If you're looking for the perfect blend of traditional acoustic charm and electric amplification, then an acoustic electric guitar is the way to go. This versatile instrument has captured the hearts of countless musicians for its ability to produce a wide range of sounds suitable for various music genres. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which one to choose?
When buying an acoustic electric guitar, one of the most important factors to consider is the type of wood used. The type of wood used greatly affects the sound quality, tone, and resonance of the guitar. Another essential factor is the type of pickups used. This affects the guitar’s electrification and amplification capacity, making all the difference in sound quality. It’s also important to consider the brand reputation, price, and user experience.
Are you a beginner or a seasoned musician? Is this your first time buying an acoustic electric guitar, or are you upgrading from an older model? Do you want a guitar suitable for live performances or recording sessions? These are just some of the questions you should ask before making your final decision. Fortunately, we’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a comprehensive list of the best acoustic electric guitars on the market. So, keep reading to find the right one for you!
10 Best Acoustic Electric Guitar
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The product is ideal for performing live music with its acoustic-electric capabilities and sleek design.
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2
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Ideal for musicians seeking a quality acoustic-electric guitar with solid top construction and cutaway design.
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3
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Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality acoustic-electric guitar with a small body size, rich sound, and easy playability.
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4
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The product is ideal for adults, teens, and beginners looking for a full-size electric acoustic guitar with a pickup.
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5
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Ideal for musicians who want a full-size, acoustic electric bass guitar with 4 strings and frets in black color.
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6
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The product is ideal for musicians who want the versatility of both an acoustic and electric guitar.
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7
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The product is ideal for anyone who wants to learn or play the acoustic guitar as a right-handed player.
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8
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This product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality acoustic-electric guitar bundle with accessories.
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9
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality acoustic electric guitar with a resonant chamber and sleek black design.
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10
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Ideal for musicians seeking a versatile acoustic-electric guitar with a warm, rich tone and stylish appearance.
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1. Taylor Baby Taylor Bte-Koa Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
The Baby Taylor guitar is a legitimate and enjoyable musical instrument suitable for anyone, whether a beginner or an experienced player in need of a travel guitar that produces great sound and is comfortable to play. Its three-quarter size Dreadnought design has been a trusted companion for touring musicians like Taylor Swift, allowing them to create new musical ideas while on the road.
This limited-edition version of the Baby Taylor guitar boasts a stunning Hawaiian koa top that adds to the guitar's beauty and elegance. The back and sides of the guitar are made of koa wood, while the bracing pattern is standard, and the body finish is matte. The guitar's orientation is right-handed, and it features a genuine African ebony fingerboard with 19 frets, a standard Taylor profile neck shape, and a nut width of 1.687 inches (42.8 mm). The neck wood is made of sapele, and the neck finish is matte.
In terms of electronics, the Baby Taylor guitar comes with a pickup/preamp system that ensures the guitar's sound quality is top-notch. The guitar's package includes a durable, travel-worthy gig bag made by Taylor that offers optimal fit and protection for the guitar.
2. Yamaha Fgx800c Solid Top Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This high-quality acoustic guitar boasts a solid Sitka Spruce top that produces a rich and resonant sound. The Nato back and sides provide a sturdy and reliable foundation for the guitar, ensuring durability and longevity.
The rosewood fingerboard and bridge add to the guitar's overall aesthetic appeal, while also providing a smooth and comfortable playing experience. The diecast tuners are easy to use and help keep the guitar in tune for extended periods of time.
One of the standout features of this guitar is the System 66 electronics. The under-saddle piezo pickup captures the guitar's natural sound, while the 3-band EQ allows for precise tonal adjustments. The adjustable mid-range frequency control provides even more customization options, and the precision chromatic tuner ensures the guitar is always in tune.
Additionally, this guitar features an adjustable truss rod, allowing for easy adjustments to the neck to ensure optimal playability.
3. Yamaha Mahogany Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Concert Cutaway.
The Yamaha Concert Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a top-quality instrument that delivers premium sound and performance. This guitar features a Solid Sitka Spruce top with scalloped bracing, which results in a louder and richer acoustic sound. The top is made from high-quality materials that are designed to last for years, so you can enjoy playing your guitar for a long time.
One of the standout features of this guitar is Yamaha's original SRT piezo pickup, which provides excellent plugged-in performance. This pickup is designed to capture the natural sound of the guitar, ensuring that your performance is as authentic as possible. Whether you're playing a live gig or recording in a studio, the SRT pickup will deliver the high-quality sound you need.
The guitar has a high comfort satin mahogany neck with a slim taper profile, which makes it easy to play for extended periods of time. The slim taper profile is designed to reduce hand fatigue, so you can play for hours without feeling discomfort. Additionally, the concert cutaway body with a gloss finish gives the guitar a sleek and stylish look that is sure to impress.
The rosewood bridge and fingerboard provide a smooth playing experience, and the die-cast chrome tuners ensure that your guitar stays in tune. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, the Yamaha Concert Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar is an excellent choice. It is designed to deliver premium sound and performance, and it is built to last. Overall, this guitar is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to take their playing to the next level.
4. Matte Black Acoustic Guitar Bundle With Pickup
The electric acoustic guitar is a versatile instrument that offers convenience for recording or amplifying. With a built-in 4-Band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble, and Presto) and volume control, the guitar can be plugged into an acoustic amp, mixer, or PA system directly for live performances or recording in the studio. It produces a well-balanced tone, thanks to its upgraded X-bracing Spruce Top, Mahogany body, and neck, resulting in a warm and clear sound with outstanding tone at high and mid-frequency.
The bone nut and saddle not only transmit the resonance of the strings better but also bear the tension of the strings and are not easily deformed. The 41-inch full-size dreadnought body offers a richer and deeper sound than a smaller size, making it suitable for all kinds of playing or music styles. The low action design of the guitar relieves the pain when pressing the strings, while the smooth fret ends with wooden binding are stylish and avoid cutting fingers when moving up and down rapidly on the fretboard.
The guitar is equipped with a built-in truss rod that allows for the adjustment of the neck to meet your needs of string height, ensuring comfortable touch and playability. The heavy-duty nickel tuning pegs are harder and more superior in corrosion resistance, while the 1:18 ratio gears provide a finer adjustment and greater stability in tuning, helping the guitar keep in tune longer after the tune-up of strings.
The acoustic electric guitar bundle comes with a complete kit that includes a cable for connecting an amplifier, a clip-on tuner, a capo, an adjustable strap for stand-up playing, a set of extra strings, 3 picks with different thickness, a truss rod Allen key, a polish cloth, an optional pickguard, and a user manual. This makes it a perfect gift for children, friends, or family who are interested in playing the guitar.
5. Full Size Acoustic Electric Bass Guitar – Black
Introducing the Acoustic-Electric Bass – an exceptional instrument that caters to both beginners and professionals. Boasting a 4-band EQ-7545R guitar preamp, it delivers a high-quality sound that is sure to impress.
Crafted with a wood composition, this bass guitar produces rich and resonant sound that is perfect for unplugged jam sessions or performances. Its built-in volume control and 4-band equalizer allows for easy adjustments to the bass, middle, treble, and presence, enabling you to create the perfect sound for your performance.
Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this bass guitar is ready to use right out of the box. The Acoustic-Electric Bass is an ideal choice for beginning guitarists who want to master their skills or professionals who require a portable instrument to practice on-the-go.
This bass guitar is designed with beautiful features including an attractive inlay, chrome die-cast tuners, and a glossy finish that enhances its overall aesthetic appeal.
Invest in the Acoustic-Electric Bass and discover why it's the preferred choice for musicians who demand exceptional sound quality and performance.
6. Washburn Classical C5ce Cutaway , Acoustic Electric Guitar
The Washburn C5CE is an exceptional classical guitar that offers a full and rich tone, thanks to its high-quality spruce top. Its powerful resonance is perfectly complemented by the catalpa back and sides, resulting in a classic and traditional sound that you'll love.
Equipped with the Washburn EVT active pickup system, this guitar allows you to take your music to the next level. The onboard tuner ensures that you're always in tune, while the pickup system delivers clear and accurate sound, making it perfect for recording or live performances.
The Washburn C5CE also features quarter sawn scalloped Sitka Spruce bracing, which enhances the guitar's tone and projection. This ensures that you get the best possible sound, whether you're playing for a small group of friends or a large audience.
To make playing the guitar even more enjoyable, the Washburn C5CE comes with Addario EJ46 Prorated hard tension Nylon strings. These strings are smooth and easy on your fingers, allowing you to play for hours without any discomfort. They also produce a full and rich tone that complements the guitar's sound perfectly.
7. Ibanez 6 String Acoustic Guitar, Right Handed, Transparent Blue Sunburst (Tcy10etbs)
Introducing the Talan Double Cutaway acoustic guitar, crafted with a combination of premium materials to deliver an outstanding playing experience. The guitar's body shape features a sleek double cutaway design, allowing for easy access to the upper frets for those high-pitched solos. The neck is made from high-quality mahogany, known for its durability and excellent tonal qualities. The back and sides are also constructed from mahogany, providing a warm and rich sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.
The top of the guitar is made from spruce, a popular choice for acoustic guitars due to its bright and articulate tone. The spruce top is supported by a black and white multi rosette, adding a touch of elegance to the guitar's overall aesthetic.
With its sturdy construction and superior materials, the Talan Double Cutaway acoustic guitar is designed to produce a clear and balanced sound that will resonate with any music lover. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this guitar will deliver a powerful and rich sound that is sure to impress. So, grab your pick and get ready to strum away on this exceptional instrument!
8. Enya X4 Pro Bundle: Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitar.
Introducing the X4 Pro Carbon Fiber Guitar, a game changer in the world of acoustic-electric guitars. With its top made of a 95% pure carbon fiber composite material, this guitar delivers outstanding acoustics performance that is both loud and balanced. The X4 Pro is the perfect choice for musicians who demand a stable and reliable instrument that can withstand changes in temperature and humidity without altering its sound.
One of the standout features of the X4 Pro is its AcousticPlus Pickup system, a patented technology that works for both acoustic and acoustic-electric hybrid guitars. The system offers reverb, chorus, and delay effects without the need for additional effects pedals. Its small microphone also captures percussive elements, making it an excellent choice for fingerstyle playing. The pickup system is easily charged with a USB Type-C cable, eliminating the need for battery replacements. The X4 Pro also comes with an onboard tuner, saving you the hassle of purchasing an external clip-on tuner.
The elevated neck design of the X4 Pro is another unique feature that sets it apart from other acoustic-electric guitars. This design releases pressure from the top of the guitar, resulting in better tonal response and a wider dynamic range. The lows are lower, and the highs are higher, giving you an unparalleled playing experience.
Each X4 Pro guitar comes packaged with a deluxe hard-shell case, a leather strap, an instrument cable, an adjusting wrench, and a USB Type-C charging cable. The guitar also comes with a 30-day return and refund policy and a one-year warranty for customers in the United States.
9. Esp Ltd Tl-6 Thinline Acoustic Electric Guitar With Resonant Chamber, Black
The LTD TL-6 Black is a high-quality guitar that boasts excellent craftsmanship and outstanding features. It is designed with a Mahogany Body that is topped with Maple, a Mahogany Neck, and a Rosewood Fingerboard. The combination of these materials produces a rich, warm tone that is perfect for any music genre.
One of the standout features of the LTD TL-6 Black is its Rosewood Bridge with Graphtech Nubone XB Saddle. This bridge enhances the guitar's sound by providing excellent string-to-body resonance, which results in a fuller sound. Additionally, the bridge is durable and can withstand the rigors of frequent playing.
The guitar's Set-Neck Construction with a 25" Scale and 22 Jumbo Frets, along with its Thin-U Neck Contour, makes it comfortable to play for extended periods. The neck's sleek design ensures that players can easily maneuver their fingers around the fretboard, making it ideal for advanced players.
The guitar's Pickup is a B-Band Electret Film Transducer with a B-Band T-7 Preamp and an onboard Tuner. This system ensures that the guitar produces a natural and authentic sound, which is perfect for live performances and recordings.
10. Ivy 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Tobacco Sunburst (Ipf-300 Tsb)
As a knowledgeable Amazon product reviewer, it's important to provide a clear and informative description of the product to help potential customers make an informed decision. This particular product is a guitar that boasts a high level of precision and quality.
Crafted with precision, each guitar is made punctually by a state-of-the-art CNC machine that utilizes computer programming for accuracy and consistency. This ensures that each guitar is made with the same level of quality, resulting in a reliable and consistent product.
One of the standout features of this guitar is its perfect neck. With almost no defectiveness, the neck provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience. This is especially important for musicians who spend long hours playing, as it reduces the risk of hand fatigue and strain.
In terms of specifications, this guitar has a variety of features that make it an excellent choice for musicians of all levels. The guitar is available in a range of styles and colors, allowing customers to choose the one that best suits their needs. Additionally, the guitar has a high-quality build that ensures durability and longevity.
Best Acoustic Electric Guitar FAQs
What are the differences between a standard acoustic guitar and an acoustic electric guitar?
The main difference between a standard acoustic guitar and an acoustic electric guitar is that the latter has built-in electronics that allow it to be amplified. An acoustic electric guitar typically has a pickup system installed, which consists of a transducer or microphone that captures the sound of the guitar and sends it to an amplifier or PA system. This allows the guitarist to play in larger venues or with other musicians without being drowned out by other instruments.
Another difference is that acoustic electric guitars tend to have a cutaway design that allows easier access to the higher frets, which is useful for solos and lead playing. Additionally, some acoustic electric guitars have built-in tuners and equalizers, which can be adjusted to achieve the desired sound.
In terms of sound, a standard acoustic guitar tends to have a more natural, organic tone, while an acoustic electric guitar can have a more processed, amplified sound. However, this can vary depending on the quality of the guitar and the pickup system.
Overall, the decision between a standard acoustic guitar and an acoustic electric guitar depends on the player's needs and preferences. If the player plans on performing in larger venues or with other musicians, an acoustic electric guitar may be the better choice. If the player values a more natural, traditional sound, a standard acoustic guitar may be the way to go.
What are the key features to look for in a high-quality acoustic electric guitar?
There are several key features to consider when looking for a high-quality acoustic electric guitar.
Firstly, the material used for the top, back, and sides of the guitar is crucial. High-quality woods like spruce, cedar, or mahogany are commonly used for the top, while rosewood, maple, or koa are popular for the back and sides. These woods offer a balanced, resonant sound and improve the overall tone of the guitar.
Secondly, the electronics system of the guitar is also important. Look for a system that accurately captures the natural sound of the guitar and has controls for volume, tone, and EQ adjustments.
Thirdly, the playability of the guitar should also be considered. A comfortable neck shape, smooth fretboard, and low action (distance between strings and frets) make it easier to play the guitar and produce a cleaner sound.
Lastly, the craftsmanship and attention to detail should be taken into account. A high-quality acoustic electric guitar should have clean binding, well-finished edges, and smooth frets.
Overall, a high-quality acoustic electric guitar should have a balanced, resonant sound, a reliable electronics system, comfortable playability, and excellent craftsmanship.
What are the pros and cons of buying an acoustic electric guitar?
Acoustic electric guitars have gained increasing popularity in recent years due to their versatility and ability to be played both acoustically and plugged into an amplifier. Here are some of the pros and cons of buying an acoustic electric guitar:
Pros:
1. Versatility – Acoustic electric guitars can be played acoustically or amplified, making them suitable for a range of playing styles and settings.
2. Sound control – Acoustic electric guitars often have tone and volume controls, allowing for greater sound control when playing amplified.
3. Recording capabilities – With an acoustic electric guitar, you can easily record your playing directly into a computer or recording device.
4. Stage presence – When performing live, an acoustic electric guitar can help you stand out and be heard more clearly.
Cons:
1. Cost – Acoustic electric guitars can be more expensive than traditional acoustic guitars due to the added electronics and features.
2. Maintenance – With additional electronics, there is a higher chance of something going wrong and requiring maintenance or repairs.
3. Sound quality – Some argue that the sound of an acoustic electric guitar may not be as rich and natural as that of a traditional acoustic guitar.
4. Weight – Due to the added electronics, acoustic electric guitars may be heavier and less comfortable to play for extended periods of time.
Overall, the decision to purchase an acoustic electric guitar depends on personal preference and intended use. If you plan on playing live or recording often, an acoustic electric guitar may be a worthwhile investment. However, if you prioritize a natural acoustic sound and simplicity, a traditional acoustic guitar may be a better choice.
What are the top brands for acoustic electric guitars?
There are several top brands for acoustic electric guitars that are known for their quality and reliability. One of the most popular brands is Taylor, which is known for producing high-end guitars with exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship. Another top brand is Martin, which has been around for over 180 years and is known for its rich, warm tone and excellent playability.
Other top brands include Gibson, which is famous for its iconic electric guitars, but also produces high-quality acoustic electric guitars. Yamaha is another popular brand that offers a range of acoustic electric guitars at various price points, making it accessible to musicians of all levels.
Additionally, Fender, Seagull, Breedlove, and Takamine are also notable brands that offer a range of quality acoustic electric guitars. Ultimately, the best brand for acoustic electric guitars will depend on personal preference and budget, but these top brands are a great starting point for anyone looking to invest in a quality instrument.
What are the top-rated acoustic electric guitars on the market?
There are several top-rated acoustic electric guitars on the market, depending on your preferences and budget. One of the most popular options is the Taylor 214ce, which offers a balanced sound and comfortable playability. Another great choice is the Martin LX1E Little Martin, which is a smaller-sized guitar that still delivers a full-bodied sound. The Yamaha FGX800C is also highly recommended, with a solid spruce top and a built-in pickup system for easy amplification. If you're willing to spend a bit more, the Gibson J-45 is a classic option with a warm, rich sound and excellent craftsmanship. Other notable mentions include the Takamine EF341SC Pro Series, the Breedlove Pursuit Concert CE, and the Fender CD-60SCE. Ultimately, the best acoustic electric guitar for you will depend on your individual preferences and playing style, so it's important to try out different models before making a final decision.
What is the best acoustic electric guitar for beginners?
Choosing the best acoustic-electric guitar for beginners can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many options available on the market. However, there are a few factors that you should keep in mind when selecting the best guitar for you. Firstly, you should decide on your budget as this will affect the quality of the guitar you can afford. Secondly, consider the size and shape of the guitar that feels comfortable to you. Lastly, think about the type of music you want to play and the features you need in your acoustic-electric guitar.
One of the best options for beginners is the Yamaha FGX800C. This guitar is affordable, has a solid spruce top, and a cutaway body style that makes it easier to access the higher frets. It also has a built-in preamp and tuner, which is perfect for playing live or recording. Another great option is the Fender CD-60SCE. It has a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a slim neck that makes it comfortable to play. It also has a Fishman preamp and tuner, which allows you to plug into an amplifier or recording interface. Both of these guitars offer great value for their price and are perfect for beginners who want a quality instrument that will last them for years to come.
What is the best acoustic electric guitar for live performances?
Choosing the best acoustic electric guitar for live performances depends on several factors such as the player's skill level, preferred playing style, budget, and personal preference. However, some of the top-rated acoustic electric guitars that are ideal for live performances include the Taylor 214ce Deluxe Grand Auditorium, Martin Performing Artist Series GPCPA4, Yamaha LL-TA TransAcoustic, and Gibson J-45 Studio. These guitars have excellent sound quality, built-in electronics, and are durable enough to withstand the rigors of touring and live performances. Additionally, they offer exceptional playability and versatility, making them suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Ultimately, the best acoustic electric guitar for live performances is the one that feels comfortable to play and produces the sound that suits the player's style and genre.
What is the most affordable acoustic electric guitar with great features?
There are several affordable acoustic electric guitars available in the market, but one of the most popular options is the Yamaha FGX800C. This guitar features a solid spruce top, nato back and sides, and a rosewood fingerboard and bridge. It also has a cutaway design, allowing for easier access to the higher frets.
The Yamaha FGX800C comes equipped with a System 66 preamp and piezo pickup, which provides a clear and natural amplified sound. The preamp includes a built-in tuner and tone controls, giving you the ability to adjust your sound to your liking.
Overall, the Yamaha FGX800C offers a great combination of affordability, quality, and features. It is a versatile instrument that is suitable for a wide range of playing styles and skill levels.
Which acoustic electric guitar has the best playability and comfort?
There are several acoustic-electric guitars in the market that offer exceptional playability and comfort. It ultimately depends on your personal preference and playing style. However, some of the best acoustic-electric guitars in terms of playability and comfort are the Taylor 814ce, Martin D-28, Gibson J-45, and Yamaha LL16D.
The Taylor 814ce is known for its comfortable neck profile and smooth fretboard, making it easy to play for extended periods. The Martin D-28 has a classic design and a slender neck that allows for quick and easy finger movement. The Gibson J-45 has a slim taper neck that is perfect for fingerstyle playing and provides a comfortable grip for barre chords. The Yamaha LL16D has a comfortable neck and an ergonomic body design that reduces fatigue during long playing sessions.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which acoustic-electric guitar has the best playability and comfort for you is to try them out in person. Visit a music store and play a few different models to see which one feels the most comfortable and natural to you.
Which acoustic electric guitar has the best sound quality?
Determining which acoustic electric guitar has the best sound quality can be subjective as it depends on personal preferences and playing style. However, some of the top brands known for producing high-quality acoustic electric guitars include Martin, Taylor, Gibson, and Yamaha.
Martin guitars are known for their warm, rich sound and are often favored by fingerstyle players. Taylor guitars, on the other hand, are known for their bright, clear sound and are popular among strummers and flatpickers. Gibson guitars are known for their full, rich sound and are often used in blues and rock music. Yamaha guitars are known for their quality craftsmanship and affordability.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which acoustic electric guitar has the best sound quality for you is to try out different models and brands and see which one resonates with your playing style and preferences. It's also important to consider factors such as the type of wood used, the size and shape of the body, and the electronics system used in the guitar.