Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack

Overall Rating: 4.4/5

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Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review: A Beginner Version Of The Beloved Les Paul

There are arguably no electric guitars more famous, influential, or beloved than the classic Gibson Les Paul.

From Jimmy Page to Slash, numerous icons of the guitar world have chosen this single cut model above others.

Likewise, thousands of amateur and student players have entrusted Epiphone to create this same guitar model for their needs.

This Epiphone Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is no different – specifically their Les Paul Special-II model which sits at the core; all the accessories and extras needed to get you playing guitar fast.

Overview of an Affordable Les Paul Guitar Package

Epiphone, a branch of Gibson that specializes in affordable models has long had a great reputation amongst guitarists.

Many players from the past 30 years started out on guitars from packages just like this.

In fact, this Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is likely one of their top selling products thanks to the affordable price tag and one-stop-shop deal.

Even for more experienced players who may own other guitars, this all inclusive package holds value.

Who Get’s the Most Out of It?

As with most guitar packages, this Epiphone LP offering is best suited for beginners and students. The combination of affordability and value is often too good to pass up.

This Epiphone Player package is very attractive for a few key reasons.

First off, it’s a classic guitar design and sound that many students will find their idols playing on stage or in the studio.

Next, the inclusion of the amp, cables, and other extras make it so truly easy to get home and play in minutes.

No comparison shopping for extras and accessories, just open the box and go. Furthermore, the smaller scale length of these Gibson-style instruments can be easier for some players to learn on.

What Comes in the Box?

So we’ve talked about how great it is that this guitar package comes with everything you need, but what exactly does it come with?

Each pack contains a brand new Epiphone Les Paul Special II and padded gig bag for it.

A 10-watt Epiphone amplifier is included as well with all necessary cables so that you’re ready to plug and play.

Other great extras include a strap for your new Les Paul, guitar picks, and a very hand clip on tuner.

While these are less essential than the amp and power cable, they will make your life easier.

These items specifically are things a less educated beginner or student may have trouble finding.

Features & Specs

There are several noteworthy features that make this Les Paul beginner-friendly. The flat top, thin body design makes it much less heavy than the typical Les Paul.

The Alder wood body construction, as opposed to Mahogany, further lightens the load.

The two humbucking pickups, a 700T in the bridge and 650R at the neck, also provide a more high octane sound than single coils found on competitors like Squier Stratocasters and Telecasters.

Plus, these dual coil pickups are far less noisy, meaning you won’t have as much buzz or hum coming out of your amplifier.

The 24.75” scale length also provides for a smaller neck, with less space in between frets. Compare this to the 25.5” scale length of most Fender or Ibanez guitars

Lastly, two finishes are available: a beautiful vintage sunburst or ebony finish gives this Epiphone Les Paul a classic, gig ready look.

Highlights

• High output humbucking pickups
• Simplified controls with volume, tone, and 3-way switch
• Comfortable Alder body
• Beautiful vintage sunburst finish
• Shorter scale length neck

How To Get The Most Out Of Your New Epiphone Pack

The beauty of the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package is that it’s 100% ready to go out of the box.

Clip on your tuner and tune the guitar, throw the strap on, and plug in. The flat top construction and Alder body also make it lighter and more comfortable than most classic Les Paul models.

Check out this awesome demo of the Les Paul Special-II, the guitar featured in this package!

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review: Key Points

Alternative Instruments for Comparison

Final Thoughts On A Timeless Guitar

If your love of classic rock music inspired you to pick up the guitar, it’s hard to not covet a Les Paul. Epiphone’s Les Paul Guitar Player Pack is designed to scratch that Gibson itch while still outfitting you with all the essentials.

The smaller scale length of the neck may make it more comfortable to inexperienced hands. On the other hand, affordable Les Paul’s are well known to have some tuning instability issues.

A quick tune up from a tech can help unlock the monster tones locked inside this classic body design.

Either way, the Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player pack is an excellent choice for new guitarists determined to play an LP.

Check Today’s Epiphone Player Pack Price! >>

The post Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Review (An Easy Start On A Budget) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

To play bluegrass the way it was intended, you’re going to need a good weapon. In this article, we’ll show you some of the best bluegrass guitars available. Don’t expect low prices – expect quality, awesome tone, and playing comfort.

Great Bluegrass Guitars Compared

Guitar	Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1  Best Bluegrass Acoustic Gibson J-45 Standard A top quality workhorse guitar		(5.0)	$$$$
#2 Best Mid-Range Acoustic Taylor 214ce Deluxe Modern design with exceptional transparency		(4.3)	$$$
#3 Best Budget Model Epiphone Dove Studio Fishman Sonitone pickup system		(4.8)	$
#4 The King Of Acoustics Martin D-28 Traditional tone and huge bottom projection		(4.9)	$$$$
#5 Classic Engineering Yamaha LL16D ARE ARE tone aging		(4.4)	$$$
#6 Style and Electronics Washburn Comfort G25SCE Mahogany elbow binding		(3.9)	$$
#7 The Underdog Seagull S6 Pressure-tested cedar top		(4.2)	$

We hope you find this article helpful, informative and unbiased. Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Top 7 Bluegrass Guitars in Review

1. Gibson J-45 Standard

(5.0)

A top-end round-shoulder dreadnought acoustic-electric guitar from Gibson.

Top-Tier Bluegrass Axe

Gibson is, without a doubt, one of the two most popular guitar brands on the planet.

You may love them, you may hate the brand, but the fact remains – they make fantastic guitars for almost every player’s need. Of course, bluegrass musicians have a lot to be happy about here.

The J-45 Standard from Gibson features a top-notch tone wood blend and has a lot of style.

The Workhorse

The J-45 Standard has been aptly nicknamed “The Workhorse” – used on stages and in studios all across the world.

Its premium mahogany side and back build is highly resonant and brings a lot of depth to the J-45 Standard’s tone foundation. Of course, this is contrasted with the Sitka spruce top, which evokes tonal clarity and presence.

The high-grade rosewood on the fretboard is visibly different to most other fingerboards of the same base material. The VTC pickup system from LR Baggs has a lively, robust, and, above everything else, natural sound to it.

Check Today’s J-45 Standard Price >>

Gibson Acoustic J-45 Standard Features

• Workhorse acoustic guitar
• Back and sides made out of solid mahogany, bringing out a round and warm sound
• The Sitka spruce top evokes tone clarity and projection
• Soft fretboard edges for extra comfort
• VTC pickups from LR Baggs help the J-45 Standard sound natural even when plugged in

Huge Attention to Detail

Gibson’s J-45 Standard offers a uniquely good build. A lot of attention to tonal and physical details went into this guitar’s design.

The result is an all-round workhorse that performs brilliantly for studio recording and stage performance.

Expect to Pay a Lot

This is a Gibson guitar. Not only that, but it’s a quality Gibson guitar. So, expect quite a hefty price tag here. Other than that, it’s pretty much perfect.

Gibson J-45 Standard Key Points

2. Taylor 214ce Deluxe

(4.3)

A modern-shaped grand auditorium acoustic-electric guitar from Taylor.

Grand Auditorium Bluegrass Machine

Taylor is a widely renowned acoustic guitar brand that’s popular with various bluegrass musicians.

Out of all Taylor guitars, however, the 214ce Deluxe is probably the best fit for a bluegrass enthusiast who’s looking for a quality mid-range guitar.

Although it’s still a fairly large-bodied instrument, this bluegrass axe isn’t a dreadnought. It boasts a grand auditorium shape, like many other Taylor-made guitars.

A Very Comfortable Shape

The grand auditorium shape appears smaller than the popular dreadnought. If you’re worried that the size of the 214ce Deluxe will compromise its volume capacity, you can rest easy.

Although grand auditorium guitars feature a narrower waist than dreadnoughts, their lower bout is actually wider. Many bluegrass musicians will find this guitar shape more comfortable than the dreadnought shape.

The sides and the back of this guitar are Indian rosewood, which brings that claret sweetness type of vibe to its overall tone.

To balance things and bring out that crisp, clear sound, the Taylor 214ce Deluxe has a Sitka spruce top.

Check Taylor 214ce Deluxe Availability >>

Taylor 214ce Deluxe Features

• Sitka spruce top for tone balance and projection enhancement
• Ebony fretboard on a Sapele neck helps you play smooth and fast
• Taylor’s proprietary Expression System 2 (ES2) amplifies the tone accurately
• The tasteful Venetian cutaway helps with upper-fret access
• A grand auditorium model with a huge tone

Versatility Is King

The best thing about this guitar is that it’s comfortable for guitarists of any size. Thanks to its slick action, it will appeal to electric enthusiasts and bluegrass guitar players alike.

While the rosewood adds capacity for strumming and flatpicking, the spruce top brings out clarity for fingerpicking.

Strength vs Weakness

The biggest upshot of this guitar (its versatility) is also its downside. More experienced players who know what they’re looking for might not like the emphasized versatility.

Taylor 214ce Key Points

3. Epiphone Dove Studio

(4.8)

An extremely affordable acoustic-electric guitar from Epiphone.

Fishman Sonitone in a Cheap Guitar

If you’re looking for a dirt-cheap acoustic-electric guitar for bluegrass that provides great value for the price, look no further.

Epiphone, a daughter company of one of the most popular guitar manufacturers on the planet, Gibson, has released the Dove Studio guitar that sits at a remarkably low price.

Cheap as it is, it sports Fishman Sonitone electronics, which is among the best acoustic guitar pickups available on the market.

The Dove Studio is worth the purchase for the pickups alone. But this model has much more to offer than the fancy electronics.

Enhanced Tone as It Breaks In

Perhaps the most surprising thing on this guitar (in addition to the Fishman electronics) is the fact that it actually sounds better as it ages.

This is thanks to the tonewoods used on it – maple on the sides and back and a solid spruce top.

Epiphone Dove Studio Availability >>

Epiphone Dove Studio Features

• Spruce top and maple sides and back help enhance the tone as the Dove Studio ages
• Brilliant Fishman Sonitone pickups make Epiphone Dove Studio sound much more expensive than it is
• Vintage Dove artwork reminiscent of the original Gibson model
• Tuning stability and precision from Grover tuners
• Fast and smooth playing thanks to the SlimTaper D neck

A Whole Lot of Cool Features

There is a mind-boggling amount of value packed into this very cheap acoustic-electric guitar.

You get quality Grover tuners, Fishman Sonitone system, and a neck profile called SlimTaper D. This neck profile helps bring smoothness and speed out of your playing.

You Get What You Pay for

It’s important that you note that this is a budget guitar. Expect certain parts like the nut and the bridge to be subpar in quality terms.

Epiphone Dove Key Points

4. Martin D-28

(4.9)

The undisputed standard, and extremely popular acoustic from a widely renowned guitar brand Martin.

An Age-Old Dreadnought

The Martin D-28 is, without a doubt, the most popular bluegrass guitar in the world. Quite a feat, as it’s been around since the 1930s, and still retains the top popularity title.

The D-28 hasn’t changed much since its inception, because there’s been no need for change. It remains a powerful dreadnought guitar that’s held dearly in the heart of many bluegrass musicians.

Smooth and Balanced Tone with a Punch

Originally designed to project through a the sonic wall of folk instruments such as fiddles and mandolins, the D-28 sports a well-balanced and dynamic acoustic tone – the foundation of any bluegrass guitar performance.

Thanks to the Sitka spruce and East Indian rosewood, this Martin bluegrass guitar delivers balance to a punchy, full warm tone and volume.

Its build is immediately recognizable, and understated in appearance, there’s really nothing overly ornate about the standard aesthetics. But this is the humble profile greatly preferred by many bluegrass enthusiasts.

Martin D-28 Acoustic Guitar

Martin D-28 Features

• Familiar dreadnought shape
• Tone depth and “bassiness” perfect with vocals
• Fantastic in all “unplugged” environments
• High-quality tonewoods for a timeless tone
• Low frequency response is never boomy – expect a tight tone

Familiar Tone

If you happen to find the D-28’s tone familiar, that’s because it’s been used on countless records over time. Modern bluegrass musicians either own this model, desire to have it or have a great deal of respect for it.

The Sitka spruce top fits the guitar’s rosewood body brilliantly and helps deliver projection and clarity.

May Be Too Boxy for Some

The iconic boxy-shoulder dreadnought build is great once you get used to it, whether you’re performing sitting down or standing up.

However, it might be a bit off-putting to electric guitarists, or individuals with a more compact body frame.

Martin D-28 Key Points

5. Yamaha LL16D ARE

(4.4)

A mid-range premium acoustic-electric guitar from Yamaha.

Rosewood Warmth

Yamaha is a world-renowned company that makes a variety of products. Quality guitars happen to be one of them, and the Yamaha LL16D is a prime example when it comes to acoustic-electric models.

Every bluegrass player knows how important a warm and rich sound is for this music style.

This is why Yamaha has introduced solid rosewood back and sides on the LL16D’s body. To evoke clarity and a crisp tone, they’ve gone with a solid spruce top.

Artificial Tone Aging

Quality guitars tend to start sounding better with age. Of course, for that smooth aged broken-in tone, years of playing are required.

Yamaha has developed a process called Acoustic Resonance Enhancement (ARE ), that brings the aged tone right out of the box.

The neck is made out of mahogany for extra resonance, and a rosewood fretboard is added for extra depth in tone.

Yamaha LL16D ARE Original Jumbo

Yamaha LL16D ARE Features

• ARE tone aging qualities – broken-in tone on a brand-new guitar
• Mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard for more resonance and depth
• SRT Zero Impact pickup with piezo
• Engelmann spruce top complements the rosewood sides and back perfectly
• Innovative design

A Top-Tier Guitar for a Mid-Range Price

Piezo is a guitar technology that is usually used to make an electric guitar sound like an acoustic one.

The passive SRT Zero Impact pickups provide each string with piezo elements, further enhancing the LL16D’s tone while plugged in.

Considering all the innovative features and a fantastic build, Yamaha LL16D ARE brings much more value to its mid-range price.

Outside The Box

Unfortunately for dreadnought lovers, this guitar simply isn’t one – meaning it’s lacking in terms of the bottom end and loudness.

Still, there are many bluegrass players who aren’t looking for a dreadnought-style guitar.

Yamaha LL16D ARE Key Points

6. Washburn Comfort G25SCE

(3.9)

An affordable acoustic-electric guitar with an elbow comfort binding from Washburn.

Uniquely Washburn Look

Washburn is a reputable guitar brand that makes fantastic mid-range acoustic guitars. Washburn Comfort G24SCE is a great example of a mid-range-level guitar that’s cheaper than most mid-range models.

The guitar boasts a really unique appearance that truly stands out. But appearance is not the only feature that sets the G25SCE model apart from its peers.

Mahogany Elbow Comfort

The G25SCE has a mahogany binding for elbow comfort, located on the guitar’s left lower bout.

The Fishman Presys+ pickup system is generally found on much more expensive models, but the G25SCE comes equipped with it.

The sides and the back are made out of solid mahogany, which emphasizes resonance. The alternating maple strips help compliment the aesthetics and tighten up the potentially muddy mahogany tone qualities.

Washburn Comfort G25SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Washburn Comfort G25SCE Features

• Mahogany binding for extra elbow comfort on the lower bout
• Fishman Presys+ pickup perfectly replicates the unplugged sound
• Ovangkol fretboard is a beautiful, atypical choice for a guitar
• Bookmatched mahogany back panels for a unique look
• Neck has a satin finish for playing smoothness

Looks That Deceive

Apart from the fact that you get a high-quality instrument for a fairly low price, with Washburn Comfort G25SCE, this is a very unique looking guitar that will definitely turn a few heads.

Expect surprised reactions when you tell people how much you paid for it. You also get awesome Fishman Presys+ pickup and Grover 18:1 tuners for a fantastic sound and tuning stability.

An Acquired Taste

You may find the ovangkol fretboard weird at first. Don’t worry – it’s an acquired taste.

Washburn Comfort G24SCE Key Points

7. Seagull S6

(4.2)

A simple, capable bluegrass acoustic guitar from a Canadian brand Seagull.

Overlooked Quality

Although this is not the cheapest guitar on the list, it’s certainly very close to it. Unfortunately, owing to its non-mainstream name, the Seagull S6 often gets overlooked.

Still, this guitar is offering a full-range tone that fits all music styles, although it’s predominantly used in bluegrass.

Years of Maximum Harmonic Vibration

Tuning stability is definitely something that Seagull S6 prides itself on. This is all owing to the compound curved top and the integrated set neck. These features also ensure projection and resonance.

To ensure the best possible harmonic vibration, each S6 top is tested for stiffness and rigidity. The overall guitar build here will give you years and years of great performance. Certainly well worth the low price.

Seagull Guitars S6 Cedar Original Acoustic Guitar

Seagull S6 Features

• Cedar top is pressure-tested to ensure maximum tonal, response, and projection quality
• Proprietary TUSQ nut offer more harmonics than bone nuts
• Modified dreadnought body to avoid extra boominess
• Perfect neck relief and alignment thanks to the dual-function truss rod
• Custom-polished finish for better vibration

Brilliant Guitar for the Money

When put into perspective of how good this guitar’s build is, the S6’s price point becomes really ridiculous.

You get a high-quality TUSQ nut, excellent neck alignment and relief, pressure-tested top for best tonal quality, and rich, resonant sound.

Some Parts Aren’t Perfect

Don’t expect a top-of-the-line instrument with maximum-quality parts. You’re still paying much less than $1,000.

Seagull S6 Key Points

Bluegrass Guitars Buyer’s Guide

Every guitar from our list will find its ideal owner. We hope that the information provided is more than enough to help you make an educated decision about your new guitar.

However, knowing some basics of the genre and the guitars used for it can help you find the perfect guitar for you.

Here are some common questions that you may be wondering about yourself.

Is Bluegrass Hard to Play?

Bluegrass isn’t the most fast-paced genre, but it can’t be considered slow, either. Some bluegrass songs are fairly fast.

The genre is relatively straightforward, and most artists tend to use similar chord progressions. When it comes to rhythm, playing bluegrass with your guitar isn’t very complex.

First-position G, C, D, F, A, and B chords are used for the most part. These are very basic and pretty much the first thing a beginner bluegrass guitar player learns.

However, as far as solo playing is concerned, bluegrass can be very hard. Although the solo playing mostly involves pentatonic scales, these are played at high BPMs, and there are lots of “runs” involved.

Usually, one guitar is playing rhythm, while the other is soloing. The magic of bluegrass, though, boils down to lead-follow switches.

In other words, as a bluegrass player, you’ll be expected to know how to lead and how to follow. More importantly, you’ll be expected to know when to start and stop leading.

This is a skill acquired through practice and is based on the “feel” of the performance.

Start with solid rhythms and practice the chord patterns

The best way to practice bluegrass playing is to start with the rhythm. Learn the chords mentioned above and practice them.

Then, find someone to practice with. Be open and don’t be afraid to contact people – you’re just starting out, that’s nothing to be ashamed about. Try not to practice lead and rhythm playing in combination, take turns.

Bear in mind that you are going to have to practice a lot. Jams are awesome, but you also need to put in time on your own, at home. Combining practice and jams will help you learn bluegrass guitar.

What Key is Most Bluegrass In?

As a lively, upbeat genre, it is hardly a surprise that bluegrass relies mostly on the major scale.

Learning the major scale shape and the major pentatonic shape is a great idea for learning how to lead in bluegrass music.

Particular keys are less important. If you learn different major scale patterns, you can move them across the fretboard.

Still, the most common bluegrass keys are G, C, D, A, E, and F. Naturally, the bluegrass genre is rich with quality bands, and there is plenty of diversity to go about.

You’ll find bluegrass songs in different keys than these and even those who don’t rely on the major scale.

However, the mentioned keys and the major scale (and its pentatonic) are a great place to start your bluegrass guitar playing journey.

Learn the shapes in different scale patterns and play them across the keys mentioned above.

Then, move on to the minor scale and the minor pentatonic scale. It’s the most popular scale in the world used in various genres.

Finally, learn the Mixolydian scale. Don’t worry, it’s a tricky name, but the concept is simple: Play the major scale and move the 7^th note down a semitone (one fret back towards the headstock).

Although it’s important to learn these patterns, it’s even more critical that you play them. Practice soloing over music in various different keys.

What Guitars Do Professionals Use?

You might think that only the pros use the most expensive guitars on the market. In part, you are right; you’ll find many professional bluegrass players using expensive top-tier brands such as Gibson and high-end Taylor models, for instance.

But in truth, most popular players are endorsed by a brand, meaning that they don’t pay for the instrument or pay only a small fraction of it.

You’ll also find many professionals who use relatively cheap guitars. Don’t be surprised if you see one of the models mentioned above at a high-profile show.

Therefore, the simple answer here would be professionals use any kind of guitar that suits them best. Until you learn what works for you, don’t think about expensive models.

What are the Best Acoustic Guitar Strings for Bluegrass?

Every guitar player will tell you that they know that a particular brand of strings is the best one.

What you won’t hear often is the truth: It boils down to personal preference. Don’t put too much stock in any one person’s opinion.

Try the wide variety of guitar string brands available

As long as we are talking about bronze acoustic guitar strings, anything goes. Bronze banjo, phosphor bronze, nickel bronze, etc., are all great options for bluegrass. Get out there and try out different strings.

What is the Best Guitar for Bluegrass?

The best guitar for bluegrass would be one that featured all the greatest aspects of the models mentioned above.

Unfortunately, such a model doesn’t exist, and you’re probably going to have to compromise.

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line guitar, take a look at the brands such as Martin, Taylor, and Gibson.

If you’re looking for a mid-tier solution, Washburn might not be a bad idea.

But as an absolute beginner, don’t go north of $500. If you already own a guitar, even if it’s not particularly good for bluegrass, you can start there.

Always keep in mind that good bluegrass guitars aren’t necessarily built solely for bluegrass.

Who Wins The Battle For Overall Best Bluegrass Guitar?

All of the mentioned instruments from this list feature great qualities. It all depends on how much you want to spend on a bluegrass guitar.

But the prize for the king of the best bluegrass guitars goes to the renowned Gibson Acoustic J-45 Standard.

This is a reliable, durable workhorse guitar with excellent resonant properties and great clarity and projection.

Its soft fretboard edges ensure player comfort, and LR Baggs VTC pickups are some of the most natural-sounding ones on the market.

We hope that this guide has helped you make the right choice. If not, keep on searching for the instrument that fits you best.

EDITOR’S PICK

Gibson Acoustic J-45 Standard

What Do Gibson J-45 Owners Think? >>

The post Best Bluegrass Guitars (7 Killer Acoustics) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Folk Guitar Review: Is it the Best Affordable Acoustic on the Market?

The Yamaha FG830 Folk Guitar at a glance:

Click Here to Check Yamaha FG830 Availability! >>

The Yamaha FG800 Folk Guitar is one of the best values on the acoustic guitar market, for beginners and experienced players alike.

The guitar features laminated Nato wood on the back and sides, with a solid Sitka Spruce top and satin finish. The neck meets the body at the 14th fret on this 25” scale length dreadnought acoustic.

The comfy feel makes it ideal for singer-songwriters who are looking to string a few chords together or practice.

A New Edition to Yamaha’s FG Series

Yamaha’s FG800 is the newest entry into Yamaha’s Acoustic Guitar line, based on the classic FG series. This series has been a top seller and player favorite since its 1966 inception.

The FG800 is the most budget friendly of the new FG family, coming in just under $200. Laminated Nato wood makes up the back, sides, and neck with a solid Sitka Spruce top and Rosewood fretboard.

The guitar is a 25” scale length instrument with the same familiar V-shaped headstock that makes all Yamaha’s recognizable. Die-cast chrome tuners and a  urea nut and saddle round out the construction.

Who is the Yamaha FG800 for?

The FG800 is a versatile product in that it should serve beginners and guitar veterans equally well. The budget friendly price and comfortable feel certainly make it a great option for students.

Furthermore, the tuning stability is far superior to most other cheap acoustics. This guitar puts performance above all else, making it a great option for more experienced players too.

Especially, if you aren’t willing or able to shell out big money for a premium acoustic guitar. Overall, it’s a must try acoustic guitar model from any player from one of the most trusted and familiar brands on the market.

Opening the Box

You can purchase the FG800 in a variety of packages, including a value pack, accessory kit, or just as the individual guitar. If you purchase just the guitar, the only extra feature you’ll get is a hex wrench.

You can add a case, picks, tuner, or other sweet extras via the value packs. There is no assembly necessary with this guitar, and it should be ready to go with a quick tune-up straight out of the box.

For pickier players, you may want to get it setup to lower the action a bit. Otherwise beginner players may want to go stock up on picks, capos, and a strap to get the most out the FG800 Acoustic.

Read the Latest Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Guitar Reviews >>

FG800 Acoustic Guitar Highlights

• Solid Sitka Spruce top
• Reliable chrome tuners
• Rosewood bridge
• Resonant, bright sounds
• Classic V-shaped headstock
• Fast, Rosewood fretboard

See it in Action

There’s nothing too crazy here, the Yamaha FG800 should be ready to go out of the box, after tuning it up that is. Check out this helpful review and demo to see how great the FG800 can be for fingerstyle and solo playing!

Yamaha FG800 Folk Guitar Features

As we said before, there aren’t a lot of extra frills or features to prop up the cost of this quality acoustic guitar. The FG800 Folk Guitar features unbranded but reliable die-cast chrome tuners that hold tune great alongside a rosewood bridge and comfortable satin finish.

With no electronics or name brand parts, you end up with an ideal inexpensive acoustic guitar for at-home songwriters and students. More advanced acoustic players may feel limited by the dreadnought-shape, with access to the higher frets pretty difficult.

The Rosewood fretboard is fast and comfortable, making it a good option for players of all skill levels. Because the body meets the neck at the 14th fret, this guitar is definitely more suited for staying within one octave.

The solid Sitka Spruce top is supported by scalloped-bracing, giving it rock solid construction underneath the glossy finish and multi-ply binding.

The Nato wood sides and back sound great, but not quite as warm and loud as higher quality tonewoods like high pressure Mahogany.

You do get bright, very top heavy chime and the chords ring out at a still reasonable volume for jamming. Practicing along to songs, or song writing with a partner should come second nature on the FG800.

Pros and Cons

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Folk Guitar Review

What are Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Guitar Owners Saying? >>

Other Affordable Acoustics to Try

There are plenty of sub-$200 acoustics on the market, but not necessarily any as great as the FG800. Another top seller, the Epiphone DR-100 is not lauded for the same playability but is a bit cheaper at under $150.

Many of Epiphone’s more expensive options are superior guitars, but come at a steep cost. While the construction is pretty similar, Spruce top, Mahogany back and sides, the build quality is often more spotty with some rough fretwork and less tuning stability.

Epiphone Songmaker DR-100, Dreadnought Acoustic...

Takamine GD20-NS Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar...

Fender’s FA-115 dreadnought is a bit more comparable in terms of quality and price. Retailing around $150, the FA-115 features a Nato set neck, a laminated Spruce top, and Agathis back and sides. Thanks to its light weight, this also is a similarly comfortable and balanced guitar.

Willing to go a bit above $200? Takamine’s G Series GD20 Dreadnought is comparable in quality but for an extra hundred or so dollars.

With a solid Cedar top and Mahogany back and sides, the upgraded tone wood will provide a bit more volume and bass response from the G Series dreadnought. The slim-satin finish on this guitar is comparable to the FG800, making it feel and look familiar when comparing them side by side.

Final Thoughts: Is the Yamaha FG800 Acoustic a Good Fit for You?

Overall, the Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar is one of the best budget acoustic guitars on the market. It has a ton of great features like the smooth Rosewood fretboard and quality tuning stability.

We think most players will be genuinely surprised by how great this guitar feels for the price. It’s an equally great option for beginners and experts alike, and the pros far outweigh the cons.

Once you get the FG800 set up properly it should be ready to go. Without a set up it is definitely best suited as a practice instrument as opposed to a stage instrument.

For $200, it’s hard to find any serious faults with the FG800. It’s absolutely worth checking out if you’re looking for an acoustic guitar. Get your hands on one today, you won’t be disappointed!

What Do Yamaha FG830 Guitar Owners Think? >>

The post Yamaha FG800 Review [Solid Top Acoustic] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

The Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar by Yamaha: Professional Quality at an Entry-Level Price

The Pacifica PAC12 Guitar at a glance:

Yamaha’s Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar

Choosing a guitar is a difficult process thanks to the wealth of quality options available on the market today. If like most of us, you want to get the best value for your money, it’s essential to do your research. A great guitar to start that research on is the Yamaha PAC12.

The Pacifica PAC12 is a popular choice for beginner players due to its low price and robust functionality. If you’re new to electric guitars, it’s a great way to get your foot in the door.

Yamaha first began selling the PAC12 in 1990. Its length of success with consumers is a testament to its design and performance. While you may recognize Yamaha for their motor division, the company is also one of the largest producers of musical equipment on earth.

Smooth Design

The Yamaha PAC12 includes one of the sleekest external designs on the market. All Pacifica models have a similar design – meaning while the PAC12 is the lower-end model on the market, it benefits from a similar design to some of the more expensive models. If you’re looking for a classic design, the Yamaha PAC12 is well regarded in the music community.

The guitar’s ‘agathis’ body and maple neck create a distinct appearance. Best of all, you can choose from a range of different color schemes if you want a custom look.

Yamaha PAC12 Variations to Choose From:

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 Electric Guitar...

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar...

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012DLX Electric Guitar...

Performance and Good Value

If you’re looking to purchase a high-performance guitar for a reasonable price, the Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 is a solid option. It offers quality performance despite being less than $200, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a comparable guitar in regard to performance at this price point.

It also provides plenty of power and internal master controls. While it may not have the same level of performance as some of the higher-end guitars on the market, you can’t go wrong with the PAC12 if you’re on a budget!

Factory Warranty Included

If you’re investing money in a new guitar, it’s essential that the guitar has a factory warranty that protects you from faults or defects. Fortunately, Yamaha provides an excellent factory warranty for its PAC12 guitar.

If you purchase the PAC12 from an authorized reseller, your guitar will come with a one-year factory warranty that covers prospective manufacturing issues. On that note, be wary of purchasing from alternative sources, as in many cases warranties are voided if not purchased from an authorized dealer.

Compare featured models & upgrades:

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112J Electric Guitar...

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar...

Yamaha Pacifica PAC311H RM Solid-Body Electric...

How Does the Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Sound?

If you’re a musician, you know that sound quality is an essential component to consider when choosing an instrument. Fortunately, the Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 scores well with users for sound quality. This guitar model provides much more sound power and range than other guitars in its market segment.

This being said, if you’re someone with a lot of experience playing guitar, you may want to look at a guitar model that provides even more sound power. This isn’t the best guitar option if you’re planning on playing public gigs – especially if you’re someone with the skills to attract a crowd.

What’s the Build Quality Like?

Yamaha invests heavily in the build quality of all their products. By purchasing a Yamaha guitar like the PAC12, you’re benefiting from the strict quality controls a multinational company like Yamaha employs during the manufacturing process.

Considering this model remains a popular stalwart in the industry after almost 30 years, you can trust the Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 is built to last.

Pros and Cons

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar Review

What are Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Owners Saying? >>

Verdict: Is the Yamaha PAC12 a good buy?

The short answer is definitely yes!

As you can see, there is a range of different benefits associated with purchasing a Yamaha PAC12. If you’re a new guitarist looking to learn the trade, this is a reliable option that will get you started out right.

Yamaha is known for producing high quality reliable products for a given dollar value, therefor we highly recommend this guitar to individuals seeking a first guitar or as a present for a loved one as a result.

Check Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Availability! >>

Manufacturer Info:

Website: https://www.yamaha.com/en/

About: Yamaha’s history began when its founder, Torakusu Yamaha, repaired a broken reed organ in 1887. Shortly thereafter, he successfully completed the first reed organ to be built in Japan.

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The post Yamaha PAC12 Review [Pacifica Series Electric Guitar] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Gigmaker Guitar Pack by Yamaha Review: Why Are Users Rating it 4.6/5 Stars?

Yamaha Gigmaker PAC012 Pack at a glance:

Yamaha Gigmaker Guitar Pack

When many folks start researching electric guitars, they’re shocked to find how many options are out there beyond the ever-famous Fender and Gibson. For instance,

Yamaha may be best-known for their motorcycles, but they’re also one of the world’s largest producers of electric guitars. They offer a wide range of quality amplifiers as well.

One of their more popular electric guitars is the Yamaha Gigmaker PAC012. The PAC012 is from Yamaha’s celebrated Pacifica series.

This guitar alone is an affordable and effective choice, but a Gigmaker purchase actually comes as a package deal built for people who want to hit the ground running.

You can get everything you need from a single source including an electric guitar, an amplifier, guitar picks, a strap, carrying bag, and more.

This comprehensive approach makes the Yamaha Gigmaker a great guitar pack for those first starting out, those who don’t want to shop around for an amplifier and accessories, or as a gift.

In this Yamaha Gigmaker review, we’ll take a look at the Gigmaker package as a whole to—hopefully—help you decide if it fits your needs. First, we’ll explore some of the features of this guitar followed by the pros and cons at a glance.

The Heart of the Gigmaker: the PAC012 Pacifica Series

The essential component of the Yamaha Gigmaker package is the guitar. The PAC012 of the Pacifica series is the most basic Pacifica guitar in the range – but this doesn’t mean it doesn’t have the power and functionality needed to take your playing to the next level.

What are Yamaha Gigmaker Customers Saying?

This guitar comes with master volume controls, master tone controls, two single pickups, and a humbucker pickup. The Pacifica series first made its entrance to the guitar market in 1990. Its popularity continues to increase with musicians.

The unique design of the PAC012 incorporates a range of different design genres. It’s a beautiful guitar that is recognizable to almost any guitarist.

Available Variations:

Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack with...

Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack with...

Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack with...

A Comprehensive Guitar Package

Another significant benefit of the Yamaha Gigmaker is the additional items and accessories included in the package.

The 15-watt Yamaha amp provides plenty of power for the included guitar – it’s also very portable if you plan on playing on-the-road. An amplifier cable is also included in this package.

The strap and travel bag ensure safe storage and use of your PAC012, and if that isn’t enough, the guitar picks and instructional DVDs ensure you have everything you need to get started right away.

A Trusted Company with a One-Year Warranty

Yamaha is an extremely trusted international manufacturing brand. They’re a great choice if you’re looking to work with a reputable guitar manufacturer. Best of all, they include a one-year factory warranty with all their guitars.

How Does the Yamaha Gigmaker Sound?

Despite the PAC012 being one of Yamaha’s cheapest guitars, it’s actually well-known for having great sound. The guitar provides clear sound at a range of volume levels.

While it doesn’t have as much power as more expensive guitars, it’s definitely a good value – especially if you’re a beginner.

However, if you’re an advanced guitarist, you’re more likely to prefer a guitar that packs a little more punch than the Gigmaker.

What’s the Build Quality Like?

The build quality of the Yamaha PAC012 is solid. Yamaha uses strong materials that have been extensively tested over time.

There’s a reason the company is so successful at selling guitars on the mass market — Yamaha knows how to manufacturer attractive and reliable products.

The staying power of their FG acoustic guitar series, first introduced in the mid 60’s, is proof that the company is committed to manufacturing superior quality guitars that last.

Read the Latest Yamaha Gigmaker Reviews Here

Pros and Cons

Yamaha Gigmaker Electric Guitar Pack Review

Are Yamaha Gigmaker Guitar Pack Buyers Happy? >>

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Verdict: Should you buy the Yamaha Gigmaker Guitar Pack?

At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with the Yamaha Gigmaker Electric Guitar Pack. if you’re looking to start playing the guitar. We recommend this package for people who are trying to find an affordable entry point to the electric guitar market.

The accessories included in the Gigmaker package also offer the opportunity to save time and money making it a great gift for someone looking to start their music career.

However, if you’re someone with vast experience playing the guitar, you may want to look at more expensive options. Additionally, if you’re planning on performing in front of large crowds or public spaces, you’ll need something more powerful.

Check Yamaha Gigmaker Guitar Pack Availability! >>

Manufacturer Info:

Website: https://www.yamaha.com/en/

About: Yamaha’s history began when its founder, Torakusu Yamaha, repaired a broken reed organ in 1887. Shortly thereafter, he successfully completed the first reed organ to be built in Japan.

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The post Yamaha Gigmaker Review [Electric Guitar Pack] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

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The Hunt for the Best Acoustic Guitar Under $500

You may think you have to spend a ton of money to get a great playing and sounding guitar. Not so! There are quite a few models in the $500 range that represent a superior value, and give more expensive guitars a serious run for their money. Here are our top three picks!:

Compare these affordable acoustic guitars:

Product	Feature Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Overall Best Guitar Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar		(4.7)	$$$
#2 Best Bundle Deal Fender CD-60S Acoustic Guitar Bundle with Hard Case		(4.6)	$$
#3 Most Robust Build Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar		(4.6)	$$

3 Great Acoustic Guitars Under $500 Reviewed

1. Best Acoustic Under $500: Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar

Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar Limited Edition

(4.7 / 5)

You may be wondering what makes the Seagull S6 so special. The Limited Edition finish is a striking upgrade in appearance but remember, looks aren’t everything.

The most important consideration when it comes to buying a new guitar is the sound quality, and the Seagull S6 by Godin has it in spades! No, it it’s not necessarily the most fancy looking guitar. But the tone, quality of construction, and playability make up the difference.

There is no intricate inlay work, it has no cutaway, and the design isn’t that much different from many other acoustic guitars on the market. But, when you hear the sound quality, you’ll forget all about the other shortcomings.

High quality, low price

This guitar proves that you don’t have to spend a lot of money in order to get a good quality guitar. This is a finely crafted instrument with a fine tonal quality.

Godin, being a very smart and well-run Canadian company that manufactures Seagull Guitars, decided to put together a fabulous value for who aren’t ready to buy a more expensive instrument. Focussing more on sound and build quality has been their winning combination for decades.

In fact, you may even find that you love this guitar so much that you don’t need to upgrade. This isn’t just a beginner guitar; this is a guitar that is designed for players of all levels.

Read the Latest Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Reviews >>

Features

• This guitar has something that many others in the same price range do not: a pressure-tested, solid cedar top. Many other guitars that are similarly priced have a laminate spruce wood top. The solid wood top is just one of many things that make this guitar a step above other inexpensive models, and gives it a fantastic tonal quality
• The back and sides of the Seagull S6 are made from Canadian wild cherry wood, which is something else you don’t often see on a guitar in this or any other price range. It makes this one of the more attractive guitars you are ever going to play
• This guitar has a traditional fretboard (one of the only traditional things you are going to find on it), made from rosewood. A standard material with most acoustic guitars, because it plays and lasts well
• According to many musicians, this is a guitar that sounds great whether it is being picked or strummed. It doesn’t sound like your typical beginner acoustic guitar, because it is not your typical beginner acoustic guitar

Check Seagull S6 Acoustic Availability >>

Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar Review

What Do Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar Players Think? >>

2. Best Bundle Deal: Fender CD-60S Acoustic Guitar Bundle

Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Bundle

(4.6 / 5)

Once again, you can see that there is no need to spend upwards of $1,000 to get a quality guitar. The Fender company has been manufacturing affordable player-oriented instruments like this since the 50’s.

The Fender CD-60S features a dreadnought body style, with a solid mahogany top and scalloped “X” bracing. It also has a mahogany back and sides, and the fingerboard has rolled edges, making the neck easier to play.

This is a great instrument for anyone who wants a quality acoustic guitar that is also affordable, and has great sound quality and playability. The best part is, you get this guitar at a great price, and it comes in a bundle package, so you also get the accessories you need to start playing right away.

A fantastic beginner acoustic guitar package

If you’re looking for a guitar for a beginner to start with, this is a great choice, and it isn’t going to break the bank. The Fender CD-60S acoustic is versatile and high quality. Ideal for both beginners and intermediate players.

It offers a mellow tone that is warm yet strong, and thanks to the “X” bracing, there is extra resonance. This is also a great looking guitar that you are going to be proud to bring out when company comes over and wants to hear you play.

Check Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Bundle Availability >>

Features

• This is an attractive guitar, with a natural wood finish, black and white neck and body binding, chrome tuning knobs, and an attractive pattern around the sound hole that is made from acrylic, but has the appearance of beautiful mother of pearl
• This guitar is typically priced significantly less than $500, but just because it doesn’t cost a lot, don’t think that you are getting a cheap guitar. It neither looks nor feels cheap, and it offers many features that you won’t find on other guitars in the same price range
• The CD-60S has 20 frets and a rosewood fingerboard, offers players a 25.3 inch scale neck. It also has many other quality parts going into its construction, including the scalloped “X” bracing, a dual-action truss rod, and sealed, die-cast tuners
• We love the low action that you’re going to find in these acoustic guitars. In fact, this is what makes this a great guitar for beginners, because there is no need to press down hard on the strings in order to create sounds without buzzing

Read the Latest Fender CD-60S Acoustic Guitar Reviews

Fender CD-60S Acoustic Guitar Bundle Review

What are Fender CD-60S Acoustic Bundle Customers Saying? >>

3. Most Robust Build: Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar

(4.6 / 5)

In 1966, Yamaha came out with the FG, proving to the world that it isn’t necessary to spend a lot of money to get a quality guitar. The FG guitars were created with playability in mind, and have awesome musical tone quality.

The original FG is now a classic, and the latest in the series, the Yamaha FG830, offers up even better features, while still typically being priced well below $500.

This next edition has what many call the best tone out of all of the FG guitars, along with that great playability that we have all come to know and love. This is an inexpensive guitar, but it certainly is not a cheap guitar by any means.

Louder sound

In our experience, Yamaha has always produced exceptionally robust, durable instruments regardless of price range.

Boosting the overall value even further, the 800 Series including the FG830 uses acoustic analysis technology that was created by the Yamaha R&D Division.

This technology allows players to produce a louder and clearer sound, even in the low to mid ranges. This is a guitar that breaks from tradition in construction, and you will not be disappointed when you sit down to play it.

Click Here for Customer Reviews

Features

• The scalloped bracing is a new development from Yamaha for the 800 series. This gives the guitar a durable structure that offers a more natural sound. This is something that you aren’t going to see in acoustic guitars from other manufacturers
• This guitar comes in two different body shapes, with one being FS concert size. It is also available in five different grades, with a variety of tone wood options, not to mention many different colors, so you are sure to find something that is just right for you
• We love being able to plug our acoustic guitars in for even louder sound, especially when playing on stage because there is no need to mic the guitars. The FG830 is available in both acoustic and electric-acoustic models
• Considering the low price range of this guitar, it is quite surprising when you pick it up and enjoy the comfortable, smooth neck and profile. It is comfortable to play, and it looks just as great as it sounds

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Review

Are Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar Owners Happy? >>

Compare featured affordable acoustic guitars under $500:

Overall Best Guitar

Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar Limited...

Best Bundle Deal

Fender CD-60S Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic...

Most Robust Build

Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Folk Guitar, Natural

Why even consider acoustic guitars under $500?

In the guitar industry, this price range is the sweet spot for both entry level and serious players alike. There are a host of great acoustic guitars under $500 to choose from because it’s so competitive.

It’s a perfect price range for intermediate players, and beginner guitarists will generally get a better instrument. Accomplished players also love the value in an instrument they can kick around without worrying about their more expensive counterparts.

These are quality instruments from some of the most well-known guitar manufacturers in the world. They have great sound quality, play well, and look pretty great too, and you aren’t going to have to take out a bank loan in order to get one.

Don’t spend a lot to get a lot

The guitars we’ll look at prove that you really don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a lot in a guitar. Sure, these may not be what all professionals are using, but as mentioned, if you’re a beginner or intermediate player any of these guitars are going to be great choices for you.

It’s never a good idea to spend a lot of money on a guitar when you aren’t sure if you are going to be able to play, but you still want to get a guitar that sounds great. This is the focus of what to expect with any of our choices, plus they aren’t going to put you in the poor house.

Wrapping Up, Which is the Best Acoustic Guitar Under Under $500?

As you can clearly see, there is no need to go out and spend a lot of money to get a great quality acoustic guitar, and it isn’t going to be one of those department store guitars that are cheap and sound like junk.

There are plenty of quality acoustic guitars out there that cost less than $500, and they are made by some of the top instrument manufacturers in the world.

Without splitting hairs, our first choice would undoubtedly be the Seagull S6 Original by Godin. Yes it’s a bit more money but the sheer balance of fit, finish, features and sound is simply the best bang for the buck and worth the extra investment.

As you can see, you don’t have to sacrifice on quality with any of these guitars. If you’re just starting out, they’re all going to grow with you.

In fact, you may find that you keep your acoustic guitar long after you have left the beginning stages, because you will be hard pressed to find the same quality, even in more expensive instruments.

EDITOR’S PICK

Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar

What Do Seagull Original S6 Owners Think?

The post Best Acoustic Guitar Under $500 (Quick Guide) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

In this expert review, we examine the best electric guitars under $500 that provide the greatest overall value for beginner to intermediate players.

Table of Contents

What’s the Best Electric Guitar Under $500? Let’s Find Out!

In Review: The Top 3 Electric Guitars Under $500

1. Squier by Fender Deluxe Stratocaster Electric Guitar
2. Schecter C-1 SGR Electric Guitar
3. Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar

What To Look For When Choosing A Good Electric Guitar Under $500

Compare your best choices for electric guitars under $500

Final Verdict: Which Mid-level Electric Guitar Promises the Best Value?

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

What’s the Best Electric Guitar Under $500? Let’s Find Out!

Budget Electric Guitars at a glance:

Product	Feature Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Best Value Squier by Fender Deluxe Stratocaster			$$
#2 Modern Voicing Schecter C-1 SGR			$$
#3 Most Versatile Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V			$$$

In Review: The Top 3 Electric Guitars Under $500

1. Best Value: Squier by Fender Affinity Series Stratocaster Guitar

Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Brown Sunburst, Laurel Fingerboard

The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar is a very affordable electric guitar that beginners and intermediate players can buy. It has a poplar body and maple neck with a radius of 10”.

The pickups used for the guitar are three Strat single coils. They’re dynamically responsive, clear-sounding  crisp, and provide a rich tone.

The Squier Affinity Stratocaster comes with suitable die-cast tuners good enough to tune the guitar and play it, although there are tuners that are better. The well-crafted maple neck sports a laurel fingerboard with a very smooth satin finish; perfect for moving up and down the fretboard .

The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster comes in a rainbow of attractive finishes to suit any taste. Considering the parent company’s heritage and outstanding consistent level of quality, this is certainly one of the best electric guitar under $500.

A great option especially for those who want an electric guitar that not only sounds good, but looks good as well.

Squier Strat Key Features

• Guitar body is made of basswood and has a polyurethane finish
• Neck is made from maple and has a radius of 9.5”
• Has 22 medium jumbo frets that is on a maple fingerboard
• Makes use of single-coil pickups that are Three Duncan Designed
• Has a synchronous twin-pivot tremolo
• Has controls for volume, tone and a position selector
• Available in different colors

Explore All Squier Affinity Options:

Squier Affinity Series from Fender >>

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Electric Guitar in Review

What We Like

• • • Low price for the great value of the guitar
    • Looks just like a high end guitar
    • Frets and neck are smooth and comfortable

What We Don’t Like

• • • Difficult to keep in tune with excessive use of the whammy bar
    • Tuners are not the best quality
    • Guitar may not be set up and needs to be adjusted to lower the action

What are Squier Affinity Strat Owners Saying? >>

2. Most Modern: Schecter C-1 SGR Electric Guitar

C-1 SGR by Schecter Beginner Electric Guitar - Walnut Satin (Amazon Exclusive)

The C-1 SGR by Schecter beginner electric guitar has an arched top, carved body with a maple neck, and rosewood fretboard. It has pearloid dots, a custom inlay on the 12^th fret, and has black chrome hardware.

This is a great looking guitar that plays excellent considering it’s low price. The C-1 SGR by Schecter we examined on our workbench had all the earmarks of great overall value.

Many entry-level guitars can have less than great ergonomic design making uncomfortable to play.

This guitar is shaped with the comfort of the player in mind.

C-1 Key Features

• smooth, arched top
• pickups are clean and reasonably well balanced
• polished black chrome hardware
• 24 frets for a full two octave span
• pearloid dots
• unique pattern on the 12^th fret
• attractive and unique shape
• comes with its own gig bag
• easy playing, fast action neck

Schecter C-1 SGR Electric Guitar in Review

What We Like

• • • This guitar comes in a variety of colors, including walnut satin, electric blue, and midnight satin black
    • You have 24 frets to work with, so the guitar is going to be able to grow with you as you learn and want to experiment more on the higher frets
    • The rosewood fretboard is attractive with the pearloid dots and interesting 12th fret design, and it is smooth and easy to play on

What We Don’t Like

• • • One of the biggest problems we can find with this guitar is that it sometimes will buzz between frets, therefor a minor setup is necessary
    • There are other entry-level guitars around the same price that have much better pickups
    • This is probably not the best choice for advanced musicians, as it is designed to be a beginner guitar

What Are Schecter C-1 SGR Customers Saying? >>

Read our complete expert Schecter C-1 SGR electric guitar review here.

3. Most Versatile: Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 Electric Guitar; Metallic Red

The guitars that fall under the Yamaha Pacifica Series such as this PAC12 Electric Guitar are well known for their tone as well as how great they are to play. It comes from a well- known brand when it comes to producing musical instruments.

It certainly qualifies as one of the best electric guitars under $500 for those who are looking for a guitar with a great quality of sound.

This Yamaha guitar comes in different colors and there are also different models that are under the same series. They can also be purchased as a set with accessories, with the amp only, or a guitar only.

Yamaha PAC12 Key Features

• Body is made from solid alder
• The neck is made of maple and is bolt-on
• It has a beautiful rosewood fingerboard
• It includes a vintage tremolo
• Finished with a clear varnish to showcase the natural grain of the wood
• Has a 5-position pickup switch with humbucker coil-splitting
• There are 2 single-coil pickups and an Alnico V magnet humbucker
• Guitar can be purchased as the guitar alone, with a set of accessories or only with the amp

Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Electric Guitar in Review

What We Like

• • • Low action makes it easier for beginners to use and practice on it
    • Materials used for the guitar are properly built to make sure they are durable

What We Don’t Like

• • • Initially set up for low action which causes some fret buzz, but this can be remedied by having it properly set up by a local music store
    • Doesn’t include other accessories such as an amp, picks, guitar cord or a stand

What Do Yamaha Pacifica PAC12 Users Think?

What To Look For When Choosing A Good Electric Guitar Under $500

The best way to learn how to play an electric guitar is to have a decent instrument that you can practice on. At first it may seem that some electric guitars are too expensive, which is why some choose to go for a self-contained acoustic.

If you’re committed to learning and playing an electric guitar, you’ll certainly find one that will fit your $500 budget.

There are tons of electric guitars are under $500, but you still have to make sure a particular electric guitar you choose is well suited for you.

There are electrics that not only sound great but look great too – but keep in mind cosmetic appointments come at a price. Still, these are instruments you’ll certainly be happy to take with you to your gigs and jam sessions.

Of course there are electric guitars produced by well-known brands; these may be budget friendly, but they’re still great quality.

When selecting a guitar, it’s important to consider how you’re going to use it. It must It must also be user friendly and easy to play. This will help make sure the guitar you choose will really be useful to you.

Compare your best choices for electric guitars under $500:

Best Electric Under $500

Squier by Fender Deluxe Hot Rails Stratocaster...

Most Modern Voicing

C-1 SGR by Schecter Beginner Electric Guitar...

Most Versatile Guitar

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar...

Final Verdict: Which Mid-level Electric Guitar Promises the Best Value?

Affordable guitars under $500 are available today and you can find a great quality model within that budget.

The three mentioned here are all under $500 but if we just had to choose one, we’d say that the Squier Affinity Stratocaster Electric Guitar is the best electric guitar under $500.

For those who are concerned not only with the sound and quality but also the appearance of their guitar, this guitar can certainly be taken to gigs and jamming sessions.

EDITOR’S PICK

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar

What are Squier Strat Owners Saying? >>

• Overall Build Quality
• Overall Sound Quality
• Overall Value Factor

4.4

Summary

Overall Score:

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The post The Best Electric Guitars Under $500 [Quick Guide & Reviews] first appeared on GuitarNiche.