What is the best affordable acoustic electric guitar? With so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you and put together this guide to the best affordable acoustic electric guitars.
Editor’s Note: We spent hours researching and testing different models to find the best acoustic electric guitars for the money. We considered factors such as sound quality, playability, and features. We also read reviews from other guitarists to get their insights.
We know that finding the right acoustic electric guitar can be a daunting task. But with our guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect guitar for your needs and budget.
| Feature | Best Affordable Acoustic Electric Guitar |
|---|---|
| Sound quality | Yamaha FG800 |
| Playability | Fender CD-60SCE |
| Features | Epiphone DR-100 |
Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a look at some of the best affordable acoustic electric guitars on the market.
1. Body Type
The body type of an acoustic electric guitar plays a major role in its sound and playability. The three most common body types are dreadnought, concert, and grand auditorium.
- Dreadnought guitars are the largest and loudest of the three body types. They have a powerful, booming sound that is well-suited for strumming and flatpicking. Dreadnought guitars are also popular for bluegrass and country music.
- Concert guitars are smaller than dreadnought guitars and have a more balanced sound. They are well-suited for fingerpicking and delicate strumming. Concert guitars are also popular for classical and flamenco music.
- Grand auditorium guitars are a hybrid of dreadnought and concert guitars. They have a slightly larger body than concert guitars, but a narrower waist than dreadnought guitars. Grand auditorium guitars have a versatile sound that is well-suited for a variety of playing styles.
When choosing the best body type for your acoustic electric guitar, consider the type of music you play and your playing style. If you play a lot of strumming and flatpicking, a dreadnought guitar is a good choice. If you prefer fingerpicking and delicate strumming, a concert guitar is a better option. And if you want a versatile guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles, a grand auditorium guitar is a good choice.
2. Tonewoods
The tonewoods used in the construction of an acoustic electric guitar play a major role in its sound and playability. The three most common tonewoods used for acoustic guitars are spruce, mahogany, and rosewood.
- Spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. It is often used for the soundboard of acoustic guitars because it produces a strong, resonant tone. Spruce is also a relatively affordable wood, which makes it a good choice for budget-friendly acoustic electric guitars.
- Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, rich sound. It is often used for the back and sides of acoustic guitars because it produces a deep, full tone. Mahogany is also a durable wood, which makes it a good choice for guitars that will be played a lot.
- Rosewood is a dense wood with a dark, resonant sound. It is often used for the fingerboard and bridge of acoustic guitars because it produces a clear, articulate tone. Rosewood is also a beautiful wood, which makes it a good choice for guitars that will be seen as well as heard.
When choosing the best tonewoods for your acoustic electric guitar, consider the type of music you play and your playing style. If you play a lot of strumming and flatpicking, spruce is a good choice for the soundboard. If you prefer fingerpicking and delicate strumming, mahogany or rosewood is a better option for the soundboard. And if you want a guitar with a warm, rich sound, mahogany is a good choice for the back and sides. Rosewood is a good choice for the fingerboard and bridge if you want a guitar with a clear, articulate tone.
3. Electronics
The type of electronics used in an acoustic electric guitar plays a major role in its sound and playability. The three most common types of electronics used in acoustic electric guitars are piezo pickups, magnetic pickups, and a combination of both.
- Piezo pickups are mounted under the bridge of the guitar and sense the vibrations of the strings. They produce a bright, clear sound that is well-suited for strumming and flatpicking. Piezo pickups are also relatively affordable, which makes them a good choice for budget-friendly acoustic electric guitars.
- Magnetic pickups are mounted near the strings of the guitar and sense the magnetic field created by the strings. They produce a warm, rich sound that is well-suited for fingerpicking and delicate strumming. Magnetic pickups are also more sensitive to feedback than piezo pickups, so they are not as well-suited for loud playing.
- A combination of piezo and magnetic pickups gives you the best of both worlds. You get the bright, clear sound of a piezo pickup and the warm, rich sound of a magnetic pickup. This type of pickup system is more expensive than a single-pickup system, but it offers the most versatility.
When choosing the best electronics for your acoustic electric guitar, consider the type of music you play and your playing style. If you play a lot of strumming and flatpicking, a piezo pickup is a good choice. If you prefer fingerpicking and delicate strumming, a magnetic pickup is a better option. And if you want a guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles, a combination of piezo and magnetic pickups is the best choice.
4. Cutaway
A cutaway is a notch in the body of an acoustic electric guitar that allows the player to reach the higher frets more easily. Cutaways are typically found on electric guitars, but they are becoming increasingly common on acoustic guitars as well. There are two main types of cutaways: single cutaways and double cutaways.
Single cutaways are the most common type of cutaway. They are found on the bass side of the guitar and allow the player to reach the frets up to the 12th fret easily. Double cutaways are less common, but they allow
the player to reach the frets up to the 15th fret easily. This makes them a good choice for guitarists who play a lot of lead guitar or who use a lot of extended chords.
Whether you choose a single cutaway or a double cutaway is a matter of personal preference. However, if you are looking for an acoustic electric guitar that is easy to play, a cutaway is a good option.
| Type of cutaway | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Single cutaway | – Allows the player to reach the frets up to the 12th fret easily. – Less expensive than a double cutaway. | – Not as versatile as a double cutaway. |
| Double cutaway | – Allows the player to reach the frets up to the 15th fret easily. – More versatile than a single cutaway. | – More expensive than a single cutaway. |
5. Fretboard
The fretboard is one of the most important parts of an acoustic electric guitar. It is the surface that the player’s fingers press down on to fret the strings. The fretboard is also responsible for the guitar’s intonation, or how well the guitar stays in tune. The type of wood used for the fretboard can affect the sound, feel, and playability of the guitar.
- Rosewood is a dense, hardwood that is often used for fretboards. It produces a warm, rich sound and is known for its durability. Rosewood is also a beautiful wood, which makes it a popular choice for guitars that are meant to be seen as well as heard.
- Ebony is another dense, hardwood that is often used for fretboards. It produces a brighter, more articulate sound than rosewood. Ebony is also a very durable wood, which makes it a good choice for guitars that will be played a lot. Ebony is also very dark in color, but its color will fade over time.
- Maple is a lighter wood that is often used for fretboards. It produces a bright, clear sound and is known for its fast playability. Maple is also a very durable wood, which makes it a good choice for guitars that will be played a lot. Maple is also very light in color, which makes it a good choice for guitars that are meant to be seen as well as heard.
When choosing the best type of wood for the fretboard of your acoustic electric guitar, consider the type of music you play and your playing style. If you play a lot of strumming and flatpicking, rosewood is a good choice. If you prefer fingerpicking and delicate strumming, ebony is a better option. And if you want a guitar with a bright, clear sound and fast playability, maple is a good choice.
6. Nut width
The nut width of an acoustic electric guitar is the distance between the two innermost strings at the nut. It is typically measured in inches or millimeters. The nut width of a guitar can affect the playability and feel of the guitar, especially for fingerstyle guitarists.
- 1.69 inches is the more common nut width for acoustic guitars. It is a good choice for players with smaller hands or who prefer a narrower string spacing.
- 1.75 inches is a wider nut width that is often found on classical guitars and some steel-string acoustic guitars. It provides more space between the strings, which can make it easier to play fingerstyle guitar or chords that require a wider stretch.
Ultimately, the best nut width for you is a matter of personal preference. If you are unsure of what nut width is right for you, it is a good idea to try out a few different guitars with different nut widths before making a decision.
7. Scale length
The scale length of an acoustic electric guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. It is typically measured in inches or millimeters. The scale length of a guitar can affect the playability, sound, and feel of the guitar.
A shorter scale length, such as 24.75 inches, makes the guitar easier to play for players with smaller hands or who prefer a lighter touch. It also produces a warmer, mellower sound. A longer scale length, such as 25.5 inches, provides more tension on the strings, which results in a brighter, more articulate sound. It also makes the guitar more difficult to play for players with smaller hands.
Ultimately, the best scale length for you is a matter of personal preference. If you are unsure of what scale length is right for you, it is a good idea to try out a few different guitars with different scale lengths before making a decision.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between 24.75-inch and 25.5-inch scale lengths:
| Scale length | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| 24.75 inches | Easier to play for players with smaller hands | Produces a warmer, mellower sound |
| 25.5 inches | Provides more tension on the strings | Produces a brighter, more articulate sound |
8. Price
When it comes to finding the best affordable acoustic electric guitar, price is a major factor to consider. After all, you want to find a guitar that fits your budget without sacrificing quality. The good news is that there are many great acoustic electric guitars available for under $500.
In this price range, you can find guitars from reputable brands like Yamaha, Fender, and Epiphone. These guitars offer a variety of features and styles to choose from, so you can find one that suits your needs and preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a guitar with a warm, mellow sound, you might want to consider a guitar with a spruce top. If you’re looking for a guitar with a brighter, more articulate sound, you might want to consider a guitar with a mahogany top.
No matter what your needs or preferences, you’re sure to find a great acoustic electric guitar for under $500. So take your time, do your research, and find the perfect guitar for you.
Here is a table that compares the prices of some of the best affordable acoustic electric guitars on the market:
| Guitar | Price |
|---|---|
| Yamaha FG800 | $299 |
| Fender CD-60SCE | $349 |
| Epiphone DR-100 | $399 |
9. Brand
When it comes to choosing the best affordable acoustic electric guitar, brand is an important factor to consider. After all, you want to find a guitar that is well-made and will last for years to come. Fortunately, there are many reputable brands that make great acoustic electric guitars for under $500.
- Yamaha is one of the most popular brands of acousti
c guitars in the world. They are known for making guitars that are well-made, affordable, and sound great. Yamaha acoustic electric guitars are a great choice for beginners and experienced players alike. - Fender is another popular brand of acoustic guitars. They are known for making guitars that are stylish, innovative, and fun to play. Fender acoustic electric guitars are a great choice for players who want a guitar that looks and sounds great.
- Epiphone is a subsidiary of Gibson Guitar Corporation. They are known for making guitars that are affordable and sound great. Epiphone acoustic electric guitars are a great choice for players who want a guitar that is well-made and won’t break the bank.
- Taylor is a leading manufacturer of high-quality acoustic guitars. They are known for making guitars that are beautiful, sound great, and are built to last. Taylor acoustic electric guitars are a great choice for players who want the best of the best.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right brand of acoustic electric guitar for you is to try out a few different models and see which one feels and sounds the best. But if you’re looking for a great guitar from a reputable brand, you can’t go wrong with Yamaha, Fender, Epiphone, or Taylor.
10. Reviews
Reviews from other guitarists can be a valuable resource when choosing the best affordable acoustic electric guitar. They can provide you with insights into the guitar’s sound, playability, and overall quality. Here are a few things to keep in mind when reading reviews:
- Read reviews from a variety of sources. This will give you a more well-rounded view of the guitar.
- Pay attention to the reviewer’s experience level. A review from a beginner guitarist may not be as helpful as a review from an experienced guitarist.
- Take the reviewer’s biases into account. Some reviewers may be more likely to give positive reviews to guitars from certain brands or stores.
Overall, reviews from other guitarists can be a helpful resource when choosing the best affordable acoustic electric guitar. Just be sure to read them critically and take the reviewer’s biases into account.
11. Warranty
A warranty is an important consideration when purchasing any product, and acoustic electric guitars are no exception. A warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that you can return the guitar for repair or replacement if it develops a defect. Most affordable acoustic electric guitars come with a one-year warranty, which is typically sufficient for most players. However, if you are planning on using your guitar heavily or if you are purchasing a guitar from a less reputable brand, you may want to consider purchasing a guitar with a longer warranty.
There are several benefits to purchasing an acoustic electric guitar with a warranty. First, a warranty can protect you from financial loss if the guitar develops a defect. Second, a warranty can give you peace of mind, knowing that you can return the guitar for repair or replacement if necessary. Third, a warranty can help you to build a relationship with the guitar store or manufacturer, which can be helpful if you have any questions or concerns about the guitar in the future.
Of course, there are also some challenges to consider when purchasing an acoustic electric guitar with a warranty. First, warranties can vary in terms of coverage and duration. It is important to read the warranty carefully before you purchase the guitar so that you understand what is and is not covered. Second, warranties can sometimes be difficult to enforce. If you have a problem with your guitar, you may need to go through a lengthy process to get it repaired or replaced. Finally, warranties can sometimes be voided if the guitar is damaged due to misuse or neglect.
Overall, the benefits of purchasing an acoustic electric guitar with a warranty outweigh the challenges. A warranty can protect you from financial loss, give you peace of mind, and help you to build a relationship with the guitar store or manufacturer. If you are planning on purchasing an acoustic electric guitar, be sure to consider the importance of a warranty.
Here is a table that summarizes the key benefits and challenges of purchasing an acoustic electric guitar with a warranty:
| Benefits | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Protection from financial loss | Warranties can vary in terms of coverage and duration. |
| Peace of mind | Warranties can sometimes be difficult to enforce. |
| Helps to build a relationship with the guitar store or manufacturer | Warranties can sometimes be voided if the guitar is damaged due to misuse or neglect. |
FAQs about Best Affordable Acoustic Electric Guitars
If you’re in the market for an affordable acoustic electric guitar, you may have some questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about affordable acoustic electric guitars:
Question 1: What are the best affordable acoustic electric guitars?
Answer: There are many great affordable acoustic electric guitars on the market. Some of the best options include the Yamaha FG800, the Fender CD-60SCE, and the Epiphone DR-100.
Question 2: What should I look for when choosing an affordable acoustic electric guitar?
Answer: When choosing an affordable acoustic electric guitar, you should consider the following factors: body type, tonewoods, electronics, cutaway, fretboard, nut width, scale length, price, brand, reviews, and warranty.
Question 3: What are the benefits of buying an affordable acoustic electric guitar?
Answer: There are many benefits to buying an affordable acoustic electric guitar, including: affordability, versatility, portability, and durability.
Question 4: What are the challenges of buying an affordable acoustic electric guitar?
Answer: There are some challenges to buying an affordable acoustic electric guitar, including: limited selection, lower quality materials, and shorter warranties.
Question 5: What are the best brands of affordable acoustic electric guitars?
Answer: Some of the best brands of affordable acoustic electric guitars include Yamaha, Fender, Epiphone, and Taylor.
Question 6: Where can I buy an affordable acoustic electric guitar?
Answer: You can buy an affordable acoustic electric guitar from a variety of online and offline retailers. Some of the best places to buy an affordable acoustic electric guitar include Guitar Center, Sam Ash Music, and Amazon.
We hope this FAQ has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Happy shopping!
Tips for Choosing the Best Affordable Acoustic Electric Guitar
If you are looking for an affordable acoustic electric guitar, there are a few things you should keep in mind to get the best value for your money.
Tip 1: Determine your needs and budget
Before y
ou start shopping, take some time to think about what you need in an acoustic electric guitar. What style of music do you play? What features are important to you? And how much money are you willing to spend?
Tip 2: Research different brands and models
Once you know what you need, start researching different brands and models of acoustic electric guitars. Read reviews, compare prices, and talk to other guitarists to get their opinions.
Tip 3: Play as many guitars as you can
The best way to find the right acoustic electric guitar for you is to play as many different models as you can. This will help you get a feel for the different body shapes, neck sizes, and sound quality of different guitars.
Tip 4: Consider the electronics
If you plan on playing your acoustic electric guitar amplified, you need to consider the electronics. Different guitars have different pickup systems, and some are better than others. Do some research to find a guitar with a pickup system that meets your needs.
Tip 5: Get a good setup
Once you have purchased your acoustic electric guitar, be sure to get it set up by a qualified guitar technician. A good setup will ensure that your guitar plays its best and sounds its best.
Summary
By following these tips, you can find the best affordable acoustic electric guitar for your needs and budget. With a little research and effort, you can find a guitar that will provide you with years of enjoyment.
Conclusion
The best affordable acoustic electric guitar is the one that meets your individual needs and budget. There are many great options on the market, so take your time to research and find the perfect guitar for you.
When choosing an acoustic electric guitar, consider the following factors:
- Body type
- Tonewoods
- Electronics
- Cutaway
- Fretboard
- Nut width
- Scale length
- Price
- Brand
- Reviews
- Warranty
Once you have considered all of these factors, you should be able to find the best affordable acoustic electric guitar for your needs.Happy shopping!
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