When it comes to finding the best acoustic guitar under $500, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First, you’ll want to consider the type of wood used in the guitar’s construction. Solid wood guitars tend to produce a richer, more resonant sound than guitars made from laminated wood. However, solid wood guitars can also be more expensive. If you’re on a budget, a guitar made from laminated wood can still sound great, especially if it’s well-crafted.
Another important factor to consider is the guitar’s size. Guitars come in a variety of sizes, from small parlor guitars to large dreadnought guitars. The size of the guitar will affect its sound, with smaller guitars producing a brighter, more articulate sound, and larger guitars producing a louder, more resonant sound. Ultimately, the best size for you will depend on your personal preferences. If you’re not sure what size guitar to get, it’s a good idea to try out a few different models before making a decision.
The Top Pick for Beginners: Fender FA-115 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
The Fender FA-115 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is an exceptional choice for aspiring acoustic guitarists, offering a blend of affordability, quality, and ease of playability. This guitar boasts a solid spruce top, which delivers a resonant and articulate tone, perfect for strumming chords and fingerpicking melodies. The laminated mahogany back and sides provide a warm and balanced sound, adding depth and richness to the overall sound.
The FA-115 features a dreadnought body shape, which provides a full and robust sound with plenty of projection. This makes it ideal for both intimate settings and larger venues. The guitar’s nato neck has a comfortable “C” shape, allowing for effortless fingering and smooth transitions across the fretboard. The rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth and responsive playing surface, enhancing the overall playing experience.
In addition to its exceptional sound and playability, the FA-115 is also remarkably affordable, making it an excellent value for aspiring musicians. Its combination of quality and affordability has made it a consistently popular choice among beginners, offering a great foundation for their musical journey. Its versatility makes it suitable for various genres, from folk to rock to country, giving beginners a wide range of musical styles to explore.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Dreadnought |
| Top | Solid Spruce |
| Back and Sides | Laminated Mahogany |
| Neck | Nato, “C” Shape |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Price Range | $200-$300 |
Exceptional Value for Money: Yamaha F335 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
Dreadnought Design: A Classic Shape with a Rich Tone
The Yamaha F335 boasts a traditional dreadnought body, a popular choice among guitarists for its well-balanced sound. Its large, square body and wide lower bout create a deep, resonant tone that projects well. The Spruce top enhances this resonance, producing bright and articulate highs, while the Mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth to the overall sound. This classic design ensures a powerful and versatile guitar that excels in various musical styles, from strumming to fingerpicking.
Comfortable Playability: Enhancing Your Performance
Beyond its exceptional sound, the F335 is designed to provide a comfortable playing experience. Its dreadnought body is contoured to rest comfortably against the player’s body, reducing strain and allowing for extended playing sessions. The shorter scale length of 25.5 inches makes it easier to reach and fret chords, especially for beginners. Additionally, the Yamaha F335 features a slim, C-shaped Mahogany neck with a satin finish, offering a smooth and effortless feel for both beginners and experienced players alike.
Furthermore, the F335 includes a rosewood fingerboard with a 10-inch radius, providing a natural and responsive playing surface. The medium jumbo frets allow for precise finger placement and clear articulation, enhancing the guitar’s playability even further. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, the Yamaha F335 offers an exceptional playing experience that complements its outstanding sound.
Versatile Features: Meeting Multiple Needs
| Spruce Top |
| Mahogany Back and Sides |
| Dreadnought Body |
| 25.5″ Scale Length |
| Rosewood Fingerboard |
| 10-inch Radius |
| Slim C-Shaped Mahogany Neck |
| Satin Finish |
In addition to its exceptional sound and playability, the Yamaha F335 offers a range of versatile features that cater to various needs.
Best for Fingerstyle: Ibanez AEWC314EW Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Ibanez AEWC314EW is a standout choice for fingerstyle guitarists. Crafted with a grand concert body style, it offers a balanced and nuanced sound. Its solid spruce top and okoume back and sides deliver a rich and articulate tone, perfect for the intricate melodies and delicate touch of fingerstyle playing. The guitar’s slim mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard provide effortless playability and allow for comfortable hand positioning.
The AEWC314EW is also equipped with an Ibanez T-Bar II undersaddle pickup and onboard preamp system. This setup provides natural amplification without sacrificing the guitar’s acoustic qualities. The three-band EQ and notch filter enable precise sound shaping, ensuring that your performance is captured with the same clarity and detail as your playing.
Specifications
| Body Style | Grand Concert |
|---|---|
| Top | Solid Spruce |
| Back & Sides | Okoume |
| Neck | Mahogany |
| Fingerboard | Rosewood |
| Pickup | Ibanez T-Bar II Undersaddle |
Premium Choice for Professionals: Gibson J-45 Studio Rosewood Acoustic Guitar
The Gibson J-45 Studio Rosewood Acoustic Guitar is a premium choice for professional musicians who demand the very best in sound and construction. With its solid rosewood back and sides, Sitka spruce top, and hand-scalloped bracing, this guitar produces a rich, warm, and resonant tone that is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking.
Advanced Bracing System
The J-45 Studio features Gibson’s Advanced Bracing System, which is designed to optimize the guitar’s tone and projection. This system uses a combination of traditional X-bracing and scalloped braces to create a more responsive and balanced sound. The result is a guitar that is both loud and articulate, with excellent clarity and note separation.
Here is a table summarizing the key features of the Gibson J-45 Studio Rosewood Acoustic Guitar:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body | Solid rosewood back and sides, Sitka spruce top |
| Neck | Mahogany neck with rosewood fingerboard |
| Bracing | Advanced Bracing System with scalloped braces |
| Electronics | LR Baggs Element pickup |
| Price | Around $500 |
Versatile and Durable: Taylor 114ce Grand Auditorium Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Taylor 114ce is a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that offers exceptional sound quality and durability. Its grand auditorium body shape provides a balanced tone with a warm, powerful low end and clear, articulate highs. The solid Sitka spruce top and laminated rosewood back and sides contribute to its rich, resonant sound.
This guitar features Taylor’s Expression System 2 electronics, which provide a natural and amplified sound. The built-in tuner makes it easy to stay in tune on the go, and the Venetian cutaway allows for comfortable access to the upper frets.
Exceptional Playability
The Taylor 114ce boasts a comfortable mahogany neck with a rosewood fretboard. The 1.75-inch nut width and 25.5-inch scale length provide a smooth and effortless playing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll appreciate the exceptional playability of this guitar.
Construction and Durability
The Taylor 114ce is built with exceptional craftsmanship and durability. The solid spruce top and laminated rosewood back and sides are carefully selected and seasoned. The guitar’s neck is reinforced with a truss rod, ensuring stability and longevity. Its durable construction makes it a reliable companion for live performances and recording sessions alike.
Technical Specifications
| Body Shape | Grand Auditorium |
|---|---|
| Top | Solid Sitka Spruce |
| Back and Sides | Laminated Rosewood |
| Neck | Mahogany with Rosewood Fretboard |
| Electronics | Taylor Expression System 2 |
Best for Blues and Rock: Epiphone EJ-160E Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
The Epiphone EJ-160E Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is an excellent choice for blues and rock players. Its dreadnought body produces a powerful and resonant sound, while its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides provide excellent projection and clarity.
The EJ-160E also features a number of player-friendly appointments, including a comfortable C-shaped neck, a smooth rosewood fingerboard, and a Fishman Sonicore pickup system. This pickup system delivers a natural and balanced sound, making the EJ-160E ideal for both stage and studio use.
Key Features
- Dreadnought body for powerful and resonant sound
- Solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides for excellent projection and clarity
- C-shaped neck and rosewood fingerboard for comfortable playing
- Fishman Sonicore pickup system for natural and balanced sound
Specifications
| Body Shape | Dreadnought |
|---|---|
| Top Material | Solid Spruce |
| Back and Sides Material | Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | C |
| Fingerboard Material | Rosewood |
| Pickup System | Fishman Sonicore |
Perfect for Campfire Sing-Alongs: Martin LX1E Little Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar
7. Martins LX1E Little Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Martin LX1E Little Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a compact and travel-friendly guitar that’s perfect for campfire sing-alongs. It features a Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which give it a warm and resonant sound. The short scale length makes it easy to play, even for beginners. It includes Fishman Sonitone electronics, which allow you to plug it into an amplifier for a louder sound. You can also connect headphones for silent practice. It is a great choice for those who want a high-quality acoustic guitar with a small size and excellent sound.
Here are some of the key features of the Martin LX1E Little Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Body | Sitka spruce top, mahogany back and sides |
| Neck | Mahogany, short scale length |
| Electronics | Fishman Sonitone pickup |
| Dimensions | 35.5″ x 13″ x 4″ |
| Weight | 5.6 pounds |
Compact and Travel-Friendly: Yamaha APXT2 EW Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitar
For musicians on the move, the Yamaha APXT2 EW Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitar is an excellent choice. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to transport, while its solid spruce top and mahogany body provide a rich, resonant tone.
The APXT2 EW features a unique body shape that is designed to maximize portability without sacrificing sound quality. The body is slightly smaller than a traditional acoustic guitar, and the cutaway design provides easy access to the upper frets. The travel guitar is also equipped with a built-in tuner, making it easy to keep your instrument in tune on the go.
In terms of tone, the APXT2 EW delivers a surprisingly full and warm sound for a travel guitar. The solid spruce top provides a bright and articulate response, while the mahogany body adds warmth and depth to the overall sound. The guitar is also equipped with a Fishman pickup system, which provides a natural and amplified sound when plugged into an amp or PA system.
Overall, the Yamaha APXT2 EW Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitar is an excellent choice for musicians who need a compact and portable instrument that delivers great sound. Whether you’re a traveling musician, a student, or simply someone who wants a convenient guitar to play anywhere, the APXT2 EW is sure to fit the bill.
Key Features
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Cutaway |
| Top | Solid Spruce |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Neck | Mahogany |
| Fretboard | Rosewood |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ |
| Electronics | Fishman pickup system |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
Excellent for Recording: Breedlove Pursuit Concertina Body Acoustic Guitar
The Breedlove Pursuit Concertina Body Acoustic Guitar is an exceptional choice for recording. Its unique concertina body shape provides a rich, resonant sound that captures the natural nuances of your playing. The solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides produce a balanced and articulate tone, while the Fishman Presys pickup system ensures accurate and detailed sound reproduction. Whether you’re recording in a home studio or a professional environment, this guitar will deliver exceptional results.
9. Taylor GS Mini Mahogany
Priced at around $500, the Taylor GS Mini Mahogany is a versatile acoustic guitar that combines portability with a surprisingly robust sound. Its diminutive size makes it perfect for traveling, songwriting, and intimate performances. The solid mahogany top and sapele back and sides provide a warm and resonant tone, while the Taylor ES-B pickup system captures the natural sound of the guitar with remarkable accuracy. The GS Mini Mahogany is an excellent choice for players seeking a compact and affordable guitar with a rich and satisfying sound.
| Body Shape: Concertina |
| Top Material: Solid Spruce |
| Back and Sides Material: Mahogany |
| Pickup: Fishman Presys Preamp |
| Price Range: $450-$550 |
Comfortable and Easy to Play: Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar
Seagull guitars are well-known for their exceptional craftsmanship and playability. The S6 Original Acoustic Guitar is a prime example of this commitment to quality. Its dreadnought body style provides a full and resonant sound, while the select pressure-tested solid cedar top delivers a rich and balanced tone.
The S6’s slim mahogany neck and 24.84″ scale length contribute to its exceptional comfort. The fretwork is smooth and precise, allowing you to play with effortless fluidity. The Indian rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of warmth and elegance.
Superior Sound Quality
The Seagull S6’s combination of tonewoods results in a sound that is both rich and nuanced. The solid cedar top produces a warm and articulate treble response, while the mahogany back and sides provide a deep and woody foundation. The overall sound is well-balanced and suitable for a wide range of musical styles.
The dreadnought body shape enhances the guitar’s projection and volume. Whether you’re playing solo or in a band, the S6 will cut through the mix with clarity and power.
Excellent Value for Money
At around $500, the Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar offers exceptional value for money. Its solid cedar top, mahogany construction, and high-quality components make it a worthwhile investment for any guitarist.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Body Style | Dreadnought |
| Top Wood | Solid Cedar |
| Back and Sides | Mahogany |
| Fretboard | Indian Rosewood |
| Neck | Mahogany |
| Scale Length | 24.84″ |
| Electronics | None |
| Price Range | $500 |
The Best Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Finding the best acoustic guitar under $500 can be a daunting task, but it’s definitely possible. There are a few things to keep in mind when making your decision, such as the type of music you play, your playing style, and your budget.
If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to look for a guitar that is easy to play, such as one with a shorter scale length and a wider neck. You’ll also want to consider the type of sound you want, whether it be a bright and jangly sound or a warmer and more mellow sound. Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start narrowing down your choices.
Here are a few of the best acoustic guitars under $500:
- Yamaha FG800: The Yamaha FG800 is a classic acoustic guitar that’s known for its great sound and playability. It has a solid spruce top and rosewood back and sides, which give it a warm and resonant sound. The nato neck is easy to play, and the rosewood fingerboard is smooth and comfortable.
- Fender CD-60S: The Fender CD-60S is another great option for beginners. It has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which give it a bright and articulate sound. The nato neck is easy to play, and the rosewood fingerboard is smooth and comfortable.
- Epiphone DR-100: The Epiphone DR-100 is a great choice for those who want a vintage-style acoustic guitar. It has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which give it a warm and mellow sound. The mahogany neck is easy to play, and the rosewood fingerboard is smooth and comfortable.
People Also Ask
What is the best acoustic guitar for beginners?
The best acoustic guitar for beginners is one that is easy to play, such as one with a shorter scale length and a wider neck. You’ll also want to consider the type of sound you want, whether it be a bright and jangly sound or a warmer and more mellow sound.
What is the best acoustic guitar for intermediate players?
The best acoustic guitar for intermediate players is one that is versatile and can be used for a variety of genres. You’ll want to look for a guitar with a solid top, such as spruce or cedar, and a comfortable neck. You’ll also want to consider the type of sound you want, whether it be a bright and jangly sound or a warmer and more mellow sound.
What is the best acoustic guitar for professional players?
The best acoustic guitar for professional players is one that is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. You’ll want to look for a guitar with a solid top, such as spruce or cedar, and a comfortable neck. You’ll also want to consider the type of sound you want, whether it be a bright and jangly sound or a warmer and more mellow sound.
