Just like the music they provide, acoustic guitars are a true piece of art. Being in the market for these instruments nowadays is certainly a tough thing, as so many manufacturers produce guitars of different quality with different features. We want to help you pick the best, so today, we will talk about the best acoustic guitar brands for every guitarist.
The great thing about this topic is that it has never been a better moment to buy an acoustic guitar, as there are both renowned and young manufacturers producing real state-of-the-art instruments. In this blog post, we are going to list some of the finest brands you can turn to when buying an acoustic guitar nowadays and provide you with reasons why you should consider spending money on their products. We have a lot to talk about, so let us begin.
1. Martin Guitars
Martin Guitars is one of the world-renowned manufacturers of acoustic guitars, and in musician circles, it is often used as a synonym for this instrument. You are probably familiar with this brand as so many legendary musicians used them in studios and on stage.
Build quality and tonal performance of Martin Guitars’ products are top-of-the-line, and it does not come as a surprise, as the company banks on almost two centuries of guitar-producing excellence and tradition.
The brand was established by Christian Frederick Martin back in 1833, and over the course of years, Martin Guitars introduced numerous innovations, such as scalloped bracing, X bracing, dreadnought body style, steel string acoustic guitars, and the contemporary flat top.
As this company is one of the oldest guitar brands, countless popular musicians used their instruments, including big names such as Ed Shereen, Mark Twain, David Crosby, Chris Cornell, John Mayer, Valerie June, and many more. Choosing the guitar from this manufacturer would be a fantastic choice, but if you want to buy Martin Guitars’ product, you will have to get your hands on at least 1000 USD.
Models to Consider
- Martin LX1
- Little Martin LXK2
- Martin D28
- Martin D-15M
- Martin D-35
- Martin D-10E Road Series
- Martin DX1AE
- Martin LX1E
- Martin D18
2. Taylor
Taylor is one of the most versatile brands out there, as they produce everything from affordable and durable guitars to limited, state-of-the-art masterpieces. Essentially they manufacture guitars that can suit different budgets and playstyles. These guitars provide a mellow and almost airy sound that can suit both modern and old-school performers.
One of the main reasons why Taylor separated itself as a manufacturer of guitars from the rest is their Expression System pickups on both acoustic and electric models. It is a special pickup system that sits behind the saddle instead of under it. This results in a much more natural sound, which is one of the main selling points for Taylor’s guitars.
It is also important to mention that Taylor is the first-ever brand to use computer mills to increase precision in manufacturing guitars. They produce guitars for everyone, and regardless of your budget limitations, you can surely find the model that will suit your needs and provide you with a fantastic acoustic guitar sound.
Models to Consider
- Taylor 110E
- Taylor 214CE
- Taylor 114CE
- Taylor GS Mini Koa
- Baby Taylor BT1
- Baby Taylor BT2
- Taylor 614CE
- Taylor 314CE
- Taylor 514CE
- Taylor 414CE-R
- Taylor 814CE Dlx
3. Fender
When it comes to reliability and a wide choice of guitars for starter and intermediate musicians, Fender is a go-to brand that is tough to beat in terms of quality. It is one of the most prominent names in the market, and although it was initially launched as an electric guitar brand, it offers plenty of choices for acoustic guitar players.
The company was founded by Leo Fender, who was an owner of a tube circuitry equipment repairing business back in the day. He repaired electronics such as radios, music amplifiers, and phonograph players originally, but he realized the increasing popularity of home music systems and started manufacturing Hawaiian lap steel guitars.
The business started booming over time, and Fender company eventually became the giant we know nowadays. Fender acoustic guitars are especially well-suited for genres like blues, country, and folk music, as they provide the sound that suits musicians in this branch.
While these guitars do not possess some high-end features like the ones from Martin Guitars and Taylor, they are always in tune and easy to play, which is highly important for beginners and intermediates. They are also widely recognized for the build quality of their products and are a huge name in the music industry.
Fender guitars can help you express your feelings even as a beginner as the tone they produce is very emotional.
Models to Consider
- Fender FA100
- Fender FA135CE
- Fender MA-1
- Fender CD60
4. Collings Guitars
Collings is a brand that is widely recognized for producing gorgeously designed guitars. They are made to perfection in terms of build quality and an overall sound that can compete (and often win against) some of the brands that are the best in the business.
The company was founded back in 1973 by Bill Collings, and ever since then, this brand has produced custom, handmade guitars for true music enthusiasts that love their guitars to both look and sound at the highest possible level. Aside from fantastic acoustic guitars, Collings also manufactures electric guitars, mandolins, and archtop guitars.
In terms of sound, these guitars are truly top-of-the-line. The way the strings respond to the finger movements and picks is real artistry. With that said, it is important to mention that purchasing some of the best guitars from Collings is a very expensive endeavor, as this is the company that produces high-end units.
However, if you are a true enthusiast, you will certainly be satisfied with the overall quality and will understand that the price of these is very much worth it.
Models to Consider
- Collings D1
- Collings D2H T
- Collings OM1 T
- Collings Collings CJ-45 T
- Collings CW Mh A
- Collings 002H 14-Fret T
5. Guild
Guild is a manufacturer of excellent guitars that have been around since the 1950s. Their tagline, “Meant to Be Played,” is certainly catchy, and it definitely describes the intended purpose of their excellent products. Although the brand is not as famous as some giants like Gibson and Fender, it is a go-to manufacturer for many professional musicians.
The guitars from this brand are widely recognized for their unique sound and are highly praised for fantastic clarity with punchy and natural-sounding bass. One of the models that truly emphasizes all these attributes is D-55, which is a great example of this brand’s goals in the manufacturing process.
This company has been bought out several times, and the intense past behind its story may provide an explanation of why the brand is not as well known as some more popular in the market. With that said, although they do not really produce budget guitars, there are so many models that will definitely suit your needs and make your money’s worth.
Models to Consider
- Guild D-55
- Guild D-125
- Guild D-140CE SB Westerly
- Guild D-120CE Nat Westerly
- Guild Jumbo Junior Reserve Maple
- Guild M-20 ATB USA
- Guild M-40 Troubadour AS LRBaggsUSA
6. Yamaha
Yamaha is a brand that is known for its consistency in quality, fair prices, and fantastic value its musical instruments provide. Acoustic guitars are not any different in this aspect, and they provide musicians with outstanding quality and specific and mellow sound that is suitable for a wide variety of genres.
Given the fact that Yamaha guitars are recognized for their value, it does not come as a surprise that numerous influential musicians played them, especially in the early 1970s. Names like Carlos Santana, John Denver, John Lennon, and Bob Dylan are commonly associated with the Yamaha brand.
Even though it is quite unusual to see professionals play Yamaha acoustic guitars, they remain a reliable choice when someone requires a quality guitar with a lower price tag. There are also some high-end choices, mostly at major, well-supplied music instrument stores. You can find everything, ranging from beginner acoustics to professional grade; thus, Yamaha remains one of the best choices to go for.
Models to Consider
- Yamaha F310
- Yamaha FG800
- Yamaha C40
- Yamaha FG720S
- Yamaha FD01S
- Yamaha LS16
- Yamaha AC1M
- Yamaha FG800 Vs FG830
- Yamaha JR1 Vs JR2
7. PSR Paul Reed Smith Guitars
This brand is mainly recommended for guitarists who are all about quality instruments and are ready to break the bank to get them. This is a company that originated in 1985 and was founded by Paul Reed Smith. Nowadays, it is a huge name in the music instrument industry and is a synonym for top-of-the-line guitars.
It is safe to say that PSR Paul Reed Smith is one of the most trusted brands in the industry and is renowned for the attention to detail they invest in the manufacturing process. Although these guitars are rather expensive, they are very much worth the cost as you are getting only the best.
Paul Reed Smith guitars are well known for their vintage designs and top-quality sound, suitable for various genres. This is a brand that is frequently handpicked by renowned professional artists across the globe. Artists such as Carlos Santana, John Mayer, Mark Tremonti, Mark Holcomb, and Zach Myers are known for using these guitars, while Jimmy Herring, Orianthi, David Grissom, Blake Shelton, Marty Simpson, and many others always endorse this popular brand.
Models to Consider
- PRS SE P20E Parlour BV
- PRS SE P20E Parlour TS
- PRS SE P20 Parlour TS
- PRS SE P20 Parlour BV
- PRS SE P20E Parlour VM
- PRS SE P20 Parlour VM
8. Takamine
Takamine is a Japanese guitar manufacturer, and although their instruments are, beyond any doubt, well-crafted, they made a name for themselves because of their superb amplification technology. This brand pioneered the bridge-mounted acoustic pickup in the period when acoustic guitar musicians had to stand in front of a microphone while performing.
Although Takamine was one of the first manufacturers of acoustic-electric guitars, over the course of years, they opted to keep the prices of their instruments in a reasonable range and relatively affordable. Moreover, it is possible to find guitars of excellent quality by this brand at surprisingly low prices.
On the other hand, if you are in the market for a guitar with a generally accessible price tag, you can look for the G-Series of Takamine, as it is commonly browsed. The best thing about it is that you will get superb quality for a price, and if you often perform on live stages, you will be more than pleased with the performance you will get.
Models to Consider
- Takamine GN93CE NEX
- Takamine GN77KCE
- Takamine EF341SC Pro Series
- Takamine GD30CE
- Takamine GD11MCE
- Takamine GD20 NS
- Takamine EF360S-TT
9. Larrivee
Larrivee is a famous Canadian brand known for making high-quality guitars. They do not provide the most affordable guitars, but there are plenty of reasons for that. For starters, their guitars are made of solid wood, and the manufacturers only choose exotic tonewoods, which makes each instrument they produce a real piece of art.
In terms of tonal quality, Larrivee guitars are suitable for a wide variety of genres and are highly versatile in a number of aspects. The tone is very well balanced, and the guitars themselves are very playable with their slim, fast-playing necks and low action.
When it comes to visuals, this brand provides instruments with a subtle and elegant design. The tonewoods are handpicked for both tonal qualities and aesthetics. Granted, they do not come cheap, but if you are ready to break the bank a bit and invest in a high-quality guitar, Larrivee has a lot to offer.
Models to Consider
- Larrivee D-05 Mahogany
- Larrivee D-03 E Dreadnought Mahogany
- Larrivee D-40R Rosewood
- Larrivee D-03R Rosewood
- Larrivee D-03 Mahogany
- Larrivee D-40 Mahogany
10. Gibson
Gibson stands for one of the most reputable and well-known guitar brands in the world, and all for good reasons. Needless to say, if you decide to opt for a guitar from this brand, you will have to set aside a considerable amount of money because their instruments are not cheap.
However, when you do purchase it, you will be absolutely amazed by the beauty and quality that Gibson provides for its customers, and it is one of the main reasons for the brand’s popularity. Although this brand is famous for its wide range of electric guitars, acoustic ones are also top-of-the-line in terms of design and sound quality.
Each and every guitar model from Gibson is unique in its own special way and comes jam-packed with diverse features every guitarist craves for. It is a brand that pioneered various modern designs that became standard in the guitar manufacturing industry. The best thing is that every guitarist can find their perfect match in the Gibson store, regardless of the style or genre they play.
Models to Consider
- Gibson G-00
- Gibson L-00 Deluxe
- Gibson J-45
- Gibson Songwriter Standard EC Rosewood
- Gibson SJ-200 Studio Rosewood
- Gibson G-200
- Gibson J-185 EC Modern Rosewood
11. Blueridge Guitars
The best way to sum up Blueridge Guitars is to call it the pinnacle of utilitarian workmanship in the guitar world. Saga Musical Instruments’ subsidiary owns the business.
Those who think that Chinese-made or imported guitars are of low quality should strongly consider this guitar brand as an answer. The company is renowned for providing guitars with the best build quality at competitive prices.
This company focuses on vintage and pre-war models that were well-liked by bluegrass musicians and folk music experts. There are modern, historic, pre-war, and parlor guitars in the company’s current lineup.
Models to Consider?
- BR-40 Dreadnought
- BR-180CE, and
- BR-160CE.
12. Seagull Guitars
Seagull, a Canadian guitar company started in 1982 by Robert Godin, is underappreciated. Few people support this brand, but those who have had the opportunity to perform with one of these guitars have developed a strong admiration for it.
These guitars are extremely cool, at least to me. Not only because of their excellent sound quality, but also because all of their timbers are sourced ethically.
These guitars are the ideal addition for all guitarists who follow a green lifestyle and are seeking for solutions to lessen their environmental impact.
Godin, Seagull’s corporate parent, conducts business. This brand distinguishes itself from its rivals due to the fact that all of its models are handmade and have solid tops. You will notice the same quality whether you buy a guitar from its high-end models or more economical options.
Models to Consider
- S6 Original Cedar Slim
- Maritime SWS SG
- Entourage Rustic CW QIT
13. Ibanez
Ibanez is one of the most dependable guitar brands in the business and is well known for their entry-level AC240 OPN instrument. When discussing guitar brands for beginning and amateur guitarists, it is a top brand.
This company’s history is intertwined with that of Spanish luthier Salvador Ibánez. The original guitars made by this firm are extremely expensive and hard to find. These guitars are owned by musicians like Eric Clapton. This was the tale of the 1800s, though.
Salvador Ibánez’s guitars were first produced by the Japanese business Hoshino Gakki in 1929. The business relationship did not endure for very long, and the Japanese company soon started producing guitars that looked like the originals but were not the original guitars. the process of making guitars by Salvador Ibánez.
This guitar company was the first to mass-produce seven- and eight-string guitars, which is another little-known fact.
The Ibanez is a wise choice for anyone who wants to buy a high-quality guitar but does not have the money to choose for a Matin or Collings instrument.
For me, the fantastic value it provides justifies the cost of these guitars.
Models to Consider
- Ibanez AC240 OPN
- Ibanez AEWC400
- Ibanez AEG1812II
- Ibanez AEG12IINT
- Ibanez AEG19II
14. Epiphone
Epiphone is a Gibson subsidiary, yes, but it has a reputation for establishing some standards in the guitar industry. Few people are aware that it is actually a division of Gibson, despite the fact that many people now think it produces “cheaper” versions of Gibson guitars.
The business manufactures its own guitars in addition to Gibson’s low-range instruments.
It’s important to keep in mind that this brand wasn’t always associated with the Gibson family. In 1873, it was established as a stand-alone manufacturer of musical instruments. Initially, it produced fiddles and luthiers. Yet, the business did not begin producing guitars until it moved to the US in 1903 following the passing of its founder.
This company produced a guitar for the first time in 1928. Gibson acquired the business in 1957, and since then it has produced an assortment of Gibson guitars at reasonable prices. The Epiphone DR-100 is one of the top models made by Epiphone and is available on the market.
This selection is impressive for guitarists who are just starting out.
Models to Consider
- J-45 Studio
- Starling
- Songmaker FT-100
15. Gretsch Guitars
I also have to add Gretsch Guitars, a company famous for creating miniature parlor guitars. The majority of lists of “top guitar brands” omit this brand. Given that Friedrich Gretsch founded it in 1883, it is among the oldest brands.
Gretsch Guitars are frequently picked by everyone, whether they are pop-rock bands, country musicians, or Irish rock bands. Since its inception, the business has only used the best wood and other resources. Some guitars are not in the inexpensive category as a result of this.
Are there any famous artists who have chosen these guitars? George Harrison from Beatles, John Lennon, Brian Jones from the Rolling Stones, and Pete Townshend are just a few to name.
Models to Consider
- G5021E RANCHER
- G5022CWFE RANCHER
- G5022CE RANCHER
FAQs
What acoustic guitar do most musicians use?
Most musicians who play acoustic guitar use a dreadnought guitar. This type of guitar has a large body and a powerful sound. It is the most popular acoustic guitar for both beginners and experienced players.
What acoustic guitars do famous guitarists use?
The Fender Stratocaster. Among its most famous players are Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Hendrix, and Eddie Van Halen.
What is the number 1 guitar brand in the world?
The most popular guitar brand is none other than Fender! Their most popular instruments are the Fender Player Telecaster and Fender Player Stratocaster, ranking number one and two for most sold guitars in 2021.
What is the holy grail of acoustic guitars?
Martin Guitar.Long considered the holy grail of acoustic guitars, the D-45 appeared first as a 12-fret neck to to body version with snowflake fingerboard inlays owned by cowboy legend Gene Autry.
Are old acoustic guitars better?
Older guitars often sound better than newer ones as they dry out over time which causes them to become harder leading to a more resonant tone with better sustain. The increase in age affects the tone more in acoustic guitars than electric ones.
Final Words
Acoustic guitars have a special class to them, which is why when you opt for one, you should get it from a reputable and well-known brand with a long history of dedicated work and craftsmanship. These guitars are “evergreen” and should be preserved and cherished, as they are true state-of-the-art instruments.
We hope you liked our list of the best acoustic guitar brands. Although there are countless more brands that can suit various musicians’ needs, we believe that these ten can provide everything you are looking for. From budget guitars to high-end ones, you are sure to find what you need from the brands we have listed, so make sure to read this article with great attention, and you will not be disappointed.
If you are a fan of everything guitar-related and enjoy flamenco music, make sure to check our list of the best Spanish guitarists who have made a significant mark in the genre and won the hearts of countless fans.