Imagine an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric. It’s a dream come true for many guitarists, and it’s now a reality thanks to advances in guitar design and technology.
Editor’s Note:Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a hot topic right now. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you learn more about them and make the right decision for your needs.
We’ve done the research, dug through the information, and played a lot of guitars to put together this guide. We’ll cover everything you need to know about acoustic guitars that play like electrics, including the key differences between them and traditional acoustic guitars, the pros and cons of each type, and our top picks for the best acoustic guitars that play like electrics.
Key Differences Between Acoustic Guitars and Electric Guitars
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar | Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Hollow or semi-hollow | Solid |
| Strings | Steel or nylon | Steel |
| Pickups | No | Yes |
| Amplification | Natural | Electric |
| Sound | Warm, resonant | Bright, clear |
Pros and Cons of Acoustic Guitars That Play Like Electrics
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can be played like an electric guitar | May not have the same warm, resonant sound as a traditional acoustic guitar |
| Can be amplified to produce a louder sound | May be more expensive than a traditional acoustic guitar |
| Versatile – used for a variety of genres of music | May not be as comfortable to play as a traditional acoustic guitar |
Our Top Picks for the Best Acoustic Guitars That Play Like Electrics
1. Body
The body of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is one of the most important factors that contributes to its playability. A smaller body makes the guitar more comfortable to hold and play, especially for players with smaller hands. A cutaway allows for easier access to the higher frets, making it easier to play lead guitar and complex chords.
There are many different body shapes and sizes available for acoustic guitars that play like electrics. Some of the most popular shapes include the dreadnought, the grand auditorium, and the jumbo. The dreadnought is a large, full-bodied guitar that produces a powerful sound. The grand auditorium is a smaller, more balanced guitar that is ideal for fingerpicking and strumming. The jumbo is a large, deep-bodied guitar that produces a rich, resonant sound.
The type of wood used for the body of the guitar also affects its sound and playability. Mahogany is a popular choice for acoustic guitars because it produces a warm, rich sound. Rosewood is another popular choice, as it produces a brighter, more articulate sound. Spruce is a lightweight wood that produces a bright, clear sound. Cedar is awood that produces a warm, mellow sound.
The body of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. The size, shape, and wood type all affect the sound and playability of the guitar. By choosing the right body for your needs, you can find an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric and sounds great.
| Body Shape | Size | Sound | Playability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dreadnought | Large | Powerful | Less comfortable for players with smaller hands |
| Grand Auditorium | Smaller | Balanced | Ideal for fingerpicking and strumming |
| Jumbo | Large | Rich, resonant | Less comfortable for players with smaller hands |
2. Strings
The strings of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric are one of the most important factors that contribute to its sound and playability. Steel strings produce a brighter sound than nylon strings, and they are also easier to bend and play. This makes them ideal for guitarists who want to play lead guitar or complex chords.
The scale length of a guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A shorter scale length makes the strings easier to bend and play, which is ideal for guitarists with smaller hands or who want to play faster solos.
The combination of steel strings and a shorter scale length gives acoustic guitars that play like electrics a unique sound and playability that is ideal for a variety of genres of music.
| String Material | Sound | Playability |
|---|---|---|
| Steel | Brighter | Easier to bend and play |
| Nylon | Warmer | More difficult to bend and play |
When choosing an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric, it is important to consider the type of strings that you want to use. Steel strings are ideal for guitarists who want a brighter sound and easier playability, while nylon strings are ideal for guitarists who want a warmer sound and more traditional feel.
3. Pickups
Acoustic guitars that play like electrics have pickups installed, which allow them to be amplified. This is a key feature that distinguishes them from traditional acoustic guitars, which rely on the natural resonance of the body to produce sound. The pickups on acoustic guitars that play like electrics convert the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal, which can then be amplified and played through a speaker or headphones.
The ability to be amplified makes acoustic guitars that play like electrics ideal for playing in a band or for recording. They can be used to create a wide range of sounds, from clean and pristine to overdriven and distorted. This versatility makes them a popular choice for guitarists who want to play a variety of genres of music.
Here are some of the benefits of having pickups on an acoustic guitar:
- Can be played at a louder volume, making them ideal for playing in a band or for recording.
- Can be used
to create a wider range of sounds, from clean and pristine to overdriven and distorted. - Can be used with effects pedals and other outboard gear to create a unique sound.
If you are looking for an acoustic guitar that can be played like an electric, then it is important to choose a model that has pickups installed. This will give you the flexibility to play in a variety of settings and to create a wide range of sounds.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Pickups | Can be played at a louder volume, making them ideal for playing in a band or for recording. |
| Pickups | Can be used to create a wider range of sounds, from clean and pristine to overdriven and distorted. |
| Pickups | Can be used with effects pedals and other outboard gear to create a unique sound. |
Overall, the pickups on acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a key feature that gives them a unique sound and versatility. If you are looking for an acoustic guitar that can be played in a variety of settings and that can create a wide range of sounds, then a model with pickups is a good choice.
4. Amplification
Acoustic guitars that play like electrics have a unique advantage over traditional acoustic guitars: they can be amplified to produce a louder sound. This makes them ideal for playing in a band or for recording, as they can be heard more easily over other instruments and vocals.
- Increased volume: The ability to amplify the sound of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric allows it to be heard more easily in a band setting or when recording. This is especially important for guitarists who play in loud bands or who want to be able to cut through a mix.
- Greater versatility: Amplification also gives acoustic guitars that play like electrics greater versatility. They can be used to create a wider range of sounds, from clean and pristine to overdriven and distorted. This makes them suitable for a variety of genres of music, from rock and blues to jazz and country.
- Improved playability: Amplification can also improve the playability of acoustic guitars that play like electrics. By reducing the need to strum hard to be heard, amplification can make it easier to play complex chords and fingerpicking patterns.
- Enhanced creativity: The ability to amplify the sound of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric opens up new creative possibilities for guitarists. They can use effects pedals and other outboard gear to create a unique sound that would not be possible with a traditional acoustic guitar.
Overall, the ability to be amplified is one of the key advantages of acoustic guitars that play like electrics. It makes them more versatile, playable, and creative instruments that are ideal for a variety of genres of music.
5. Sound
The sound of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is one of its most important features. It is what distinguishes it from a traditional acoustic guitar and makes it a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
The brighter sound of acoustic guitars that play like electrics is due to the use of steel strings and a shorter scale length. Steel strings produce a brighter sound than nylon strings, and a shorter scale length makes the strings easier to bend and play. This combination of factors gives acoustic guitars that play like electrics a sound that is both bright and clear.
However, acoustic guitars that play like electrics still retain some of the warmth and resonance of an acoustic guitar. This is due to the fact that they still have a soundboard made of wood. The soundboard is what gives acoustic guitars their characteristic warm sound. The combination of a bright sound and a warm sound makes acoustic guitars that play like electrics a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
Here is a table that compares the sound of acoustic guitars that play like electrics to the sound of traditional acoustic guitars:
| Acoustic guitars that play like electrics | Traditional acoustic guitars | |
|---|---|---|
| Sound | Brighter | Warmer |
| Resonance | Less resonant | More resonant |
| Versatility | More versatile | Less versatile |
Overall, the sound of acoustic guitars that play like electrics is a unique blend of brightness and warmth. This makes them a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
6. Versatility
Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are versatile instruments that can be used for a variety of genres of music. This is due to their unique combination of features, which include a brighter sound than traditional acoustic guitars, a shorter scale length that makes them easier to play, and the ability to be amplified. This makes them ideal for guitarists who want the best of both worlds: the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the playability and versatility of an electric guitar.
- Genres of music: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics can be used for a wide variety of genres of music, from rock and blues to jazz and country. This is due to their versatile sound, which can be both bright and warm. They are also well-suited for fingerpicking and strumming, making them a good choice for a variety of playing styles.
- Guitarists who want the best of both worlds: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are ideal for guitarists who want the best of both worlds. They offer the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the playability and versatility of an electric guitar. This makes them a good choice for guitarists who want to play a variety of genres of music, or who want to be able to switch between acoustic and electric guitar sounds without having to change guitars.
Overall, the versatility of acoustic guitars that play like electrics makes them a good choice for a wide range of guitarists. They are a good choice for beginners who are still learning to play, as well as for experienced guitarists who want a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
7. Playability
The playability of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is one of its key advantages. With a lighter touch and faster action, these guitars are easier to play than traditional acoustic guitars, making them ideal for beginners and for guitarists with smaller hands.
- Lighter touch: The lighter touch required to play an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric makes it easier for beginners to learn to play. They do not have to press down on the strings as hard, which
can be tiring and painful for beginners. This can also be beneficial for guitarists with smaller hands, as they may have difficulty reaching the strings on a traditional acoustic guitar. - Faster action: The faster action of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric makes it easier to play fast passages and complex chords. The strings are closer to the fretboard, which means that the guitarist does not have to move their fingers as far to fret the strings. This can be a major advantage for guitarists who play lead guitar or who want to play faster solos.
Overall, the playability of acoustic guitars that play like electrics makes them a good choice for a wide range of guitarists. They are ideal for beginners who are still learning to play, as well as for experienced guitarists who want a guitar that is easy to play and versatile.
8. Cost
The cost of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing one of these guitars. These guitars are typically more expensive than traditional acoustic guitars, but they offer a unique combination of features that make them worth the investment for many guitarists.
One of the main reasons why acoustic guitars that play like electrics are more expensive is because they are more difficult to build. The body of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is typically smaller and thinner than the body of a traditional acoustic guitar, which requires more precision and craftsmanship to build. Additionally, the electronics that are installed in these guitars, such as the pickups and preamp, can also add to the cost.
However, the higher cost of acoustic guitars that play like electrics is justified by the unique combination of features that they offer. These guitars are more versatile than traditional acoustic guitars, as they can be used to play a wider range of genres of music. They are also easier to play, with a lighter touch and faster action. Additionally, the ability to be amplified makes these guitars ideal for playing in a band or for recording.
Overall, the cost of an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is an important factor to consider when purchasing one of these guitars. However, the unique combination of features that these guitars offer makes them worth the investment for many guitarists.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between acoustic guitars that play like electrics and traditional acoustic guitars:
| Feature | Acoustic guitars that play like electrics | Traditional acoustic guitars |
|---|---|---|
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Body | Smaller and thinner | Larger and thicker |
| Electronics | Pickups and preamp | No electronics |
| Versatility | More versatile | Less versatile |
| Playability | Easier to play | More difficult to play |
| Amplification | Can be amplified | Cannot be amplified |
9. Brands
The popularity of these brands is due to their long history of producing high-quality guitars, as well as their innovative designs and features. Taylor is known for its use of cutting-edge technology and materials, while Fender is known for its classic designs and iconic sound. Gibson is known for its solid body electric guitars, but they also produce a line of acoustic guitars that play like electrics.
- Taylor: Taylor is one of the most popular brands of acoustic guitars in the world. They are known for their use of innovative materials and construction techniques, which results in guitars that are both lightweight and durable. Taylor also offers a wide range of models to choose from, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs and budget.
- Fender: Fender is another iconic guitar brand. They are best known for their electric guitars, but they also produce a line of acoustic guitars that play like electrics. Fender acoustic guitars are known for their classic designs and great sound. They are also relatively affordable, making them a good choice for beginners and budget-minded guitarists.
- Gibson: Gibson is one of the oldest and most respected guitar brands in the world. They are best known for their solid body electric guitars, but they also produce a line of acoustic guitars that play like electrics. Gibson acoustic guitars are known for their high quality and craftsmanship. They are also more expensive than Taylor and Fender guitars, but they are worth the investment if you are looking for a top-of-the-line acoustic guitar.
Ultimately, the best acoustic guitar that plays like an electric for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, the brands listed above are a great place to start your search. By choosing a guitar from one of these brands, you can be sure that you are getting a high-quality instrument that will provide you with years of enjoyment.
10. Models
The models listed above are some of the most popular acoustic guitars that play like electrics on the market. They are all made by reputable brands and offer a variety of features that make them ideal for different playing styles and genres of music.
The Taylor T5z is a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres of music, from rock to jazz to country. It features a unique body shape that is designed to be comfortable to play while standing or sitting. The Fender Acoustasonic Telecaster is a great choice for guitarists who want the classic Telecaster sound with the added versatility of an acoustic guitar. The Gibson ES-335 is a semi-hollow body guitar that is known for its warm, resonant sound. It is a popular choice for jazz and blues guitarists.
Ultimately, the best acoustic guitar that plays like an electric for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, the models listed above are a great place to start your search. By choosing a guitar from one of these brands, you can be sure that you are getting a high-quality instrument that will provide you with years of enjoyment.
Here is a table that summarizes the key features of the three models listed above:
| Taylor T5z | Fender Acoustasonic Telecaster | Gibson ES-335 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body shape | Unique body shape designed to be comfortable to play while standing or sitting | Classic Telecaster body shape | Semi-hollow body |
| Sound | Versatile sound that can be used for a variety of genres of music | Classic Telecaster sound with the added versatility of an acoustic guitar | Warm, resonant sound |
| Price | $2,499 | $1,999 | $2,999 |
11. Reviews
Reviews of acoustic guitars that play like electrics are overwhelmingly positive. Guitarists of all levels praise these guitars for their versatility, playability, and sound. They are seen as a great option for guitarists who want the best of both worlds: the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the playability and versatility of an electric guitar.
- Versatility: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are praised for their versatility. They can be used for a variety of genres of music, from rock to jazz to country. They are also well-suited for both fingerpicking and strumming, making them a good choice for a variety of playing styles.
- Playability: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are also praised for their playability. They have a lighter touch and faster action than traditional acoustic guitars, making them easier to play. This is especially beneficial for beginners and for guitarists with smaller hands.
- Sound: The sound of acoustic guitars that play like electrics is another major selling point. They have a brighter sound than traditional acoustic guitars, but they still retain some of the warmth and resonance of an acoustic guitar. This makes them a good choice for guitarists who want a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
Overall, the positive reviews of acoustic guitars that play like electrics are well-deserved. These guitars offer a unique combination of features that make them a good choice for a wide range of guitarists. They are a great option for guitarists who want the best of both worlds: the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the playability and versatility of an electric guitar.
12. Conclusion
In conclusion, acoustic guitars that play like electrics offer a unique combination of features that make them a great choice for guitarists who want the best of both worlds. They have the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the playability and versatility of an electric guitar. This makes them ideal for a variety of genres of music, from rock to jazz to country. They are also a good choice for beginners and for guitarists with smaller hands, as they are easier to play than traditional acoustic guitars.
- Versatility: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are versatile instruments that can be used for a variety of genres of music. They are well-suited for both fingerpicking and strumming, making them a good choice for a variety of playing styles.
- Playability: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are easier to play than traditional acoustic guitars, with a lighter touch and faster action. This is especially beneficial for beginners and for guitarists with smaller hands.
- Sound: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics have a brighter sound than traditional acoustic guitars, but they still retain some of the warmth and resonance of an acoustic guitar. This makes them a good choice for guitarists who want a versatile guitar that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
- Cost: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are typically more expensive than traditional acoustic guitars. However, they offer a unique combination of features that make them worth the investment for many guitarists.
Overall, acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile, playable, and great-sounding guitar. They are a good option for a variety of genres of music and playing styles, and they are also a good choice for beginners and for guitarists with smaller hands.
FAQs about Acoustic Guitars That Play Like Electrics
Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a unique and versatile type of guitar that offer the best of both worlds. They have the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the playability and versatility of an electric guitar. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
Question 1: What are the benefits of acoustic guitars that play like electrics?
Answer: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics offer a number of benefits, including:
- Versatility: They can be used for a variety of genres of music, from rock to jazz to country.
- Playability: They are easier to play than traditional acoustic guitars, with a lighter touch and faster action.
- Sound: They have a brighter sound than traditional acoustic guitars, but they still retain some of the warmth and resonance of an acoustic guitar.
Question 2: What are the drawbacks of acoustic guitars that play like electrics?
Answer: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics can be more expensive than traditional acoustic guitars, and they may not have the same warm, resonant sound as a traditional acoustic guitar.
Question 3: What are some of the best acoustic guitars that play like electrics?
Answer: Some of the best acoustic guitars that play like electrics include the Taylor T5z, the Fender Acoustasonic Telecaster, and the Gibson ES-335.
Question 4: How do I choose the right acoustic guitar that plays like an electric?
Answer: When choosing an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric, it is important to consider your playing style, the genres of music you play, and your budget. You should also try out different models to find the one that is most comfortable for you to play.
Question 5: What are some tips for playing an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric?
Answer: Here are a few tips for playing an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric:
- Use a lighter touch when playing.
- Use a faster picking or strumming motion.
- Experiment with different pickup settings to find the sound that you want.
Question 6: What are some of the most popular uses for acoustic guitars that play like electrics?
Answer: Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are popular for a variety of uses, including:
- Playing in a band or orchestra.
- Recording in the studio.
- Practicing at home.
Overall, acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile and playable guitar. They offer a unique combination of features that make them ideal for a variety of genres of music.
Transition to the next article section: Learn more about the different types of acoustic guitars that play like electrics and how to choose the right one for you.
Tips for Playing an Acoustic Guitar That Plays Like an Electric
Acoustic guitars that play like electrics offer a unique combination of features that make them a great choice for a variety of guitarists. However, there are a few things that you can do to make sure that you are getting the most out of your guitar.
- Use a lighter touch when playing. Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are designed to be played with a lighter touch than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because the strings are closer to the fretboard, which makes it easier to fret the notes. If you use too heavy of a touch, you
will find that the notes will sound muddy and indistinct. - Use a faster picking or strumming motion. The faster picking or strumming motion will help to create a brighter sound. This is because the strings will not have as much time to vibrate, which will result in a more percussive sound.
- Experiment with different pickup settings to find the sound that you want. Many acoustic guitars that play like electrics come with a variety of pickup settings. These settings can be used to adjust the sound of the guitar, so experiment with them until you find the sound that you like best.
- Use a DI box when playing live. A DI box, or direct injection box, is an electronic device that converts the high-impedance signal from your guitar to a low-impedance signal that can be sent to a PA system or recording console. Using a DI box will help to improve the sound of your guitar and reduce the risk of feedback.
- Practice regularly. The best way to get better at playing an acoustic guitar that plays like an electric is to practice regularly. This will help you to develop the muscle memory and coordination that you need to play the guitar well.
By following these tips, you can get the most out of your acoustic guitar that plays like an electric. These guitars are a great choice for a variety of genres of music, and they can be a lot of fun to play.
Key Takeaways:
- Use a lighter touch when playing.
- Use a faster picking or strumming motion.
- Experiment with different pickup settings to find the sound that you want.
- Use a DI box when playing live.
- Practice regularly.
Conclusion:
Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile and playable guitar. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your guitar and make great music.
Conclusion
Acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a unique and versatile type of guitar that offer the best of both worlds. They have the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the playability and versatility of an electric guitar. This makes them a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres of music.
In this article, we have explored the key features of acoustic guitars that play like electrics, including their body shape, strings, pickups, amplification, sound, versatility, playability, cost, brands, models, reviews, and tips for playing. We have also provided a table that summarizes the key differences between acoustic guitars that play like electrics and traditional acoustic guitars.
Overall, acoustic guitars that play like electrics are a great choice for guitarists who want a versatile and playable guitar. They offer a unique combination of features that make them ideal for a variety of genres of music and playing styles.
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