The acoustic guitar is one of the most iconic and recognizable instruments in modern music. Its roots date back centuries, with early versions appearing as far back as the 16th century. Since then, acoustic guitars have evolved into a wide variety of shapes, sizes and styles to suit every type of musician.
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An acoustic guitar typically consists of a hollow wooden body with six strings stretched across two bridges – one at the neck and one at the bridge. It’s generally held against the player’s body while being strummed or plucked to produce sound waves which resonate through its hollow interior chamber before exiting outwards via an aperture at its sound hole. The strings are usually tuned by tightening or loosening them via pegs on the headstock, though some models use electronic tuning systems instead.
When it comes to top 20 acoustic guitar brands, there’s no shortage of quality options available today from both established manufacturers such as Fender and Gibson as well as smaller boutique luthiers who specialize in custom-built instruments for discerning players. Amongst these popular brands are Taylor Guitars, Martin & Co. Yamaha Corporation and Takamine Musical Instruments – all renowned for their quality craftsmanship and attention to detail when it comes to producing beautiful sounding guitars that will stand up to years of playing wear-and-tear without losing their unique tone or character over time.
Each brand has something unique to offer – whether it’s cutting edge designs featuring exotic woods like mahogany or rosewood; innovative electronics such as piezo pickups; signature construction techniques like dovetail joints; vintage styling reminiscent of classic ‘30s era Gibsons; or simply great value beginner packages ideal for those just starting out on their musical journey – there really is something here for everyone regardless of skill level or budget constraints.
Martin
Martin Guitars is one of the most iconic and recognizable names in acoustic guitar brands. Founded by Christian Frederick Martin Sr. In 1833, it has become one of the oldest and most respected instrument makers worldwide. With its rich history steeped in tradition and craftsmanship, Martin’s reputation for high-quality instruments is unparalleled. Their guitars are favored by some of music’s biggest stars, including Eric Clapton, Taylor Swift, John Mayer and many more.
Martin offers a wide range of models to suit any player’s needs or preferences. From their traditional dreadnought styles to their signature X Series acoustics with bold styling and modern features like Fishman electronics; there is something for everyone within their lineup. They offer a selection of custom shop models that can be tailored to your exact specifications with premium materials such as Adirondack spruce tops or Cocobolo back & sides.
For those seeking an even greater level of customization, Martin also provides options such as personalized engravings on the fretboard or body as well as customized headstock designs – all finished off with distinctive open gear tuners for a truly unique look and sound that stands out from the rest. Whether you’re looking for an entry-level model or a professional grade instrument, Martin has you covered with top quality acoustic guitars at every price point.
Taylor
Taylor Guitars is one of the most popular and well-known acoustic guitar brands in the world. Founded by Bob Taylor and Kurt Listug, Taylor has become a leader in modern day acoustic guitars since 1974. With its innovative design, state-of-the-art materials, and commitment to quality craftsmanship, Taylor guitars have earned their place as some of the most sought after instruments around.
One of the key elements that makes Taylor stand out from other guitar manufacturers is its use of solid wood construction for all its models. This allows each instrument to possess an individual character and sound profile while still maintaining a consistent level of playability across all models. Every piece of wood used by Taylor is carefully inspected for any imperfections before it can be used in production. This attention to detail helps ensure that each instrument is built with optimum tonal balance, sustain and clarity.
The company also offers a wide variety of features for players to choose from including proprietary neck joints, onboard electronics with preamps/pickups systems, body shapes such as Grand Auditoriums or Dreadnoughts and many more options available depending on personal preference or playing style needs. Their customer service team provides helpful advice when selecting the right guitar model for your specific needs – whether you are looking for an entry-level beginner’s guitar or something more advanced such as one designed specifically for live performances or studio recordings.
Gibson
Gibson is one of the most renowned and respected guitar brands in the world. Founded in 1894 by Orville Gibson, it has become a household name for its high-quality acoustic guitars. Gibson’s acoustic guitars are some of the best sounding instruments available on the market today, thanks to their superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. With a wide range of models and price points, there is something for everyone from beginners to experienced players.
The iconic J-45 model is one of Gibson’s most popular models, and with good reason: it offers an incredibly balanced tone that makes it great for playing both lead and rhythm parts. The new Advanced Jumbo design also provides incredible volume without sacrificing playability or clarity. If you’re looking for something more traditional, then look no further than the Hummingbird – this classic dreadnought has been used by countless professional musicians over the years due to its warm sound and punchy bass response.
For those who want a more modern take on acoustic guitar sounds, then check out Gibson’s signature line which includes models like the Les Paul Studio Acoustic and Custom Shop SJ-200 Super Jumbo Deluxe Edition – these offer contemporary tones with plenty of power and articulation perfect for recording sessions or live performances alike. Whether you’re looking for an affordable beginner guitar or a top-of-the-line masterpiece crafted from exquisite tonewoods, there’s sure to be a Gibson model that fits your needs perfectly.
Yamaha
Yamaha is one of the top 20 acoustic guitar brands, renowned for its long-standing commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Since its inception in 1887, Yamaha has become a household name in musical instruments and equipment, with acoustic guitars being no exception. Yamaha’s acoustic guitars are well-crafted from carefully selected materials like solid spruce tops and mahogany back & sides. This combination creates a powerful tone that can be heard across many different genres. The company also offers a range of unique features on their models, such as advanced electronics and special bracing patterns for enhanced sustain. All of Yamaha’s guitars come with a limited lifetime warranty so you can have peace of mind when purchasing your instrument.
The FG series is Yamaha’s flagship line of acoustic guitars, featuring some of the best construction available today. Models such as the FG800 offer excellent sound projection due to their scalloped bracing pattern which helps create an open soundboard design with increased resonance. Other features include die-cast tuners for accurate tuning and classic cosmetics that make these guitars look timelessly stylish while still providing modern playability and comfort. The FGX series takes things up another notch by adding rosewood bodies which provide even more power and clarity than ever before.
Whether you’re looking for an entry level model or something more professional grade, there’s sure to be something within the range that meets your needs at Yamaha – one of the world’s leading manufacturers in top 20 acoustic guitar brands.
Fender
Fender is one of the most iconic acoustic guitar brands in the world. Founded in 1946, Fender has been a mainstay in music for over 70 years. The company’s acoustic guitars have been played by some of the greatest musicians, including Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy. Their instruments are renowned for their superior craftsmanship and quality sound production.
Fender offers a wide range of models, from budget-friendly beginner guitars to high-end professional models with advanced features. Their Dreadnought body shape is particularly popular among players who need plenty of volume and projection for live performance or recording applications. For fingerstyle players, Fender’s Parlor series offers great playability and tone at an affordable price point.
The brand also produces travel guitars that provide excellent portability without sacrificing on sound quality or playability. With its built-in amplifier and speaker system, the Fender Acoustasonic Telecaster Hybrid Guitar allows you to plug into any amp or PA system when playing live gigs or recording in the studio. It also includes a full set of controls so you can easily adjust your tone to suit any musical style.
Seagull
Seagull guitars are made in Quebec, Canada and have become a popular choice for musicians looking for quality instruments. The brand was founded in 1982 by Robert Godin and has since been crafting some of the best acoustic guitars on the market. Seagull guitars offer players a unique blend of sound, craftsmanship and value.
Seagull’s solid top acoustics feature a pressure-tested cedar or spruce top with an intricate bracing pattern that provides superior tonal response. These models also feature mahogany back and sides, along with an integrated set neck design which produces strong sustain and great playability. The S6 Original series is one of Seagull’s most popular models; this guitar features a select pressure tested solid cedar top with wild cherry back and sides as well as semi-gloss custom polished finish. Other features include Tusq nut/saddle materials, rosewood fingerboard/bridge material and chrome die cast tuners.
The Maritime SWS SG model is another example of Seagull’s commitment to quality construction; this model boasts all solid wood construction including an Adirondack spruce top, mahogany back & sides along with rosewood fretboard & bridge materials. This guitar also comes equipped with Fishman Sonitone electronics allowing players to plug into any PA system or recording device while maintaining full acoustic tone control capabilities via the onboard preamp controls located inside the soundhole.
Epiphone
Epiphone is a world-renowned guitar brand that has been around for over 140 years. It was founded in 1873 by Anastasios Stathopoulo, a Greek immigrant to the United States. Since then, it has become one of the most well-known and popular acoustic guitar brands in the world.
Epiphone’s guitars are known for their excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail. They use premium woods such as mahogany, rosewood, and maple to create their instruments, which gives them a beautiful tone and resonance. They employ cutting edge technology such as modern pickups and preamps that give their guitars an unbeatable sound quality when plugged into an amplifier or PA system.
The company offers a wide range of models from entry level beginner instruments all the way up to professional grade archtops with hand-carved tops and intricate inlay work. Epiphone also makes signature models based on iconic players like Slash from Guns N’ Roses or John Lennon from The Beatles which can be great choices for aspiring musicians looking to emulate their heroes’ sounds.
Ibanez
Ibanez is a Japanese guitar manufacturer that has been producing some of the highest quality instruments since its inception in 1957. Its founder, Hoshino Gakki, had a vision to create guitars that were both affordable and stylish for the modern musician. Since then, Ibanez has become one of the most sought-after brands in the industry for electric and acoustic guitars alike.
One of the key features of Ibanez acoustic guitars is their thin neck design which allows players to reach higher notes easier than on other models. The fretboard radius also gives them great playability as it’s designed to be comfortable while still providing access to all frets with ease. They use high-quality tonewoods like mahogany and rosewood which give each instrument a unique sound signature while providing great sustain and resonance.
Ibanez is known for having some of the best pickups available on acoustic guitars including Fishman Sonicore pickups which offer superior performance when plugged into an amplifier or PA system. They also make use of Graphtech Ghost piezo systems for added versatility when playing live shows or recording in studio settings. Ibanez utilizes an innovative bracing system called AEWC (Advanced Exotic Wood Construction) which provides additional strength without sacrificing tone quality or volume output from your instrument.
Takamine
Takamine is one of the top 20 acoustic guitar brands in the world. Founded in 1962, this Japanese company has been a leader in producing high quality instruments and accessories for decades. Takamine guitars are renowned for their craftsmanship and attention to detail, with many professional musicians relying on them to deliver great tone and playability. Their range includes both steel-string and classical models, catering to all styles of music from folk to rock.
The G Series is Takamine’s flagship line of acoustic guitars, featuring solid spruce tops combined with various tonewoods like rosewood or mahogany for the back and sides. This combination gives these instruments an incredibly balanced sound with plenty of clarity as well as warmth. The Pro Series takes things up a notch by offering even more premium features such as hand-selected tonewoods, custom bracing patterns, and advanced electronics systems like Takamine’s proprietary Cool Tube preamp technology which allows players to shape their tone with precision.
Takamine also offers some budget-friendly options that still retain their trademark quality construction but come at more accessible prices. These include the F series dreadnoughts which feature solid spruce tops paired with laminated mahogany backs and sides for a warm sound that won’t break your bank account. There are also electro-acoustic models available if you’re looking for something that can amplify your sound without sacrificing any of its natural resonance or character.
Alvarez
Alvarez guitars have been known for their high quality construction and sound since 1965. The company was founded by St. Louis native, Kazuo Yairi, who has earned a reputation as one of the world’s foremost acoustic guitar makers. Alvarez guitars are made with all solid woods, including mahogany back and sides and spruce top. This combination results in an instrument that has great projection and tone that is perfect for any style of music. Alvarez also offers many different body shapes to suit any player’s needs, from dreadnoughts to jumbos to parlor models.
The craftsmanship on each guitar is impeccable; every part of the instrument is carefully constructed using traditional methods such as hand-carving the bracing patterns or finishing the fretboard with hot hide glue – this attention to detail ensures an instrument of superior quality that will last a lifetime. These instruments are equipped with features like onboard electronics or cutaway designs which make them suitable for both live performances and recording sessions alike.
Alvarez also stands out because they offer excellent value for money: their prices tend to be very competitive when compared against other brands at similar price points while still maintaining their trademark build quality and sound characteristics which are sought after by musicians around the world.
Breedlove
Breedlove is one of the top 20 acoustic guitar brands, offering a variety of models with distinct sounds. Founded in 1990 by luthiers Kim Breedlove and Steve Henderson, the company has become known for its signature body shapes, tonewoods, bracing patterns and electronics.
The brand’s Dreadnought-style guitars feature traditional bracing patterns and produce warm tones that resonate well across all registers. These include the Pursuit Concert CE and Discovery Concert CE models, both of which are constructed from solid Sitka spruce tops with mahogany back and sides for added warmth.
For more adventurous players looking to explore new sonic territories, Breedlove offers an array of unusual body shapes such as its Concerto series – which features a unique concert-style design with an elongated upper bout – or its Stage Series OM/ER bodies featuring an extended lower bout that adds projection while maintaining balance between bass and treble frequencies. Each model comes equipped with custom voicing electronics so you can further shape your sound when plugged in.
Breedlove provides players a diverse range of instruments designed to bring out their individual playing styles while delivering reliable performance onstage or in the studio.
Gretsch
Gretsch is a well-known name in the guitar world, and has been producing quality instruments since 1883. Founded by Friedrich Gretsch in Brooklyn, New York, Gretsch guitars are renowned for their twangy sound that can be heard on classic rock records from the likes of Brian Setzer and Eddie Cochran. The company has also been responsible for producing some of the most iconic hollowbody electric guitars ever made, such as its signature “White Falcon” model.
In terms of acoustic models, Gretsch produces several lines ranging from entry-level to professional grade instruments. Its entry-level line consists mostly of smaller parlor-style models with laminated construction and simple electronics; however, higher end models offer solid spruce tops and traditional dreadnought body shapes. Many of its acoustics come equipped with Fishman pickups for amplified performance onstage or in studio recording applications.
The majority of Gretsch’s more premium acoustics feature a unique bracing pattern known as the “X Brace System”. This design offers increased stability and tone projection when compared to other bracing systems used by rival brands. The X Brace system allows these guitars to retain an even frequency response across all six strings while remaining lightweight enough to remain comfortable during long practice sessions or live performances.
Ovation
Ovation is a brand of acoustic guitars that was founded in 1966 by Charles Kaman, an aeronautical engineer. Ovation has since become renowned for its innovative design and construction techniques. The company’s most famous guitar model, the Adamas, features a unique composite material top with carbon fiber sides and back which produces superior resonance compared to traditional solid wood tops. The Adamas has an integrated pickup system built into the body of the guitar which allows players to amplify their sound without having to use external amplification equipment.
The company also offers several other models including the Celebrity Standard series, designed for beginners; the Elite Plus series for intermediate players; and the Applause series for advanced musicians. These guitars all feature Ovation’s signature composite top along with various levels of quality in terms of hardware and electronics. Ovation also produces classical guitars made from solid wood such as spruce or cedar that produce a warm tone similar to more expensive instruments but at an affordable price point.
In addition to these acoustic guitars, Ovation also manufactures electric-acoustic hybrid models like the Breadwinner Series that combine both electric pickups and piezo transducers under one hood making them ideal for live performance settings where both amplified sounds are required. All of these different models come equipped with Fishman preamps giving players access to a wide range of tones when playing through an amplifier or PA system.
PRS (Paul Reed Smith)
Paul Reed Smith, or PRS, is a Maryland-based guitar manufacturer founded in 1985. The company’s mission is to design and craft the highest quality instruments for musicians of all levels. As a result, their guitars have become highly sought after by professional musicians and amateurs alike.
PRS guitars are renowned for their exceptional playability, tone and craftsmanship. They use only premium tonewoods such as mahogany, maple and rosewood to create their instruments’ body shapes and necks which give them a unique look and feel that sets them apart from other brands. Their pickups are also top notch; they feature humbucking designs with three different pickup configurations (single coil/dual coil/triple coil) so you can customize your sound exactly how you want it.
PRS takes great care when it comes to finishing their guitars; they use high-end finishes such as nitrocellulose lacquer to ensure durability while still providing a beautiful aesthetic appeal that will turn heads whenever someone sees one of these beauties. With these features combined with its well-earned reputation for quality construction and attention to detail, it’s no wonder why PRS is considered one of the top 20 acoustic guitar brands on the market today!
Blueridge
Blueridge is a renowned brand of acoustic guitars that has been producing high quality instruments since the early 1990s. Founded by guitar maker Wayne Henderson, Blueridge offers a wide range of models, from dreadnought and jumbo to parlor and 12-string models.
Blueridge’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship has earned them recognition among professional musicians and collectors alike. Each instrument is made with premium tonewoods such as Sitka spruce for the top, rosewood for the back and sides, mahogany for the neck, ebony for the fingerboard, bridge, nut and saddle. The company also uses advanced bracing techniques to ensure maximum resonance from each instrument.
In addition to its classic designs, Blueridge produces modern instruments like their BR-341 model which features a slimmer body shape that makes it more comfortable for players of all sizes. This model also includes an onboard preamp system with three-band EQ control for precise sound shaping when playing live or recording in the studio.
Collings
Collings is one of the top 20 acoustic guitar brands, renowned for their high-end instruments and exemplary craftsmanship. Their guitars feature an impeccable attention to detail, from their intricate bracing patterns to the exacting thickness of each part. As a result, Collings guitars are some of the most resonant and articulate instruments on the market.
The company has a wide selection of models available, ranging from traditional dreadnought designs to smaller parlor body styles. Each model features premium tonewoods like Sitka spruce and Indian rosewood, which add warmth and clarity to every note played. The neck profiles also vary between models so that there’s something for everyone – whether you prefer a shallow C profile or a more pronounced V shape.
When it comes to electronics, Collings offers an optional LR Baggs Element pickup system that faithfully captures your sound without adding any unwanted noise or coloration. This makes them ideal for live performances where amplification is needed but transparency is essential. On top of that, all Collings guitars come with a lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects – providing peace of mind no matter how much they’re used over time.
Washburn
Washburn is one of the top 20 acoustic guitar brands and has been around for over 140 years. Washburn guitars have a distinct look and feel, thanks to their unique design and craftsmanship. The company uses high-quality materials in all its products, from the wood used to make its guitars to the strings it selects for each instrument. Its commitment to quality ensures that every Washburn guitar sounds great and plays well.
When it comes to construction, Washburn relies on traditional methods such as hand carving of tops and necks as well as modern CNC technology when necessary. This combination allows them to create instruments with superior tone while still maintaining affordability. They use advanced X-bracing techniques which add strength and stability while allowing the soundboard more freedom of movement which improves resonance throughout the entire body.
In terms of features, most models come equipped with Fishman electronics or Grover tuners depending on model type. This helps ensure accurate tuning even under heavy strumming or picking action while also providing amplified tones should you need them live or in studio recordings. Many of their acoustic/electric models come with a built-in USB port for easy plugging into digital audio workstations such as ProTools or Logic Audio software programs making recording easier than ever before without needing additional equipment like mics or preamps.
Laguna
The Laguna brand of acoustic guitars is a popular choice among guitarists, particularly those who are looking for a quality sound at an affordable price. The company has been producing instruments since the early 2000s, and has established itself as one of the top 20 acoustic guitar brands in the industry.
Laguna guitars have gained a reputation for their exceptional craftsmanship and superior tone. Their selection includes dreadnought and grand auditorium models, which are available with either solid or laminated tops. The necks feature rosewood fingerboards that provide smooth playability, while the body shapes offer comfortable playing positions. These guitars come equipped with chrome-plated die-cast tuning machines for reliable tuning stability.
Each Laguna model is designed to produce full-bodied sounds with excellent projection capabilities due to its well-rounded bracing pattern and reinforced bridge plate design. This combination allows each instrument to respond dynamically to different playing styles and volumes, making them ideal for all types of musicians. These guitars can also be outfitted with accessories such as pickups and strap locks for added convenience when performing live shows or recording sessions.
Godin
Godin is a Canadian manufacturer of electric and acoustic guitars, founded in 1972. The company has been in the forefront of guitar-making for decades and produces some of the finest instruments on the market. Godin is renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship, high-quality materials, innovative design features, and excellent playability.
Godin’s lineup includes many different models of both electric and acoustic guitars that are tailored to different playing styles. From their flagship Artist Series electric guitars to their classical GS2 acoustics, Godin offers something for every kind of musician. Each model is crafted with attention to detail and quality components such as Seymour Duncan pickups, ebony fretboards, solid spruce tops, rosewood backs & sides, maple necks, cedar tops on select models – all backed by a lifetime warranty.
The company also offers an impressive range of accessories including custom hard cases for each guitar model as well as replacement parts like strings and picks. With these options available to customize your instrument even further you can be sure that it will sound exactly how you want it too.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz guitars are renowned for their unparalleled craftsmanship, attention to detail, and superior sound quality. Since its inception in 1976, Santa Cruz has become one of the most highly sought after acoustic guitar brands on the market. The Santa Cruz name is synonymous with exceptional tonal balance, resonance and sustain that few other acoustic guitar makers can match.
Santa Cruz guitars are handcrafted from select woods such as spruce and mahogany, creating a warm yet powerful sound that allows them to stand out from other manufacturers’ instruments. Each model is designed with a unique bracing system that helps create an even distribution of tone across all frequencies while producing maximum volume and clarity. To further enhance their sonic capabilities, many models feature intricate inlays or pickguards made of exotic materials like ebony or abalone shell.
In addition to top-notch construction and tone quality, Santa Cruz also prides itself on offering world-class customer service by providing detailed product information online and through authorized dealers worldwide. All new purchases come with a lifetime warranty against defects in materials or workmanship, making them an ideal choice for those who demand nothing but the best when it comes to their instrument investment.