Best 12 String Electric Guitars (2025 Update)
If you're looking for a unique sound in your music, adding a 12 string electric guitar to your collection can be an excellent choice. The added strings provide a fuller sound that can take your music to a new level. However, it can be challenging to choose the best 12 string electric guitar for your needs. Luckily, with a few factors to consider, you can have an easier time making a decision.
When looking for the best 12 string electric guitar, one essential factor to consider is the construction quality of the instrument. The guitar should be built with sturdy materials that can withstand regular use. Additionally, consider the tonewood used in the guitar's design, which can impact the sound quality. The guitar's pickups and electronics are also crucial in determining the sound it produces when played. Lastly, consider the design, style, and brand reputation when selecting your 12 string electric guitar.
Are you someone who enjoys experimenting with different sounds in your music? Do you want a guitar that can produce a richer tonality to add depth to your sound? In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about the best 12 string electric guitars. We'll cover the crucial features that can make or break your guitar-buying experience and give you valuable insights on what to look for in your instrument. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to find the perfect 12 string electric guitar for your music journey.
10 Best 12 String Electric Guitars
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The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string acoustic/electric guitar with a classic black finish.
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2
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Ideal for professional and amateur musicians seeking a high-quality, resonant 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with vintage-style design.
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3
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The product is ideal for guitarists who want a classic, 12-string hollow body guitar with gold hardware and a walnut stain finish.
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4
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This product is ideal for musicians who want a 12-string guitar with classic hollow body design and gold hardware.
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5
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Ideal for 12-string electric guitars with a light gauge and nickel wound construction for bright tones.
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6
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The product is ideal for musicians seeking a fast and smooth playing experience with a 12-string semi-hollow body electric guitar.
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7
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Ideal for electric guitars with 12 strings, suitable for those who want a brighter and more balanced tone.
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8
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This product is ideal for beginners who want to build their own 12-string electric guitar with mahogany body and neck.
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9
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Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality 12-string electric guitar with a semi-hollow body and stop tail.
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10
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The product is ideal for musicians who want a versatile 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a sleek and black design.
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1. Dean Guitars Exhibition 12-String Acoustic/electric Guitar, Classic Black, Right, (Ex12 Cbk)
The guitar boasts a set neck construction, which offers improved sustain and resonance. Its body and neck material is crafted from high-quality mahogany, renowned for its warm and rich tonal qualities. The top is made from spruce laminated, a strong and durable wood that enhances the guitar's projection and volume.
The fretboard and bridge are made from ebony, a dense and hard wood that is known for its smooth texture and durability. It offers excellent note clarity and sustain, making it a popular choice among guitarists.
The guitar is equipped with Grover 18:1 tuners, known for their precision and stability. They provide smooth and accurate tuning, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune for longer periods.
The Fishman Presys II (PSY-BAA-AAA) pickup is located at the bridge, providing a high-quality and natural-sounding amplified tone. It is a popular choice among guitarists due to its clarity and versatility.
The guitar is strung with D'Addario EXP36 (.010-.047) strings, known for their bright and balanced tone. They offer excellent intonation and durability, making them a popular choice among guitarists of all levels.
2. D'angelico Premier Fulton Ls 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Satin Vintage Sunburst
Introducing the 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar with Spruce Top, a top-of-the-line instrument that boasts superior sound quality and an elegant design. The guitar features a stunning Satin Vintage Sunburst finish that will surely catch the eye of any musician or music enthusiast.
Crafted with a Spruce Top, this guitar produces a warm and rich tone that is perfect for a wide variety of musical genres. The Merbau Fingerboard adds to the guitar's overall sound quality, providing a smooth and comfortable playing experience.
The Mahogany Back and Sides of the guitar contribute to its durability, ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. The Mahogany Neck adds to the guitar's stability and enhances its overall tonal quality.
The guitar is equipped with an acoustic-electric system that allows for easy amplification and sound projection. This feature makes it ideal for live performances or recording sessions.
Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner, this 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar with Spruce Top is the perfect choice for anyone looking to elevate their musical talents. Its superior craftsmanship and exceptional sound quality make it a valuable addition to any musician's collection.
Invest in the 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar with Spruce Top today and experience the unparalleled sound quality and elegant design that sets it apart from the rest.
3. Gold 12-String Electromatic Hollow Body Guitar
The G5422G-12 is a 12-string electric guitar that boasts a vintage-inspired design coupled with modern features. Its laminated maple body features refined arches and vintage-style perimeters, making it a visually stunning instrument. The all-new trestle block bracing system helps to reduce unwanted feedback and results in a sound that has a faster attack with increased sustain, focus, and snap.
The guitar's hollow body is equipped with all-new FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups, which allow the instrument's voice to explode with a huge full-bodied punch, classic chime, and enhanced presence, clarity, and note definition. This, coupled with the trestle block design, creates a sound that is both lively and loud.
The G5422G-12 also features a classic C-shaped maple neck, which offers a comfortable playing feel for improved playability and performance. The neck is topped with a 12-inch radius laurel fingerboard, which adds to the guitar's vintage aesthetic.
The instrument is finished in a beautiful walnut stain, which is complemented by gold hardware and a gold pickguard. This combination gives the guitar a sophisticated and elegant look, making it a great addition to any musician's collection.
4. Gold Hardware 12-String Hollow Body Guitar
The G5422G-12 is a stunning hollow-body guitar that boasts a laminated maple body with vintage-inspired perimeters and refined arches. This guitar is equipped with all-new trestle block bracing, which helps to reduce unwanted feedback and increases rigidity and contact between the top and back of the body.
Thanks to this innovative trestle block design, the G5422G-12 boasts a sound that has a faster attack with more focus, snap, and increased sustain. This guitar's voice explodes with a huge full-bodied punch, classic chime, and enhanced presence, clarity, and note definition, thanks to its all-new FT-5E Filter’Tron pickups.
The G5422G-12 also features an all-new classic C-shaped maple neck, which has been designed to offer a more comfortable playing feel for improved playability and performance. This neck is topped with a 12-Inch radius laurel fingerboard, which provides a smooth and easy playing surface.
The G5422G-12 is available in a striking Single Barrel Burst finish, which is complemented by gold hardware and a gold pickguard. This guitar is both alive and loud, making it perfect for guitarists who want a high-quality instrument that looks and sounds amazing.
5. Ernie Ball 12-String Light Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings, 9-46 Gauge (P02233)
The guitar strings are crafted with precision and care using the highest quality materials available. Made in California, USA, these strings are composed of nickel plated steel wire that is wrapped around a tin plated hex shaped steel core wire. This unique construction ensures a well balanced and all around good sound that will impress even the most discerning musician.
One of the standout features of these guitar strings is the wound G string. This adds an extra layer of depth and richness to the sound that is sure to please both the player and the audience. Additionally, the strings are packaged using Element Shield technology which helps to prolong their lifespan and keep them as fresh as the day they were made.
Whether you're a professional musician or just starting out, these guitar strings are the perfect choice. They provide a consistent and reliable sound that is sure to enhance your playing experience. So why settle for inferior strings when you can have the best? Invest in these premium guitar strings and take your music to the next level.
6. Starfire I-12: 12-String Cherry Red Electric Guitar
Introducing Guild’s Starfire I-12, the most affordable 12-string electric guitar in the Guild legacy. This semi-hollow body guitar is designed for gig-ready performances and offers a wide range of iconic Guild tones in a comfortable and affordable fashion.
The Starfire I-12 features a semi-hollow construction with an arched mahogany top, back, and sides, and a mahogany center block for increased sustain and chime from the octave strings while reducing feedback. This guitar retains the airy, crisp tone you would expect from a semi-hollow body.
Guild’s Starfire I-12 boasts a 24 3/4” scale length and a modern thin “U” neck profile, providing a fast, smooth playing neck. The 18th fret neck-to-body joint offers easy access to the upper register of the fretboard. The guitar is equipped with a Tune-o-Matic bridge and stop bar tailpiece, ensuring solid intonation and great sustain.
The Starfire I-12 features Guild HB-2 humbuckers with push/pull coil split, offering a wide array of vintage and modern 12-string electric tones. These humbuckers are inspired by Guild’s sought-after HB-1 pickups and are constructed using Alnico II magnets for rich, full tone, a perfect complement to the wide range of frequencies produced by a 12-string guitar.
The guitar is complete with a fully bound body, bound 12.5” radius rosewood fretboard, classic Guild knobs, three-step black pickguard, nickel Guild headstock logo, and full gloss Cherry Red finish. Each guitar has a unique spirit and varies greatly in color richness and wood grain, making every Starfire I-12 a one-of-a-kind instrument.
7. Ernie Ball 12-String Slinky Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings, 8-40 Gauge (P02230)
This exceptional product has been designed with the utmost precision and exactitude to ensure unparalleled consistency, flawless performance, and an extended lifespan. It's made of nickel-plated steel wire wrapped around a hex-shaped steel core wire, while the plain strings are crafted from specially tempered tin-plated high-carbon steel, resulting in a well-balanced and bright tone that is truly signature Slinky.
Not only does this product provide a tone that's second to none, but it also offers a feel that's unique to the Slinky brand. Additionally, the Element Shield Packaging has been specifically designed to prolong the life of the strings while preserving their freshness, so they sound as good as the day they were crafted.
This product has been manufactured in California, USA with the finest and freshest materials available, ensuring that every musician can rely on its quality and durability. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, this product is sure to meet and exceed your expectations. So, if you're looking for a top-of-the-line set of strings that offer unparalleled performance, look no further than this premium product.
8. Fistrock Double Neck Diy Guitar Kit
Looking for a DIY guitar kit that has everything you need to start building your own double neck guitar? Look no further than the Fistrock DIY Double Neck Guitar Kit! This comprehensive kit includes all the necessary parts and hardware for a beginner-level build, eliminating the hassle and expense of sourcing individual parts.
Crafted with high-quality components, this kit features a mahogany body, 12-string and 6-string twin mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard, humbucker pickups, Tune-O-Matic bridge tailpiece, and die-cast chrome machine heads. These components work together seamlessly to deliver rich, full-bodied sound that is sure to impress.
One of the best things about this kit is that it allows you to customize your guitar to your own unique style. The body comes cut and sanded, but completely unfinished, so you can paint, stain, varnish, or finish your guitar in any design you wish. The mahogany neck also comes with an unfinished headstock, giving you the freedom to mark it up with something completely original or pay tribute to an iconic instrument.
Sustainable tone woods are also a key feature of the Fistrock DIY Double Neck Guitar Kit. The kit is composed of rosewood fingerboard, which features a dense and natural grain that gives improved tone and volume. This wood is sustainable and meets the needs of the evolving world, making this guitar kit a responsible choice for those who are environmentally conscious.
Full instructions are provided with this kit, making it easy for even beginners to build their own guitar. However, it's worth noting that some additional tools will be required, such as a soldering iron and a screwdriver. The instruction manual will be sent to you via Amazon message, along with any other relevant information you may need to get started.
9. Starfire Iv St 12-String Electric Guitar
Introducing a finely crafted guitar with a unique spirit – the Arched Laminated Mahogany Body Guitar. This guitar boasts a 3-piece Mahogany/Maple/Mahogany neck material and an Indian Rosewood fingerboard material that provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience.
With a scale length of 24 3/4″ (628 mm), this guitar delivers a balanced and harmonious sound that is perfect for any music genre. It comes equipped with LB-1 pickups that provide a clear and defined tone with a great sustain.
This guitar is designed for right-handed players, giving them the freedom to play with ease and comfort. The natural wood used in the construction of this guitar has unique variations in color richness and wood grain, which makes each guitar one-of-a-kind.
Please note that the product shipped may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown here due to the natural variations in the wood.
10. Ibanez Aeg5012 Aeg Series Single-Cutaway 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black
The product being reviewed is an acoustic guitar preamp with versatile tone control and an easy-to-read onboard tuner. The preamp is designed with ergonomics in mind, featuring only two control knobs for volume and shape. This minimalist approach allows for a simple and intuitive user experience.
One of the standout features of this preamp is its at-a-glance tone control, which offers a natural acoustic sound. This means that players can fine-tune their guitar's tone without sacrificing the authentic, organic sound of their instrument.
Another advantage of this preamp is its versatility. It allows players to go from low, fat and powerful tones to bright and clear tones with ease. Whether you're playing fingerstyle or strumming chords, this preamp can handle it all.
The onboard tuner is another key feature of this product. It is easy to read thanks to its LCD (liquid crystal display), which provides clear readability in any lighting conditions. This tuner ensures that your guitar is always perfectly in tune, whether you're playing at home or on stage.
Finally, the preamp is crafted from high-quality materials, including purpleheart wood. This wood produces a rich mid-range with a crisp high end, giving your guitar a full, balanced sound that will impress any audience.
Best 12 String Electric Guitars FAQs
Are there any affordable 12 string electric guitars that still offer great sound and quality?
Yes, there are several affordable 12 string electric guitars that offer great sound and quality. One option is the Yamaha APX700II-12, which has a slim body and pickup system that delivers a clear and dynamic sound. Another option is the Fender CD-60SCE-12, which has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides for a warm and full-bodied tone. The Ibanez AEG1812II also offers a rich and resonant sound with its spruce top and mahogany back and sides. These guitars are all priced under $500 and provide excellent value for their price range. Of course, there are also higher-end models available if you're willing to spend more, but for those on a budget, these 12 string electric guitars are great options that deliver quality sound without breaking the bank.
Can a beginner learn to play on a 12 string electric guitar, or is it better to start with a 6 string?
It is possible for a beginner to learn to play on a 12 string electric guitar, but it may be more challenging than starting with a 6 string guitar. A 12 string guitar has twice as many strings as a 6 string guitar, which can make it more difficult to fret chords and play individual notes. Additionally, the strings are closer together on a 12 string guitar, which can make it harder to avoid accidentally muting adjacent strings.
That being said, if a beginner is up for the challenge and is committed to practicing regularly, they can certainly learn to play on a 12 string guitar. It may be helpful to start with simpler songs and exercises and gradually work up to more complex pieces. It may also be beneficial to work with a guitar teacher who can provide guidance and feedback. Ultimately, the decision of whether to start with a 6 string or a 12 string guitar will depend on the individual's goals, preferences, and willingness to put in the necessary time and effort to learn.
How do 12 string electric guitars compare to their 6 string counterparts?
12 string electric guitars offer a unique sound that differs from their 6 string counterparts. They have double the strings, with the additional strings being tuned to the same notes as the original strings, but an octave higher. This creates a fuller, richer sound that is often described as shimmering or jangly.
However, playing a 12 string guitar can be more challenging than a 6 string guitar due to the increased tension on the neck and the need for more precision in fretting and strumming. Additionally, 12 string guitars can be heavier and have a wider neck, making it harder for some players to comfortably handle the instrument.
Despite these challenges, many guitarists prefer the unique sound and tone of a 12 string guitar, and it has become a staple in genres such as folk, rock, and country music. Ultimately, the choice between a 6 string and a 12 string guitar comes down to personal preference and the type of music a player wants to create.
How do I choose the right 12 string electric guitar for my skill level and playing style?
Choosing the right 12 string electric guitar for your skill level and playing style can be a daunting task, but there are a few things to consider to ensure you make the best decision.
Firstly, consider your playing style. Are you a beginner or an experienced player? What genre of music do you play? Do you prefer a brighter or warmer tone? Answering these questions will help you determine the type of guitar that suits your playing style.
Secondly, consider the guitar’s build quality. A quality build ensures that the guitar produces a balanced sound with good intonation and playability. Look for guitars with solid wood tops and backs, quality hardware, and a sturdy neck.
Thirdly, consider the guitar’s size and shape. If you have a smaller body frame, you may prefer a smaller guitar, while larger players may be more comfortable with a larger guitar.
Lastly, try out the guitar before purchasing it. Play a few chords and scales to see how it feels and sounds. This will help you determine if the guitar is the right fit for you.
In summary, choosing the right 12 string electric guitar requires consideration of your playing style, build quality, size and shape, and trying out the guitar before purchasing it.
How do I properly maintain and care for my 12 string electric guitar?
Maintaining and caring for your 12 string electric guitar is essential to keep it in good condition and ensure its longevity. Here are some tips to help you maintain your guitar:
1. Clean your guitar regularly: Use a soft cloth to wipe down your guitar after each use. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents or chemicals that can damage the finish.
2. Keep it in a safe place: Store your guitar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid leaving it in a car or in a damp area.
3. Change strings regularly: Strings should be changed every 2-3 months or as needed. This will help to maintain the sound quality and keep your guitar in tune.
4. Check the neck regularly: The neck of your guitar can warp over time due to changes in temperature and humidity. Check it regularly for any signs of warping or damage.
5. Get it professionally serviced: Take your guitar to a professional for regular maintenance and servicing. They can help to identify any issues and ensure that your guitar is in top condition.
By following these tips, you can keep your 12 string electric guitar in great shape and enjoy playing it for years to come.
What are the benefits of playing a 12 string electric guitar?
Playing a 12 string electric guitar offers a range of benefits for musicians and guitar enthusiasts. First and foremost, the unique sound produced by a 12 string guitar is fuller and richer than a standard 6 string guitar. This is due to the additional strings that are paired with the standard strings, creating a chorus-like effect that adds depth and dimension to any piece of music.
Another benefit of playing a 12 string electric guitar is that it can help to improve a musician's fingerpicking and strumming technique. The additional strings require greater precision and coordination, which can help to develop a player's skills and overall musicianship. Additionally, the versatility of a 12 string electric guitar allows for a wider range of musical styles and genres to be played, from folk and country to rock and roll.
Overall, the benefits of playing a 12 string electric guitar are numerous and can greatly enhance a musician's playing ability and sound.
What are the most popular brands for 12 string electric guitars?
There are several popular brands that offer 12 string electric guitars, each with their unique features and characteristics. One of the most well-known brands is Rickenbacker, which has been producing 12 string electric guitars since the 1960s. Their guitars are known for their distinctive jangly sound and unique body shape.
Another popular brand is Fender, which offers a variety of 12 string electric guitars in their Stratocaster and Telecaster series. These guitars are known for their versatility and high-quality construction.
Gibson is also a popular choice for 12 string electric guitars, with their SG and ES-335 models being among the most sought after. These guitars are known for their rich, warm tone and excellent playability.
Other notable brands include Paul Reed Smith, Taylor, and Yamaha. Ultimately, the best brand for a 12 string electric guitar will depend on the individual's personal preferences and playing style. It is recommended to try out several different brands and models before making a purchase to ensure the best fit.
What are the top 10 best 12 string electric guitars on the market?
There are many great 12 string electric guitars on the market today, each with their own unique sound and features. Here are ten of the best:
1. Taylor 956ce – This guitar has a beautiful Grand Symphony body shape and is made from premium materials, resulting in a clear and balanced tone.
2. Gibson ES-335 12-String – This iconic guitar is known for its rich, warm sound and classic design.
3. Fender Electric XII – Originally released in the 1960s, this guitar has a distinct jangly sound that has made it a favorite of musicians in many genres.
4. Rickenbacker 360/12 – Another classic guitar, the Rickenbacker 360/12 has a bright, chimey sound that is perfect for pop and rock music.
5. PRS SE P20E – This 12 string acoustic-electric guitar has a comfortable neck and a clear, articulate sound.
6. Guild F-512 – Made from solid Sitka spruce and Indian rosewood, this guitar has a warm, full-bodied sound that is perfect for fingerstyle playing.
7. Ibanez AEG1812II – This affordable 12 string guitar has a slim body and a bright, clear sound.
8. Gretsch G2622T – This guitar's semi-hollow body and Filter'Tron pickups give it a unique sound that is perfect for rock and roll.
9. Martin D12X1AE – Made from high-quality materials, this guitar has a rich, full sound and is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking.
10. Godin Multiac Grand Concert Duet Ambiance – This guitar has a unique blend of acoustic and electric sounds, making it a versatile choice for many different styles of music.
What should I look for in a high-quality 12 string electric guitar?
When looking for a high-quality 12 string electric guitar, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the build quality of the instrument is important. Look for a guitar that is made with high-quality materials such as solid wood and has a well-constructed body and neck. This will ensure that the guitar is durable and will produce a good sound.
Secondly, pay attention to the pickups and electronics of the guitar. A good 12 string electric guitar should have high-quality pickups that produce a clear and balanced sound. The electronics should be reliable and easy to use, with controls that allow you to adjust the tone and volume of the guitar to your liking.
Thirdly, consider the playability of the guitar. Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck and a low action, which will make it easier to play and reduce the risk of hand fatigue. The guitar should also be well balanced and feel comfortable to hold and play for extended periods of time.
Finally, consider the overall aesthetics of the guitar. Choose a guitar that looks good to you and reflects your personal style. This will ensure that you enjoy playing the guitar and feel confident when performing with it.
What types of music are best suited for a 12 string electric guitar?
A 12 string electric guitar can add a unique sound to a variety of music genres. However, some genres are better suited for this type of guitar than others.
One genre that is particularly well-suited for a 12 string electric guitar is folk music. The bright and resonant tone of the guitar can complement the acoustic instruments commonly used in folk music. Additionally, the 12 strings can produce a fuller sound that can fill a room and add depth to a performance.
Another genre that works well with a 12 string electric guitar is rock music. The guitar's full sound can add a rich texture to rock songs and can create a wall of sound that is perfect for rock ballads.
Finally, country music is a genre that can benefit from the use of a 12 string electric guitar. The guitar's twangy sound can add a layer of authenticity to country music, and its full sound can make it an excellent choice for country ballads.
Overall, the 12 string electric guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used in a variety of genres. Its unique sound can add depth and texture to any musical performance.
