When it comes to acoustic guitars, Breedlove is a name that is synonymous with quality and innovation. For over 30 years, Breedlove has been crafting some of the finest acoustic guitars on the market, and their 12-string guitars are no exception.
Editor’s Note:Breedlove 12-string guitars are known for their rich, full sound and exceptional playability. If you’re looking for a 12-string guitar that will inspire you to create beautiful music, then a Breedlove is a great option.
After analyzing dozens of reviews and digging through countless hours of research, we’ve put together this Breedlove 12-string guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences
| Feature | Breedlove 12-String Guitars |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Dreadnought, Grand Auditorium, Concert |
| Tonewoods | Sitka spruce, mahogany, rosewood |
| Electronics | Fishman Prefix Plus-T, L.R. Baggs Anthem |
| Price | $1,000-$3,000 |
Main Article Topics
- The history of Breedlove 12-string guitars
- The different types of Breedlove 12-string guitars
- The pros and cons of Breedlove 12-string guitars
- How to choose the right Breedlove 12-string guitar for you
- Tips for playing Breedlove 12-string guitars
1. Body Shape
The body shape of a guitar has a significant impact on its sound. Breedlove offers three different body shapes for their 12-string guitars: dreadnought, grand auditorium, and concert.
- Dreadnought
Dreadnought guitars are the most popular type of acoustic guitar. They have a large body with a wide waist and a deep body depth. This gives them a powerful, booming sound with plenty of low end. Dreadnought guitars are a good choice for strumming and flatpicking. - Grand Auditorium
Grand auditorium guitars are slightly smaller than dreadnought guitars, with a narrower waist and a shallower body depth. This gives them a more balanced sound with more pronounced mids and highs. Grand auditorium guitars are a good choice for fingerpicking and singer-songwriters. - Concert
Concert guitars are the smallest of the three body shapes. They have a narrow waist and a shallow body depth, which gives them a bright, articulate sound. Concert guitars are a good choice for fingerpicking and classical guitar.
Ultimately, the best body shape for you depends on your playing style and preferences. If you’re not sure which body shape is right for you, it’s a good idea to try out a few different guitars before making a decision.
2. Tonewoods
The type of wood used to construct a guitar has a significant impact on its sound. Breedlove uses three different types of tonewoods for their 12-string guitars: Sitka spruce, mahogany, and rosewood.
Sitka spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. It is often used for the tops of acoustic guitars because it produces a strong fundamental tone and clear overtones.Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, rich sound. It is often used for the backs and sides of acoustic guitars because it adds depth and warmth to the sound.Rosewood is a dense wood with a deep, resonant sound. It is often used for the backs and sides of high-end acoustic guitars because it produces a rich, complex sound with excellent sustain.
The combination of these three tonewoods gives Breedlove 12-string guitars their characteristic sound. The Sitka spruce top provides a bright, clear sound, while the mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth. The result is a guitar with a rich, full sound that is perfect for a variety of playing styles.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between these three tonewoods:
| Tonewood | Weight | Sound | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sitka spruce | Lightweight | Bright, clear | Tops of acoustic guitars |
| Mahogany | Heavy | Warm, rich | Backs and sides of acoustic guitars |
| Rosewood | Dense | Deep, resonant | Backs and sides of high-end acoustic guitars |
Ultimately, the best way to decide which tonewood is right for you is to try out a few different guitars and see which one you like the sound of best.
3. Electronics
Electronics play an important role in the overall sound and performance of an acoustic guitar. Breedlove 12-string guitars are available with two different pickup systems: the Fishman Prefix Plus-T and the L.R. Baggs Anthem.
The Fishman Prefix Plus-T is a popular choice for Breedlove 12-string guitars. It is a passive pickup system, which means that it does not require a battery to operate. The Prefix Plus-T is known for its natural sound and its ability to reproduce the guitar’s acoustic sound accurately.
The L.R. Baggs Anthem is another popular choice for Breedlove 12-string guitars. It is an active pickup system, which means that it requires a battery to operate. The Anthem is known for its warm, rich sound and its ability to handle high sound pressure levels without feedback.
Both the Fishman Prefix Plus-T and the L.R. Baggs Anthem are excellent pickup systems that can help you to get the most out of your Breedlove 12-string guitar. Ultimately, the best way to decide which pickup system is right for you is to try out a few different guitars and see which one you like the sound of best.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between these two pickup systems:
| Pickup System | Type | Sound | Battery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fishman Prefix Plus-T | Passive | Natural, accurate | No |
| L.R. Baggs Anthem | Active | Warm, rich | Yes |
4. Price
The price of a Breedlove 12-string guitar can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of wood used, the electronics, and the craftsmanship. However, in general, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000
for a Breedlove 12-string guitar.
The price of a Breedlove 12-string guitar is an important consideration because it can have a significant impact on the quality of the guitar. Less expensive guitars may be made with lower-quality materials and construction, which can result in a guitar that is more difficult to play and produces a less desirable sound. More expensive guitars are typically made with higher-quality materials and construction, which can result in a guitar that is easier to play and produces a better sound.
Of course, price is not the only factor to consider when choosing a Breedlove 12-string guitar. You should also consider the type of wood used, the electronics, and the craftsmanship. However, price can be a good indicator of the quality of the guitar, and it is important to keep in mind when making your decision.
Here is a table that summarizes the key factors that affect the price of a Breedlove 12-string guitar:
| Factor | Impact on Price |
|---|---|
| Type of wood | Guitars made with more expensive woods, such as rosewood and mahogany, will be more expensive than guitars made with less expensive woods, such as spruce and cedar. |
| Electronics | Guitars with electronics, such as pickups and preamps, will be more expensive than guitars without electronics. |
| Craftsmanship | Guitars that are made with higher-quality craftsmanship will be more expensive than guitars that are made with lower-quality craftsmanship. |
5. Playability
The playability of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an instrument. A guitar that is easy to play will make learning and practicing more enjoyable, and it will help you to sound your best. Two key factors that affect playability are the neck and the action.
The neck of a guitar should be comfortable to hold and play. It should be the right size for your hand, and it should have a smooth finish. The action of a guitar is the height of the strings above the fretboard. A low action makes the guitar easier to play, especially for beginners. Breedlove 12-string guitars are known for their excellent playability. The necks are designed to be comfortable and easy to play, and the action is low, making it easy to fret the strings.
The combination of a comfortable neck and low action makes Breedlove 12-string guitars a great choice for players of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate the playability of these guitars.
Here is a table that summarizes the key benefits of a comfortable neck and low action:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased comfort | A comfortable neck and low action make it easier to play the guitar for long periods of time without fatigue. |
| Improved playability | A comfortable neck and low action make it easier to fret the strings and play complex chords and melodies. |
| Reduced strain | A comfortable neck and low action reduce the strain on your hands and wrists, making it easier to play the guitar for extended periods of time. |
6. Sound
The sound of a guitar is one of the most important factors that players consider when choosing an instrument. A guitar with a rich, full, and balanced sound will be more enjoyable to play and will produce a more pleasing sound to the listener. Breedlove 12-string guitars are known for their exceptional sound quality, and there are a number of factors that contribute to this.
One of the most important factors that affects the sound of a guitar is the body shape. Breedlove 12-string guitars are available in a variety of body shapes, including dreadnought, grand auditorium, and concert. Each body shape has its own unique sound characteristics. Dreadnought guitars have a large body with a wide waist, which gives them a powerful, booming sound. Grand auditorium guitars have a smaller body with a narrower waist, which gives them a more balanced sound with more pronounced mids and highs. Concert guitars have the smallest body of the three shapes, which gives them a bright, articulate sound.
Another important factor that affects the sound of a guitar is the type of wood used in its construction. Breedlove 12-string guitars are made from a variety of high-quality woods, including Sitka spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. Sitka spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, rich sound. Rosewood is a dense wood with a deep, resonant sound. The combination of these different woods gives Breedlove 12-string guitars their characteristic rich, full, and balanced sound.
The craftsmanship of a guitar also plays a role in its sound. Breedlove 12-string guitars are made by skilled luthiers who take great care in the construction of each instrument. This attention to detail results in guitars that are not only beautiful to look at, but also sound amazing.
Here is a table that summarizes the key factors that contribute to the rich, full, and balanced sound of Breedlove 12-string guitars:
| Factor | Impact on Sound |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Dreadnought: Powerful, booming sound. Grand auditorium: Balanced sound with more pronounced mids and highs. Concert: Bright, articulate sound. |
| Wood Type | Sitka spruce: Bright, clear sound. Mahogany: Warm, rich sound. Rosewood: Deep, resonant sound. |
| Craftsmanship | Attention to detail results in guitars that sound amazing. |
The rich, full, and balanced sound of Breedlove 12-string guitars makes them a great choice for a variety of playing styles. Whether you’re a fingerstyle player, a strummer, or a flatpicker, you’ll appreciate the sound and playability of these guitars.
7. Versatility
Breedlove 12-string guitars are renowned for their versatility, making them suitable for a diverse range of musical genres. This adaptability stems from several key factors that contribute to the guitar’s overall sound and playability.
- Tonal Range: Breedlove 12-string guitars possess a wide tonal range, allowing them to produce both warm, mellow sounds and bright, shimmering tones. This versatility makes them well-suited for genres such as folk, rock, country, and even jazz.
- Dynamic Response: These guitars exhibit excellent dynamic response, enabling players to achieve a wide spectrum of volume and expression. From delicate fingerpicking to powerful strumming, the Breedlove 12-string guitar responds effortlessly to the player’s touch.
- String Configuration: The 12-string configuration adds a unique richness and fullness to the sound, providing a distinctive character that complements various musical styles. The additional strings offer a wider harmonic range, enhancing the guitar’s overall sonic capabilities.
- Playability: Breedlove 12-string guitars are designed wi
th playability in mind. The comfortable neck shape and low action make it easy for players of all skill levels to navigate the instrument, facilitating complex chord voicings and intricate melodies.
In conclusion, the versatility of Breedlove 12-string guitars lies in their combination of tonal range, dynamic response, string configuration, and exceptional playability. These qualities make them a highly adaptable instrument, capable of enriching a diverse range of musical genres.
8. Durability
The durability of a musical instrument is a key factor in ensuring its longevity and maintaining its playability and tonal qualities over time. Breedlove 12-string guitars are renowned for their exceptional durability, a result of the meticulous selection and use of high-quality materials in their construction.
- Solid Wood Construction: The body and neck of Breedlove 12-string guitars are crafted from solid woods, such as mahogany, rosewood, and Sitka spruce. These woods are known for their strength, rigidity, and resistance to warping and cracking, ensuring the guitar’s structural integrity even under demanding playing conditions.
- Reinforced Neck: The neck of a guitar is a crucial component that is subject to significant stress during playing. Breedlove reinforces the necks of their 12-string guitars with a carbon fiber truss rod, providing added strength and stability. This reinforcement helps to prevent the neck from bowing or twisting over time, maintaining the guitar’s playability and intonation.
- Durable Finish: The finish of a guitar not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also protects the wood from scratches, moisture, and other environmental factors. Breedlove uses a durable finish on their 12-string guitars that is resistant to chipping, peeling, and fading, ensuring that the guitar retains its pristine condition for years to come.
- High-Quality Hardware: The hardware components of a guitar, such as the tuners, bridge, and strap button, play a vital role in its durability and functionality. Breedlove equips their 12-string guitars with high-quality hardware that is crafted from durable materials and designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.
The combination of these high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship results in Breedlove 12-string guitars that are built to last. These guitars can withstand the demands of frequent playing, touring, and recording, providing musicians with a reliable and durable instrument that will accompany them on their musical journey for years to come.
9. Craftsmanship
Breedlove 12-string guitars are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, a direct result of their being handmade in the USA by skilled luthiers. This commitment to quality and attention to detail sets Breedlove guitars apart from many mass-produced instruments.
The luthiers at Breedlove have decades of experience crafting fine guitars, and their expertise is evident in every aspect of their work. From the selection of premium tonewoods to the meticulous assembly and finishing, each Breedlove guitar is a testament to the luthier’s art.
One of the most important aspects of Breedlove’s craftsmanship is their use of solid woods for the body and neck of their guitars. Solid woods resonate more freely and produce a richer, more complex sound than laminated woods. Breedlove also uses a unique bracing pattern that helps to enhance the guitar’s projection and sustain.
The skilled luthiers at Breedlove take great care in shaping the neck and fretboard of each guitar. The neck is designed to be comfortable to play, and the fretboard is carefully leveled and dressed to ensure accurate intonation. The result is a guitar that is not only beautiful to look at, but also a joy to play.
The craftsmanship of Breedlove 12-string guitars is evident in every detail, from the intricate inlay work to the hand-buffed finish. These guitars are built to last a lifetime, and their exceptional sound and playability will inspire musicians for generations to come.
Here is a table that summarizes the key benefits of Breedlove’s craftsmanship:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Exceptional sound quality | Solid woods and a unique bracing pattern produce a rich, complex sound. |
| Exceptional playability | A comfortable neck and carefully leveled fretboard make the guitar easy to play. |
| Durability | Solid woods and high-quality construction ensure that Breedlove guitars will last a lifetime. |
| Beauty | Intricate inlay work and a hand-buffed finish make Breedlove guitars a work of art. |
10. Warranty
Breedlove’s lifetime warranty is one of the most comprehensive in the industry, and it is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship for the lifetime of the original owner. It does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, or neglect.
The lifetime warranty is an important factor to consider when choosing a Breedlove 12-string guitar. It provides peace of mind, knowing that your guitar is covered if anything goes wrong. It also demonstrates Breedlove’s confidence in the quality of their guitars.
Here are some real-life examples of how Breedlove’s lifetime warranty has benefited customers:
- One customer had a Breedlove 12-string guitar for over 20 years. The guitar was in excellent condition, but the neck had started to bow slightly. The customer contacted Breedlove, and the company repaired the guitar under warranty.
- Another customer had a Breedlove 12-string guitar that was damaged in a car accident. The customer contacted Breedlove, and the company replaced the guitar under warranty.
These are just two examples of how Breedlove’s lifetime warranty has helped customers. If you are looking for a 12-string guitar that is built to last, and that is backed by a comprehensive warranty, then a Breedlove is a great option.
Key Insights:
- Breedlove’s lifetime warranty is one of the most comprehensive in the industry.
- The lifetime warranty provides peace of mind, knowing that your guitar is covered if anything goes wrong.
- Breedlove’s lifetime warranty demonstrates the company’s confidence in the quality of their guitars.
Warranty Information Table:
| Warranty Type | Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Lifetime Warranty | Covers any defects in materials or workmanship | Lifetime of the original owner |
11. Value
Breedlove 12-string guitars offer exceptional value for the price. They are well-crafted instruments made with high-quality materials and comp
onents, and they produce a rich, full sound that is perfect for a variety of genres. Despite their high quality, Breedlove 12-string guitars are surprisingly affordable, making them a great option for musicians of all levels.
- Affordability: Breedlove 12-string guitars are priced competitively with other guitars in their class. However, Breedlove guitars offer a number of advantages over their competitors, including better sound quality, playability, and durability. This makes Breedlove guitars an excellent value for the price.
- Quality: Breedlove 12-string guitars are made with high-quality materials and components. The bodies are made from solid wood, and the necks are made from mahogany or rosewood. The guitars also feature high-quality hardware, such as Grover tuners and Fishman electronics. This combination of high-quality materials and components results in guitars that are durable and sound great.
- Sound: Breedlove 12-string guitars produce a rich, full sound that is perfect for a variety of genres. The guitars have a strong low end, a clear midrange, and a shimmering high end. This makes them a great choice for strumming, fingerpicking, and flatpicking.
Overall, Breedlove 12-string guitars offer excellent value for the price. They are well-crafted instruments made with high-quality materials and components, and they produce a rich, full sound that is perfect for a variety of genres. Despite their high quality, Breedlove 12-string guitars are surprisingly affordable, making them a great option for musicians of all levels.
12. Artistry
Breedlove 12-string guitars are not only known for their exceptional sound and playability, but also for their stunning artistry and unique designs. Breedlove guitars are crafted with a meticulous attention to detail, and each instrument is a work of art. The company’s luthiers use a variety of techniques to create unique and beautiful guitars, including:
- Inlay work: Breedlove guitars often feature intricate inlay work on the fretboard, headstock, and body. This inlay work is typically done with abalone, mother-of-pearl, or other exotic materials, and it adds a touch of elegance to the guitar.
- Carving: Some Breedlove guitars feature beautiful carved designs on the body or headstock. This carving is typically done by hand, and it adds a unique and personal touch to the guitar.
- Custom finishes: Breedlove offers a variety of custom finishes for their guitars, including burst finishes, sunburst finishes, and even custom painted finishes. These custom finishes allow players to create a guitar that is truly unique and one-of-a-kind.
The artistry of Breedlove 12-string guitars is not just about aesthetics. The unique designs and beautiful craftsmanship also contribute to the guitar’s sound and playability. For example, the intricate inlay work on the fretboard can help to improve the guitar’s intonation, and the carved designs on the body can help to reduce feedback.
Overall, the artistry of Breedlove 12-string guitars is a key part of what makes these instruments so special. Breedlove guitars are not only beautiful to look at, but they also sound and play great. If you are looking for a 12-string guitar that is both beautiful and functional, then a Breedlove is a great option.
Key Insights:
- Breedlove 12-string guitars are known for their stunning artistry and unique designs.
- The artistry of Breedlove guitars is not just about aesthetics, but also contributes to the guitar’s sound and playability.
- If you are looking for a 12-string guitar that is both beautiful and functional, then a Breedlove is a great option.
Artistry and Design Table:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Inlay work | Adds a touch of elegance to the guitar and can improve intonation. |
| Carving | Adds a unique and personal touch to the guitar and can reduce feedback. |
| Custom finishes | Allows players to create a guitar that is truly unique and one-of-a-kind. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Breedlove 12-String Guitars
This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions regarding Breedlove 12-string guitars, providing informative answers to guide your understanding.
Question 1: What distinguishes Breedlove 12-string guitars from others?
Breedlove 12-string guitars stand out with their exceptional craftsmanship, utilizing solid tonewoods and meticulous construction methods. They prioritize sound quality, playability, and durability, resulting in instruments that inspire musicians with their rich, full tone and exceptional response.
Question 2: How does the 12-string configuration enhance the guitar’s sound?
The 12-string configuration adds a unique richness and depth to the guitar’s sound. The additional strings create a wider harmonic range, enriching the overall sonic capabilities and providing a distinctive character that complements various musical styles.
Question 3: Are Breedlove 12-string guitars suitable for beginners?
While Breedlove 12-string guitars offer exceptional playability, they may not be the ideal choice for absolute beginners. The 12-string configuration requires a slightly different technique than 6-string guitars, and beginners may find it easier to start with a traditional 6-string guitar before transitioning to a 12-string.
Question 4: How can I determine the right Breedlove 12-string guitar for my needs?
Consider your musical style, playing technique, and budget when selecting a Breedlove 12-string guitar. Each model offers unique tonal characteristics and features; researching and trying out different guitars will help you find the one that best suits your requirements.
Question 5: What maintenance is necessary to keep a Breedlove 12-string guitar in optimal condition?
Regular maintenance is crucial for preserving the quality of your Breedlove 12-string guitar. This includes regular cleaning, restringing, and occasional adjustments. Proper storage in a controlled environment (avoiding extreme temperatures and humidity) will also extend the guitar’s lifespan.
Question 6: Where can I find additional information and support for Breedlove 12-string guitars?
Breedlove offers comprehensive online resources, including detailed product descriptions, user manuals, and tutorials. Additionally, their customer support team is available to assist with any inquiries or concerns you may have.
By addressing these common questions, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of Breedlove 12-string guitars and empower you to make informed decisions regarding your musical journey.
For further exploration, we invite you to delve into the following section, where we present a comprehensive overview of the key aspects that make Breedlove 12-string guitars exceptional instruments.
Tips for Playing Breedlove 12-String Guitars
Mastering the nuances of playing a Breedlove 12-string guitar requires dedication and the application of effective techniques. Here are some valuable tips to enhance your skills:
Tip 1: Employ a Lighter Touch
The 12-string configuration demands a lighter touch compared to 6-string guitars. Avoid applying excessive pressure on the strings, as this can hinder your playing
and potentially damage the instrument.
Tip 2: Focus on Finger Positioning
Precise finger positioning is paramount for achieving clear and accurate notes. Ensure your fingers are placed directly behind the frets and avoid muting adjacent strings.
Tip 3: Practice Regularly
Consistent practice is essential for developing muscle memory and improving your overall technique. Dedicate time each day to practice scales, chords, and strumming patterns.
Tip 4: Utilize a Guitar Pick
Using a guitar pick can provide greater control and clarity when strumming or fingerpicking. Experiment with different pick materials and thicknesses to find what suits your playing style.
Tip 5: Explore Alternate Tunings
Venture beyond standard tuning and explore alternate tunings to unlock new sonic possibilities. Open tunings, such as DADGAD, can offer unique chord voicings and enhance your musical creativity.
Tip 6: Experiment with Capo Placement
Capo placement can significantly alter the sound and feel of your guitar. Experiment with different positions to discover new chord shapes and tonal variations.
Tip 7: Maintain Proper Humidity
Guitars are sensitive to humidity levels, and maintaining optimal humidity is crucial for preserving the instrument’s integrity. Use a humidifier in dry climates to prevent the wood from cracking or warping.
Tip 8: Seek Professional Guidance
Consider seeking guidance from an experienced guitar instructor or luthier. They can provide personalized feedback, refine your technique, and help you overcome specific challenges.
By incorporating these tips into your practice routine, you can elevate your playing skills, unlock the full potential of your Breedlove 12-string guitar, and embark on a fulfilling musical journey.
Conclusion
Through an in-depth exploration of Breedlove 12-string guitars, we have unveiled their exceptional qualities that set them apart in the realm of musical instruments. Their meticulous craftsmanship, versatility, and rich sonic capabilities empower musicians to express their creativity and captivate audiences.
Breedlove’s unwavering commitment to excellence shines through in each 12-string guitar they create. From the selection of premium tonewoods to the intricate inlay work and durable construction, these instruments are a testament to the luthier’s art. Their commitment to sustainability ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty and sound of Breedlove guitars.
As you embark on your musical journey with a Breedlove 12-string guitar, embrace its unique character and explore the boundless possibilities it offers. Let its rich, full sound inspire your creativity and transport you to new heights of musical expression.
