Best Acoustic Guitar For Fingerpicking (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the perfect acoustic guitar for fingerpicking, you'll want to find one that has a rich, warm and balanced tone, that also feels comfortable to play. A guitar that's comfortable to play will allow you to play for hours on end without getting tired.
Before purchasing an acoustic guitar for fingerpicking, readers must consider important factors including the tonewood, neck profile and string spacing. Tonewood affects the overall sound of the guitar. Cedar and spruce are popular tonewoods for fingerstyle guitarists. Neck profile affects the comfort level of the player. Fingerpickers may prefer a wider and flatter neck profile. Lastly, string spacing determines the distance between the strings, and is important for accuracy and ease of playing.
Are you a fingerstyle player who wants to add some new techniques to their repertoire? Do you want to get a clear and balanced sound when strumming chords? Perhaps you’re a guitar enthusiast who is looking for the perfect guitar to play a wide variety of fingerstyle music. Whatever your background, finding the best acoustic guitar for fingerpicking means taking into account all the factors mentioned above. So go ahead, explore your options, and find the perfect guitar for your playing style.
10 Best Acoustic Guitar For Fingerpicking
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This product is ideal for left-handed musicians who want an acoustic-electric guitar with nylon strings.
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2
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The product is ideal for beginners who want an affordable, all-in-one package for learning and playing acoustic guitar.
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3
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Ideal for musicians seeking an affordable, high-quality acoustic-electric guitar package with premium tonewoods and a sleek design.
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4
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The product is ideal for beginners and experienced acoustic guitar players who want a complete package at an affordable price.
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5
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The product is ideal for guitar players who want to play Christmas carols as solos with both notes and tablature.
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6
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The product is ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, versatile acoustic-electric guitar with layered Koa back and sides.
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7
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Ideal for guitar players who want to learn fingerpicking techniques with a collection of popular songs.
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8
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Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, all-solid wood acoustic guitar with a natural finish and premium gig bag.
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9
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The product is ideal for people who want a high-quality acoustic guitar with a natural finish, suitable for right-handed players.
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10
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This acoustic guitar with mahogany construction and slotted headstock is ideal for working musicians seeking a warm, mellow tone.
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1. Takamine Gc1ce Nylon-String Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Introducing a stunning guitar that is crafted with high-quality materials and designed for exceptional performance – the Mahogany Body w/ Spruce Top & Natural Finish, Venetian Cutaway, Fan Bracing guitar. This guitar is an excellent choice for both beginners and professionals alike who are looking for a well-built and reliable instrument.
The guitar features a mahogany body with a spruce top that not only enhances its overall durability but also delivers a warm and rich sound. The natural finish gives it an elegant and classic look that is sure to turn heads. Additionally, the venetian cutaway design provides easy access to the upper frets, making it ideal for complex playing styles.
The guitar also boasts a mahogany neck with a laurel fretboard that is smooth and comfortable to play. The fretboard features a unique design that ensures precise intonation and exceptional playability. The neck and fretboard are crafted to provide excellent sustain and tonal clarity, which means that you can enjoy a full-bodied sound with every note.
To further enhance its functionality, this guitar comes equipped with a Takamine TP-4T preamp with a built-in tuner. The preamp allows you to adjust the tone and volume of your guitar, which means that you can customize your sound to suit any playing style. The built-in tuner ensures that your guitar is always in tune, which is essential for any musician.
The chrome tuners with white pearl buttons not only look great but also provide excellent tuning stability. You can rest assured that your guitar will stay in tune for long periods, even during extended playing sessions.
Please note that cases are not included with the guitar, but you can purchase a case separately to protect your investment and ensure its longevity.
2. Blackout Bundle: Fender Dreadnought Guitar + Accessories
Introducing a remarkable acoustic guitar that boasts an impressive Dreadnought body style, this guitar is a perfect fit for those looking for a high-quality instrument with an outstanding performance. The guitar features a Spruce top with "X"-bracing that delivers a balanced and resonant sound, while the basswood back and sides ensure a warm and rich tone.
With a 20-fret walnut fingerboard, players can enjoy an effortless playing experience that allows for easy chord transitions and intricate fingerpicking. The guitar also features a hardwood bridge with a compensated saddle that enhances intonation and sustain, ensuring that every note played rings out with clarity and precision.
The guitar's gloss finish adds a touch of elegance to its appearance, making it a standout instrument that looks as good as it sounds. The finish also offers protection against scratches and other damages, ensuring that the guitar stays in top condition for years to come.
3. Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package – Premium Tonewoods – Black
The Ashthorpe guitar is a must-have for aspiring musicians and seasoned players alike. With its exceptional sound quality, impressive projection, and outstanding sonics, this guitar is a true standout. Crafted with fine hardwood construction, it features X-braced, A-grade Spruce wood for its resilience and versatility, and Basswood for warmth. The guitar is highly responsive and maintains its tonal integrity, whether playing softly or loudly, strumming or flatpicking.
The thinline cutaway design of this full-size (41") guitar is another highlight. The body is cut away at the neck for better access and more comfortable playing of the top frets. It is also thinline (3" thick), creating an unparalleled sound and aesthetic, and is lightweight for effortless travel and playing.
Loaded with upgrades, the Ashthorpe guitar offers an on-board 4-band pickup/EQ (bass, mid-range, treble, and presence) for exceptional sound control. The guitar also comes with two sets of upgraded phosphor bronze strings, which produce a warm and bright tone. The ultra-glossy, tough-as-nails finish of the guitar is complemented by chrome tuning pegs, adding to its overall appearance.
This guitar bundle includes the Ashthorpe guitar, a soft nylon "gig bag" guitar case for convenient transport, thin, medium, and heavy celluloid picks to suit different playing styles, an on-board 4-band pickup EQ, a guitar cable, a shoulder strap, an extra set of strings, and an owner's manual. With everything you need to get started, this complete kit is perfect for anyone looking to take their music to the next level.
4. Squier Dreadnought Bundle: Complete Acoustic Play Package
This full-size steel-string acoustic guitar offers a big sound that belies its affordable price point. With all-laminate construction, including a lindenwood top and mahogany back and sides, this guitar delivers a rich, resonant tone that is perfect for players of all levels.
The scalloped "X"-bracing ensures that the guitar produces a balanced and nuanced sound, while the mahogany neck and durable dark-stained maple fingerboard contribute to the overall playability of the instrument. The slim neck is easy to play, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced players.
With its full-bodied dreadnought tone, this guitar is perfect for a wide range of musical styles, from country and folk to rock and pop. Whether you're playing solo or with a band, this guitar is sure to deliver the sound you're looking for.
5. Fingerpicking Christmas: 20 Carols Arranged For Solo Guitar In Notes & Tablature
This guitar TAB book is perfect for musicians of all skill levels who are looking to expand their repertoire. The book contains 40 pages of sheet music, providing a comprehensive selection of songs for guitarists to choose from.
Measuring 12" x 9", the book has a convenient size that is easy to handle and can be taken on the go. The sheet music is composed by various artists, ensuring a diverse range of styles and genres to suit every taste.
ISBN: 634062476 is included with the book, making it easy to identify and purchase. This unique identifier ensures that you receive the correct product when ordering online or in-store.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced musician, this guitar TAB book is a valuable addition to your music collection. With its wide selection of songs and convenient size, it's the perfect resource for any guitarist looking to expand their skills and repertoire.
6. Taylor 214ce-K Deluxe Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Natural With Layered Koa Back & Sides
Introducing the 6-string Acoustic-electric Guitar with Sitka Spruce Top, Ebony Fingerboard – Natural, Layered Koa Back Sides and Mahogany Neck – an exceptional musical instrument that delivers an outstanding performance for both amateur and professional players. This guitar is designed to provide a rich and vibrant sound that will captivate any audience.
Crafted with a Sitka spruce top, this guitar produces a bright and lively tone that is perfect for strumming or fingerpicking. The layered Koa back and sides enhance the sound quality by providing a warm and clear resonance that adds depth and character to the music.
The Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth and comfortable playing experience. It is durable and long-lasting, making it ideal for frequent use. The Mahogany neck provides excellent stability, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune even after extended playing sessions.
This guitar is equipped with an acoustic-electric feature that allows you to amplify your sound with ease. It comes with an integrated pickup and preamp system that provides clarity and balance, making it perfect for live performances, recording sessions, or practicing at home.
In addition to its exceptional sound quality, this guitar boasts a stunning natural finish that enhances its overall aesthetic appeal. It is an eye-catching instrument that is sure to impress any audience.
7. Fingerpicking Acoustic: 15 Songs Arranged For Solo Guitar In Standard Notation & Tab
This guitar book is an excellent resource for any aspiring musician. With 64 pages of easy-to-follow instructions and clear illustrations, it is an ideal guide for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of fingerstyle guitar. The book includes guitar tablature, making it effortless to read and play along with the songs.
Measuring 12" x 9", this book is compact and easy to carry around, making it perfect for practicing on the go. It is also an excellent addition to any music library. The book's ISBN number is 634065378, making it easy to find and purchase.
One of the best features of this book is the easy introduction to basic fingerstyle guitar. This section is perfect for new guitarists who want to learn the foundational techniques of fingerstyle playing. The clear and concise instructions make it easy to follow along and build a strong foundation in fingerstyle guitar.
8. Natural All-Solid Om-120 Encounter
The OM-120 acoustic guitar is a versatile and well-crafted instrument that is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking. It boasts a mid-sized orchestra shape and produces a sweet, balanced tone that is sure to please any musician.
Crafted with premium materials, the OM-120 features a solid African mahogany top and solid African mahogany back and sides. These materials not only provide a beautiful aesthetic but also contribute to the guitar's exceptional sound quality.
This model also features a bone nut and saddle, ensuring every note is clear and resonant. The mother-of-pearl rosette adds an elegant touch to the guitar's overall design.
The OM-120 has a 1¾” nut width on a vintage shaped Guild neck, complete with an iconic Chesterfield headstock emblem reminiscent of 1960s Guild guitars. The period-correct tortoiseshell pickguard adds to the vintage appeal of this instrument.
The guitar is shipped with Guild's new lightweight polyfoam case, ensuring that it is well-protected during transport. It is available in a stunning Natural gloss finish, which showcases the unique spirit and color richness of natural wood. Please note that due to natural variability, the product may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown here.
9. Blueridge Guitars 6 String Acoustic Guitar, Right Handed, Natural (Br-371)
The Historic Series Parlor Guitar is a top-of-the-line instrument designed for the discerning musician who demands exceptional quality and performance. Crafted with care and precision, this guitar boasts a number of impressive features that make it a standout choice for both novice and professional players alike.
One of the key features of this guitar is its solid Sitka spruce top with scalloped braces. This design ensures clean articulation and a crisp tone, allowing you to produce rich, full-bodied sound that is sure to impress. Additionally, the solid Indian rosewood back and sides provide deep bass and strong cutting power, making this guitar an ideal choice for a wide variety of musical styles.
The slim mahogany neck is another standout feature of this guitar. Offering fast, easy action and inherently long-lasting stability, this neck is designed to provide you with years of reliable use and performance. This makes it ideal for both practicing and performing, as well as for recording sessions and other professional uses.
The Historic Series Parlor Guitar also features a number of vintage-inspired touches that give it a unique and timeless appeal. From the abalone purfling to the diamond volute behind the headstock, this guitar is sure to turn heads and impress even the most discerning musicians. The snowflake position markers add an additional touch of class and elegance, making this guitar a true standout in any collection.
Finally, every Historic Series Parlor guitar now comes with a sturdy, padded Blueridge Logo ProTour BV-1302 Parlor Guitar Gig Bag. This ensures that your instrument is protected and safe during transport, and makes it easy to take your guitar with you wherever you go.
10. Martin 000-15sm Acoustic Guitar With Gig Bag
The Martin 000-15SM acoustic guitar is a professional-grade instrument that boasts impressive sound quality and a striking appearance. Constructed from high-quality mahogany, this guitar delivers a lively sound with rich tonal complexity, making it a popular choice for musicians of all skill levels.
The auditorium body style adds volume to the sound, making it ideal for finger strumming. The guitar has open nickel tuners and a satin finish, giving it a captivating look that is as impressive as its sound. It is a perfect choice for working musicians, as it is designed to withstand long sessions and late-night jams.
The 000-15SM is completed with a simple dovetail neck joint, non-scalloped X-brace, and standard taper neck. The auditorium body style delivers excellent playability and superior sound, making it a popular choice for professional musicians. It also comes with a hard-shell matte case for easy carrying, making it ideal for gigging musicians.
The Martin 15 Series guitars are handmade from the highest-quality mahogany, ensuring they can stand up to the demands of professional use. They deliver classic designs, professional sounds, and enjoyable playing, making them a popular choice for musicians around the world.
In addition to Martin's iconic tone known worldwide, the 15 Series guitars deliver enhanced playability that makes playing a pleasure, no matter your experience or skill level. Whether you're playing rock, country, folk, bluegrass, or jazz, these guitars deliver a natural playing experience that you will love.
Martin's superior guitar and string products remain the choice for musicians around the world for their unrivaled quality, craftsmanship, and tone. Still handmade and built to the highest standards, Martin guitars are the real deal—not an imitation. The 000-15SM is a testament to this legacy, delivering professional-grade sound, appearance, and playability that is unmatched in the industry.
Best Acoustic Guitar For Fingerpicking FAQs
How does the shape of an acoustic guitar's neck affect fingerpicking performance?
The shape of an acoustic guitar's neck can greatly impact fingerpicking performance. The width and thickness of the neck can affect the player's ability to comfortably grip and navigate the strings. A thinner neck may be preferred by some fingerstyle players, as it allows for faster and more agile finger movements. However, a thicker neck may provide better stability and support for the hand, reducing fatigue during extended playing sessions.
The shape of the neck profile also plays a role in fingerpicking performance. A round profile may be more comfortable for some players, as it fits naturally in the palm of the hand. A flatter profile may be preferred by others, as it allows for easier access to the higher frets.
Ultimately, the best neck shape for fingerpicking performance will depend on the individual player's preferences and playing style. It's important to try out different neck shapes and profiles to find the one that feels most comfortable and allows for optimal fingerpicking technique.
How does the size of an acoustic guitar's body affect its sound for fingerpicking?
The size of an acoustic guitar's body can have a significant impact on its sound when it comes to fingerpicking. Generally, larger-bodied guitars tend to produce a fuller, more resonant sound with greater volume and sustain. This is because the larger body provides more space for the sound waves to bounce around and develop before projecting out of the soundhole.
However, there are also smaller-bodied guitars specifically designed for fingerpicking that can offer a more focused and articulate sound. These guitars often have a more pronounced midrange and less bass, which can help individual notes stand out more clearly in fingerstyle playing.
Ultimately, the best size for an acoustic guitar's body for fingerpicking depends on personal preference and playing style. It's always best to try out a variety of guitars to see which one feels and sounds right for you.
How much should you expect to spend on a high-quality acoustic guitar for fingerpicking?
The price of a high-quality acoustic guitar for fingerpicking can vary depending on several factors. Generally, a quality acoustic guitar for fingerpicking will cost you between $500 and $3000. However, you can get a decent guitar for around $1000. If you are a beginner, it is advisable to start with a lower-priced guitar and upgrade as your skills improve. More expensive guitars are often made from higher-quality materials, which can improve the sound quality and playability. Additionally, some high-end guitars may feature intricate designs and inlays, which can add to the cost. Ultimately, the amount you should spend on a guitar depends on your budget, skill level, and personal preferences. It is essential to try out different guitars before making a purchase to find one that feels comfortable and sounds good to you.
What are the key features of an acoustic guitar that make it ideal for fingerpicking?
An acoustic guitar is a versatile instrument that can be played in various styles, including fingerpicking. Fingerpicking is a technique that involves plucking the strings with the fingers rather than using a pick. There are several key features of an acoustic guitar that make it ideal for fingerpicking.
Firstly, the size and shape of the guitar body play a crucial role in fingerpicking. A guitar with a smaller body size, such as a parlor or concert guitar, is easier to handle and allows for greater comfort and control while fingerpicking. Additionally, guitars with a cutaway design provide easy access to the higher frets, allowing for more complex fingerpicking patterns.
Secondly, the tonal quality of the guitar is also important for fingerpicking. Acoustic guitars with a bright and clear tone are ideal for fingerpicking as they allow the individual notes to stand out and be heard distinctly. Guitars made from tonewoods such as spruce or cedar are known for their bright and clear tones, making them great choices for fingerpicking.
Lastly, the action and string gauge of the guitar also play significant roles in fingerpicking. A guitar with low action and lighter string gauge is easier to play and facilitates faster fingerpicking with less finger fatigue. This allows for a smoother and more fluid fingerpicking technique, which is essential for creating intricate patterns and melodies.
In summary, the key features of an acoustic guitar that make it ideal for fingerpicking include the size and shape of the guitar body, tonal quality, and action and string gauge. A guitar that excels in these areas will provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience for fingerpicking players of all levels.
What is the best way to amplify an acoustic guitar for fingerpicking performance?
Amplifying an acoustic guitar for fingerpicking performance can be challenging, as you want to preserve the natural, warm sound of the instrument while making it loud enough to be heard in a live setting. One of the best ways to amplify an acoustic guitar for fingerpicking is by using a high-quality pickup system. There are many different types of pickups available, including under-saddle pickups, soundboard transducers, and magnetic pickups. Each type has its own unique characteristics and can produce different tones, so it's important to choose one that suits your playing style and the sound you're looking for.
Additionally, using a high-quality preamp and amplifier can also help to enhance the sound of your acoustic guitar. A good preamp can help to balance the tone of the pickup and eliminate any unwanted noise or feedback, while a high-quality amplifier can provide plenty of power and clarity to your sound.
Finally, it's important to experiment with different EQ settings and effects to find the perfect sound for your fingerpicking style. Whether you prefer a clean, natural tone or a more processed sound with reverb and chorus, there are many options available to help you achieve the perfect sound for your acoustic guitar.
What is the difference between a dreadnought and a concert-style acoustic guitar for fingerpicking?
The main difference between a dreadnought and a concert-style acoustic guitar for fingerpicking is their size and shape. Dreadnoughts are larger and have a wider body than concert-style guitars, which makes them more suitable for strumming and producing a louder sound. In contrast, concert-style guitars are smaller and have a more narrow body, which makes them more suitable for fingerpicking and producing a more delicate sound.
Another difference is the type of wood used in their construction. Dreadnoughts are typically made with a combination of spruce and rosewood, which produces a bright and full-bodied sound. Concert-style guitars, on the other hand, are often made with mahogany and cedar, which produces a warmer and more subdued sound.
Ultimately, the choice between a dreadnought and a concert-style guitar for fingerpicking will depend on personal preference and playing style. Fingerpickers may prefer the smaller size and warmer sound of a concert-style guitar, while those who do a lot of strumming may prefer the loudness and full-bodied sound of a dreadnought.
What is the ideal string gauge for fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar?
The ideal string gauge for fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar can vary depending on personal preference and playing style. Generally, lighter gauge strings, such as .010 or .011, are easier to play and produce a brighter tone, which may be preferred for styles such as folk or country. Heavier gauge strings, such as .013 or .014, can produce a richer, fuller sound and may be preferred for styles such as blues or jazz.
It is important to note that the ideal string gauge can also depend on the guitar itself. A guitar with a smaller body or a shorter scale length may benefit from lighter gauge strings, while a larger guitar with a longer scale length may require heavier gauge strings to produce optimal tone and projection.
Ultimately, it is recommended to experiment with different gauges and find the one that feels and sounds the best for your playing style and guitar. It is also important to properly adjust the guitar's setup, including neck relief and action, to ensure the best playing experience.
What type of bridge design is best for fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar?
When it comes to fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar, the choice of bridge design can have a significant impact on the tone and playability of the instrument. Generally speaking, there are two main types of bridge designs that are commonly used for acoustic guitars: the pin bridge and the classical bridge.
The pin bridge, also known as the modern bridge, is the most common type of bridge design found on acoustic guitars. It features six pins that hold the strings in place, and the strings are anchored at the bridge plate. This design is generally considered to provide a bright and punchy tone, which can work well for fingerpicking styles that require a lot of articulation and definition.
On the other hand, the classical bridge, also known as the tie block bridge, is a more traditional design that is commonly found on classical and flamenco guitars. It features a tie block where the strings are knotted and anchored, and there are no pins involved. This design is generally considered to provide a warmer and more mellow tone, which can work well for fingerpicking styles that require a softer and more delicate touch.
Ultimately, the choice of bridge design will come down to personal preference and the specific sound you are looking to achieve. Some guitarists prefer the brightness and clarity of a pin bridge, while others prefer the warmth and depth of a classical bridge. It's worth experimenting with both types of bridges to see which one works best for your playing style and musical preferences.
What type of tonewood is best for fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar?
When it comes to fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar, the type of tonewood used can greatly affect the tone and overall sound of the instrument. Generally, a tonewood that offers a clear, bright, and well-defined sound is preferred for fingerpicking. One popular option is rosewood, which is known for its warm and rich sound with a clear high-end response. Another great option is mahogany, which produces a warm and balanced tone with a strong midrange. Cedar is also a popular choice for fingerpicking, as it is known for its responsiveness and warm, complex overtones. Ultimately, the best tonewood for fingerpicking on an acoustic guitar will depend on personal preference and playing style. It is recommended to try out different types of tonewood to see which one suits your playing style and desired sound the best.
Which acoustic guitar models are commonly recommended for fingerpicking by experienced players?
Experienced guitar players typically recommend certain acoustic guitar models for fingerpicking based on their tonal qualities, playability, and overall sound. Some of the most commonly recommended models include the Martin D-28, Taylor 814ce, Gibson J-45, and the Collings OM2H. Each of these guitars has a distinct sound and feel that makes them popular among fingerstyle players. The Martin D-28, for example, is known for its warm and balanced tone and is often favored by folk and blues players. The Taylor 814ce, on the other hand, is prized for its clarity and projection, making it a popular choice for fingerpicking in a variety of genres. The Gibson J-45 is a classic model that is favored by many fingerstyle players for its rich, full-bodied sound, while the Collings OM2H is known for its exceptional playability and tone. Ultimately, the best guitar for fingerpicking is one that feels comfortable and sounds great to your ears, so it's important to try out several different models before making a decision.
