Unfortunately the humongous body size does mean that you've got to be of a certain build and stature to play one comfortably. Think Elvis, Bob Dylan and EmmyLou Harris - the jumbo is an iconic body size, and produces a tone to match. The most common sizes available are jumbo, dreadnought, auditorium, classical and parlour.Ī jumbo is going to deliver the biggest, fattest tone. The guitar's size will impact everything from the tone it produces to how comfortable it is to play. This is possibly the most crucial factor to consider when choosing any acoustic guitar.
(Image credit: Future) What makes a great cheap acoustic guitar? Plugged in, you'll hear the sound of a much bigger guitar thanks to the Fishman Sonitone pickup - making this a seriously versatile acoustic.
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The comfortable C-shaped neck and small 'M' concert sized body make this diminutive Guild a fantastic travel or couch guitar - but with a full 24.75" scale length, it's still capable of keeping up with some of the big boys.
There's plenty of competition in this product category from names like Martin and Taylor, but if you're after something a little different then the M-240E could be the one for you.Ĭonstruction-wise, the classic combination of a solid spruce top and mahogany back & sides provides a snappy, punchy tone with a tasteful low-end presence - meaning that the M-240E is a brilliant choice for both solo artists looking for rich tonal accompaniment, or those in bands that need to cut through the mix just that little bit more. Guild's M-240E is a slightly more left-field choice when looking at the smaller-bodied acoustic guitars under $500. Small body can get a little bit overwhelmed If you can stretch your budget just that little bit further, you won't be disappointed. Okay, so it does cost a little more than $500 - coming in at $559 - but we think that for the money, it's absolutely worth your attention. A genuine alternative to many more expensive instruments, and just one of the reasons why it features on this best acoustic guitars under $500 guide. This is a quality instrument that feels great to play. Great for electric guitarists seeking a hassle-free acoustic experience. The Fishman Presys II preamp offers a faithful portrayal of the guitar’s acoustic qualities when plugged in, and the system includes bass and treble controls for tonal tweaking.Ĭoupled with a fairly low action, the satin finished slim C profile neck is a breeze to play on. All-mahogany construction further enhances the Washburn’s bold, forthright tone - perfect for fingerstyle guitarists. Three-piece neck isn’t the most attractiveīased on the vintage Martin OM body shape, the orchestra style WLO12SE features sub-dreadnought dimensions with typically sparkling highs and a tight, controlled bottom end.