The Definitive Guide to the Best Sounding Acoustic-Electric Guitars

The best sounding acoustic-electric guitar combines classic and modern vibes, echoing from amphitheaters to campfire gatherings with its versatility and rich sound. Prioritizing sound quality is essential when choosing the right acoustic-electric guitar, as it’s the core of these instruments.

This guide explores what makes their sound unique, providing insights and top picks for guitarists. To select the best sounding acoustic-electric guitar, factors such as brand, budget, materials, features, and design should be considered. Here’s a streamlined approach to guide your decision.

Features That Define the Best Sounding Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Sound quality in acoustic-electric guitars hinges on several pivotal factors – from the materials used to the guitar’s very shape.

Spruce, Cedar, Mahogany – Sound Characteristics

Wood type and quality profoundly impact sound. Spruce offers brightness, cedar softens the tone for warmth, while mahogany emphasizes midrange frequencies.

Dreadnought, Auditorium, Parlor – Which is Best for What Sound

Body shape and size also play a role; dreadnoughts project a commanding sound suitable for strumming, auditoriums offer a balanced tone, and parlors, well-loved for fingerstyle, present a more intimate sound.

Phosphor Bronze vs. 80/20 Bronze

Even string material and gauge alter sound dynamics – phosphor bronze strings provide a warm tone while 80/20 bronze strings lend a brighter punch.

Important Factors to Consider:

1. Brand: Look for reputable brands known for quality acoustic-electric guitars like Taylor, Martin, Gibson, Yamaha, and Fender.
2. Budget: Define your budget range: low (under $500), medium ($500-$1000), and high (above $1000).
3. Materials: Opt for solid wood construction for better resonance and tone. Spruce tops are common for brightness, while mahogany provides a warmer sound.
4. Features: Consider built-in preamps, tuners, and pickup types. Piezo pickups are common, but magnetic or microphone-based pickups can offer a more natural sound.
5. Design and Size: Body shape affects sound. Dreadnought and jumbo sizes offer volume and fullness, while concert and auditorium sizes provide a more balanced tone.

Top Picks for the Best Sounding Acoustic-Electric Guitars

When it comes to handpicking the best sounding acoustic-electric guitars, we evaluate criteria such as sound quality, build, and brand reputation.

High-End Picks

In the high-end market, the best sounding acoustic electric guitars, priced over $1,000, are crafted from premium woods and utilize sophisticated technologies to achieve unparalleled sound quality.

Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster

🔎 Overview:
The Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster redefines the guitar experience, merging the rich tones of an acoustic with the power of an electric. Engineered with pioneering technology, this instrument grants musicians a vast spectrum of sonic possibilities. Crafted by Fender, it marries timeless design with the flexibility of modern acoustic-electric hybrid capabilities. This guitar effortlessly transitions from crisp acoustic melodies to electrifying riffs, providing endless inspiration for creative expression.

🎯 Features:

• Hybrid Acoustic and Electric Capabilities
• Features a range of acoustic and electric voicings
• Patented Stringed Instrument Resonance System (SIRS)
• Unique Jazzmaster body shape with modern electronics

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality with a mix of acoustic and electric tones
• Versatile guitar suitable for various music styles
• Quality craftsmanship and design by Fender
• Comfortable playability

Cons:

• Can be expensive, catering to professional or serious enthusiasts
• Some users might prefer traditional acoustic or electric guitars

🌟 Rating: 4.6 out of 5 based on customer reviews.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Customers praised the robust, solid build and balanced tones.
• Many found the guitar to exceed expectations in versatility and playability.
• Positive remarks on the no buzzing or rattling and the guitar’s ability to perform well through different genres.

Unfavorable:

• A customer expressed disappointment, as the guitar did not meet their expectations for the price point.

Neutral:

• Others appreciated the guitar for home and studio use, finding its streamlined design and capabilities suitable for couch playing and recording.

👍 Best for:
Musicians looking for a high-quality, versatile guitar that can switch between authentic acoustic and rich electric sounds. Ideal for stage performances and studio sessions where a wide array of tonal possibilities is desirable.

Yamaha 6 String Series AC3R Acoustic-Electric Guitar

🔎 Overview:
The Yamaha AC3R small body acoustic-electric guitar boasts a concert cutaway design with a vintage natural finish. It features a solid Spruce top with scalloped bracing, Rosewood back and sides, a satin mahogany neck with a slim taper profile, and an SRT2 pickup system for a blend of microphone models and the piezo pickup, delivering natural and dynamic plugged-in tones.

🎯 Features:

• Solid Sitka Spruce top with Yamaha’s A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) process for a rich vintage tone.
• Newly designed scalloped bracing for a powerful, expressive acoustic sound.
• SRT2 system for crafting your perfect plugged-in tone.
• Hand-rolled fingerboard edges on a straight taper neck for comfortable playability.
• Soft case included for protection and transportation.

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Rich, vintage quality sound right out of the box.
• Comfortable neck profile suitable for all playing styles.
• High-quality construction with hand-rolled fingerboard edges.
• Versatile SRT2 pickup system for stage-ready sound.

Cons:

• Currently unavailable, limiting immediate purchase.
• Some players may prefer traditional non-enhanced acoustic sound.

🌟 Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars based on customer reviews.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Users are impressed by the louder, richer acoustic sound provided by the scalloped bracing.
• Guitarists admire the natural dynamic range when plugged in, thanks to the SRT2 system.
• Comfort of playability is frequently highlighted due to the hand-rolled fingerboard edges.

Unfavorable:

• No specific unfavorable reviews were provided, but the unavailability of the product might be a major downside for interested buyers.

Neutral:

• The vintage natural design and enhanced sound resonate well with customers who appreciate aged tones in a new instrument.

👍 Best for:
Guitarists in search of a stage-ready acoustic-electric guitar with a vintage aesthetic and sound, enhanced modern features, and comfortable playability for long performances or recording sessions.

Durable Carbon Fiber Acoustic-Electric Guitar

🔎 Overview:
The KLOS Carbon Fiber Travel Guitar is designed for portability and durability, appealing to musicians on the go. It’s crafted from carbon fiber, making it resistant to the elements and less prone to warping and cracking than wooden instruments. The guitar also features a removable neck design for compact travel, and it includes a high-quality gig bag and accessories for convenient transportation and use.

🎯 Features:

• Made from durable carbon fiber material
• Lightweight design at just 3.06 lbs
• Full-scale length for a standard playing experience
• Fishman Sonitone Onboard Preamp System for easy amplification
• Removable neck for enhanced portability
• It comes with a complete accessory kit

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Durable and resistant to temperature and humidity changes
• Lightweight and portable, perfect for traveling musicians
• Full-sized guitar that offers a rich and loud sound
• Can be easily amplified for performances
• Assembled and inspected in the USA

Cons:

• Currently unavailable, so immediate purchase is not possible
• Some musicians may prefer the traditional sound of wooden guitars

🌟 Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars based on customer reviews.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Customers are very satisfied with the travel-friendly design.
• They love the durability and how well it holds up in different climates.
• The sound quality is admired for being resonant and balanced, even with the guitar’s carbon fiber construction.

Unfavorable:

• No negative reviews were provided, but as it is currently unavailable, customers looking to purchase may be disappointed.

Neutral:

• Some customers may be neutral about the carbon fiber construction, appreciating its benefits while favoring the aesthetic and tonal qualities of traditional wooden guitars.

👍 Best for:
The KLOS Travel Guitar is best suited for musicians who want a durable and highly portable guitar to take on adventures, from outdoor excursions to urban explorations. It’s suitable for beginners to expert players who need a reliable instrument that can withstand various environmental conditions without sacrificing sound quality.

Taylor 214ce Deluxe Grand Auditorium Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural

🔎 Overview:
This Taylor 214ce Deluxe Grand Auditorium is an acoustic-electric guitar that features a sleek Venetian cutaway and Taylor’s expressive ES2 electronics. It has a Sitka spruce top, layered rosewood back and sides, a Sapele neck, and an ebony fretboard. The “Deluxe” indicates a fully glossy body and this guitar includes a hardshell case made by Taylor to ensure optimal fit and protection. The Grand Auditorium shape provides a versatile sound that fits various playing styles.

🎯 Features:

• Grand Auditorium body shape for a versatile and well-balanced sound
• Sitka spruce top for broad dynamic range and clear articulation
• Taylor’s Expression System 2 (ES2) electronics for professional quality sound amplification
• Layered rosewood construction which is durable and less sensitive to environmental changes
• Comes with a Taylor hardshell case for safe transportation

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Renowned Taylor playability and craftsmanship
• Versatile body style suitable for a range of playing techniques
• Professional-grade electronics make it gig-ready
• Beautiful glossy finish and aesthetic details like small diamond fretboard inlays

Cons:

• Higher price point may not be suitable for all budgets
• Only one color option available (Natural)
• Advanced electronics and features may be more than a beginner needs

🌟 Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars based on customer reviews.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Customers have expressed satisfaction with the guitar’s playability and sound quality.
• The Grand Auditorium shape and Taylor craftsmanship are consistently praised.
• The onboard electronics are highlighted as a standout feature.

Unfavorable:

• Some customers may find the cost a bit steep.
• Another point of concern for a few might be the layered wood back and sides, preferring solid wood build.

Neutral:

• Players often recognize the guitar as a high-quality instrument but might take the price into consideration when making their decision.

👍 Best for:
The Taylor 214ce Deluxe is an excellent choice for serious musicians looking for a high-quality, versatile guitar that’s suitable for both live performance and studio work. Its construction and electronics make it a great option for gigging musicians who need a reliable and great-sounding instrument that’s also beautifully crafted.

Mid-Range Options

Mid-range options offer great value, balancing cost without compromising too much on sound quality or construction.

Yamaha L-Series LS16 Concert Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Gig Bag – Natural

🔎 Overview:
The Yamaha LS16 concert-size acoustic-electric guitar is part of Yamaha’s renowned L-Series. It features all-solid construction with rosewood back and sides and a hand-selected premium Engelmann spruce top. A newly designed bracing pattern and Acoustic Resonance Enhancement (A.R.E.) treatment produce a rich warmth and open resonance with excellent tone balance. The guitar is designed with a 5-ply neck and a traditional profile for maximum comfort. Additionally, it’s equipped with an SRT Zero Impact passive pickup for unobtrusive live amplification and includes a durable hard gig bag.

🎯 Features:

• All-solid construction with premium materials for unparalleled tone quality.
• A.R.E. treatment enhances sound warmth and resonance.
• Small body size ideal for fingerpicking and intricate playing.
• Yamaha’s new bracing pattern for improved sound projection and depth.
• SRT passive pickup system that captures true acoustic tones when amplified.
• Includes hard gig bag for ease of transport and protection.

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Rich, balanced sound due to all-solid construction and A.R.E. treatment.
• Comfortable playability with a traditionally shaped neck.
• Unamplified acoustic sound that remains true to character when plugged in.
• Excellent build quality with attention to detail, expected from Yamaha.

Cons:

• Currently unavailable for immediate purchase.
• Concert size may not be the preference for those seeking the volume of a larger body.

🌟 Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 77 customer reviews.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Owners appreciate the high-quality materials and construction.
• Many commend it for its warm tone and resonance that the A.R.E. treatment provides.
• The comfort of the neck and ease of playability are frequently applauded.

Unfavorable:

• Some players might desire the volume and fullness of a dreadnought or jumbo-size guitar.
• Availability issues have been a concern for potential buyers.

Neutral:

• Neutral feedback centers around the comparison with other models within the same price range and the preference for different body sizes or tonewoods.

👍 Best for:
The Yamaha LS16 is best suited for advanced players who require a high-quality instrument with an expressive sound and easy playability. The concert size is ideal for fingerstyle guitarists and those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. This guitar is also suitable for musicians looking for a reliable acoustic-electric guitar for studio work or live performances.

Gretsch G5021WPE Rancher Penguin Parlor Acoustic-Electric White

🔎 Overview:
The Gretsch G5021WPE Rancher Penguin Parlor Acoustic/Electric Guitar is a richly resonant parlor-sized instrument that delivers classic Penguin style and appointments. It features a solid spruce top with laminated maple back and sides which offer a bright and clear tonal quality. The characteristic gold sparkle neck and body binding and pearloid Neo-Classic “thumbnail” fingerboard inlays give it a luxurious visual appeal. It’s equipped with the Isys III pickup/preamp system, which includes an onboard preamp and tuner, making it equally suited for unplugged or amplified performance.

🎯 Features:

• Solid spruce top paired with maple back and sides for vibrant sound.
• Unique Penguin Parlor body shape offers comfortable playability.
• Isys III preamp system with built-in tuner for easy amplification.
• Elegant aesthetic touches like gold sparkle binding and thumbnail inlays.
• Gloss finish and gold plexi pickguard with black Penguin graphic for eye-catching stage presence.

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Eye-catching design with detailed appointments.
• Parlor size for comfortable playability and easy transport.
• Good electronic system for amplified sound.
• Quality construction with a solid spruce top for excellent sound production.

Cons:

• Parlor size might not be the preference of players seeking a fuller sound of larger guitars.
• Some players may prefer an all-solid wood body over laminated sides and back.

🌟 Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Owners are charmed by the unique look and sound of the guitar.
• The onboard preamp and tuner are appreciated for added convenience.
• The size and comfort are often cited as reasons for the guitar’s popularity.

Unfavorable:

• Some customers may prefer a more traditional look or a larger guitar for a fuller sound.
• A few might note the use of laminate materials as a disadvantage compared to all-solid guitars.

Neutral:

• Others might be attracted to the guitar’s distinctive aesthetics but consider other options for different sound characteristics or price points.

👍 Best for:
The Gretsch G5021WPE Rancher Penguin Parlor Acoustic/Electric Guitar is an excellent choice for players looking for a standout instrument with a strong visual and auditory presence. It’s perfect for those who perform live and want a guitar that looks as good as it sounds. Also, it’s suitable for guitarists who appreciate vintage-inspired design elements and require the convenience of an onboard preamp system.

Budget-Friendly Choices

And for the budget-conscious, there are guitars that sound fantastic and prove that good sound doesn’t always have to come with a high price tag.

Martin X Series LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar Natural

🔎 Overview:
The Martin X Series LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar combines big tone, quality, and versatility in Martin’s smallest guitar form. It features a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany high-pressure laminate (HPL) back, sides, and top, making it durable and resistant to climate changes. This model is perfect for travel, students, or casual play around the house or campfire. It also comes with a gig bag for transportation ease.

🎯 Features:

• Solid Sitka spruce top for clear, quality sound.
• Mahogany HPL back and sides for durability and rich tone.
• Small size is ideal for travel and young students.
• Includes a gig bag for protection and mobility.
• Scale length of 23 inches with a modern low oval neck shape.

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• High-quality sound and construction from a reputable brand.
• Durable and resistant to environmental changes due to HPL material.
• Perfect size for travelers and young learners.
• Comes with a protective gig bag.

Cons:

• Currently unavailable, making immediate purchase impossible.
• Some players may prefer the tone and feel of traditional wooden back and sides.

🌟 Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars based on 59 customer reviews.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Many customers praise its surprisingly rich and full tone despite its small size.
• Its portability and durability make it a favorite among travelers and those with limited space.
• The included gig bag is frequently mentioned as a welcome addition.

Unfavorable:

• Some players might look for a bigger instrument once they progress beyond the beginner or intermediate level.

Neutral:

• A few customers have noted that while the guitar is excellent for its intended purpose, its sound might not fully match that of larger, standard models.

👍 Best for:
The Martin LX1 Little Martin is best suited for beginners, young learners, traveling musicians, or anyone seeking a high-quality, small-sized acoustic guitar that doesn’t compromise on sound. Its construction makes it particularly appealing for those looking for a durable instrument resistant to different climates and conditions.

Yamaha FGX800C Solid Top Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Dreadnought

🔎 Overview:
The Yamaha FGX800C is a dreadnought-style acoustic-electric guitar featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and Nato/Okoume back and sides for a rich and resonant sound. Its cutaway body design offers easy access to higher frets, and it is equipped with a System 66 under-saddle piezo pickup with a 3-band EQ, an adjustable mid-range frequency control, and a precision chromatic tuner built into the guitar for optimum sound tailoring. The FGX800C is crafted with a Rosewood fingerboard & bridge, and die-cast tuners.

🎯 Features:

• Solid Sitka spruce top for rich sound and strong projection.
• System 66 electronics provide versatile tone shaping and built-in tuner.
• Cutaway design for easy upper fret access.
• Yamaha’s newly developed scalloped bracing design for durability and acoustic tone.
• Comes with an adjustable truss rod.
• Classic dreadnought body for powerful, bold acoustic tones.

⚖️ Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• High-quality sound from the solid top construction.
• Versatile plugged-in play with advanced electronics.
• Comfortable access to upper frets due to the cutaway.
• Durable bracing pattern that enhances the guitar’s natural sound.
• Trusted brand with a history of reliable instruments.

Cons:

• Currently unavailable, so immediate purchase is not an option.
• May be too big for some players, particularly those looking for a smaller body guitar.

🌟 Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 238 customer reviews.

💬 Customer’s Verdict:

Favorable:

• Customers appreciate the rich sound quality and the sturdy construction.
• Many find the electronics feature-rich and user-friendly.
• The cutaway body style is often praised for its playability.
• The versatility and affordability of the Yamaha FGX800C make it highly recommended by purchasers.

Unfavorable:

• Would-be buyers are disappointed with its current unavailability.
• Some may prefer a more premium wood for back and sides instead of Nato/Okoume.

Neutral:

• There are people who might be satisfied with the features but are still deciding between models or waiting for it to become available again.

👍 Best for:
The Yamaha FGX800C is best for players looking for a reliable and high-performing acoustic-electric guitar ideal for both home practice and live performance. It is particularly well-suited to guitarists in need of a versatile instrument that can stand up to rigorous playing and frequent gigging.

Understanding Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Acoustic-electric guitars are more than just acoustic guitars with a plug-in feature. What sets them apart is their ability to capture the nuances of acoustic sound and amplify it without the loss of tone that often comes with electric conversions.

Piezo vs. Magnetic Pickups

At the heart of their technology are pickups – Piezo pickups that are often under the saddle of the guitar and capture vibrations directly from the bridge, and magnetic pickups, like those on electric guitars, that sense the strings’ vibrations through a magnetic field.

Built-in Preamps and EQ Systems

Most models come equipped with built-in preamps and customizable EQ systems, allowing guitarists to fine-tune their sound before it even reaches an amplifier – a game-changer for live performances.

The advantages of playing an acoustic-electric guitar are abundant, including the excellence of unplugged acoustic sound with the flexibility of amplified volume and effects when you need them.

Guidelines and Tips for First-Time Use:

• Do: Properly tune the guitar before playing. Experiment with EQ settings on the preamp to find your preferred sound.
• Don’t: Expose the guitar to extreme temperature or humidity changes to avoid damage.

Caring for Your Acoustic-Electric Guitar to Maintain Optimal Sound

To ensure your guitar continues to produce the best sound, regular maintenance is paramount. This includes keeping it clean, changing strings regularly, and having it professionally set up to compensate for the natural wear and changes it undergoes.

• Regular maintenance tips include wiping down your guitar after use, checking for any signs of damage, and ensuring the electronics are functioning correctly.
• Impact of humidity and temperature changes can be profound on wood instruments. Using a humidifier during dry seasons and avoiding extreme temperature fluctuations will preserve the integrity of your guitar’s sound.
• Importance of proper string change and guitar setup cannot be overstated. Correct string gauges and a well-adjusted neck can make all the difference in sound and playability.

Making the Decision: How to Choose Your Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Choosing an acoustic-electric guitar entails a balance between personal preference and objective qualities.

• Assessing personal needs versus guitar features is about knowing what you require from your guitar. Whether it’s for fingerstyle, strumming, or soloing, there’s a model that fits every need.
• Balancing budget with quality is essential. Sometimes spending a bit more can greatly enhance your long-term satisfaction with the guitar’s sound and build.
• Trying before buying: Why it’s essential rings especially true for acoustic-electric guitars. Since so much of its appeal is in the sound, physically playing and hearing the guitar is crucial in your decision-making process.

FAQs

Q: How important is the choice of wood in an acoustic-electric guitar?

A: Very important. The type of wood significantly affects the tonal characteristics of the guitar.

Q: Can I use regular acoustic strings on an acoustic-electric guitar?

A: Yes, acoustic-electric guitars use the same strings as acoustic guitars.

Conclusion

Among the top picks, the Taylor 214ce stands out for its exceptional balance, versatility, and quality, making it an excellent choice for those willing to invest in a higher-quality instrument. The Martin LX1E Little Martin is ideal for musicians seeking portability without compromising on sound, while the Yamaha FGX800C offers great value for beginners. Select the guitar that best fits your budget, preferred size, and sound qualities.