Best Budget 12 String Guitar (2024 Update)
If you're looking for an affordable 12-string guitar, then you're in the right place. Playing a 12-string guitar can be incredibly satisfying, but it's important to find one that fits your budget. Thankfully, there are a variety of options available, and it's possible to find a quality 12-string guitar that won't break the bank.
When considering a budget 12-string guitar, it's important to take several factors into account. First, consider the quality of the materials used to construct the guitar, such as the materials for the body, neck, and fretboard. Second, consider the tone and sound quality of the instrument. A good 12-string guitar should have a full, rich sound. Third, consider the overall playability of the guitar, including the action and the overall feel of the instrument.
To help you find the best budget 12-string guitar, here are some questions to consider: Do you prioritize playability over sound quality or vice versa? Do you prefer a certain type of wood or design? Do you have a preferred brand, or are you open to trying something new? By answering these questions, you'll be better equipped to find a budget 12-string guitar that meets your needs and preferences. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, finding the right guitar at the right price can make all the difference.
10 Best Budget 12 String Guitar
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This product is ideal for musicians looking for an affordable 12-string acoustic guitar with a warm sound and elegant finish.
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality, handcrafted 12-string dreadnought guitar with fully adjustable features.
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This product is ideal for beginner guitar players who want a full size, all wood cutaway guitar with starter accessories.
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This product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string acoustic guitar with a solid top and jumbo archback.
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The product is ideal for musicians who require a twelve string acoustic guitar with a natural/gloss finish.
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This product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string acoustic guitar with a solid top and archback design.
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality, 12-string acoustic guitar with a cutaway design and tobacco sunburst coloring.
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Ideal for beginners who want a complete acoustic guitar kit to start playing.
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This product is ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality 12-string acoustic guitar with a rich, natural tone.
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This product bundle is ideal for left-handed guitar players who want a high-quality acoustic guitar and accessories to play with.
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1. Luna Gypsy Dreadnought 12-String Mahogany Acoustic Guitar, Satin Natural
The Luna Gypsy series boasts a warm and welcoming tone that is well-suited for a variety of playing styles. Among this collection is the all-mahogany Gypsy, which offers a robust tonal punch and comes in multiple unique profiles. Despite its impressive features, the Gypsy is surprisingly affordable.
The Gypsy's elegant design features blackwood stringers on the back of the neck, moon phase fret markers, and a celtic-inspired rosette. These subtle yet eye-catching touches add to the guitar's overall appeal.
Constructed entirely from mahogany, the Gypsy has a rich midrange and a powerful sound. Luna's specially designed neck profile ensures a comfortable playing experience, making challenging notes and chords much easier to reach.
Please note that the case is sold separately. Overall, the Luna Gypsy all-mahogany guitar is an excellent choice for those seeking a warm and inviting tone, elegant design, and affordability.
2. Handcrafted 12-String Dreadnought Guitar By Oscar Schmidt
This exquisite acoustic guitar boasts a high gloss finish that gives it a sleek and sophisticated appearance. The guitar features a fully adjustable truss rod that allows for easy customization to meet the player's unique needs and preferences. The chrome die cast tuners ensure that the guitar stays in tune, even during extended play sessions.
Crafted with a select spruce top and mahogany sides and back, this guitar produces a rich, warm sound that is both full-bodied and nuanced. The select spruce top provides a bright and clear tone, while the mahogany sides and back offer a deep and resonant sound.
This guitar is built to last a lifetime, thanks to its high-quality construction and attention to detail. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this guitar is sure to impress with its exceptional sound quality and stunning visual appeal.
Invest in this acoustic guitar today and experience the joy of playing a beautifully crafted instrument that is designed to deliver outstanding performance. With its impressive parameters and specifications, this guitar is sure to exceed your expectations and provide you with years of musical enjoyment.
3. Full-Size Acoustic Guitar Set With Accessories
Introducing the Complete All-In-One Adult Guitar Kit, the ultimate beginner and intermediate guitar set that comes with all the necessary accessories needed to get started. This all-inclusive set includes a carrying case, extra strings, a strap with a pick holder, a tuner, pick guard, cleaning cloth, capo, and pick set, eliminating the need to purchase any additional items.
The full-size guitar, with its classic dreadnought shape, produces a pleasant and warm tone perfect for beginners and experienced players alike. The 41in body provides a comfortable fit, making it easy to play for extended periods.
Take your guitar with you to school or on trips with a stylish and protective carrying case that is designed with foam pads, a shock-proof rubber bottom, and even a front storage for your capo and extra picks. This guitar is designed with an elegant inlay that provides a classic, acoustic look and the cutaway shape allows you to reach higher on the fret to reach high notes.
To protect the guitar from pick scratches while playing, place the included pickguard underneath the guitar sound hole. The dimensions of the guitar are 15.75"(L) x 4.25"(W) x 41"(H).
4. Westerly Jumbo 12-String Acoustic Guitar
The F-2512E Maple from Guild is a remarkable combination of two distinctive qualities: twelve string and jumbo guitars, both of which are highly regarded by musicians worldwide. Guild has been known for its large, rounded jumbo acoustic guitar since 1954, and this shape, when paired with the ever-popular 12-string construction, results in a full-toned, impressively voiced acoustic instrument.
The F-2512E Maple is constructed with a solid spruce top, maple sides, and arched maple back, which gives it the bright, jangly tone characteristic of Guild's twelve-string guitars. The signature arched back design of Guild allows for great volume and projection, long sustain, and a lush, full sound.
Equipped with Guild's Fishman-designed AP-1 electronics, the F-2512E Maple also features a pau ferro fingerboard and bridge, bone nut and saddle, pearl rosette, period-correct tortoiseshell pickguard, and a satin polyurethane finish. The use of natural wood provides a unique spirit to each instrument, with variations in color richness and wood grain. It is worth noting that the product shipped may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown here, owing to the natural variations in wood.
The F-2512E Maple is an exceptional acoustic guitar that offers a distinctive sound and impressive build quality. Its combination of jumbo and twelve-string construction, signature arched back design, and high-quality components make it a great choice for guitarists looking for a unique and powerful instrument. Whether you're a professional musician or a passionate enthusiast, the F-2512E Maple from Guild is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their music game.
5. Alvarez Artist Series Ad60-12 Dreadnought Twelve String Acoustic Natural/gloss Finish
This acoustic guitar boasts impressive quality with its hand selected, ‘A’ grade, solid Sitka spruce top that ensures a rich and clear sound. The bracing has been meticulously hand sanded and scalloped to provide optimal resonance and projection. Its mahogany back and sides deliver a warm and balanced tone that complements the spruce top.
The guitar features stunning paua abalone and mother of pearl inlays, which add a touch of luxury and elegance to its appearance. These intricate details are perfectly crafted to create a visually stunning instrument.
The manufacturer stands behind the quality of this guitar and offers a lifetime limited warranty. This ensures that any manufacturing defects or issues are covered and provides peace of mind for the buyer.
6. Westerly 12-String Antique Burst Guitar
The D-2612CE Deluxe is a 12-string dreadnought guitar that is designed to add a little extra something to your music. This guitar is a powerhouse, featuring a solid spruce top and a striking arched striped ebony back and striped ebony sides. This unique tonewood combination provides the D-2612CE Deluxe with a clear and powerful voice, with a pronounced bass response. The gloss finish on the guitar highlights its unique striping pattern, making it stand out from the crowd.
The D-2612CE Deluxe's twelve strings, combined with its arched back, give this guitar unparalleled projection and sustain. These features are a welcome addition to Guild's legacy of quality 12-string instruments. The guitar is also equipped with premium appointments, including a mother-of-pearl rosette, Guild Peak headstock logo, pau ferro fingerboard and bridge, and Fishman Sonitone pickup with volume and tone controls.
This guitar is designed for right-handed players and is made from natural wood. It's essential to note that the natural wood has a unique spirit and varies in color richness and wood grain. Therefore, the product shipped may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown here.
7. Oscar Schmidt Od312ce 12-String Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic Guitar – Tobacco Sunburst
Looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar that delivers exceptional sound and performance? Look no further than this select spruce top and mahogany body guitar. With its full scale fretboard and Active MET-A07 Preamp with digital tuner, this guitar is perfect for beginners and seasoned musicians alike.
The select spruce top provides a bright, clear sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles. The mahogany body adds warmth and depth to the sound, providing a rich, full-bodied tone that is perfect for everything from blues to folk to rock.
The full scale fretboard is designed to provide maximum playability and comfort, making it easy to play even the most difficult chords and riffs. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, you'll appreciate the ease of use and versatility of this guitar.
But what really sets this guitar apart is its Active MET-A07 Preamp with digital tuner. This advanced preamp system allows you to easily adjust the sound of your guitar to match your playing style and musical preferences. And with the integrated digital tuner, you can quickly and easily tune your guitar to ensure that it always sounds its best.
So if you're looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar that delivers exceptional sound and performance, look no further than this select spruce top and mahogany body guitar with full scale fretboard and Active MET-A07 Preamp with digital tuner. It's the perfect choice for musicians of all skill levels and musical styles.
8. Ashthorpe Black Acoustic Guitar Starter Pack!
This 30-inch, right-handed acoustic guitar is the perfect choice for students and teens who are just starting out on their musical journey. With 18 smooth frets, 6 steel strings, and an easy-to-hold neck, this guitar is designed with beginners in mind.
This entry-level guitar bundle includes everything a new musician needs to get started, including a 30-inch acoustic guitar, a nylon bag for easy transport, 3 picks in assorted colors, a shoulder strap for comfortable playing, a digital tuner for accurate tuning, an extra set of 6 strings for when they need to be replaced, and an instructional sheet to help guide them through the early stages of learning.
Crafted from laminated basswood, this guitar’s top, back, and sides have a high-gloss finish that not only looks great but also contributes to its warm and versatile sound. Whether playing soft or loud, strumming or flatpicking, this guitar remains responsive and retains its tonal integrity. This guitar is designed to last and provide a quality playing experience for years to come.
The beginner acoustic guitar features an impressive tone, bright sound, and standout projection that is perfect for musicians-in-the-making. With its full-size yet lightweight design, measuring 30" Long x 11" Wide x 2.5" Deep, this guitar is ideal for learners of all ages. It's waiting to be heard and will surely provide a great playing experience for anyone starting out on their musical journey.
9. Fender Cd-60sce 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, Natural
Introducing the Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic Guitar, a top-of-the-line musical instrument that is perfect for both beginners and professionals. This guitar boasts a sleek design that is both visually appealing and practical. Its dreadnought cutaway body style provides easy access to the upper frets, making it ideal for those who love to play solos or need to reach higher notes.
Equipped with a Fishman low-profile pickup/preamp, this acoustic guitar offers impeccable sound quality and versatility. It allows you to plug into an amplifier or sound system, making it perfect for live performances or recording sessions. The Fishman pickup/preamp provides clear and crisp sound, making it a great investment for musicians who want to bring their music to the next level.
The solid spruce top with scalloped "X"-bracing of this acoustic guitar ensures that you get the best sound quality possible. The spruce top produces rich and vibrant tones and the scalloped "X"-bracing enhances the guitar's projection and resonance. The mahogany back and sides provide a warm and balanced tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.
The "Easy-to-Play" neck with rolled fingerboard edges is designed for maximum comfort and ease of use. The smooth fingerboard edges allow for smooth transitions between chords and notes, reducing finger fatigue and making it easier to play for longer periods. This feature is particularly helpful for beginners who are still learning the basics of guitar playing.
10. Lefty Fender Acoustic Guitar Bundle
Introducing the Left-Handed Dreadnought Body Acoustic Guitar, a perfect musical instrument for left-handed guitar enthusiasts who are looking for a high-quality guitar that can deliver exceptional sound and performance. With its outstanding features, this guitar is designed to meet the needs of musicians who want to take their music to the next level.
Crafted from premium quality materials, this guitar features a solid spruce top with scalloped "X"-bracing, which contributes to its rich, clear, and balanced tone. The mahogany back and sides offer a warm and full-bodied sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres.
The guitar's dreadnought body shape provides a powerful and resonant sound, making it ideal for live performances, studio recordings, and jam sessions. It is also equipped with an easy-to-play neck that has rolled fingerboard edges, which ensures comfortable and smooth playability. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners and experienced players alike, as it allows for hours of practice without any discomfort.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or a beginner, this guitar is an excellent choice. It has a left-handed orientation, making it ideal for southpaw players who are often left out in the cold when it comes to quality instruments. Additionally, the guitar has a sleek and beautiful design that is sure to turn heads and make a statement on stage or in the studio.
Best Budget 12 String Guitar FAQs
Are there any budget 12 string guitars that offer exceptional value for money?
Yes, there are several budget 12 string guitars available in the market that offer exceptional value for money. One such option is the Yamaha FG820-12. It is a well-built 12-string guitar that produces a bright and full sound. The solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides contribute to its exceptional tone quality. Another option is the Seagull S12 Spruce Sunburst GT. It is a hand-crafted guitar made with high-quality materials and produces a warm and rich sound. Additionally, the Ibanez AW54CEOPN Artwood Dreadnought 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is another great option that offers exceptional value for money. It has a solid mahogany top and a cutaway design that allows for easy access to the upper frets. Overall, these 12-string guitars offer excellent value for their price and are ideal for beginners or intermediate players looking for an affordable option.
Are there any notable musicians who have used budget 12 string guitars?
Yes, there are several notable musicians who have used budget 12 string guitars. One example is Kurt Cobain, the late frontman of the grunge band Nirvana. He famously played a Harmony H-12 Deluxe, which was a budget 12 string guitar that he modified to suit his playing style. Another example is Johnny Ramone, the late guitarist of the punk rock band The Ramones. He played a Mosrite 12 string guitar, which was known for being affordable and distinctive in sound. Additionally, Tom Petty, the late singer-songwriter and guitarist, played a Rickenbacker 360/12, which was a budget-friendly option compared to other 12 string guitars on the market. These musicians prove that you don't need to spend a fortune on a guitar to make great music. With the right modifications and playing style, even a budget 12 string guitar can produce a unique and memorable sound.
Can a budget 12 string guitar produce a high-quality sound?
The quality of sound produced by a 12 string guitar depends on a variety of factors, including the materials used, the craftsmanship, and the player's skill level. While budget 12 string guitars may not have the same level of quality as higher-end models, it is still possible to find a budget guitar that produces a high-quality sound.
One of the most important factors in producing a good sound is the type of wood used in the guitar's construction. Solid wood guitars tend to produce a better sound than laminate wood guitars, but solid wood guitars are generally more expensive. However, some budget 12 string guitars use high-quality laminate wood that can produce a good sound.
Another important factor is the craftsmanship of the guitar. A well-made guitar will have a more even tone and better intonation than a poorly-made guitar.
Ultimately, the sound quality of a budget 12 string guitar will depend on the specific model and brand. It is important to do research and read reviews before purchasing a guitar to ensure that it meets your expectations. Additionally, it is important to remember that even the best guitar will not produce a high-quality sound if it is not played properly.
How do budget 12 string guitars compare to more expensive models?
Budget 12 string guitars are a great option for those who are just starting out or for those who are on a tight budget. While they may not have the same level of craftsmanship and quality materials as more expensive models, they can still produce a decent sound that is suitable for beginners.
One of the main differences between budget and more expensive 12 string guitars is the quality of the materials used. Expensive models tend to use high-quality tonewoods and hardware, which can produce a richer and more complex tone. They also tend to have more precise intonation and tuning stability, which is important when playing a 12 string guitar.
However, budget 12 string guitars can still be a good investment for those who are just starting out. They are often more affordable and can provide a decent sound that is suitable for beginners. Additionally, they are a great way to test the waters and see if playing a 12 string guitar is something that you enjoy before investing in a more expensive model.
Ultimately, the decision between a budget and more expensive 12 string guitar will depend on your budget and your level of experience. If you are just starting out or on a tight budget, a budget 12 string guitar can be a great option. However, if you are a more experienced player or have a larger budget, investing in a higher-end model may be worth the extra cost.
How do you know if a budget 12 string guitar is right for your playing style?
Choosing the right guitar is crucial for any musician, and it is essential to select the appropriate instrument that suits your playing style. When it comes to budget 12-string guitars, there are a few factors to consider before making a purchase.
Firstly, you need to decide if a 12-string guitar is suitable for your playing style. These guitars produce a fuller and richer sound, but they require more finger strength and dexterity to play. If you are comfortable with playing a 6-string guitar, then transitioning to a 12-string guitar may take some time and practice.
Secondly, you should consider the build quality of the guitar. A budget 12-string guitar may not have the same level of craftsmanship and materials as a more expensive guitar. However, you can still find affordable guitars that are well-made and produce excellent sound quality.
Lastly, it is essential to try out the guitar before purchasing it. Play different styles and techniques on the guitar to get a feel for how it sounds and how it responds to your playing. If you feel comfortable and confident playing the guitar, then it may be the right choice for you.
What are the best budget 12 string guitar brands?
When it comes to finding a budget-friendly 12 string guitar, there are a few brands that stand out. One of the most popular brands is Yamaha, which offers a range of affordable 12 string options that are known for their quality and durability. Another great option is Fender, which also has a good reputation for producing high-quality guitars at reasonable prices. Epiphone is another budget-friendly brand that offers a range of 12 string guitars, including their popular DR-212 model. Other brands to consider include Washburn, Ibanez, and Takamine. It's important to keep in mind that while these brands offer affordable options, the quality may not be as high as more expensive guitars. However, with proper care and maintenance, a budget 12 string guitar from one of these brands can still be a great investment for any musician.
What are the key features to look for in a budget 12 string guitar?
When looking for a budget 12 string guitar, there are a few key features to consider that can help you find a quality instrument without breaking the bank. Firstly, you'll want to ensure that the guitar is made with solid tonewoods, such as spruce or mahogany, as this can greatly impact the sound quality and resonance of the instrument.
Another important feature to consider is the quality of the guitar's hardware, including the tuners, bridge, and nut. Look for components made with durable materials that can withstand regular use and tuning adjustments.
Additionally, you may want to consider the guitar's size and shape, as this can impact both comfort and sound quality. Some 12 string guitars may have a larger body size, which can provide a fuller, more resonant sound, but may also be less comfortable to play for extended periods of time.
Ultimately, the most important factor to consider when choosing a budget 12 string guitar is how it feels and sounds to you. Take the time to play and test out different models to find one that meets your needs and preferences.
What are the pros and cons of buying a budget 12 string guitar?
Buying a budget 12 string guitar can be a great way to save some money while still enjoying the rich, full sound that 12 string guitars are known for. However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider before making a purchase.
Pros:
– Affordability: Budget 12 string guitars are generally much cheaper than their high-end counterparts, making them a great option for beginners or those on a tight budget.
– Availability: Because they are more affordable, budget 12 string guitars are often more widely available and easier to find.
– Learning: A budget 12 string guitar can be a great instrument to learn on, allowing you to get a feel for the unique sound and tuning of a 12 string guitar without breaking the bank.
Cons:
– Quality: With a budget 12 string guitar, you may be sacrificing quality for affordability. Cheaper materials and construction may result in a lesser sound and a shorter lifespan for the instrument.
– Playability: Cheaper guitars may not have the same level of playability as higher-end models, making it more difficult to achieve the desired sound and feel.
– Upgrades: If you decide to upgrade or customize your guitar in the future, a budget model may not have the same potential for improvement as a higher-end guitar.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a budget 12 string guitar depends on your individual needs and preferences. If affordability is a top priority and you are willing to sacrifice some quality, a budget 12 string guitar can be a great option. However, if you are looking for the highest quality instrument possible, you may want to invest in a higher-end model.
What is the average price range for a budget 12 string guitar?
The average price range for a budget 12 string guitar can vary depending on the brand, quality, and materials used. Generally, you can find a decent budget 12 string guitar for around $200 to $400. However, some brands may offer models that are priced higher or lower than this range.
It's important to note that while you may be able to find cheaper options, it's best to invest in a guitar that is made with quality materials and craftsmanship. Cheaper guitars may not sound as good or last as long, which can lead to additional costs down the road.
When shopping for a budget 12 string guitar, it's also important to consider your skill level and playing style. Some guitars may be better suited for beginners, while others may be more appropriate for experienced players.
Overall, with a little research and patience, you can find a budget 12 string guitar that meets your needs and fits within your price range.
What is the best way to care for and maintain a budget 12 string guitar?
Maintaining a budget 12 string guitar is crucial to ensure its longevity and to keep its sound quality intact. The best way to care for and maintain a budget 12 string guitar is by following some simple steps:
1. Keep it clean: Wipe down the guitar after each use with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris. Use a guitar polish to clean the body and neck, but avoid using any cleaning agents on the fretboard.
2. Store it properly: Always store your guitar in a dry and cool place, away from direct sunlight and humidity.
3. Tune it regularly: Tune your guitar before every use. This will not only improve the sound quality but also prevent any damage to the guitar.
4. Change strings regularly: Replace the strings every 3-6 months, depending on how often you play. This will help to maintain the tone and playability of the guitar.
5. Get it serviced: Take the guitar to a professional guitar technician for regular servicing. They can perform a setup, adjust the action, and check for any issues.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your budget 12 string guitar stays in excellent condition and produces beautiful music for years to come.
