Best Affordable Acoustic Electric Guitar (2024 Update)
For any beginner or hobbyist guitarist, choosing the right acoustic electric guitar that fits your budget can be a daunting task. With so many models from different brands available in the market today, how do you ensure that you pick the best affordable acoustic electric guitar? Here are some key factors to consider before buying an acoustic electric guitar.
Firstly, determine your budget and stick to it. Acoustic electric guitars range greatly in terms of pricing, with entry-level models starting from as low as $200 to professional level guitars that can cost over $1000. Setting a budget will help narrow your choices down and avoid impulse buys that exceed your planned spending.
Secondly, consider the guitar body shape and size. The most common shapes are dreadnought and concert style, with dreadnought guitars having a bigger body producing louder and deeper tones. The size of the guitar body will also affect its ease and comfort of use. Think about these factors depending on your musical style and physique.
You’ll also want to inspect the hardware and electronics. Check that the tuning machines, bridge and pickups are of good quality in keeping the guitar in tune and amplifying sound well. Premium hardware components go a long way in justifying a higher price tag.
With these key considerations in mind, you’ll be on your way to finding the best affordable acoustic electric guitar that matches your budget. Ready to start shopping? Hold on. Here are some vital questions to ask yourself first before clicking on that buy button.
Is this a beginner or lifelong investment? Am I willing to spend more for better quality that will last longer? Do I need a cutaway body shape for easier high fret access? Answering these will help ensure you pick a guitar that truly meets your needs as a developing musician. Let your ears and fingers do the final judgement when you do get to try those acoustic electric guitars in person. Playability and sound should ultimately win over everything else.
10 Best Affordable Acoustic Electric Guitar
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Ideal for beginners and intermediate guitar players looking for a quality acoustic-electric guitar with a reasonable price tag.
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Ideal for both beginners and professionals seeking a high-quality, versatile acoustic-electric guitar with a built-in tuner and pickup.
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3
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Ideal for performing concerts with an acoustic/electric guitar, featuring a unique lilac burst design and Indian Laurel fingerboard.
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The product is ideal for acoustic guitar players who want a high-quality instrument with accessories.
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5
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The product is ideal for beginners looking for an affordable acoustic/electric guitar with accessories to start playing.
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6
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The product is ideal for musicians who want an acoustic electric guitar with high-quality features and accessories.
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7
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Ideal for musicians who want a quality, versatile acoustic/electric guitar with a gig bag and picks included.
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The product is ideal for those who want a high-quality and versatile acoustic-electric guitar with a cutaway design.
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9
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It is ideal for acoustic-electric playing of nylon strings with left-handed cutaway style in the Iberia series.
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10
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It is ideal for musicians looking for a mid-range acoustic-electric guitar with warm and vintage sound.
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1. Ibanez Performance Series Pc12mhceopn Grand Concert Acoustic-Electric Guitar Satin Natural
The PC12MHE Grand Concert Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a fantastic instrument for players looking for a warm, full tone. The guitar features an all-mahogany construction, including the top and body, which contributes to its rich sound. The open pore natural finish not only adds to the guitar's aesthetic appeal but also enhances its sound quality.
The PC12MHE is equipped with an Ibanez under-saddle pickup and the AEQ2T preamp with a built-in tuner, providing players with the flexibility to amplify their sound. The Ibanez Advantage bridge pins make it easy to change strings, while also improving the guitar's tuning stability.
The guitar also boasts a tortoise rosette, adding to its elegant appearance. The rosewood fretboard and bridge provide a smooth playing experience, while the AEQ2T preamp allows for easy adjustments to the guitar's tone.
2. Kadence Ash Wood Electro-Acoustic Guitar
The Kadence Ash Wood Acoustic-Electric Guitar is an exceptional instrument from the Acoustica series. Designed with premium rosewood, this semi-acoustic-electric guitar is built to deliver excellent sound quality, high durability, and increased ease of use, making it suitable for both beginners and professionals.
The guitar features a deep pore paint finish, streamlined curvature, and a simple head design that integrates the head and the body beautifully. The rosewood bridge is known for its high hardness, strong vibration conductivity, and stable and rich tone transmission, making it an ideal choice for musicians who value quality.
The strings on this guitar are coated with a film coating that prevents rusting, prolonging their use time and reducing the burden on the fingers when pressing them. The tuning pegs are engineered for good sound quality, and the tuning keys are smooth and easy to adjust, keeping the guitar in tune. The Kadence guitar has better bass, volume, and fuller sound, making it suitable for all styles of music and guitarists over 14 years old, especially beginners, students, or pros.
The built-in truss rod can balance the tension caused by strings or temperature change shrinking, ensuring a straight and durable neck. The adjustable electric acoustic guitar neck allows your hand to stay in a comfortable position by keeping the strings at a perfect height. The Kadence guitar electric acoustic has a built-in preamp for amplified use with volume control, 2 band EQ, bass and treble, and an integrated tuner for fast and easy tuning, making it perfect for juniors and adults.
The guitar also features an 18:1 premium machine head that runs very smooth with no slack, helping you to lock the string in position and adjust the pitch more accurately. The Kadence guitar is easy to tune and holds tune after the first tune-up of strings. The included pickguard can be placed underneath the guitar soundhole to protect from pick scratches while playing. This guitar uses a 9v battery.
Kadence is committed to developing better comfortable and functional acoustic guitars, providing quality services and excellent products. With quality instruments from Kadence, you’ll have a constant companion for life. Regardless of what you love to play, just make sure to express yourself. Whatever your age or skill level, our guitars electric will make sure all your musical desires are fulfilled. The Kadence Ash Wood Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a quality instrument suitable for everyday use.
3. Slowhand Premium Electro-Acoustic Guitar – Sh04
The Kadence Slowhand semi acoustic rosewood guitar is a finely crafted instrument designed to provide complete tonal control. Constructed using premium tonal woods, this semi acoustic-electric guitar is built to deliver exceptional sound quality, high durability, and increased ease of use, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and professionals alike.
Measuring 41 inches in stature, this black acoustic guitar is easy to handle and transport, and comes with a protective padded bag, allowing you to take it with you wherever you go.
One of the standout features of the Kadence Slowhand guitar is its adjustable action. Thanks to the built-in truss rod, the tension caused by strings or temperature change shrinking can be balanced, ensuring a straight and durable neck. Additionally, the adjustable rosewood acoustic electric guitar neck keeps the strings at a perfect height, allowing your hand to stay in a comfortable position as you play.
This black acoustic electric guitar comes with a range of accessories, including a zipped padded bag, an in-built tuner, adjustable guitar strap, extra strings, 3 guitar picks, a capo, and a guitar cable.
The strings on this guitar are built for great sound quality, high durability, and increased ease of use. The surface is coated with a film coating that is not easy to rust, which prolongs the use time of the strings and reduces the burden on the fingers when pressing them. The tuning pegs are engineered for good sound quality.
The easy cutaway design of this guitar electric acoustic allows you easier access to the upper frets, making it a great choice for players who want to explore a wide range of sounds. The deep pore paint finish, simple head design, streamlined curvature makes the head and the body integrated, beautiful. The rosewood bridge has high hardness, strong vibration conductivity, stable and rich tone transmission.
With a wide variety of musical instruments, Kadence is committed to developing better, more comfortable, and functional acoustic guitars, providing quality services and excellent products. With quality instruments from Kadence, you’ll have a constant companion for life. Regardless of what you love to play, just make sure to express yourself.
4. Epiphone Pr-4e Acoustic/electric Guitar Player Package
The electric guitar boasts a sleek mahogany body, providing a solid and durable instrument that is perfect for musicians of all levels. The guitar is equipped with passive Piezo pickups, allowing for a clean and crisp sound that is ideal for a range of musical genres. The guitar also features a beautiful rosewood fretboard, which not only enhances the guitar's aesthetics but also provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience.
The guitar is strung with D’Addario 12, 16, 25, 34, 41, 53 strings, ensuring that the sound produced is of the highest quality. These strings are renowned for their durability and consistency, so musicians can rely on them to withstand even the most intense performances.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, this electric guitar is sure to impress. With its high-quality materials, including the mahogany body, passive Piezo pickups, and rosewood fretboard, this guitar is designed to provide a superior playing experience. The D’Addario strings only add to the guitar's exceptional sound quality, making it an excellent choice for any musician looking to take their playing to the next level.
5. Slowhand Sh03 Mahogany Acoustic Guitar Package
The Kadence Slowhand semi acoustic rosewood guitar is a finely crafted instrument that offers complete tonal control. It is designed with premium tonal woods, making it highly durable and providing excellent sound quality. This 41-inch acoustic-electric guitar is suitable for both beginners and professionals, and it comes with a protective padded bag for easy transportation.
One of the most notable features of this guitar is its adjustable action. The built-in truss rod can balance the tension caused by strings or temperature change shrinking, ensuring a straight and durable neck. The adjustable rosewood neck also allows for a comfortable playing experience by keeping the strings at a perfect height.
The Kadence Slowhand black acoustic electric guitar package deal comes with a variety of accessories, including a zipped padded bag, an in-built tuner, adjustable guitar strap, extra strings, 3 guitar picks, a capo, and a guitar cable. This makes it an excellent value for money purchase.
The strings on this guitar are highly durable and built for great sound quality. The surface is coated with a film coating, which is not easy to rust, prolonging the use time of the strings and reducing the burden on the fingers when pressing the strings. The tuning pegs are also engineered for good sound quality.
The cutaway design of this guitar electric acoustic allows for easier access to the upper frets, making it ideal for playing solos. The deep pore paint finish, simple head design, and streamlined curvature make the head and the body integrated and beautiful. The rosewood bridge has high hardness, strong vibration conductivity, stable and rich tone transmission.
Kadence is committed to developing better comfortable and functional acoustic guitars, providing quality services and excellent products. With quality instruments from Kadence, you’ll have a constant companion for life. Regardless of what you love to play, this guitar is an excellent choice for any musician looking for a quality instrument that offers complete tonal control.
6. Red Thinline Guitar Kit With Gig Bag
The R.W. Jameson full-size 41" acoustic-electric guitar boasts a classic design and exceptional sound quality. Its wooden construction, featuring a spruce top and basswood body, ensures durability and resonance, making it perfect for all skill levels.
This guitar offers the versatility of both acoustic and electric sounds. When unplugged, it delivers a clean, raw acoustic tone, and when plugged into an amp, it produces a customizable electric tone with its on-board 4-band pickup/EQ.
The thinline cutaway design of this guitar is not only visually appealing but also functional. It allows for higher positioning and ample comfort, making it easier for beginners to learn and advanced players to perform with ease.
This guitar is sold as a complete package, including a guitar gig bag that fits perfectly, a shoulder strap, an extra set of strings, three celluloid picks, and a cable. These accessories make it an excellent value and a great choice for anyone looking for a complete guitar package.
Whether you are a beginner, intermediate player, or a seasoned guitarist, the R.W. Jameson acoustic-electric guitar offers endless appeal. Its exceptional quality and design make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile instrument.
7. Flame Green Acoustic-Electric Guitar By Oscar Schmidt
The Concert Size Body is a standout feature of this product, providing a comfortable playing experience while still delivering excellent sound quality. The fully adjustable truss rod is another notable feature, allowing for precise adjustments to suit the player's preference.
The Chrome Die Cast Tuners are both durable and reliable, ensuring that the instrument stays in tune even after extended periods of playing. The Meet-10 Preamp/Tuner system is another feature that sets this product apart, providing exceptional sound quality and easy tuning capabilities.
Additionally, this product comes with a lifetime guarantee, providing peace of mind to players and ensuring that it will be a long-lasting investment.
8. Cordoba C5-Ce Cd Lefty Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar, Iberia Series
This left-handed acoustic guitar boasts a stunning Solid Cedar top with Mahogany back and sides, providing a warm and rich tone that is sure to impress. The Rosewood bridge and fingerboard add to the guitar's overall quality and durability, while the Soft Cutaway allows for easy access to higher frets.
Equipped with a Fishman Isys+ pickup, this guitar is perfect for live performances. The 50mm Nut Width ensures comfortable playability, allowing for a smooth and effortless playing experience.
The guitar comes with a set of Savarez Cristal Corum strings in High Tension, 500CJ, which produces a bright and clear sound that is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking. Overall, this left-handed acoustic guitar is a top-of-the-line instrument that is sure to exceed expectations with its exceptional sound quality and expert craftsmanship.
9. Ibanez Pn12e Mahogany Parlor Acoustic-Electric Guitar Vintage Mahogany Sunburst
This parlor-shaped guitar boasts an X bracing design for maximum stability and resonance. Crafted with a mahogany top, back, and sides, this guitar produces a warm and rich tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles. The neck is also made of mahogany, providing a smooth and comfortable playing experience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned musician, this guitar is a great choice for those seeking a high-quality instrument at an affordable price. With its classic design and versatile sound, it's sure to become a favorite in your collection.
Best Affordable Acoustic Electric Guitar FAQs
Are there any affordable acoustic electric guitars that are suitable for professional musicians?
Yes, there are several affordable acoustic-electric guitars that are suitable for professional musicians. One of the most popular options is the Yamaha FGX800C, which offers a solid spruce top, nato/okume back and sides, and a System 66 preamp system with a built-in tuner. Another great choice is the Epiphone Hummingbird PRO, which features a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a Shadow ePerformer preamp system. The Fender CD-60SCE is another option to consider, featuring a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a Fishman CD preamp system. Each of these guitars offers quality construction, great sound, and reliable electronics at an affordable price point. It's important to note that while these guitars may be considered affordable, they still require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.
Can I get a good quality acoustic electric guitar for under $500?
Yes, it is possible to find a good quality acoustic electric guitar for under $500. There are several reputable brands that offer affordable options without sacrificing sound quality or playability. Some examples include Yamaha, Fender, and Epiphone. It is important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. Additionally, keep in mind that the type of wood used in the construction of the guitar can greatly impact its sound, so consider factors such as the top wood, back and sides wood, and neck wood when making your decision. Ultimately, it is possible to find a great acoustic electric guitar within your budget as long as you are willing to do your due diligence and shop around.
How do I know if an affordable acoustic electric guitar is right for me?
Choosing the right acoustic electric guitar can be overwhelming, especially if you are on a budget. However, there are a few factors to consider that can help you determine if an affordable acoustic electric guitar is right for you.
Firstly, consider the type of music you want to play. If you are a beginner or looking to play for personal enjoyment, an affordable acoustic electric guitar may be suitable. However, if you are a professional musician or plan to perform in front of large audiences, investing in a higher-end guitar may be necessary to achieve the sound quality and durability you need.
Secondly, consider the features of the guitar. Look for an instrument that has a solid top for better sound quality, a comfortable neck for easy playability, and a reliable pickup system for amplification.
Lastly, consider your budget. While an affordable acoustic electric guitar may not have all the features and sound quality of a high-end instrument, it can still provide a good playing experience at a lower cost.
In conclusion, when choosing an affordable acoustic electric guitar, consider your music style, the features of the guitar, and your budget to determine if it is the right fit for you.
What are some affordable acoustic electric guitars that are great for beginners?
If you are a beginner looking for an acoustic electric guitar that won't break the bank, there are several options available that offer great value for money. Here are some of the most affordable models that are highly recommended for beginners:
1. Yamaha FGX800C: This guitar is an excellent choice for beginners, with a solid spruce top, nato/okume back and sides, and a cutaway design that allows easy access to the upper frets. It also features a System 66 preamp with a built-in tuner, providing great sound and easy tuning capabilities.
2. Epiphone DR-100CE: This guitar features a select spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a cutaway design. It also comes with a Shadow ePerformer preamp and pickup system, which provides excellent sound quality when amplified.
3. Fender FA-135CE: This guitar is a great choice for beginners, with a laminated spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a cutaway design. It also comes with a Fishman preamp and pickup system, which provides great sound quality when plugged into an amplifier.
Overall, these guitars offer great value for money and are highly recommended for beginners who are looking for a quality acoustic electric guitar that won't break the bank.
What are some of the best affordable acoustic electric guitar brands?
There are several affordable acoustic electric guitar brands available in the market that offer good quality instruments at reasonable prices. Some of the best affordable acoustic electric guitar brands are:
1. Yamaha: Yamaha is a well-known brand that offers a range of acoustic electric guitars at affordable prices. Their instruments are known for their solid build quality and excellent sound.
2. Fender: Fender is another popular brand that offers affordable acoustic electric guitars. Their instruments are known for their classic designs and high-quality sound.
3. Epiphone: Epiphone is a subsidiary of Gibson and offers affordable acoustic electric guitars that are ideal for beginners and intermediate players. Their guitars are known for their warm and rich tone.
4. Ibanez: Ibanez is a Japanese brand that offers affordable acoustic electric guitars that are known for their sleek designs and excellent sound quality.
5. Washburn: Washburn is a lesser-known brand that offers affordable acoustic electric guitars that are ideal for beginners. Their instruments are known for their solid build quality and good sound.
Overall, there are several affordable acoustic electric guitar brands available in the market that offer good quality instruments at reasonable prices. It's important to do your research and choose a brand that suits your needs and budget.
What are some of the best places to buy affordable acoustic electric guitars?
There are several great places to buy affordable acoustic electric guitars, both online and in-person. One option is to check out major retailers such as Guitar Center, Sam Ash, and Sweetwater. These stores have a wide selection of guitars at various price points, and often offer discounts and sales throughout the year.
Another option is to shop online at websites such as Amazon, Musician's Friend, and Reverb. These sites have a huge selection of guitars from various brands, and often offer competitive prices. You can also read reviews from other customers to help you make an informed decision.
If you're looking for a used guitar, you can check out websites such as Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay. However, be sure to carefully inspect the guitar and ask questions before making a purchase.
Ultimately, the best place to buy an affordable acoustic electric guitar will depend on your personal preferences and budget. It's important to do your research and shop around to find the best deal on the guitar that's right for you.
What are some tips for maintaining an affordable acoustic electric guitar?
Maintaining an affordable acoustic electric guitar is essential to ensure its longevity and playability. Here are some tips to keep your guitar in top condition without breaking the bank:
1. Keep it clean: Regularly clean your guitar with a soft cloth to remove dirt, dust, and fingerprints. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
2. Store it properly: Store your guitar in a temperature-controlled environment and away from direct sunlight. Keep it in a case or gig bag when not in use to protect it from dust, humidity, and accidental damage.
3. Change strings regularly: Change your guitar strings every 1-3 months, depending on how often you play. Old strings can sound dull and lose their tone, affecting the sound quality of your guitar.
4. Adjust the truss rod: If your guitar's neck is too bowed or too straight, you may need to adjust the truss rod. This can be done by a professional or with some research and careful adjustments.
5. Check the intonation: Check the intonation of your guitar regularly to ensure it plays in tune. This can be done by using a tuner and adjusting the saddle position.
By following these tips, you can maintain your affordable acoustic electric guitar and enjoy playing it for years to come.
What are the most important factors to consider when choosing an affordable acoustic electric guitar?
When choosing an affordable acoustic electric guitar, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, it is important to consider the quality of sound produced by the guitar. Look for guitars with a solid top, which will provide a fuller and richer sound than guitars with a laminate top. It is also important to consider the type of wood used in the guitar's construction, as different types of wood can affect the tone and resonance of the guitar.
Another factor to consider is the guitar's playability. Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck profile and action that is easy to play. The size and shape of the guitar are also important considerations, as these factors can affect how comfortable the guitar is to hold and play.
Finally, consider the guitar's features and electronics. Look for guitars with built-in pickups and preamps, which will allow you to plug the guitar into an amplifier or PA system. Consider the quality of the electronics, as well as the placement of the controls, to ensure that the guitar is easy to use and produces a high-quality sound. By considering these factors, you can choose an affordable acoustic electric guitar that meets your needs and provides a high-quality playing experience.
What features should I look for in an affordable acoustic electric guitar?
When looking for an affordable acoustic electric guitar, there are several features you should consider to ensure that you get a good quality instrument that meets your needs. Here are some key features to look for:
1. Sound quality: The most important aspect of any guitar is its sound. Look for an acoustic electric guitar with a rich, full sound that resonates well.
2. Electronics: Since you're looking for an acoustic electric guitar, you'll need to make sure it has good quality electronics. This will ensure that the guitar sounds great when plugged in.
3. Neck and fretboard: The neck and fretboard of the guitar should be comfortable to play, with good action and easy access to all the frets.
4. Size and shape: Consider the size and shape of the guitar to make sure it's comfortable for you to play. Some people prefer smaller guitars, while others prefer larger ones.
5. Brand reputation: Look for a guitar from a reputable brand with a history of making quality instruments. This will help ensure that you're getting a good quality guitar that will last.
By keeping these features in mind, you'll be able to find an affordable acoustic electric guitar that meets your needs and sounds great.
What is the difference between an acoustic and an acoustic electric guitar?
An acoustic guitar is a traditional type of guitar that relies solely on its internal sound projection. It is a hollow body instrument that produces sound through the vibration of its strings, which is then amplified by the guitar's soundboard. The sound produced by an acoustic guitar is warm, rich, and natural, making it perfect for solo performances or intimate settings.
On the other hand, an acoustic-electric guitar is a hybrid instrument that combines the natural sound of an acoustic guitar with the amplification capabilities of an electric guitar. It has a built-in pickup that converts the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal, which can then be amplified through an external speaker or sound system. This allows the guitar to produce a louder and more versatile sound, making it suitable for larger performances and live settings.
In summary, the main difference between an acoustic and an acoustic-electric guitar is that the former relies solely on its internal sound projection while the latter has the added convenience of an integrated pickup and amplification capabilities.
