Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar Review: A Stage-Ready Performer for Every Player

I remember the first time I had to play a three-hour set with a traditional, full-bodied dreadnought. By the end of the second hour, my shoulder was aching, and the bulky body of the guitar felt like it was fighting me for space on stage. For many of us, the dream of a rich acoustic sound often comes with the nightmare of physical discomfort, especially for those with smaller frames or electric guitarists who find the transition to a “wooden box” jarring. The search for a professional-grade instrument that doesn’t compromise on playability usually leads to a steep price tag. Failing to find that “middle ground” instrument often results in players either giving up on the acoustic stage altogether or settling for a guitar that sounds like a tin can when plugged in. This is precisely where the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar enters the conversation, promising to bridge the gap between ergonomic design and high-fidelity sound.

In our years of evaluating instruments, we’ve seen countless “thinline” models that sacrifice all their unplugged resonance just to be thin. However, we were eager to see if Yamaha, a brand legendary for its engineering consistency, could deliver a solution that feels like an electric but breathes like an acoustic. If you are looking for an instrument that handles high-gain stage environments without feedback while remaining comfortable enough for a long practice session, you should see its full feature set and user reviews to understand why this model has become a staple in the industry.

What to Consider Before Buying an Acoustic-Electric Guitar

An Acoustic-Electric Guitar is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for the modern performer who needs versatility across multiple playing environments. Whether you are transitioning from bedroom practice to coffee shop gigs or recording in a home studio, these instruments solve the problem of projection and tone shaping. The primary benefit is the ability to take the natural vibration of strings and amplify it through a PA system or amplifier without the logistical headache of external microphones, which are prone to feedback and restricted movement.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenges of live performance, such as a singer-songwriter who needs a reliable “workhorse” or an electric guitar player who wants a familiar neck feel. It is also perfect for students with smaller hands who find full-size acoustics intimidating. However, it might not be suitable for those who purely want a massive, “boomy” unplugged sound for bluegrass jams, where a large dreadnought’s natural air volume is irreplaceable. In those cases, a traditional full-body guitar would be a better alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The depth of the body significantly impacts both comfort and sound. A thinner body, like that of the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar, is much easier to hold against your body for long periods, though it naturally has less internal air volume for unplugged bass response. Consider your physical stature and whether you prioritize stage comfort over raw unplugged volume.
• Capacity/Performance: Look closely at the electronics. A piezoelectric pickup is standard, but the quality of the preamp—the part that allows you to adjust bass, middle, and treble—is what truly defines your amplified tone. High-performance systems like Yamaha’s SRT transducer are designed to mimic the sound of a mic’d guitar, providing a much more natural “air” to the tone.
• Materials & Durability: The combination of woods matters immensely. A spruce top is favored for its brightness and clarity, while mahogany or nato back and sides provide the warmth and mid-range punch. In this price bracket, you are looking for a balance of sturdy construction and resonant tonewoods that can withstand travel and temperature changes.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Features like a built-in tuner are non-negotiable for the modern player. Additionally, consider the scale length; a shorter scale (like 25 inches) reduces string tension, making it easier to press down the strings and execute bends, which is a massive plus for beginners or those who prefer a “slinky” feel.

Taking these factors into account will ensure you don’t just buy a guitar, but the *right* tool for your musical journey. While the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: The Striking Oriental Blue Burst Aesthetic

When we first pulled the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar out of its packaging, the “Oriental Blue Burst” finish immediately commanded the room. It’s a deep, sophisticated gradient that manages to look both modern and classic at the same time. While many guitars in this price range opt for a safe natural wood look, this OBB finish feels premium and stage-ready. Holding it for the first time, the weight—roughly 6.5 pounds—felt perfectly balanced. The thin-line body design is noticeably slimmer than your average acoustic, measuring about 3 to 3.5 inches in depth, which makes it feel incredibly approachable. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your setup, you can check the latest price and availability to see how this value proposition currently stands.

Upon closer inspection, the abalone sound hole rosette adds a touch of elegance that you usually only see on much more expensive instruments. We noticed the 25” scale length and narrower string spacing right away; it feels more like an electric guitar neck than a chunky traditional acoustic. Compared to previous versions like the APX500 series, the 600 feels more refined, with improved bracing that we could hear even in the first few strums. While it doesn’t have the massive unplugged roar of a jumbo guitar, it has a “sweet,” focused tone that is incredibly clear.

A Deep Dive into the Performance of the Yamaha APX600 OBB

The Ergonomics of the Thin-Line Design

In our extensive testing, the standout feature of the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar is undeniably its ergonomics. Traditional acoustics can often feel like you are hugging a large box, which forces your strumming arm into an awkward outward angle. With the APX600’s thin-line body, the guitar sits much closer to your torso. This isn’t just a matter of comfort; it fundamentally changes how you play. We found that we could reach higher frets with much more ease, aided by the smooth cutaway. This design is a feature that really sets it apart for players who move around on stage or those who suffer from back or shoulder fatigue.

We also spent significant time evaluating the neck profile. Yamaha has opted for a slightly narrower string spacing and a shorter 25-inch scale length. For the uninitiated, a shorter scale means the strings are under less tension. This makes barre chords—the bane of every beginner’s existence—far easier to hold cleanly. During our evaluation, we noted that the rosewood fingerboard was smooth and well-finished, allowing for fast transitions. As one user noted in their feedback, it truly feels like playing a Telecaster rather than a bulky acoustic. This “electric-like” feel is the secret sauce that makes the APX600 a favorite for multi-instrumentalists.

Sonic Engineering: Scalloped Bracing and Tonewoods

One of the biggest criticisms of thin-body guitars is that they often sound “thin” or “tinny.” To combat this, Yamaha redesigned the internal bracing for the APX600. They utilized a new scalloped bracing pattern, which allows the spruce top to vibrate more freely. In our studio sessions, we were pleasantly surprised by the increased bass response. While it won’t shake the walls like a dreadnought, the low-end is punchy and well-defined. The spruce top provides a bright, “snappy” high end that cuts through a mix, while the mahogany back and sides add a necessary layer of warmth to the mid-range.

We found that this guitar excels in fingerpicking and light-to-medium strumming. The notes are articulate and don’t get “muddy,” which is often a problem with cheaper acoustics. We also confirmed this through user reports, where many players praised the clarity of the sound for home recording. If you are a solo performer who relies on nuanced playing, the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar provides a frequency response that is naturally “pre-EQ’d,” meaning it doesn’t have those overwhelming low-mid frequencies that usually need to be dialed out by a sound engineer.

Stage Readiness and Electronics

Where this guitar truly earns its keep is when you plug it in. The Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar features a proprietary under-saddle piezo pickup paired with the System 65 preamp. During our live “stress test,” we cranked the volume through a high-powered acoustic amp to check for feedback. Thanks to the non-parallel design of the APX body and the specific placement of the SRT transducer, the guitar is remarkably resistant to the howling feedback that plagues most acoustics on loud stages. This makes it a reliable partner for players who perform with a full band.

The built-in tuner is another highlight. It’s bright, fast, and incredibly accurate, which we found invaluable during quick transitions between songs. The preamp also includes a 3-band EQ and a “Mid FQ” control. This allowed us to sweep through the middle frequencies to find and cut any “honky” or harsh tones, tailoring the sound to the specific room we were playing in. For anyone looking to gig regularly, we recommend you take a closer look at the electronics because they punch well above their weight class compared to standard off-the-shelf pickups found in other budget models.

Aesthetic Brilliance and Build Quality

Finally, we have to talk about the build quality and the finish. The Oriental Blue Burst is a gloss finish that feels durable and high-quality. The abalone soundhole rosette isn’t just a sticker; it’s an inlay that catches the light beautifully, giving the guitar a premium look under stage lights. In our review process, we did notice that like many guitars at this price point, there can be minor cosmetic inconsistencies. We saw reports of small blemishes or scratches from some users upon delivery, which is something to keep an eye on. However, the structural integrity of the guitar is rock solid. The fixed rosewood bridge and die-cast tuners kept the instrument in tune even after aggressive strumming sessions. For the price, the level of detail is quite impressive, making it a “sweet” deal for anyone who values both form and function.

What Other Users Are Saying

The general consensus among users is overwhelmingly positive, especially regarding the guitar’s value-to-performance ratio. Many players have noted that the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar is “absolutely gorgeous” and “eye-catching,” often exceeding their expectations for a sub-$400 instrument. One user, who has played for over a decade, mentioned that while they are used to high-end guitars, this model “fits like a glove” and serves as a perfect daily player. Another highlighted that the built-in tuner is a “great asset” and that the electronics are “top notch,” confirming our findings about its stage-readiness.

On the flip side, some users have pointed out areas for improvement. A few reviews mentioned receiving instruments with minor cosmetic blemishes, such as small scratches or nicks on the fingerboard or body. More significantly, one experienced player noted that the “action was altísima” (very high) out of the box, particularly near the 12th fret, making it difficult to play solos without a proper setup. While these issues aren’t universal, they highlight the importance of being prepared to spend a little extra on a professional setup to truly unlock the guitar’s potential. Overall, the feedback suggests that if you want “sound quality over beauty” (though you get both here), this Yamaha is a safe and rewarding bet.

Comparing the Yamaha APX600 OBB to Top Alternatives

While the APX600 is a fantastic all-rounder, different players have different needs. Let’s look at how it compares to three other popular models in the same price bracket.

1. Cordoba C5-CET Spalted Maple Cutaway Classical Guitar

If you prefer the soft, warm tone of nylon strings over the bright snap of steel strings, the Cordoba C5-CET is the direct alternative. Like the Yamaha, it features a thin-body design and a cutaway for easy access to higher frets. However, as a classical guitar, it has a much wider nut width, which might be challenging for those with smaller hands. We recommend the Cordoba for players who specialize in bossa nova, folk, or classical styles where fingerstyle warmth is the priority, whereas the Yamaha is better for pop, rock, and country strumming.

2. Fender CD-60SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle

The Fender CD-60SCE is a traditional dreadnought, making it the opposite of the APX600 in terms of body shape. If you don’t mind the bulk and you want the loudest possible unplugged sound, this all-mahogany Fender is a powerhouse. It offers a much deeper bass response than the Yamaha. However, on a loud stage, it is far more prone to feedback. This bundle is an incredible value for beginners who need a hard case and accessories, but the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar remains the superior choice for comfort and amplified performance.

3. Fender CD-60SCE 12-String Acoustic Guitar

For those looking for that lush, “chorus” sound that only a 12-string can provide, this version of the CD-60SCE is a great budget entry point. Comparing a 6-string to a 12-string is like comparing a bicycle to a motorcycle—they do different things. The Fender 12-string is great for adding texture to a recording or a live set, but it is much harder to play and maintain than the Yamaha APX600. If you are looking for your primary, everyday instrument, stick with the Yamaha 6-string; if you want a specialized tool for that 60s folk-rock sound, the Fender is your pick.

The Final Verdict: Is the Yamaha APX600 OBB Worth It?

After putting the Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar through its paces, our conclusion is clear: this is one of the most versatile and player-friendly instruments in its price class. Its main strengths lie in its exceptional ergonomics, the feedback-resistant electronics, and the stunning Oriental Blue Burst finish. While it may lack the unplugged “thump” of a massive dreadnought, it more than makes up for it with its plugged-in clarity and ease of use. We would recommend this guitar to any electric player looking to branch out, any smaller-framed person who finds standard acoustics uncomfortable, or any gigging musician who needs a reliable, feedback-free stage companion. It is a testament to Yamaha’s ability to provide high-quality engineering at an accessible price point.

If you are ready to upgrade your stage presence and stop fighting your instrument, this is the guitar for you. The combination of the scalloped bracing and the SRT transducer ensures you’ll sound great whether you’re practicing in your living room or playing to a packed house. Don’t let discomfort hold your playing back any longer. We highly encourage you to check the latest price and secure yours today to experience the perfect blend of style and performance for yourself.