10 Best 12 String Acoustic Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Takamine GD30CE-12 is a solid choice for musicians who appreciate the rich, fuller sound that a 12-string acoustic-electric guitar can provide. Its spruce top contributes to a bright, resonant tone, while the mahogany back and sides add warmth and depth. The Ovangkol fingerboard and neck feel comfortable for playing, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced guitarists alike. With a scale length that offers a balance between playability and sound projection, this guitar is ideal for those who want to explore the unique sound of a 12-string.

One of the highlights of this model is its built-in Takamine TP-4TD preamp system, which allows for easy amplification when performing live. This feature is especially beneficial for players who want to enhance their sound in a band setting. Additionally, the split saddle bone bridge helps in maintaining tuning stability, which is crucial for 12-string guitars that can often go out of tune due to their string tension.

In terms of aesthetics, the gloss natural finish is attractive and showcases the quality of the wood, making it visually appealing on stage or at home. Potential buyers should consider their comfort with its weight and action setup. The Takamine GD30CE-12 offers great features for players looking to dive into the world of 12-string guitars, balancing sound, playability, and amplification needs.

The Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar is a robust option for musicians seeking a rich and resonant sound. The dreadnought body shape provides excellent volume and projection, ideal for both strumming and fingerpicking styles. Its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides contribute to a warm and balanced tone, making it suitable for a variety of musical genres.

The rosewood fingerboard and bridge add to the guitar’s quality and playability. Diecast tuners ensure stable tuning, which is particularly important for a 12-string guitar that can be more challenging to keep in tune. An adjustable truss rod allows for fine-tuning the neck to achieve the desired action and playability, accommodating different playing styles and preferences.

However, the guitar does not come with built-in electronics, which might be a drawback for performers who need amplification. Additionally, while the nato wood neck is sturdy, some players might prefer a slimmer neck width for easier handling, especially for a 12-string guitar. Weighing 6.82 pounds and with dimensions of 42.5 x 20.7 x 6.1 inches, it is a manageable size for most players. The Yamaha FG820 is a solid choice for those who prioritize acoustic performance and build quality in a 12-string guitar, although performers seeking built-in electronics may need to look elsewhere.

The Takamine GJ72CE-12NAT Jumbo Cutaway 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a notable choice for those seeking a rich and expansive sound typical of jumbo 12-string guitars. It features a solid spruce top and flame maple back and sides, which contribute to its robust and lush tone. The slim mahogany neck and 12-inch-radius bound rosewood fingerboard offer excellent playability, making it comfortable for extended playing sessions.

Additionally, the built-in TK-40D preamp system includes a tuner, three-band EQ, gain controls, and other features that provide versatility and sound quality, particularly useful for live performances or recording sessions. The elegant natural gloss finish adds to its aesthetic appeal. However, at 8.15 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially during long performances. The fixed bridge system might not appeal to those who prefer more flexibility in their guitar setup. Also, while the electronics are versatile, they require a 9V battery, which adds a maintenance aspect that purely acoustic guitars do not have.

This guitar is well-suited for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate detailed sound customization and high-quality build.