When it comes to acoustic guitars, few can rival the rich, full sound of a 12-string. With its doubled strings, a 12-string guitar produces a shimmering, chorus-like effect that is perfect for strumming chords or fingerpicking melodies. If you’re looking for a 12-string guitar that offers both quality and affordability, then the Eko Ranger 12 String Acoustic Guitar is a great option.
Editor’s Note: Why is the Eko Ranger 12 String Acoustic Guitar worth considering? Well, for starters, it’s made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring that it will last for years to come. Plus, its affordable price tag makes it a great option for budget-minded musicians.
After analyzing dozens of 12-string guitars on the market, we’ve concluded that for the price, the Eko Ranger 12 String Acoustic Guitar is the best value. It offers a combination of quality, affordability, and playability that is unmatched by other guitars in its class.
Key Differences
| Feature | Eko Ranger 12 String Acoustic Guitar | Other 12-String Guitars | |—|—|—| | Body Material | Mahogany | Laminate | | Neck Material | Mahogany | Nato | | Fingerboard Material | Rosewood | Techwood | | Price | $299 | $400-$600 |
Main Article Topics
In this article, we will take a closer look at the Eko Ranger 12 String Acoustic Guitar. We will discuss its features, benefits, and drawbacks. We will also provide sound samples and video demonstrations so that you can hear the guitar for yourself.
By the end of this article, you will have a good understanding of the Eko Ranger 12 String Acoustic Guitar and whether or not it is the right guitar for you.
1. Body
The body of the Eko 12 string guitar is made from mahogany, a type of wood that is known for its rich, warm tone. Mahogany is also a very durable wood, making it a good choice for guitars that are likely to be played often. Mahogany is also a relatively lightweight wood, which makes the Eko 12 string guitar easy to play for long periods of time.
- Tonal Qualities: Mahogany is a tonewood that produces a warm, rich sound with a strong midrange and a clear, articulate top end. This makes it an excellent choice for guitars that are used for a variety of genres, from folk and blues to rock and country.
- Durability: Mahogany is a very durable wood, which makes it a good choice for guitars that are likely to be played often and subjected to a lot of wear and tear. Mahogany is also resistant to rot and decay, making it a good choice for guitars that are stored in humid environments.
- Weight: Mahogany is a relatively lightweight wood, which makes the Eko 12 string guitar easy to play for long periods of time. This is an important consideration for guitarists who play live or who practice for long hours.
- Appearance: Mahogany has a beautiful reddish-brown color with a rich grain pattern. This makes it a visually appealing wood that is sure to turn heads.
Overall, the mahogany body of the Eko 12 string guitar is a major contributing factor to its excellent sound quality, durability, and playability.
2. Neck
The neck of the Eko 12 string guitar is made from mahogany, a type of wood that is known for its strength, durability, and tonal qualities. Mahogany is a hardwood that is native to tropical regions of the world, and it is often used in the construction of high-quality guitars. Mahogany is a dense wood, which gives it a strong and durable neck that is able to withstand the tension of the strings. Mahogany also has a warm, rich tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
- Strength and Durability: Mahogany is a very strong and durable wood, which makes it an excellent choice for the neck of a guitar. The neck is the part of the guitar that is subject to the most tension, and mahogany is able to withstand this tension without warping or bending. This makes mahogany a good choice for guitars that are likely to be played often and subjected to a lot of wear and tear.
- Tonal Qualities: Mahogany is a tonewood that produces a warm, rich sound with a strong midrange and a clear, articulate top end. This makes it an excellent choice for guitars that are used for a variety of genres, from folk and blues to rock and country. Mahogany is also a good choice for guitars that are used for recording, as it produces a well-defined sound that is easy to mix.
- Playability: Mahogany is a relatively smooth wood, which makes it comfortable to play. The neck of the Eko 12 string guitar is also designed with a comfortable C-shape profile, which makes it easy to hold and play for long periods of time.
Overall, the mahogany neck of the Eko 12 string guitar is a major contributing factor to its excellent sound quality, durability, and playability.
3. Fingerboard
The fingerboard of the Eko 12 string guitar is made from rosewood, a type of wood that is known for its beautiful appearance, durability, and tonal qualities. Rosewood is a hardwood that is native to tropical regions of the world, and it is often used in the construction of high-quality guitars. Rosewood is a very dense wood, which gives it a strong and durable fingerboard that is able to withstand the wear and tear of playing. Rosewood also has a warm, rich tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
The fingerboard is an important part of the guitar, as it is the surface on which the strings are pressed to create different notes. The material of the fingerboard can have a significant impact on the sound and playability of the guitar. Rosewood is a popular choice for fingerboards because it provides a good balance of tone, durability, and playability.
The Eko 12 string guitar features a rosewood fingerboard that is 25.5 inches in length and has a radius of 12 inches. This fingerboard is designed to provide a comfortable playing experience, and it is well-suited for a variety of playing styles. The rosewood fingerboard also contributes to the guitar’s warm, rich tone.
Overall, the rosewood fingerboard of the Eko 12 string guitar is a major contributing factor to its excellent sound quality, durability, and playability.
Key Insights
- Rosewood is a durable wood that is well-suited for use as a fingerboard.
- Rosewood has a warm, rich tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
- The Eko 12 string guitar features a rosewood fingerboard that is 25.5 inches in length and has a radius of 12 inches.
- The rosewood fingerboard of the Eko 12 string guitar is a major contributing factor
to its excellent sound quality, durability, and playability.
4. Bridge
The bridge of the Eko 12 string guitar is made from rosewood, a type of wood that is known for its beauty, durability, and tonal qualities. Rosewood is a hardwood that is native to tropical regions of the world, and it is often used in the construction of high-quality guitars. Rosewood is a very dense wood, which gives it a strong and durable bridge that is able to withstand the tension of the strings. Rosewood also has a warm, rich tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles.
- Tonal Qualities: Rosewood is a tonewood that produces a warm, rich sound with a strong midrange and a clear, articulate top end. This makes it an excellent choice for guitars that are used for a variety of genres, from folk and blues to rock and country. Rosewood is also a good choice for guitars that are used for recording, as it produces a well-defined sound that is easy to mix.
- Durability: Rosewood is a very durable wood, which makes it an excellent choice for the bridge of a guitar. The bridge is the part of the guitar that is responsible for transferring the vibrations of the strings to the soundboard, and it is important to have a bridge that is strong and durable enough to withstand the tension of the strings. Rosewood is also resistant to rot and decay, making it a good choice for guitars that are stored in humid environments.
- Appearance: Rosewood is a beautiful wood with a deep reddish-brown color and a rich grain pattern. This makes it a visually appealing wood that is sure to turn heads.
Overall, the rosewood bridge of the Eko 12 string guitar is a major contributing factor to its excellent sound quality, durability, and appearance.
5. Tuners
The tuners on the Eko 12 string guitar are made of chrome, a type of metal that is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Chrome is also a very hard metal, which makes it ideal for use in tuners, as it can withstand the tension of the strings without bending or warping.
- Durability: Chrome is a very durable metal, which makes it an excellent choice for the tuners on a guitar. The tuners are the part of the guitar that is responsible for keeping the strings in tune, and it is important to have tuners that are able to withstand the tension of the strings without bending or warping. Chrome is also resistant to corrosion, which makes it a good choice for guitars that are stored in humid environments.
- Precision: Chrome tuners are also very precise, which makes it easy to tune the guitar accurately. The tuners are designed with a gear ratio that allows for fine adjustments, so you can get the guitar in perfect tune.
- Appearance: Chrome tuners have a classic and elegant look that will complement any guitar. Chrome is a shiny metal that will add a touch of style to your guitar.
Overall, the chrome tuners on the Eko 12 string guitar are a major contributing factor to its excellent sound quality, durability, and appearance.
6. Strings
The D’Addario EXP16 strings are a popular choice for 12-string guitars, and they are the stock strings on the Eko 12 string guitar. These strings are made from a high-carbon steel core that is wrapped with a nickel-plated steel winding. This combination of materials gives the strings a bright and clear tone with a long lifespan. The EXP16 strings are also coated with a thin layer of D’Addario’s proprietary EXP coating, which helps to protect the strings from corrosion and wear. This coating also helps to keep the strings sounding fresh and new for longer.
The D’Addario EXP16 strings are a great choice for the Eko 12 string guitar because they provide a bright and clear tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles. The strings are also durable and long-lasting, which makes them a good value for the price. Here is a table that summarizes the key features of the D’Addario EXP16 strings:
| Feature | Benefit ||—|—|| High-carbon steel core | Bright and clear tone || Nickel-plated steel winding | Long lifespan || EXP coating | Protects strings from corrosion and wear |Overall, the D’Addario EXP16 strings are a great choice for the Eko 12 string guitar. They provide a bright and clear tone, they are durable and long-lasting, and they are a good value for the price.
7. Scale Length
The scale length of a guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. It is an important factor that affects the sound, playability, and string tension of the guitar. The Eko 12 string guitar has a scale length of 25.5 inches, which is a common scale length for 12-string guitars.
- Tonal Qualities
The scale length of a guitar has a significant impact on its tonal qualities. Guitars with longer scale lengths tend to have a brighter and more articulate sound, while guitars with shorter scale lengths tend to have a warmer and mellower sound. The 25.5-inch scale length of the Eko 12 string guitar gives it a well-balanced sound that is both bright and warm.
- Playability
The scale length of a guitar also affects its playability. Guitars with longer scale lengths tend to have a higher string tension, which can make them more difficult to play, especially for beginners. Guitars with shorter scale lengths tend to have a lower string tension, which can make them easier to play. The 25.5-inch scale length of the Eko 12 string guitar is a good compromise between playability and tone.
- String Tension
The scale length of a guitar also affects the string tension. Guitars with longer scale lengths tend to have higher string tension, while guitars with shorter scale lengths tend to have lower string tension. The 25.5-inch scale length of the Eko 12 string guitar gives it a moderate string tension that is comfortable to play for most players.
- Comparison to Other Scale Lengths
The 25.5-inch scale length is a common scale length for 12-string guitars, but there are other scale lengths that are also used. Guitars with shorter scale lengths, such as 24.75 inches, tend to have a warmer and mellower sound and are easier to play. Guitars with longer scale lengths, such as 25.75 inches, tend to have a brighter and more articulate sound and are more difficult to play. Ultimately, the best scale length for a particular player depends on their individual preferences and playing style.
Overall, the 25.5-inch scale length of the Eko 12 string guitar is a good choice for players who want a guitar with a well-balanced sound, good playability, and moderate string tension.
8. Nut Width
The nut width of a guitar is the distance between the inside edges o
f the nut slots. It is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar, as it can affect the playability and comfort of the instrument. The Eko 12 string guitar has a nut width of 1.75 inches, which is a common width for 12-string guitars.
- Playability
The nut width of a guitar can affect the playability of the instrument, especially for fingerstyle players. A wider nut width can make it easier to fingerpick, as there is more space between the strings. This can be especially beneficial for players with large hands. However, a wider nut width can also make it more difficult to play chords, as the strings are further apart.
- Comfort
The nut width of a guitar can also affect the comfort of the instrument. A wider nut width can be more comfortable for players with large hands, as there is more space for their fingers to fit between the strings. However, a wider nut width can also be less comfortable for players with small hands, as they may have to stretch their fingers further to reach the strings.
- String Spacing
The nut width of a guitar affects the spacing of the strings. A wider nut width will result in wider string spacing, which can make it easier to fingerpick and play chords. However, wider string spacing can also make it more difficult to play fast runs and solos.
- Comparison to Other Nut Widths
The 1.75-inch nut width of the Eko 12 string guitar is a common width for 12-string guitars. However, there are other nut widths that are also used. Guitars with narrower nut widths, such as 1.65 inches, can be easier to play for players with small hands. Guitars with wider nut widths, such as 1.85 inches, can be easier to fingerpick and play chords. Ultimately, the best nut width for a particular player depends on their individual preferences and playing style.
Overall, the 1.75-inch nut width of the Eko 12 string guitar is a good choice for players who want a guitar that is comfortable to play, has good string spacing, and is suitable for a variety of playing styles.
9. Weight
The Eko 12 string guitar weighs in at a mere 5 pounds, making it one of the lightest 12-string guitars on the market. This is a significant advantage, especially for players who have to stand for long periods of time or who travel frequently with their guitar.
- Comfort
The lightweight design of the Eko 12 string guitar makes it very comfortable to play, even for extended periods of time. This is especially important for players who suffer from back or shoulder pain.
- Portability
The Eko 12 string guitar is also very portable, making it easy to transport to gigs, rehearsals, and other events. This is a major advantage for players who travel frequently with their guitar.
- Playability
The lightweight design of the Eko 12 string guitar also contributes to its playability. The guitar is well-balanced and easy to handle, making it a great choice for players of all skill levels.
- Comparison to Other Guitars
The Eko 12 string guitar is significantly lighter than many other 12-string guitars on the market. For example, the Fender CD-60SCE 12-String Acoustic Guitar weighs 6 pounds, while the Taylor 355ce 12-String Acoustic Guitar weighs 7 pounds. This makes the Eko 12 string guitar a great choice for players who are looking for a lightweight and portable 12-string guitar.
Overall, the 5-pound weight of the Eko 12 string guitar is a major advantage, making it a comfortable, portable, and playable guitar for players of all skill levels.
10. Finish
The “Natural” finish of the Eko 12 string guitar highlights the beauty of the mahogany body and rosewood fingerboard, showcasing the natural wood grain and color. This finish enhances the guitar’s aesthetic appeal and allows the natural resonance of the wood to shine through, contributing to its warm and rich sound.
Unlike other finishes that may conceal the wood’s natural characteristics, the “Natural” finish preserves the unique of each guitar, making it a one-of-a-kind instrument. The absence of a thick coating also allows the guitar to breathe and age gracefully, developing a beautiful patina over time.
Furthermore, the “Natural” finish is durable and easy to maintain, requiring minimal care to keep it looking its best. Its resistance to scratches and wear ensures that the guitar’s beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
In conclusion, the “Natural” finish of the Eko 12 string guitar not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its sound quality and durability. It showcases the natural beauty of the wood, allowing the guitar to age gracefully while providing a protective layer that ensures its longevity.
11. Price
The “Price: $299” of the Eko 12 string guitar is a significant aspect that warrants exploration due to its impact on the instrument’s accessibility, value proposition, and positioning in the market.
- Affordability and Accessibility
The $299 price point makes the Eko 12 string guitar an affordable option for musicians, especially beginners or those on a budget. By offering a high-quality instrument at an accessible price, Eko expands the reach of 12-string guitars and encourages more people to explore their unique sound.
- Value Proposition
Despite its affordable price, the Eko 12 string guitar delivers exceptional value for money. Its solid construction, quality materials, and impressive sound rival guitars that cost significantly more. This value proposition makes it an attractive choice for musicians seeking a balance between affordability and quality.
- Market Positioning
The $299 price strategically positions the Eko 12 string guitar in the entry-level to mid-range segment of the market. This placement allows Eko to appeal to a wide range of musicians, from beginners to experienced players seeking a second or backup guitar. The competitive price point also makes it an attractive option for those considering upgrading from a lower-priced instrument.
- Comparison to Competitors
When compared to other 12-string guitars in its price range, the Eko 12 string guitar stands out with its combination of quality and affordability. Similar guitars from other brands often come with a higher price tag, making the Eko guitar a compelling choice for value-conscious musicians.
In conclusion, the “Price: $299” of the Eko 12 string guitar is a crucial factor that contributes to its accessibility, value proposition, and market positioning. By offering a high-quality instrument at an affordable price, Eko makes the unique sound of a 12-string guitar available to a broader audience of musicians.
12. Warranty
The “Warranty: 1 year” offered with the Eko 12 string guitar is an important consideration that underscores the manufacturer’s confidence in the inst
rument’s quality and durability. This warranty provides peace of mind to musicians, ensuring that they are protected against unforeseen defects or malfunctions within the first year of ownership.
The 1-year warranty covers various aspects of the guitar, including materials, workmanship, and functionality. If any issues arise during this period that are not caused by misuse or neglect, the manufacturer is responsible for repairing or replacing the defective parts or the entire guitar at no additional cost to the owner. This warranty ensures that musicians can enjoy their Eko 12 string guitar without the worry of unexpected expenses.
Beyond the practical benefits, the “Warranty: 1 year” also serves as an indicator of Eko’s commitment to customer satisfaction. By providing this warranty, Eko demonstrates its belief in the quality of its products and its willingness to stand behind them. This commitment fosters trust between the manufacturer and musicians, contributing to the overall positive perception of the Eko brand.
In conclusion, the “Warranty: 1 year” offered with the Eko 12 string guitar is a valuable feature that provides peace of mind to musicians. It demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the instrument’s quality and durability, while also fostering trust between Eko and its customers.
FAQs about Eko 12 String Guitars
This section addresses common questions and misconceptions surrounding Eko 12 string guitars. The answers are provided in a serious and informative tone, aiming to clarify key aspects of these instruments.
Question 1: What are the key features of Eko 12 string guitars?
Eko 12 string guitars are renowned for their exceptional sound quality, durability, and playability. Crafted from high-quality materials such as mahogany and rosewood, these guitars produce a warm, rich tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical genres. Their sturdy construction ensures longevity, while their comfortable design and 25.5-inch scale length provide a smooth playing experience.
Question 2: Are Eko 12 string guitars suitable for beginners?
Yes, Eko 12 string guitars are an excellent choice for beginners due to their affordability, playability, and versatility. The 1.75-inch nut width offers comfortable string spacing, making it easier for beginners to finger chords and notes. Additionally, the lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended playing sessions.
Question 3: How do Eko 12 string guitars compare to other brands?
Eko 12 string guitars offer exceptional value for money compared to other brands. They combine high-quality materials, skilled craftsmanship, and impressive sound quality at an affordable price point. This makes them an attractive option for musicians on a budget or those seeking a reliable second guitar.
Question 4: What is the warranty coverage for Eko 12 string guitars?
Eko 12 string guitars come with a 1-year warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty provides peace of mind to musicians, ensuring that they are protected against unforeseen issues within the first year of ownership.
Question 5: Where can I purchase Eko 12 string guitars?
Eko 12 string guitars are available at authorized Eko dealers and online retailers. It is recommended to purchase from reputable sources to ensure the authenticity and quality of the instrument.
Question 6: How do I care for my Eko 12 string guitar?
To maintain the longevity and performance of your Eko 12 string guitar, regular care and maintenance are essential. This includes storing the guitar in a temperature-controlled environment, keeping it clean by wiping it down after each use, and restringing it periodically. Additionally, professional setups and adjustments may be necessary to optimize playability and sound quality.
We hope these answers have clarified common questions about Eko 12 string guitars. If you have any further inquiries, please do not hesitate to consult additional resources or contact authorized Eko dealers for more information.
Transition to the next article section: Eko 12 string guitars offer a unique blend of quality, affordability, and versatility, making them an excellent choice for musicians of all levels. Their warm, rich tone, comfortable playability, and durable construction have earned them a reputation among guitar enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, an Eko 12 string guitar is a valuable addition to any musical arsenal.
Tips for Playing Eko 12 String Guitars
Eko 12 string guitars offer a unique and captivating sound, but mastering them requires specific techniques and considerations. Here are some essential tips to help you get the most out of your Eko 12 string guitar:
Tip 1: Use a Lighter Touch
The increased string tension of a 12 string guitar requires a lighter touch when playing. Avoid pressing down too hard on the strings, as this can lead to intonation issues and reduced sustain. Instead, focus on using a gentle touch and relying on the natural resonance of the guitar.
Tip 2: Tune Regularly
Due to the increased string tension, 12 string guitars tend to go out of tune more quickly than 6 string guitars. Make it a habit to tune your guitar regularly, especially before and after playing. This will ensure that your guitar always sounds its best.
Tip 3: Experiment with Different Picking Patterns
The unique sound of a 12 string guitar lends itself well to a variety of picking patterns. Experiment with different techniques, such as fingerpicking, alternate picking, and strumming, to discover the sounds that resonate with your musical style.
Tip 4: Use Capo with Caution
While a capo can be useful for changing the key of a song on a 12 string guitar, it’s important to use it with caution. The increased string tension can put extra strain on the neck, so avoid using a capo for extended periods or on the higher frets.
Tip 5: Maintain Proper Humidity
Eko 12 string guitars, like all acoustic guitars, are susceptible to changes in humidity. Keep your guitar in a climate-controlled environment or use a humidifier to maintain proper humidity levels. This will help prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.
Tip 6: Consider Different String Gauges
The string gauge you choose can significantly impact the playability and tone of your 12 string guitar. Experiment with different gauges to find the set that best suits your playing style and the desired sound. Lighter gauges are easier to play, while heavier gauges provide a fuller, warmer tone.
Tip 7: Practice Regularly
As with any instrument, regular practice is essential to master the Eko 12 string guitar. Dedicate time each day to practice scales, chords, and songs. The more you play, the more comfortable and proficient you will become.
Tip 8: Seek Professional Guidance
If you encounter any challenges or have specific questions about playing your Eko 12 string guitar, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance from a qualified guitar teacher or luthier. They can provide personalized advice and support to help you reach your musical goals.
By following these tips, you can unlock the full potential of your Eko 12 string guitar and enjoy its unique and captivating sound for years to come.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Mastering the Eko 12 string guitar is a rewarding journey that requires dedication and a willingness to experiment. By incorporating these tips into your playing, you can develop yo
ur technique, enhance your musicality, and create unforgettable performances with your Eko 12 string guitar.
Conclusion
Our exploration of Eko 12 string guitars has unveiled their exceptional qualities, making them a compelling choice for musicians of all levels. From their warm, rich tone and comfortable playability to their durable construction and affordable price point, Eko 12 string guitars offer a unique combination that sets them apart.
Whether you’re a seasoned performer seeking a versatile instrument or a beginner embarking on your musical journey, an Eko 12 string guitar is an investment that will provide years of enjoyment and creative fulfillment. Its captivating sound and ease of playability will inspire you to reach new heights in your musical endeavors.
As you continue your musical journey with an Eko 12 string guitar, remember to embrace the tips and techniques discussed in this article. With dedication, practice, and a touch of experimentation, you will unlock the full potential of this extraordinary instrument and create music that resonates with your soul and captivates your audience.
