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Best 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar (2024 Update)

For aspiring guitarists looking to add richness and depth to their sound, a 12-string acoustic-electric guitar can be an excellent option. With their paired strings and signature chime, 12-strings evoke the jangly tones of the 1960s folk revival and British Invasion. Before purchasing your own 12-string, here are some key considerations.

First, assess your goals as a guitarist. Do you seek the ringing, chiming sound of a 12-string? Or are clarity and note separation more important? Since 12-strings have paired strings in courses, they produce more chorus effect but can sound less defined. Determine whether this trade-off suits your style.

Next, evaluate your budget. Quality 12-string acoustics cost more due to the additional strings and customized bridge. Be prepared to spend over $400 for a decent instrument. However, this investment pays off with better tuning stability and intonation. Cheaper models can be frustrating.

Finally, factor in playability. A 12-string’s wider neck and heavier tension can tire the hands. Make sure your fingers are up for the stretching required. Test models in person and seek a comfortable neck profile. Consider lighter string gauges if needed.

With research and realistic expectations, a 12-string can be profoundly inspiring. Will this special breed of guitar bring new life to your music? Let your ears be the judge. The 12-string sound awaits.

10 Best 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, versatile 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a classic design and powerful sound.
2
The product is ideal for playing melodic and complex music with the versatility of acoustic-electric sound.
3
Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a solid spruce top, flame maple back and sides, and Fishman preamp.
4
This product is ideal for professional musicians and guitar enthusiasts who enjoy 12 string acoustic-electric guitars with a classic look.
5
Ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a sleek black finish.
6
Ideal for acoustic guitarists who want a thin body, built-in tuner, and a natural gloss finish.
7
The product is ideal for guitar players who want a 12-string, thinline cutaway acoustic-electric guitar that produces natural tones.
8
Ideal for musicians seeking a versatile, high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a sleek and elegant appearance.
9
Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, versatile 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a jumbo cutaway body.
10
The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string acoustic guitar with a natural sound.
Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, versatile 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a classic design and powerful sound.
The product is ideal for playing melodic and complex music with the versatility of acoustic-electric sound.
Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a solid spruce top, flame maple back and sides, and Fishman preamp.
This product is ideal for professional musicians and guitar enthusiasts who enjoy 12 string acoustic-electric guitars with a classic look.
Ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a sleek black finish.
Ideal for acoustic guitarists who want a thin body, built-in tuner, and a natural gloss finish.
The product is ideal for guitar players who want a 12-string, thinline cutaway acoustic-electric guitar that produces natural tones.
Ideal for musicians seeking a versatile, high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a sleek and elegant appearance.
Ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, versatile 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with a jumbo cutaway body.
The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string acoustic guitar with a natural sound.

1. Gretsch G5022cwfe-12 Rancher Falcon White 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Introducing the stunning and versatile guitar with a combination of high-quality materials and exceptional craftsmanship that stands out in the market. The guitar features a solid spruce top with laminated maple back and sides, making it solid and durable. The jumbo cutaway body shape with arched laminated maple back and sides enhances its resonance and allows for easy access to higher frets. The solid spruce top delivers a warm and well-balanced sound, making it ideal for various playing styles.

The guitar boasts a gloss polyester finish that provides protection against scratches and dents, keeping it looking new for years to come. The neck is made of mahogany and features a rosewood fretboard with gold sparkle and binding, and B/W/B/W purfling. The fretboard boasts 21 vintage-style frets with neo-classic "thumbnail" position inlays that make it easy to play and navigate.

The guitar has a nut width of 1.875" (47.6 mm) and a scale length of 25" (635 mm), which makes it comfortable to play, even for those with smaller hands. The special electronics of the guitar include a Fishman Sonicore pickup (unde). This pickup delivers a clear and natural amplified sound, making it perfect for stage performances and studio recordings.

2. Esp Ltd Tl-12 Thinline 12-String Acoustic Electric Guitar, Black

The LTD TL-12 Black guitar boasts a high-quality construction that combines a mahogany body with a maple top, mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard. The guitar's sturdy build ensures durability while delivering exceptional resonance and tonal quality.

This guitar's rosewood bridge features a Graphtech Nubone XB saddle, which provides excellent intonation and reduces string breakage. The set-neck construction coupled with a 25" scale, 22 jumbo frets, and a thin-U neck contour makes playing effortless and comfortable for extended periods.

The LTD TL-12 Black guitar is fitted with a B-Band Electret Film Transducer pickup, which captures the guitar's natural, acoustic sound with clarity and precision. The pickup is accompanied by a B-Band T-7 preamp with an onboard tuner that allows for fine-tuning, making it easy to achieve the desired sound.

3. Jumbo Flame Maple 12-String Guitar Kit.

This 12-string acoustic guitar is a must-have for any musician seeking a rich, full-bodied sound. Featuring a solid spruce top and flame maple back and sides, this guitar delivers a balanced tone with crisp highs and warm lows.

The maple C-shape neck and rosewood fingerboard and bridge provide a comfortable playing experience, making it easy to play for extended periods of time. The abalone rosette and block inlays add a touch of elegance to this already stunning guitar.

This guitar is equipped with chrome tuners and a tortoise pickguard, ensuring its durability and longevity. The Fishman EQ 1SYS301 preamp/tuner is designed to enhance the guitar's natural sound and simplify tuning.

Included with the guitar is a hard case and pick sampler, making it easy to transport and ensuring that you always have the necessary tools to play.

4. Taylor T5z Classic Mahogany Top Acoustic-Electric 12 String Guitar Natural

The T5z Cutaway guitar has a single tropical mahogany top wood and sapele back & sides, with a standard T5z bracing pattern. Its body has a satin finish and is designed for right-handed players. The neck is made of sapele wood and has a smooth, satin finish. The fingerboard is made of ebony and has 21 frets with a nut width of 1.75" (44.45mm) and a 24.84" scale length. The guitar also features a pickup/preamp system, which enables it to be played as an electric or acoustic guitar.

The T5z-12 Classic is a 12-string guitar with a vintage, earthy character, thanks to its deep color and rich grain of mahogany top. Its compact body, 12" fretboard radius, and jumbo frets make it an electric-friendly guitar that offers a fast and fluid playing experience. Along with its six-string sibling, the T5z-12 Classic incorporates a three-pickup configuration with an acoustic body sensor, a concealed neck humbucker, and a visible bridge humbucker. The guitar's five-way switching and onboard tone controls offer an incredibly versatile electric-acoustic 12-string experience.

In addition, the T5z-12 Classic features Small Diamond inlays and nickel hardware, an unbound body, and satin classic mahogany finish. These appointments add to the guitar's vintage look and feel, making it a great addition to any guitar collection.

5. Ovation Standard Balladeer 2751ax 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black

The Deep Contour guitar boasts a top-tier AA grade solid spruce top that delivers a rich, resonant sound that is sure to impress even the most discerning musician. This premium quality wood is carefully selected for its exceptional tonal properties and durability, ensuring that the guitar will continue to produce beautiful music for years to come.

In addition to its impressive tonal qualities, the Deep Contour also features a stunning inlaid pearl oakleaf design that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the instrument. This intricate design is expertly crafted and adds a unique flair to the guitar that is sure to turn heads.

6. Gosila Thin Body Guitar With Built-In Tuner

Introducing the 39" Electric Acoustic Cutaway Guitar with a thin body, perfect for musicians who are always on the go. This guitar is equipped with a quilted maple top that not only makes it visually appealing but also enhances its sound quality. The composite rosewood fingerboard and bridge provide a comfortable playing experience, allowing the musician to play for hours without any discomfort.

The guitar also features a white PVC sound hole pickguard and ABC body binding that protects the guitar from scratches while adding to its overall aesthetic. The diecast machine tuners are reliable and precise, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune for long periods of time.

With the M-450T EQ, this guitar has a built-in tuner designed by B Band, a well-known name in the music industry. The truss rod on the headstock allows for easy adjustments to the guitar's neck, ensuring that the musician can achieve the perfect sound they desire.

The guitar's overall length is 39", with a scale length of 25 1/2" and a nut width of 1 3/4". Additionally, the guitar's thin body measures 3 1/8" thick, making it lightweight and easy to carry around.

7. Yamaha Apx700ii-12 12-String Thinline Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Natural

Introducing the Thin Body Cutaway Guitar, a premium musical instrument that promises to take your music experience to the next level. This guitar boasts a sleek and stylish design, making it perfect for musicians of all levels.

Crafted with a Solid Spruce top and Mahogany back & sides, this guitar boasts exceptional tonal qualities that produce a rich and vibrant sound. The Rosewood fingerboard and bridge are not only visually stunning but also add to the overall sound quality of the instrument.

One of the standout features of this guitar is the ART 1-way pickup system. This system is designed to accurately capture every nuance of your playing, ensuring that your music is heard in all its glory. Whether you're performing for a small crowd or recording in a studio setting, this system will deliver exceptional sound quality every time.

The Thin Body Cutaway Guitar is also incredibly easy to play, thanks to its comfortable design and lightweight construction. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you'll find that this guitar is a joy to play and will help you unlock your true musical potential.

8. Takamine G Series Gd30ce-12 Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar Black

This stunning acoustic guitar boasts a sleek gloss body finish that is sure to catch the eye of any musician. The body shape is a classic dreadnought cutaway, providing both comfort and style during play. The bracing is constructed from quartersawn "X" for exceptional stability and resonance, ensuring a high-quality sound with every note played. The body back and sides are crafted from premium mahogany, a durable and richly-toned wood that provides both strength and warmth to the instrument's sound. Overall, this acoustic guitar is a top-of-the-line choice for any musician seeking a superior instrument with excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail.

9. Takamine Gj72ce-12nat Jumbo Cutaway 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar

This jumbo 12-string guitar boasts a solid spruce top, along with flame maple back and sides, to create a lush and robust sound that players have come to expect. The slim mahogany neck and 12"-radius bound rosewood fingerboard offer excellent feel and playability.

Equipped with a Taka mine TK-40D preamp system, this guitar features a built-in tuner, three-band EQ and gain controls, mid contour switch, notch filter, and EQ bypass switch for superior versatility and sound quality.

The elegant natural gloss finish adds a touch of sophistication to this already impressive instrument. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a beginner, this jumbo 12-string guitar is sure to impress with its exceptional sound and playability.

10. Ibanez Performance Series Pf1512 Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic Guitar Natural

The 12-string model, with its Dreadnought body, is a fantastic addition to any musician's collection. It features a Spruce top that produces a crisp and bright sound, perfect for those who want to cut through the mix. The Mahogany back and sides give the guitar a warm and rich tone, making it ideal for various genres such as folk, blues, and country music.

The Mahogany neck of the guitar is sturdy and comfortable to play, providing a smooth feeling as the musician moves up and down the fretboard. It is also designed to give the player a better grip, allowing them to play with ease and confidence.

In terms of specifications, this guitar has a scale length of X inches, which provides a comfortable playing experience for musicians of all sizes. The nut width is Y inches, making it easy for players to fingerpick and strum comfortably. The guitar also has a Z-string spacing, which allows for better string vibration and resonance.

Best 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar FAQs

Are there any notable musicians who exclusively play 12 string acoustic electric guitars?

Yes, there are several notable musicians who exclusively play 12 string acoustic electric guitars. One of the most famous musicians who plays a 12 string acoustic electric guitar is Tom Petty. Petty's guitar of choice is a Rickenbacker 360/12, which he has used on many of his most famous songs, including "American Girl" and "Free Fallin'". Another musician who is known for playing a 12 string acoustic electric guitar is Leo Kottke. Kottke is a virtuosic fingerstyle guitarist who has released many albums featuring his 12 string guitar playing. Other notable musicians who play 12 string acoustic electric guitars include Roger McGuinn of The Byrds, who played a Rickenbacker 12 string, and Pete Townshend of The Who, who used a Gibson J-200 to create his signature sound. Overall, the 12 string acoustic electric guitar is a popular instrument among many musicians, especially those who specialize in folk, rock, and blues music.

Can a 12 string acoustic electric guitar be played without an amplifier?

Yes, a 12 string acoustic electric guitar can be played without an amplifier. An acoustic electric guitar is designed to be played both acoustically and amplified, and it has a built-in pickup that allows it to be connected to an amplifier or PA system. However, if you choose to play the guitar without an amplifier, you will still be able to hear the sound of the strings vibrating through the body of the guitar. The sound will be quieter than if you were playing with an amplifier, but it will still be audible.

It is worth noting that the sound of a 12 string guitar is distinctive and can be quite loud, especially when strummed aggressively. If you are playing in a quiet environment, you may want to consider using a lighter touch or playing with a pick to reduce the volume. Ultimately, whether or not you choose to play with an amplifier is a matter of personal preference and depends on the sound you are trying to achieve and the situation in which you are playing.

How does the sound of a 12 string acoustic electric guitar differ from a standard acoustic guitar?

A 12-string acoustic electric guitar produces a richer and fuller sound than a standard acoustic guitar. This is due to the fact that a 12-string guitar has two sets of strings for each of the six strings found on a standard guitar. The additional strings are tuned in octaves or unison, which results in a more complex and layered sound. The sound produced by a 12-string guitar is often described as shimmering, ethereal, and bell-like. The strings also vibrate in sympathy with each other, creating a unique harmonic resonance that is not found in a standard guitar. These qualities make the 12-string acoustic electric guitar a popular choice for musicians playing genres such as folk, rock, country, and blues. In addition, the electric component of the guitar allows for amplification and manipulation of the sound, providing even more versatility and options for the player.

What are some popular songs that feature a 12 string acoustic electric guitar?

The 12 string acoustic electric guitar is a popular instrument used in many genres of music. There are many popular songs that feature this guitar, and some of them are:

1. "Hotel California" by The Eagles: This iconic song features a beautiful 12 string acoustic guitar solo that is instantly recognizable.

2. "Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin: The opening arpeggio of this classic rock song is played on a 12 string acoustic guitar.

3. "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd: The intro riff of this emotional ballad is played on a 12 string acoustic guitar and sets the tone for the entire song.

4. "The Boxer" by Simon & Garfunkel: The 12 string acoustic guitar is used throughout this folk-pop hit to create a full, rich sound.

5. "Tears in Heaven" by Eric Clapton: The intro of this heart-wrenching ballad features a beautiful 12 string acoustic guitar melody.

These are just a few examples of popular songs that feature the 12 string acoustic electric guitar. The instrument's unique sound and versatility make it a popular choice for musicians across many genres.

What are the best types of strings for a 12 string acoustic electric guitar?

When it comes to selecting strings for a 12 string acoustic electric guitar, the best option is to go for strings that are specifically designed for 12 string guitars. These strings are made with a heavier gauge and are designed to withstand the tension of the additional six strings.

Phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze are popular materials for 12 string guitar strings. Phosphor bronze strings generally have a warmer tone and longer lifespan, whereas 80/20 bronze strings produce a brighter sound.

It's important to consider the playing style and preferences of the guitarist when choosing strings. Lighter gauge strings may be easier to play but can produce a thinner sound, while heavier gauge strings may be more difficult to play but can produce a fuller sound.

Some popular brands for 12 string guitar strings include D'Addario, Martin, and Elixir. It's recommended to experiment with different types and brands of strings to find the best fit for your specific guitar and playing style.

What are the key features to look for in a high-quality 12 string acoustic electric guitar?

When looking for a high-quality 12 string acoustic electric guitar, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, the build quality should be top-notch, with high-quality materials such as solid wood used in the construction. The neck should be sturdy and comfortable to play, with a smooth finish and easy action.

Another important factor to consider is the electronics. A top-of-the-line 12 string acoustic electric guitar should have high-quality pickups and preamp systems, allowing for clear and accurate amplification of the instrument's sound. Additionally, the guitar should have a versatile range of EQ controls and other features to allow for customization of the tone.

Finally, the sound quality of the guitar itself is of utmost importance. A great 12 string acoustic electric guitar should have a warm, balanced tone with plenty of sustain and projection. It should be able to handle a wide range of playing styles, from fingerpicking to strumming, and should sound great both unplugged and amplified.

Overall, a high-quality 12 string acoustic electric guitar should be built to last, with exceptional sound quality and top-notch electronics. By considering these key features, you can ensure that you choose an instrument that will serve you well for years to come.

What are the top-rated 12 string acoustic electric guitars on the market?

12-string acoustic electric guitars are popular among musicians who want to add depth and richness to their sound. Here are some of the top-rated 12-string acoustic electric guitars on the market:

1. Taylor 356ce: This guitar has a solid sitka spruce top and sapele back and sides, and features Taylor's Expression System 2 electronics.

2. Yamaha LL16-12 ARE: This guitar has a solid Engelmann spruce top and rosewood back and sides, and features Yamaha's SRT Zero Impact pickup system.

3. Martin D12X1AE: This guitar has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, and features Fishman Sonitone electronics.

4. Guild F-512E: This guitar has a solid sitka spruce top and maple back and sides, and features Guild's AP-1 pickup system.

5. Taylor 150e: This guitar has a solid Sitka spruce top and layered walnut back and sides, and features Taylor's Expression System Baby™ (ES-B) electronics.

6. Gibson J-200: This iconic guitar has a solid sitka spruce top and maple back and sides, and features LR Baggs Anthem electronics.

7. Takamine EF381SC: This guitar has a solid spruce top and maple back and sides, and features Takamine's CT4B II preamp system.

8. Alvarez AD60-12: This guitar has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, and features the SYS250 3-band EQ with tuner.

9. Fender CD-60SCE-12: This guitar has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, and features Fishman CD Preamp electronics.

10. Seagull Coastline S12 Cedar QI: This guitar has a solid cedar top and wild cherry back and sides, and features Godin QI electronics.

11. Breedlove Pursuit Concert 12-String CE: This guitar has a solid Sitka spruce top and layered walnut back and sides, and features the Fishman Presys I electronics.

12. Epiphone DR-212: This guitar has a select spruce top and mahogany back and sides, and features a Shadow eSonic-II preamp system.

These guitars offer a range of tones, electronics, and price points, so you can find the one that fits your needs and budget.

What is the difference between a cutaway and non-cutaway 12 string acoustic electric guitar?

The main difference between a cutaway and non-cutaway 12 string acoustic electric guitar is the shape of the body. A cutaway guitar has a section of the body that is cut out, allowing the player to reach higher frets more easily. On the other hand, a non-cutaway guitar has a full body that does not have any sections cut out.

When it comes to 12 string acoustic electric guitars, the cutaway design can be especially helpful since the additional strings often make it harder to reach higher frets. However, some players prefer the traditional look and feel of a non-cutaway guitar.

Another consideration is the sound of the guitar. A cutaway guitar may have a slightly different tone due to the altered shape of the body. It's important to try out both types of guitars to decide which one feels and sounds best for you.

In summary, the main difference between a cutaway and non-cutaway 12 string acoustic electric guitar is the shape of the body, which can affect playability and sound.

What is the price range for a good 12 string acoustic electric guitar?

The price range for a good 12-string acoustic electric guitar can vary depending on the brand, materials used, and overall quality of the instrument. Generally, a good quality 12-string acoustic electric guitar can range from around $500 to $3000. Entry-level models can be found in the lower end of the price range, while professional-grade instruments can be found in the higher end.

It's important to keep in mind that investing in a higher quality instrument can often result in better sound, durability, and overall playability. However, it's also important to consider your own personal needs and budget when choosing a guitar. Ultimately, the best way to determine the price range for a good 12-string acoustic electric guitar is to do your research, read reviews, and try out different models in person if possible.

Which brand produces the best 12 string acoustic electric guitars?

When it comes to 12 string acoustic electric guitars, there are several brands that produce high-quality instruments. However, it's difficult to say which one is the best as it ultimately depends on personal preference and playing style.

Some popular brands known for producing exceptional 12 string acoustic electric guitars include Taylor, Martin, Guild, Gibson, and Yamaha. Each of these brands offers a range of options with different tonewoods, body shapes, and electronics.

Taylor is known for its innovative design and high-quality craftsmanship, while Martin is renowned for its traditional and iconic sound. Guild has a reputation for producing excellent acoustic guitars with a warm and balanced tone, and Gibson is known for its rich and full-bodied sound.

Yamaha offers a range of affordable yet high-quality 12 string acoustic electric guitars that are perfect for beginners or those on a budget.

Ultimately, the best brand for a 12 string acoustic electric guitar will depend on individual preferences and needs. It's recommended to try out different brands and models before making a purchase.

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