Buying Guide for the Best 12 String Acoustic Guitars
Choosing the right 12-string acoustic guitar can be a rewarding experience, as these instruments offer a rich, full sound that is distinct from their 6-string counterparts. When selecting a 12-string acoustic guitar, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your playing style and musical needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and enjoy your guitar for years to come.Body ShapeThe body shape of a 12-string acoustic guitar affects its sound and playability. Common shapes include dreadnought, jumbo, and concert. Dreadnoughts offer a balanced tone with strong bass, making them versatile for various music styles. Jumbos provide a louder, more resonant sound with enhanced bass, ideal for strumming and playing in larger settings. Concert shapes are smaller and more comfortable to hold, producing a bright, focused tone suitable for fingerpicking. Choose a body shape that matches your playing style and comfort preferences.
TonewoodTonewood refers to the type of wood used in the construction of the guitar, which significantly influences its sound. Common tonewoods include spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. Spruce tops are known for their bright, clear tone and are great for a wide range of music styles. Mahogany offers a warmer, more midrange-focused sound, suitable for blues and folk music. Rosewood provides a rich, complex tone with strong bass and treble, ideal for fingerstyle playing. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you prefer when selecting the tonewood.
Neck WidthThe neck width of a 12-string acoustic guitar affects playability, especially for players with different hand sizes. A wider neck provides more space between the strings, which can be beneficial for fingerpicking and players with larger hands. Conversely, a narrower neck may be more comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer strumming. Try out different neck widths to find the one that feels most comfortable for your hand size and playing style.
Scale LengthScale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge of the guitar, affecting string tension and playability. A longer scale length results in higher string tension, which can produce a brighter tone and more volume but may be harder to play. A shorter scale length offers lower string tension, making the guitar easier to play and producing a warmer tone. Consider your playing comfort and the type of sound you want when choosing the scale length.
ElectronicsSome 12-string acoustic guitars come with built-in electronics, allowing you to amplify your sound for live performances or recording. These electronics typically include a pickup and preamp system. If you plan to perform or record with your guitar, having built-in electronics can be very convenient. Look for features like onboard tuners, EQ controls, and feedback reduction to enhance your playing experience. If you primarily play acoustically, you may not need these features.
ActionAction refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard, affecting playability and comfort. Lower action makes the guitar easier to play, especially for beginners or those who play for extended periods. However, very low action can cause fret buzz. Higher action can produce a cleaner sound but may be harder to play. Consider your playing style and comfort level when choosing the action. Many guitars can have their action adjusted by a professional to suit your preferences.
