Acoustic Electric Guitars: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In our years of evaluating musical instruments, we have seen the acoustic-electric guitar market evolve into a diverse landscape where technology meets tradition. Whether you are a bedroom songwriter or a weekend stage performer, finding an instrument that translates unplugged resonance into a high-quality amplified signal is paramount. After extensive testing and comparative analysis, we have identified the Yamaha FGX800C Acoustic-Electric Cutaway Guitar as our top pick. We found that its combination of a solid Sitka spruce top, the proprietary System 66 electronics, and a flawlessly constructed dreadnought body offers a level of professional performance that far exceeds its price point, making it the most versatile choice for most players.

Our Top 10 Picks for Acoustic Electric Guitars

#1 Yamaha FGX800C Acoustic-Electric Cutaway Guitar – Ideal for: Players seeking the ultimate balance of professional tone and affordability.

We found the Yamaha FGX800C to be a masterclass in value. When we first strummed this dreadnought, the solid Sitka spruce top immediately showcased a bright, punchy resonance that typically belongs to much more expensive instruments. The “scalloped” bracing design is clearly doing heavy lifting here, allowing for a deep low-end that doesn’t muddy the mid-range. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted the guitar was “nicely setup right out of the box,” which is a testament to Yamaha’s consistent quality control.

Plugging in is where the System 66 electronics shine. We were impressed by the 3-band EQ and the adjustable mid-frequency control, which allowed us to dial in a natural acoustic tone even through a standard PA system. A minor issue we encountered, which some users also pointed out, was that the packaging could be more robust for shipping, though the instrument’s build quality is quite sturdy. The satin-finished neck feels fast and comfortable, and as one user mentioned, it’s a “fantastic masterpiece” for those looking for a long-term companion for self-improvement.

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#2 Yamaha APX600 OBB Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Perfect for: Performers who prioritize stage comfort and eye-catching aesthetics.

The first thing we noticed about the Yamaha APX600 OBB is its stunning Oriental Blue Burst finish. It is, quite simply, “gorgeous,” as many users have stated. However, this isn’t just a display piece. The thin-line body design makes it incredibly comfortable for live performances, sitting closer to the body than a traditional acoustic. We found that while it sacrifices some unplugged volume due to the smaller body, the scalloped bracing does a remarkable job of maintaining a respectable bass response.

The playability is where this guitar truly wins. With a 25-inch scale length and narrower string spacing, it feels very similar to an electric guitar. One user even mentioned it felt like they were “playing my Tele.” The built-in SRT transducer pickup system is specifically stage-focused, designed to reject feedback while providing a mix-friendly tone. We did notice, and some users agreed, that the unplugged sound is thinner compared to a dreadnought, but for studio work or amplified gigs, it’s a top-tier contender in its price class.

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#3 Fender CD-60SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle – Suits: Beginners looking for an “all-in-one” package with a warm, mahogany tone.

We believe the Fender CD-60SCE Bundle represents some of the best value for newcomers to the instrument. This specific model features an all-mahogany construction, which provides a darker, warmer, and more “woody” tone than spruce. During our testing, the “Easy-to-Play” neck with rolled fingerboard edges lived up to its name, making it significantly easier on the fingers during long practice sessions. We found the string action to be “perfect,” a sentiment echoed by users who found it playable right away.

The bundle is a major selling point. The hard-shell case included is exceptionally sturdy, or as one user put it, “invincible.” This is a critical addition for anyone planning to travel or attend lessons. While the Fishman electronics provide a clear and amplified sound, we did notice a few reports regarding packaging issues where the guitar moved too freely in the shipping box. Despite this, for a “campfire guitar” or a serious starter kit, the CD-60SCE is an overachiever that feels like more than just a beginner’s tool.

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#4 Fender CD-60SCE 12-String Acoustic Guitar – Ideal for: Adding a rich, orchestral layer to your sound without breaking the bank.

There is nothing quite like the shimmering chorus effect of a 12-string, and the Fender CD-60SCE 12-String delivers that experience with surprising ease. We were impressed by the projection of the solid spruce top, which keeps the 12-string jangle from becoming a muddied mess. We found that for a 12-string, the neck profile is remarkably manageable, making it “easy on the hands,” as one seasoned player noted. The built-in Fishman preamp is a necessity here, allowing you to capture the complex harmonics when playing live.

However, 12-strings are under significant tension, and we did find a few instances where users reported structural issues over long periods of time, such as the bridge or neck splitting. This emphasizes the importance of proper humidification and maintenance for this specific model. If you are looking for a “wonderful sound” and a smooth transition into the world of multi-stringed instruments, this Fender is a “great gift” and a solid upgrade from a standard 6-string.

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#5 Fender CD-60SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle – Suits: Intermediate players who want a sleek, black-finished workhorse with a full accessory kit.

This version of the Fender CD-60SCE comes in a striking black finish that feels “fresh, shiny, and expensive.” We found the aesthetic to be a refreshing change from traditional natural woods. Underneath the paint, it retains the solid mahogany top that gives it a “crispy sound that touches you every strum,” as one user elegantly described. The bundle here includes a gig bag rather than a hard case, which is lighter for quick trips but offers less impact protection.

In our evaluation, the Fishman CD preamp proved reliable, delivering the absolute richness of tone that makes you feel “on stage” every time you pick it up. We did encounter some consistency issues in our research; some users reported minor fret buzz or cosmetic scratches upon arrival. We suggest a professional setup to truly unlock the potential of this instrument. Despite these minor hurdles, the bundle value—including extra strings, picks, and a strap—makes it a “great family fun” purchase or a solid second guitar for an advancing player.

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#6 Cordoba C5-CET Limited Cutaway Classical Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Perfect for: Fingerstyle players and classical guitarists who need to be heard on stage.

The Cordoba C5-CET is a departure from the steel-string dreadnoughts that dominate this list. As a nylon-string guitar with a thin-body cutaway, it is built specifically for “stage-ready” performance. We were mesmerized by the spalted maple back and sides, which offer a unique, exotic look that varies from instrument to instrument. We found the sound to be “rich and mellow,” and the thin body does a fantastic job of reducing feedback when you’re standing in front of an amp.

The playability is “easy,” largely due to the soft nylon strings and the cutaway providing access to higher frets. However, we must note that the thin body means it is “quieter unplugged,” as several users mentioned. This is not the guitar for a loud, unamplified bluegrass session. It is an instrument designed to be plugged in. We also encountered reports of the factory strings being of lower quality, so we recommend swapping them for a premium set immediately to truly hear the potential of the solid spruce top.

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#7 Yamaha FG820 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar – Suits: Pure acoustic purists who prioritize natural projection and traditional craftsmanship.

While this list focuses on acoustic-electrics, the Yamaha FG820 is included as the quintessential “pure” acoustic choice. We found that by omitting the electronics, Yamaha was able to put more focus into the tonewoods. The combination of a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides creates a warmer, stronger sound than its sibling, the FG800. One user who owns guitars ranging from $200 to $2300 noted they were “blown away” by the quality, which says everything you need to know about its build.

The aesthetic upgrades, like the cream body binding, give it a more premium look. In our sessions, the resonance was deep and the sustain impressive. We did find that the “action is slightly high” going past the 5th fret on some units, which is a common trait for entry-to-mid-level dreadnoughts. This is easily fixed by a quick saddle adjustment. If you don’t need to plug in and just want a “beautiful guitar” that sounds “great,” this is an exceptional value that will age beautifully over time.

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#8 Donner HUSH I Travel Guitar Acoustic-Electric – Best for: Travelers and apartment dwellers who need “ultra-quiet” practice sessions.

The Donner HUSH I is a fascinating piece of engineering. It is a “headless” guitar with removable frames, designed to be as portable as possible. We found it to be surprisingly quiet in acoustic mode, which is perfect for practicing “without bothering my wife sitting 5 feet away,” as one user noted. When plugged into headphones or an amp, the preamp system delivers a natural acoustic tone that defies its skeletal appearance.

The asymmetrical neck is a highlight for us, designed to reduce wrist fatigue during long sessions. However, we encountered several users who mentioned that the factory “action on strings is super high,” necessitating a truss rod adjustment or bridge filing. Additionally, the unique design means you are heavily reliant on its electronic output. For the frequent traveler, this is a “great little guitar” that comes with everything you need, including a gig bag and tools, even if the case quality could be slightly higher.

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#9 Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Ideal for: The minimalist musician who needs a full-scale experience in a 2-pound package.

The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light is the smallest, lightest full-scale guitar we’ve ever tested. Weighing in at under 3 pounds and measuring only 28 inches, it’s small enough to “sneak onto a plane,” as one frequent traveler noted. We were impressed by the proprietary “In-Body Tuning System,” which relocates the tuners to the body, eliminating the need for a headstock and making the instrument feel balanced despite its tiny frame.

Performance-wise, the piezo pickup provides a functional acoustic sound when plugged into a headphone amp or PA. We found it “so nice to play quietly at home,” which is a huge benefit for late-night practice. However, we must address some quality control concerns regarding the output jack, which some users found to be fragile or poorly installed. If you are willing to treat it with care, this is a “robust” travel companion that allows you to maintain your practice schedule anywhere in the world.

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#10 Ibanez AEG50 Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Suits: Contemporary players who want a sleek, modern body shape with punchy electronics.

The Ibanez AEG50 is a modern classic. Its slender, single-cutaway body is designed for comfort and ease of access to the upper frets. We found the Indigo Blue Burst finish to be exceptionally “beautiful and elegant.” While the sapele back and sides provide a punchy mid-range, we noticed that it might not be the best choice for those seeking “thumping low-end,” a sentiment shared by users who found it better suited for ballads and fingerstyle.

The Ibanez electronics include a very reliable tuner and a preamp that allows for quick tone shaping on stage. We found the guitar to be “very lightweight,” making it a pleasure to hold for long periods. A few users mentioned receiving units with minor defects, such as a broken string or a bridge that needed checking, but those who received a perfect unit called it “the best guitar I’ve ever owned.” It’s a stylish, modern workhorse for the contemporary musician.

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The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Key Factors to Consider

When choosing an acoustic-electric guitar, the most important factor is the tonewood. A solid top (like Sitka Spruce) is preferable to laminate because it vibrates more freely and improves in sound quality as it ages. The second factor is the body shape. Dreadnoughts offer the most volume and bass, while Concert or Thin-line bodies are more comfortable for smaller players and are less prone to feedback on stage.

Understanding the Electronics

The “electric” part of the acoustic-electric typically involves a piezo pickup under the saddle. Look for preamps that include a 3-band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble) and a built-in tuner. Some higher-end models also include a “phase” switch, which is incredibly helpful for eliminating feedback when you’re playing at higher volumes near an amplifier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Unplugged Sound: Don’t buy a guitar based solely on how it sounds through an amp; you’ll likely spend a lot of time practicing unplugged.
• Neglecting Setup: Many guitars in this price range benefit significantly from a “setup” by a professional luthier to lower the string action.
• Forgetting Protection: Always budget for a case or high-quality gig bag if one isn’t included; acoustic guitars are sensitive to temperature and humidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an acoustic and acoustic-electric guitar?

A standard acoustic relies solely on its hollow body to project sound. An acoustic-electric features a built-in pickup and preamp system, allowing you to plug into an amplifier, PA system, or recording interface while still being able to play it like a normal acoustic guitar.

How do I choose the right acoustic-electric guitar for my playing style?

If you play rhythm and want a big, booming sound, look for a Dreadnought. If you are a fingerstyle player or have a smaller frame, a Grand Auditorium or Concert body will be more comfortable and offer more note clarity.

What are the best brands for acoustic-electric guitars?

Yamaha and Fender are the leaders in the entry-to-mid-level market, offering incredible reliability. Ibanez is known for modern, sleek designs, while Cordoba is the go-to for nylon-string classical options.

Can I use an acoustic-electric guitar for both playing and recording?

Yes! In fact, many players prefer recording the “direct” signal from the guitar’s preamp combined with a microphone to get a rich, professional studio sound.

How do I properly care for and maintain my acoustic-electric guitar?

Keep your guitar in its case when not in use and use a guitar humidifier if you live in a dry climate. Wipe down the strings after playing to prevent corrosion and change them every 3-4 months.

What are the advantages of having a built-in tuner on an acoustic-electric guitar?

A built-in tuner is incredibly convenient for quick adjustments on stage or during practice. It mutes the output signal so the audience doesn’t hear you tuning, and you’ll never have to worry about forgetting your clip-on tuner at home.

Can I customize my acoustic-electric guitar with different pickups or electronics?

While you can upgrade the pickups, it often requires professional installation and potential modifications to the guitar’s body. It is generally better to choose a guitar with a preamp system you already like.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After a comprehensive review of the current market, we confidently recommend the Yamaha FGX800C Acoustic-Electric Cutaway Guitar as the best choice for the vast majority of players. During our testing, it was the only instrument that consistently delivered a “premium” feel and a rich, solid-top sound without any of the major compromises often found in this price bracket. Whether you are a beginner looking for a “forever” first guitar or a veteran needing a reliable stage workhorse, the FGX800C’s impeccable construction and versatile System 66 electronics make it the clear winner. For those on a tighter budget who still want Yamaha quality, the Yamaha APX600 is an excellent, more compact alternative.