melodic wonder. Its harmonious build, thrilling capabilities, and visual appeal will enhance your musical journey, whether you’re an expert or a beginner.
Enter a world where every strum, pluck, and chord echoes emotions. The Taylor 150e Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar invites you to construct aural tapestries with passion, precision, and perfection.
Must Read – Best Acoustic Guitar Tuning Pegs
Taylor 150e Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic First Hand Review Video
Video Source:Taylor Guitars
Pros:
- The body type of the Taylor 150E Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar provides a rich and full-bodied sound that is perfect for a variety of musical styles.
- The guitar is part of Taylor’s 100 series, which is known for its high-quality construction and affordability.
- The combination of top-quality woods used in the guitar provides a warm and balanced tone that is perfect for a variety of musical styles.
- The ES2 pickup configuration allows players to plug the guitar into an amplifier for live performances or recording sessions.
- The ebony fretboard and guitar bridge system provide a smooth and comfortable playing experience that is easy on the fingers.
CORE FEATURE
| specifications | Body Body type |
| specifications | Taylor s 100 Series makes a great guitar |
| Brand | Taylor |
| Color | Natural |
| Top Material Type | Ebony Wood, Sapele Wood, Spruce Wood |
5) Takamine Nex Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Takamine’s Nex Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar combines classic elegance, perfect quality, and limitless versatility. A natural hue gives it a traditional look that appeals both beginners and virtuosos.
Elegant Spruce Crown
A vivid and sparkling spruce wood top gives the Takamine Nex Cutaway its character. This bright, clear sound canvas paints your songs with rich colours that last.
Harmonious Wood Fusion: Tonal Warmth Symphony
The guitar’s body, back, and neck dance with different woods to create a warm, balanced tone. This blend gives your music a richness that moves hearts and boosts spirits.
Bound in Art: Rosewood Fretboard
The Takamine Nex Cutaway’s bound rosewood fretboard invites your fingers to slide smoothly across its velvety surface. This refinement improves playability and enhances the guitar’s beauty.
Height Access: The Charming Cutaway Design
A elegant cutaway shape gives the Takamine Nex easy access to the higher frets. Solo performances benefit from this aspect, elevating musical storylines.
Sonic Empowerment: TK-40D Preamp and Piezoelectric Pickup
Takamine Nex Cutaway’s piezoelectric pickup mechanism and TK-40D preamp will electrify your performances. Transition smoothly from acoustic intimacy to amplified grandeur to make your music shine.
Maintaining Aesthetic Craftsmanship
The Takamine Nex Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar combines form and function beautifully. The maple body, neck, and headstock binding add durability and style. The guitar’s beautiful design is shown by the natural gloss finish’s raw wood grain.
Enjoy the Sound Tapestry
The Takamine Nex Cutaway is ideal for melodically inclined musicians. Its limitless tone palette, flawless playability, and thrilling powers urge you to explore musical creativity.
Explore a universe where every strum, pluck, and chord creates a complex emotional tapestry. Create musical masterpieces with passion, originality, and unwavering perfection with the Takamine Nex Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar.
Must Read – Best acoustic guitar strings
Takamine GN71CE-NAT Nex First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Nafiri Music Jakarta
Pros:
- The slim mahogany neck and 12-inch radius fingerboard provide a comfortable playing experience that is perfect for both beginners and experienced players.
- The Takamine TK piezoelectric pickup configuration provides a clear and bright sound that is perfect for live performances and recording sessions.
- The maple body, neck, and headstock binding provide both durability and a unique aesthetic.
- The natural gloss finish allows the beauty of the wood grain to shine through.
- The rosewood back and bound fretboard provide a warm and rich tone that is perfect for blues and country music.
CORE FEATURE
| specifications | Slim mahogany neck and 12 |
| specifications | Takamine TK |
| specifications | Maple body neck and headstock binding |
| specifications | Elegant Natural gloss finish |
| Brand | Takamine |
6) Takamine G Series Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Takamine G Series Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar demonstrates Takamine’s dedication to quality and adaptability. This Brown Sunburst guitar combines modern style with timeless charm for performers of all genres and ability levels.
Wood Symphony: Maple and Rosewood
The guitar’s warm, balanced maple-rosewood top creates a deep, clear sound. This blend produces a soundscape where every note resonates and captures hearts with every strum and pluck.
Unlimited Creativity: Walnut, Rosewood, Mahogany Marriage
The Takamine G Series Cutaway’s body, back, and neck dance a complex walnut, rosewood, and mahogany dance, creating a warm, well-rounded sound. This perfect pairing gives your musical narratives a universal sound.
Elegant Maple Fretboard and Brown Sunburst
The Takamine G Series Cutaway’s maple fretboard is silky-smooth and invites exploration. This elegance improves playability and makes the instrument look great from every aspect.
Explore New Heights: The Charming Cutaway Design
The Takamine G Series’ cutaway construction makes upper frets easy to reach, letting your fingers explore new melodic territory. This tool helps you express yourself creatively during solo performances.
Adjustable Bridge System with 12-Radius Design Fine-Tune Brilliance
The Takamine G Series’ adjustable bridge mechanism and 12-inch radius design allow for fine-tuning brightness. This powerful pair makes action and intonation modifications easy, ensuring a customised playing experience.
Upgrade Your Sound: Onboard TK Pickup Configuration
The inbuilt TK pickup setup electrifies acoustic tunes. This combination captures the spirit of your music with a clear and brilliant resonance that audiences love for live and recorded performances.
Every Journey Has Music
The Takamine G Series Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar is ideal for beginners and experienced players looking for a trustworthy partner. Its harmonising woods, ergonomic design, and exciting powers will improve your musical journey.
Write Your Sonic Story
Enter a universe where each note is a sonic brushstroke. The Takamine G Series Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar is your medium, muse, and melodic instrument. Create brilliant, emotional aural storytelling with passion, precision, and Takamine magic.
Must Read – Best acoustic guitar preamps
Takamine G Series GN71CE NEX First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Riffs4U
Pros:
- The solid spruce top of the Takamine G Series Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar provides a bright and clear tone that is perfect for a variety of musical styles.
- The rosewood back and sides of the guitar provide a warm and rich tone that is perfect for blues and country music.
- The slim mahogany neck and 12-inch radius fingerboard provide a comfortable playing experience that is perfect for both beginners and experienced players.
- The onboard Takamine TK pickup configuration provides a clear and bright sound that is perfect for live performances and recording sessions.
- The adjustable bridge system of the guitar allows players to adjust the action of the strings, ensuring that the guitar plays comfortably and sounds great.
CORE FEATURE
| specifications | Solid spruce top |
| specifications | Rosewood back and sides |
| specifications | Slim mahogany neck and 12 |
| specifications | Bound rosewood fingerboard |
| specifications | Onboard Takamine TK |
7) Cordoba C9 Crossover Classical Acoustic Guitar
The Cordoba C9 Crossover Classical Acoustic Guitar shows the company’s commitment to quality and versatility. This guitar’s natural colour blends vintage and current style, appealing to performers of all genres and skill levels.
Solid Western Red Cedar and African Mahogany: A Wood Symphony
The guitar’s solid Western Red Cedar top and African Mahogany body and back create a warm, balanced tone. Your music immerses listeners in a world of sound with each note’s depth.
Every Detail: Hand-Inlaid Mother-of-Pearl Rosette
The Cordoba C9 Crossover’s hand-inlaid mother-of-pearl rosette adds beauty. This careful craftsmanship enhances the instrument’s aesthetics and shows the dedication put into every detail.
Powerful Playability: Steel String-Style Flat Radius Fingerboard
The Cordoba C9 Crossover’s steel string-style flat radius fingerboard suits classical and steel string players. This ergonomic design makes playing pleasant, bridging two musical realms.
Making Sonic Brilliance: Mahogany Neck and Rosewood Fretboard
The guitar’s Mahogany neck and Rosewood fretboard combine comfort and style. Easily glide your fingertips across the fretboard’s silky surface to explore a world of musical possibilities.
The Esteso Cutaway Design: Smooth Exploration
The Esteso cutaway on the Cordoba C9 Crossover allows easy access to the higher frets. This function lets you play soulful solos or sophisticated chord progressions without interruption.
Protection and portability: Cordoba Polyfoam Case
The Cordoba C9 Crossover comes with a polyfoam case to protect your music during travel. This clever inclusion shows Cordoba’s dedication to making a beautiful and functional guitar.
Traditional Nylon Strings and 648mm Scale Length
The guitar’s nylon strings and 648mm scale honour classical and flamenco. Each strum and pluck creates a symphony of realistic sounds that capture these classic genres.
Your Melodic Tapestry
The Cordoba C9 Crossover Classical Acoustic Guitar invites you to weave a melodic tapestry of history and innovation, creating passionate and brilliant soundscapes. As you pursue melodic brilliance, let your music transcend boundaries and awaken hearts.
Must Read – Best acoustic guitar under $500
Cordoba C9 Crossover Classical Acoustic Nylon String First Hand Review Video
Video Source: Sweetwater
Pros:
- The hand inlaid mother-of-pearl rosette adds a touch of elegance to the overall design of the guitar.
- The steel string-style flat radius fingerboard provides a comfortable playing experience for players who are used to playing steel string guitars.
- The combination of high-quality woods, including solid Western Red Cedar and solid African Mahogany, provides a warm and rich tone that is perfect for classical and flamenco music.
- The Cordoba polyfoam case provides protection for the guitar during transport.
- The guitar features a full-size body, a 648mm scale length, and nylon strings, which provide a classic and authentic sound that is perfect for classical and flamenco music.
CORE FEATURE
| specifications | Hand inlaid Mother |
| specifications | The main standout feature is the guitar s steel |
| specifications | Includes Cordoba polyfoam case |
| Brand | Cordoba |
| Color | Natural |
Best Acoustic Guitar For Blues 2023-Complete Buying Guide
Playing guitar is deeply personal and acoustic versions are no exception. Before selecting a new instrument, you’ll need to consider the sound of the guitar, its body shape and materials, as well as neck shape and action.
What is the perfect acoustic guitar for blues?
Unfortunately, such an instrument does not exist as everyone has different tastes when it comes to music. However, certain qualities in an acoustic guitar can make it more suitable for blues music.
- The keyboard of an acoustic guitar should be narrow for fast bends and single notes combined with big bottom end capabilities for chords. It should also have warm mid frequencies so that you can get alluring tones from your amp or speakers, as blues usually requires ample amounts of sustain which means long decay times from note to note.
- Solid wood bodies are also preferred in much higher quantities than laminated top woods due to their robust sound characteristics; however laminate can still be used effectively if chosen carefully enough.
- For blues specifically wide necks with string spacing that isn’t too tight is important; this allows for better fretting ease but doesn’t sacrifice clarity when picking chords or single notes at speed across the fretboard.
- Finally, pickups systems should definitely be taken into consideration when looking at guitars – hum buckers generally provide fuller sounds while their counterparts will tend more towards a vintage twang which works great when playing stuff like distortion heavy selections or classic honky tank licks.
Finding the right acoustic instrument can seem intimidating but don’t worry – by understanding what components fit your sound best and doing some comparisons between models you’ll eventually find something that works perfectly! With these few tips in hand – happy hunting!
Photo Source: thewordtheband.com
Types of Acoustic Guitars
The type of acoustic guitar you buy for blues will depend on your playing style and music preferences. Generally, there are three common types of acoustic guitars available: steel-string guitars, classical guitars, and arch top guitars.
Steel-String Guitars: A must-have for blues musicians, steel-string acoustic guitars offer a uniquely bright sound with great volume and tonal clarity. They’re made with lighter gauge strings which are strung over a thinner body than classical or arch top models, making them much easier to play up the neck using percussive techniques like hammer-ones or pull offs. Steel-string acoustic guitars are perfect for blues players looking to get that signature twangy sound without having to amplify their instrument.
Classical Guitars: Classical guitarists use nylon strings that have a mellower tone than steel-strings. These instruments usually feature a second string complete with larger bodies than steel chords and generally have a warmer sound that many blues players appreciate when looking for more laid back sounds.
Arch top Guitars: An arch top guitar is an acoustic guitar with a semi solid or hollow body design featuring an arched top and distinctive f holes similar in shape to those found on violins. This produces plenty of resonance for heightened volume and tonal complexity ideal for jazz players looking to mimic old-school styles from bygone days but equally sophisticated enough for modern blues music as well.
Factors to Consider When Buying an Acoustic Guitar
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced blues guitarist looking for an upgrade, there are several factors to consider when selecting an acoustic guitar that is suited for blues. Knowing what features and specifications to look for in a guitar can make the selection process simpler.
Before you shop, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and budget as well as the sound quality of materials such as wood and strings that may affect how it plays and feels. Consider the following factors when deciding which acoustic guitar to purchase:
- Body size: Smaller body sizes, such as parlor and concert styles, provide more focused sound with less resonance while larger dreadnoughts offer louder tone with more projection.
- Neck width: The width of the neck will determine how comfortable the fretboard is for your hands; from narrow 1 3/4 inches (standard electric guitar style) to wide 1 7/8 inches (acoustic dreadnought style). In general, blues guitars require wider necks than strumming guitars.
- Wood type: Different types of woods give guitars different tonal properties; mahogany offers deep bass sounds while rosewood gives bright trebles. A combination of woods will add complexity to your tone.
- String gauge/type: Thin strings mean less tension resulting in easy bending while thick strings offer more resistance but greater sustain and volume. Different string materials can also have distinct tonal characteristics.
- Playability/feel: Make sure the instrument feels good in your hands like an extension of yourself so you can easily play chords and solos without having to contort your arms or fatigue them easily after playing for extended periods of time.
Once you’ve determined what features are important for you based on these criteria, you’ll be better equipped to make a wise decision when selecting an acoustic guitar that is perfect for playing blues music – one that reflects both your style and budget!
Photo Source: guitarsignal.com
Best Acoustic Guitars for Blues
If you’re looking for a great acoustic guitar to play blues with, you should consider the following criteria. First, what type of blues will you be playing? Perhaps something classic like Delta or finger picking style? Or maybe something more contemporary such as jazz-blues fusion? Different types of blues call for different tones and therefore require different kinds of guitars.
The second question to ask is how much money can you afford to spend? Blues-style guitars come in a wide range of prices depending on features and brand name. You should also think about whether a 6-string guitar is adequate, or if an additional string would enable greater flexibility in playing different styles of music.
Now that you have some ideas about what kind of guitar would best suit your needs for playing blues music, here are some suggestions:
- For players who want traditional Delta sound and playability:
- Epiphone AJ-45ME Acoustic Guitar (Small Body)
- Yamaha C40 Classic Acoustic Guitar
- Taylor 100 Series Academy 12e 12 String Acoustic Guitar
- For Players Who Prefer Modern Jazz or Fusion Tone:
- Guild JF-30 Standard Thinline Acoustic Guitar
- Seagull Entourage Rustic SE CW SB Acoustic/Electric Guitar
- Martin DRS1 Dreadnought Road Series Acoustic Electric Guitar
No matter which type and model of guitar you choose, proper care and maintenance is essential for your instrument to remain in good shape throughout its lifetime. With the right care, your acoustic blues guitar will bring years of enjoyment and give you many opportunities to explore the vibrant world of blues music.
Maintenance and Care Tips
Once you have purchased a high-quality acoustic blues guitar, it’s important to maintain it properly. Keeping your guitar clean, in good playing condition, and with proper intonation is very important. Here are some tips to ensure that your acoustic blues guitar will continue to provide you with years of great music:
- Clean and polish the body often – Use a soft cloth and mild cleaner specifically made for use on acoustic guitars. This will help prevent damage and extend the life of the finish and body material.
- Keep all strings in tune – Make sure to keep all strings in tune with an electronic or chromatic tuner. Proper tuning is key to getting the best sound out of an acoustic blues guitar.
- Keep fingerboard lubricated – Regularly lubricate the fingerboard with a good quality fret-board oil or wax as needed as this will keep it from drying out causing warping.
- Check bridge saddles – Check, adjust and replace any worn-out or broken bridge saddle parts, including saddle nuts and saddles screws so they don’t become loose or cause buzzing or fret buzz when you’re playing.
- Change strings regularly – Replace any worn-out strings with high quality strings for the best sound output and intonation accuracy.
- Inspect regularly – Regularly inspect your instrument for any signs of damage such as cracks in wood, loose bridges, loose frets etc.
Accessories for Acoustic Guitars
When shopping for acoustic guitars, a few important accessories should be kept in mind. These can help to enhance playability and make the guitar easier to use and maintain. Here are some of the most popular items that can be included with an acoustic guitar purchase:
- Guitar Strings: High-quality strings are essential for an enjoyable playing experience. There are a wide variety of materials and thicknesses available, so it is important to choose the right strings for your instrument and playing style.
- Tuner/Metronome: Keeping time consistent is key when playing a musical instrument, and a tuner or metronome can ensure you are staying in time throughout your performance.
- Picks/Capos: A pick or capo can help to add texture and nuance to your sound while helping you stay in tune throughout the song.
- Gig Bag/Case: If you plan on taking your guitar on the go, then investing in a hard-shell case or soft-sided bag is essential. This will help keep it safe from wear and tear as well as any spills or drops that could lead to damage.
- Stands/Straps: Having an adjustable stand for practicing makes things easier since you don’t have to keep adjusting the guitar every few minutes; straps make it easier to play by providing more comfortable access to the frets without having to worry about slippage.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an aspiring blues musician or you’re looking to deepen your existing blues skills, finding the right acoustic guitar can help you bring your playing to the next level.
In this guide, we’ve covered everything from what makes an ideal blues guitar to the differences between acoustic and electric guitars and which features are best for blues playing. We’ve also reviewed five of the best acoustic guitars for blues on the market today.
At the end of the day, purchasing a new instrument comes down to personal preference. But by taking into consideration:
- what type of tone and volume preferred
- body size and style
- budget
- build quality
- extra features such as a cutaway design or onboard electronics and more
you’re sure to find a guitar that will suit all of your needs as a blues guitarist no matter where you might be in your musical journey!
FAQ’s
Are acoustic guitars good for blues?
Yes, acoustic guitars are good for playing blues. The warm, rich tone of an acoustic guitar is well-suited to the style of music.
What type of guitar is best for blues?
The type of guitar that is best for blues is a hollow-body electric guitar, such as a Gibson ES-335 or a Fender Telecaster. However, many blues players also use solid-body electric guitars and even acoustic guitars.
What guitar do most blues players play?
Many blues players use a Gibson Les Paul electric guitar, but there are also many blues players who use Fender Stratocasters, Fender Telecasters, and other types of electric and acoustic guitars.
What is a good beginner blues guitar?
A good beginner blues guitar for someone on a budget is the Epiphone Dot, a semi-hollow body electric guitar, or the Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic guitar.
Is Epiphone good for blues?
Epiphone is known for producing affordable versions of classic Gibson models, and many of their guitars are suitable for playing blues.
What string gauge is best for blues?
The string gauge that is best for blues is generally considered to be medium gauges (around .013-.056) as it provides a good balance of tone and playability.
What key is best for blues?
The key of A is often used in blues music, as many of the classic blues songs are written in this key.
What is A blues guitar called?
A blues guitar can refer to any guitar that is used to play blues music, but it is often used to refer specifically to electric guitars.
Is A hollow body guitar good for blues?
A hollow body guitar can be good for blues, especially for players looking for a warm, resonant tone.
Which color acoustic guitar is best?
Color of the guitar does not affect the sound, but it is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer natural wood finishes, while others prefer sunburst or solid colors.
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.