Embarking on the journey to find the best acoustic-electric guitar can be an exhilarating experience for musicians, from beginners to seasoned professionals.
These versatile instruments combine the rich, resonant sounds of traditional acoustic guitars with the convenience and flexibility of electric amplification, making them ideal for a wide range of musical settings.
Our Top Picks
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Martin Junior Series DJR-10E
Taylor American Dream AD17E Blacktop
Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster
Taylor Academy Series 12e
Cort Little CJ Walnut OP
Martin SC-13E
Guild F-2512E Archback 12-string
Martin 000-28E Modern Deluxe
Yamaha A5R ARE
PRS Parlor SE P20E
Yamaha Storia IIBest for Travel: Martin Junior Series DJR-10E
Compact, durable, and with a sound that’s bigger than its size, it’s the perfect travel companion for music lovers. Its ease of playability and portability makes it a top pick for those who want to make music anywhere, anytime.
Specifications:
- Size: Junior/Travel
- Top Wood: Sitka Spruce
- Back and Sides: Sapele
- Neck Shape: Slim
- Electronics: Fishman Sonitone
- Scale Length: 24”
- Tuning Machines: Chrome Enclosed Gear
- Finish: Hand-Rubbed
Who Is It For?
Whether you’re playing around a campfire, recording new tunes in a hotel room, or performing at a local café across the globe, this guitar’s compact size, exceptional durability, and superior sound quality make it an unbeatable choice.
Ideal for musicians who value portability without sacrificing tone, the DJR-10E ensures that your music travels as far as you do. With its easy-to-play neck and versatile electronics, it’s suited for both beginners and seasoned players looking for a reliable travel guitar.
If you’re someone who lives for the next adventure and wants your music to be a part of the journey, this guitar is made for you.
Best for Singer: Taylor American Dream AD17E Blacktop
Its versatility and playability make it a standout choice for musicians looking for a reliable instrument that can handle both intimate settings and larger venues.
Specifications:
- Body Shape: Grand Pacific, a round-shoulder dreadnought that produces a warm, seasoned sound.
- Top Wood: Solid Spruce, offering clarity and resilience.
- Back and Sides: Solid Ovangkol, providing depth and warmth.
- Electronics: Taylor’s Expression System 2, capturing more of a guitar’s dynamic properties.
- Neck Wood: Tropical Mahogany, known for its durability and comfort.
- Fretboard: Eucalyptus, offering a smooth playability.
- Scale Length: 25-1/2″, balancing tension and tone.
- Nut & Saddle: Black Tusq Nut, Micarta Saddle, enhancing tone and sustain.
Who Is It For?
Whether you’re performing in small coffee shops or recording in a studio, this guitar delivers a rich, full-bodied sound that captures the nuances of your music.
Its comfortable playability and responsive electronics make it ideal for artists who want to connect with their audience on a deeper level. If you’re passionate about your sound and looking for an instrument that will stand by you through every note, the AD17E Blacktop is your dream guitar.
Best Innovation: Fender American Acoustasonic Jazzmaster
Its unique design blends traditional acoustic tones with electric guitar flexibility, making it a masterpiece for any musician looking to push boundaries.
Specifications:
- Body Shape: Jazzmaster
- Top Wood: Solid A Sitka Spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany, Modern “Deep C”
- Fretboard: Ebony, 22 Frets
- Pickup System: Acoustasonic Shawbucker; Fishman Under-Saddle Transducer
- Controls: Master Volume, “Mod” Knob, 5-Way Switch
- Battery Life: 20 Hours Play Time
Who Is It For?
If you’re a gigging musician needing a wide array of sounds at your fingertips or a home studio artist experimenting with genres, this guitar offers unparalleled versatility.
Its innovative electronics allow for seamless switching between crisp acoustic tones and electric guitar growls, making it perfect for those who refuse to be boxed into one musical style. If you value craftsmanship, innovation, and the freedom to express every musical idea, the Acoustasonic Jazzmaster is tailored for you.
Its ease of play and the broad sonic palette makes it an ideal choice for both seasoned professionals and ambitious newcomers eager to make their mark with a unique sound.
Best for Beginners: Taylor Academy Series 12e
Its design simplifies learning, making every strum resonate with potential. This guitar invites newcomers with its playability and clear, rich tones, perfect for those embarking on their musical journey.
Specifications:
- Body Shape: Grand Concert, ideal for a comfortable playing experience.
- Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce, for clear, articulate tones.
- Back and Sides: Layered Sapele, offering durability and a warm sound.
- Neck Width: 1-11/16″, tailored for beginner comfort.
- Scale Length: 24-7/8″, easier fretting for new players.
- Electronics: ES-B pickup system, for amplified sound with easy controls.
- Fretboard: Ebony, smooth and fast for learners.
- Tuners: Die-cast Chrome, reliable and easy to tune.
Who Is It For?
Its design prioritizes ease of play, ensuring that new players can focus on developing their skills without fighting the instrument.
With features tailored to facilitate learning, such as a comfortable neck and accessible body shape, it’s perfect for those who dream of expressing themselves through music.
Whether you’re practicing at home, performing for friends, or taking lessons, the Academy Series 12e supports your journey from the first chord to confident performances. Its blend of quality, playability, and affordability makes it an ideal choice for aspiring musicians looking for an instrument that grows with them.
Best Budget-Friendly: Cort Little CJ Walnut OP
Compact, versatile, and beautifully crafted, it promises exceptional sound quality and playability. Perfect for beginners and seasoned players alike, this guitar stands out in its class.
Specifications:
- Body Shape: Mini Jumbo Cutaway
- Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce
- Back & Sides: Walnut
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fretboard: Ovangkol
- Scale Length: 23.5 inches
- Electronics: Cort CE304T Preamp
- Tuners: Die-cast
Who Is It For?
Whether you’re a beginner taking your first steps into music or a traveling musician looking for a portable companion, this guitar fits perfectly.
Its solid top ensures rich tones, while the affordable price makes it accessible to everyone. Ideal for small gigs, practice sessions, or just jamming at home, it offers a blend of quality, playability, and value that’s hard to beat.
If you’re searching for an instrument that won’t break the bank but still delivers on sound and quality, the Cort Little CJ Walnut OP is your match.
Best for Electric Guitarists: Martin SC-13E
Its innovative design breaks traditional boundaries, offering a unique playing experience that captivates and inspires. Perfect for the modern musician, this guitar blends Martin’s legendary craftsmanship with the latest in acoustic technology.
Specifications:
- Body Shape: SC-13E Unique Cutaway
- Top Wood: Sitka Spruce
- Back and Sides: Koa Fine Veneer
- Neck Shape: Low Profile Velocity
- Fingerboard: Ebony, with High-Performance Taper
- Electronics: Fishman MX-T with Soundhole Tuner
- Scale Length: 25.4″
- Number of Frets: 20, Accessible to the 13th Fret
Who Is It For?
Its revolutionary design and easy access to higher frets make it perfect for those who crave versatility and the ability to play a wide range of music genres. Whether you’re performing on stage or recording in the studio, the SC-13E ensures every note is clear, rich, and resonant.
Ideal for the ambitious musician eager to expand their sonic palette, this guitar promises to elevate your music, making it a must-have for those who demand the best in acoustic electric performance.
Best 12-String: Guild F-2512E Archback 12-string
Its rich, full sound and ease of play make it a favorite among musicians. Perfect for both stage and studio, this guitar combines Guild’s legendary craftsmanship with contemporary features.
Specifications:
- Body Shape: Jumbo Archback
- Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce
- Back and Sides: Maple
- Neck Material: Mahogany
- Fretboard: Pau Ferro or Rosewood
- Scale Length: 25.5 inches
- Electronics: AP-1 Piezo Pickup
- Finish: Natural Gloss Polyurethane
Who Is It For?
Whether you’re a gigging artist, a recording professional, or a hobbyist seeking the lush, full sound that only a 12-string guitar can provide, this model offers exceptional playability and a rich, commanding presence.
Its built-in electronics make it ready for any stage, while its acoustic tones are perfect for intimate settings or solo practice. If you’re looking for a guitar that can keep up with your creativity and provide inspiration through its sound and feel, the Guild F-2512E Archback is designed for you.
Its blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern features makes it a standout choice for players across genres, from folk and country to rock and beyond.
Best Acoustic Electric Guitars – Vintage Inspired: Martin 000-28E Modern Deluxe
This masterpiece blends classic aesthetics with contemporary features, making it a top pick for musicians seeking unparalleled sound and playability.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 000-14 Fret
- Top Wood: Sitka Spruce with VTS
- Back & Sides Wood: East Indian Rosewood
- Neck Wood: Genuine Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Electronics: Fishman Aura VT Blend
- Tuning Machines: Gold Open Gear
- Bracing: Adirondack Spruce with VTS
Who Is It For?
Whether you’re a gigging musician, recording artist, or a passionate hobbyist, this guitar offers a blend of vintage charm and modern features that stands out in any collection.
Its superior craftsmanship and advanced electronics make it ideal for those who appreciate the nuances of a high-quality instrument and are willing to invest in a guitar that will inspire for years to come.
If you’re seeking a versatile, beautifully sounding guitar that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, the 000-28E Modern Deluxe is for you.
Best for Recording: Yamaha A5R ARE
Its rich, detailed sound makes it a favorite among musicians seeking perfection in their recordings. Compact and versatile, this guitar is a masterpiece of musical engineering, designed to inspire.
Specifications:
- Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce with A.R.E. treatment
- Back & Sides: Solid Rosewood
- Neck: African Mahogany (5 ply)
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Bridge: Ebony
- Electronics: SRT2 System
- Nut Width: 43mm
- Scale Length: 650mm
Who Is It For?
Whether you’re laying down tracks in the studio or performing live, this guitar delivers with its exceptional playability and advanced electronics.
Its solid construction and A.R.E. treated wood provide a rich, vintage tone that matures with age, making it a valuable companion for recording artists, singer-songwriters, and gigging musicians alike.
If you’re passionate about your music and looking for an instrument that can keep up with your creativity, the Yamaha A5R ARE is designed for you.
Best Parlor Guitar: PRS Parlor SE P20E
Compact yet powerful, this guitar combines traditional craftsmanship with modern playability, making it a standout choice for musicians of all levels. Its rich, warm tones and easy handling promise to captivate both players and audiences alike.
Specifications:
- Top Wood: Solid Mahogany
- Back & Sides Wood: Mahogany
- Neck Wood: Mahogany
- Fretboard: Ebony
- Scale Length: 24.72″
- Electronics: Fishman GT1
- Number of Frets: 20
- Bridge: Ebony, String-Through
Who Is It For?
Whether you’re a gigging musician needing a reliable instrument for intimate venues or a home enthusiast looking for a guitar that doesn’t compromise on sound or playability, the P20E is for you.
Its solid mahogany construction and Fishman electronics make it a powerful performer, while its parlor size ensures it’s comfortable for players of all sizes. Ideal for both seasoned professionals and aspiring players, the PRS Parlor SE P20E offers a blend of traditional vibes and modern performance that is hard to find elsewhere.
Best for Home Use: Yamaha Storia II
Its unique aesthetic and warm, vibrant tones make it not just an instrument, but a piece of home decor that invites music into your life.
Specifications:
- Body Type: Concert
- Top: Solid Mahogany
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Top Color: Natural; Interior Color: Ultramarine
- Rosette: Abalone and Ivory Inlay
- Finish: Semigloss
- Pickup: Yamaha Passive Undersaddle
- Unique Aesthetic: Natural colors that blend with personal style
Who Is It For?
It’s perfect for home musicians, interior design enthusiasts, and beginners looking for an easy-to-play guitar that doubles as a statement piece.
With its warm, vibrant tones and unique aesthetic, the Storia II is designed to complement your personal style and enhance your home’s ambiance. Whether you’re practicing, performing, or simply enjoying the beauty of music in your living space, the Storia II invites creativity and inspiration into every moment.
Its user-friendly features and beautiful design make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to integrate music seamlessly into their daily life.
What I Wish I Knew Before I Got The Acoustic Electric Guitars?
- Built-in Electronics Quality: Understanding the quality of built-in pickups and preamps is crucial for amplifying sound without losing tone.
- Amplification Needs: Knowing whether you’ll play unplugged or require amplification for performances can guide your choice.
- Maintenance and Care: Acoustic-electric guitars require regular maintenance, including humidity control and string changes, to preserve sound quality.
- Versatility: These guitars offer versatility, suitable for various music genres, from folk to rock.
- Battery Life: Being aware of the battery life for the electronics can prevent unexpected power loss during performances.
- Sound Difference: Realizing that acoustic-electric guitars might sound different when amplified versus unplugged.
Why should I buy an acoustic electric guitar?
Choosing the acoustic electric guitar offers a blend of traditional acoustic playability with modern amplification convenience, making it a versatile choice for both aspiring and seasoned musicians. The acoustic electric guitars come equipped with built-in pickups and preamps, allowing you to easily connect to an amplifier or PA system without compromising the guitar’s natural, acoustic sound.
This feature is particularly beneficial for live performances, where projecting your music to a larger audience is essential. Additionally, these guitars often include advanced features such as onboard tuners, EQ controls, and feedback reduction, enhancing your playing experience and offering greater control over your sound.
Investing in the acoustic guitar not only elevates your performance capabilities but also supports your growth as a musician, adapting to both your evolving style and the demands of different performance environments.
How does pickup type affect sound?
The pickup type in an acoustic electric guitar significantly influences its sound, playing a pivotal role in shaping the tonal characteristics and amplification quality.
When searching for the best acoustic electric guitar, it’s essential to consider the pickup system, as it directly affects how the guitar’s natural acoustic sounds are captured and projected through an amplifier.
Magnetic pickups, another option, offer a warmer, more electric sound, appealing to players looking for versatility and a blend of acoustic and electric tones.
Understanding the nuances between different pickup types can empower buyers to make an informed decision that aligns with their musical preferences and performance needs.
What’s the difference between piezo and magnetic pickups?
When choosing the acoustic electric guitar, understanding the difference between piezo and magnetic pickups is crucial for achieving the desired sound.
This makes them ideal for players seeking an authentic, uncolored representation of their guitar’s acoustic sound when amplified. On the other hand, magnetic pickups, which are more often associated with electric guitars, generate sound by detecting string vibrations through a magnetic field.
They tend to produce a warmer, more electric sound with a pronounced midrange, which might not be as true to an acoustic guitar’s natural sound but can offer a unique tone for certain styles of music.
