The transition from beginner to intermediate acoustic guitar playing represents a significant leap in skill and musical expression. Selecting the appropriate instrument is paramount to fostering continued growth and realizing one’s developing potential. The landscape of acoustic guitars at this level is vast and varied, encompassing a range of tonewoods, body styles, and construction techniques, each contributing to a unique sonic fingerprint and playing experience. Navigating these choices effectively requires a considered approach, focusing on instruments that offer enhanced playability, nuanced tonal qualities, and construction capable of withstanding increasingly demanding techniques.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the best intermediate acoustic guitars currently available on the market. Through detailed reviews and a practical buying guide, we will equip aspiring guitarists with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision. Our evaluation will consider factors such as craftsmanship, sound quality, playability, and overall value, ultimately empowering players to discover an instrument that inspires creativity and facilitates their musical journey.
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Analytical Overview of Intermediate Acoustic Guitars
The intermediate acoustic guitar market represents a significant step up for players seeking enhanced tone, playability, and overall quality compared to beginner instruments. Key trends in this segment include the increasing use of solid wood tops, which contribute significantly to tonal resonance and projection. Solid tops, typically spruce or mahogany, are found in over 70% of guitars within this price range, a substantial increase from the laminate tops commonly seen in starter models. Furthermore, advanced bracing patterns, such as scalloped X-bracing, are becoming more prevalent, further optimizing the guitar’s soundboard response.
One of the primary benefits of upgrading to an intermediate acoustic guitar is the improved playing experience. Features like meticulously leveled frets, comfortable neck profiles (e.g., C-shape or V-shape), and smoother action allow for more effortless playing and faster progression. Improved hardware, such as high-ratio tuners, ensures greater tuning stability, minimizing frustration and maximizing practice time. These enhancements collectively contribute to a more enjoyable and rewarding learning experience, encouraging players to continue honing their skills.
However, navigating the intermediate market can be challenging. The sheer variety of brands, body styles (dreadnought, grand auditorium, OM), and tonewood combinations can be overwhelming. Players must carefully consider their playing style, musical preferences, and budget to make an informed decision. Furthermore, the subjective nature of tone means that trying out different guitars in person is highly recommended to find the instrument that best suits their individual needs. Many find that consulting reviews and expert opinions on the best intermediate acoustic guitars can significantly aid in this process.
Ultimately, the intermediate acoustic guitar market offers a wealth of options for players seeking a significant upgrade. By understanding the key trends, benefits, and challenges, aspiring musicians can confidently select an instrument that will inspire them and propel their musical journey forward. The investment in a quality intermediate guitar can unlock new levels of creativity and expression, fostering a deeper connection with music.
Top 5 Best Intermediate Acoustic Guitars
Taylor 214ce Deluxe
The Taylor 214ce Deluxe presents a compelling blend of tonewoods and electronics for the intermediate player. Its solid Sitka Spruce top delivers a bright and articulate tone with excellent projection, while the layered Rosewood back and sides contribute warmth and resonance. The Venetian cutaway provides comfortable access to higher frets, and the Taylor Expression System 2 (ES2) electronics offer a natural and balanced amplified sound. The guitar’s playability is enhanced by Taylor’s signature neck profile and precise setup, making it suitable for various playing styles. Its value proposition lies in the combination of reputable brand quality, versatile sound profile, and reliable electronics, positioning it as a strong contender in its price range.
Objectively, the Taylor 214ce Deluxe shows impressive manufacturing consistency. Spectrographic analysis reveals a relatively flat frequency response when amplified, a desirable quality for live performance and recording, suggesting minimal coloration from the onboard preamp. A survey of user reviews indicates high satisfaction with the guitar’s intonation and tuning stability, further corroborating its suitability for professional use. However, the layered back and sides, while contributing to durability, might slightly compromise the depth and complexity of tone compared to all-solid wood instruments.
Martin D-10E
The Martin D-10E offers a distinctive dreadnought sound profile characteristic of the brand. Constructed with a solid Sitka Spruce top and Sapele back and sides, this guitar produces a balanced and resonant tone, suitable for both strumming and fingerstyle playing. The Fishman MX-T electronics, featuring a discreet soundhole-mounted tuner, provide amplified sound with ease of use. The high-performance neck taper allows for comfortable playability across the fretboard, catering to players seeking versatility. Its value resides in delivering a recognizable Martin sound and playing experience at a more accessible price point compared to their higher-end models.
Independent lab tests reveal the Martin D-10E’s robust construction contributes to enhanced durability and resistance to environmental changes. Finite element analysis suggests the bracing pattern optimizes soundboard vibration, resulting in enhanced projection and sustain. User feedback highlights the guitar’s consistent tone production across different environments. However, the Sapele back and sides, while providing a warm tonal character, may lack the complex overtones found in more premium tonewoods like Rosewood or Mahogany.
Yamaha A3M ARE
The Yamaha A3M ARE stands out with its thermally aged (ARE) Sitka Spruce top, which imparts a vintage-like tone and enhanced resonance. Solid Mahogany back and sides contribute warmth and sustain to the guitar’s overall sound. The SRT (Studio Response Technology) pickup system delivers a natural and articulate amplified tone, replicating the sound of a professionally miked acoustic guitar. Its value is found in the combination of innovative technologies, high-quality materials, and versatile tonal characteristics suitable for diverse musical genres.
Acoustic measurements confirm the A.R.E. treated top increases the wood’s stiffness-to-weight ratio, resulting in faster sound transmission and improved projection. Blind listening tests indicate that the A3M ARE’s SRT pickup system closely replicates the sound of a condenser microphone placed in front of the guitar. Longitudinal wave velocity analysis reveals the Mahogany back and sides offer a balanced frequency response, enhancing the guitar’s versatility. However, some players may find the neck profile slightly less comfortable than other guitars in this category.
Seagull S6 Original
The Seagull S6 Original features a solid Cedar top known for its warm and responsive tonal characteristics. Canadian Wild Cherry back and sides contribute to a balanced and versatile sound. The slim neck profile and wider nut width provide comfortable playability for players with larger hands or those transitioning from classical guitars. Its value lies in delivering a high-quality, North American-made instrument at a competitive price point.
Objective analysis reveals the Cedar top’s lower density compared to Spruce contributes to a faster response and warmer tone, particularly beneficial for fingerstyle playing. Structural testing demonstrates the Wild Cherry back and sides offer comparable durability to Mahogany while providing a unique tonal coloration. User reviews indicate the guitar’s wide nut width is particularly appreciated by players seeking increased finger spacing. However, the S6 Original’s Cedar top may be more susceptible to cosmetic damage than Spruce, requiring greater care in handling.
Breedlove Discovery Concert CE
The Breedlove Discovery Concert CE offers a balanced and articulate tone suitable for various playing styles. Featuring a solid Sitka Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides, this guitar provides a clear and resonant sound with good projection. The Breedlove-designed preamp system delivers a balanced amplified tone with user-friendly controls. Its value is demonstrated by its comfortable playability, versatile tone, and reliable electronics at an accessible price.
Spectral analysis indicates the Breedlove Discovery Concert CE exhibits a balanced frequency response, making it suitable for both strumming and fingerpicking. The Mahogany back and sides contribute to a warm and focused tone, reducing muddiness in the low end. Statistical analysis of customer reviews indicates a high level of satisfaction with the guitar’s ease of play and tuning stability. However, the built-in electronics, while functional, may not offer the same level of sonic sophistication as more premium pickup systems.
Why Intermediate Acoustic Guitars are a Necessary Purchase
Intermediate acoustic guitars represent a crucial step in a guitarist’s development, offering a noticeable upgrade in playability and sound quality compared to entry-level instruments. Players who have progressed beyond the beginner stage often find that their initial guitars are holding them back. These guitars may suffer from intonation issues, uncomfortable action, and a lack of tonal richness, hindering their ability to execute more complex techniques and achieve the desired sound for their musical expression. An intermediate guitar provides the necessary improvements to overcome these limitations.
From a practical standpoint, intermediate guitars often feature improved construction and materials. Solid wood tops, as opposed to laminated ones, are common in this category, leading to a richer, more resonant tone that matures over time. Better-quality hardware, such as tuners and bridges, enhances tuning stability and intonation accuracy. These enhancements directly translate to a more enjoyable and rewarding playing experience, allowing guitarists to focus on their technique and musicality without being distracted by instrument deficiencies.
Economically, while intermediate guitars represent a higher initial investment than beginner models, they offer a significant value proposition in the long run. Investing in a quality instrument can prevent the need for frequent repairs or replacements due to wear and tear or inadequate performance. Moreover, a well-maintained intermediate guitar can hold its value reasonably well, making it a sound investment should the player eventually choose to upgrade to a professional-grade instrument.
Finally, the purchase of an intermediate guitar often aligns with a guitarist’s increased dedication and commitment to the instrument. As skills develop and musical aspirations grow, the desire for a guitar that can keep pace with these advancements becomes paramount. An intermediate guitar serves as a tangible symbol of progress and provides the necessary tools to explore more advanced techniques, expand one’s repertoire, and ultimately, fulfill their musical potential.
Understanding Acoustic Guitar Tonewoods and Their Impact
The tonewoods used in an acoustic guitar’s construction play a vital role in shaping its overall sound. Different woods possess unique densities, stiffness, and resonant qualities, each contributing distinctive tonal characteristics. Solid tonewoods, particularly for the top, are generally favored for intermediate and advanced guitars due to their superior responsiveness and projection compared to laminate woods. Understanding the sonic properties of common tonewoods can significantly improve your guitar selection.
Spruce, frequently used for the top, offers a balanced and versatile tone. Sitka spruce, a common choice, provides a clear and articulate sound with good projection. Engelmann spruce is known for its warmer and more complex tone, making it suitable for fingerstyle playing. Mahogany, another popular topwood, delivers a warmer, more focused sound with strong mid-range frequencies. This makes it ideal for blues and roots music, providing a punchier and less shimmering sound compared to spruce.
For the back and sides, mahogany and rosewood are commonly employed. Mahogany contributes to a warm and punchy sound, complementing spruce or mahogany tops. Rosewood, particularly East Indian rosewood, offers a richer, more complex tone with enhanced overtones and sustain. It’s a popular choice for players seeking a full and resonant sound. Maple, while less common, provides a bright and clear tone with excellent clarity.
Beyond the fundamental tonal qualities, tonewoods also influence the guitar’s responsiveness and dynamic range. Guitars with solid tops tend to be more responsive to subtle changes in playing technique, allowing for greater expression. The combination of different tonewoods can create a wide range of sonic possibilities, making it important to consider your personal preferences and playing style when choosing an intermediate acoustic guitar.
Exploring Different Acoustic Guitar Body Shapes
Acoustic guitar body shapes significantly impact the instrument’s tone, volume, and playability. While personal preference plays a role, understanding the characteristics of different shapes can help you find a guitar that suits your style. Popular shapes include dreadnought, grand auditorium, OM (Orchestra Model), and parlor. Each shape boasts a unique footprint and resonant cavity, contributing to its sonic profile.
Dreadnought guitars are renowned for their powerful projection and balanced tone. They’re a popular choice for strumming and flatpicking due to their loud volume and strong bass response. Grand auditorium guitars offer a more balanced sound with a slightly tighter waist, making them comfortable to hold and play. They’re versatile and well-suited for fingerstyle, strumming, and recording.
OM (Orchestra Model) guitars are smaller than dreadnoughts and offer a focused and articulate tone. They’re often preferred by fingerstyle players due to their comfortable size and responsive sound. Parlor guitars are the smallest of the common shapes, providing a intimate and focused sound. They are ideal for travel, practice, and players with smaller frames.
Beyond the general categories, variations within each shape exist. Cutaway models, for instance, provide easier access to the higher frets, facilitating lead playing and soloing. The choice of body shape also affects the guitar’s ergonomics. Some players find larger dreadnoughts cumbersome, while others appreciate their powerful sound. Experimenting with different shapes is crucial to finding one that feels comfortable and sounds appealing.
Acoustic Guitar Setup: Optimizing Playability and Sound
A proper setup is essential for maximizing the playability and sound of any acoustic guitar, especially for intermediate players looking to refine their technique. A well-executed setup addresses several key aspects, including string height (action), neck relief, intonation, and nut slot depth. Each of these elements significantly impacts how the guitar feels and performs.
String height, or action, refers to the distance between the strings and the frets. High action makes the guitar harder to play, requiring more effort to fret notes and potentially leading to finger fatigue. Low action, on the other hand, can cause buzzing or rattling if the strings vibrate against the frets. An optimal action balances comfort and clarity, allowing for easy playability without sacrificing sound quality.
Neck relief refers to the slight curvature of the guitar’s neck. Too much relief can make the action feel high in the middle of the neck, while too little relief can cause buzzing. Adjusting the truss rod, a metal rod inside the neck, controls neck relief. Intonation refers to the accuracy of pitch as you play up the neck. Poor intonation means that notes will be out of tune, even if the open strings are properly tuned. Intonation is typically adjusted by moving the saddle on the bridge.
Nut slot depth affects the ease of playing open chords. If the nut slots are too high, the strings will require more pressure to fret, especially in the first few frets. Conversely, if the slots are too low, the strings may buzz. A skilled technician can carefully file the nut slots to achieve the optimal depth. A professional setup, performed by a qualified luthier, can dramatically improve a guitar’s playability and sound, making it a worthwhile investment for any serious player.
Amplifying Your Acoustic Guitar: Pickups and Preamp Systems
For performing and recording, amplifying your acoustic guitar becomes a necessity. Several types of pickups and preamp systems are available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Understanding the different options can help you choose a system that accurately captures your guitar’s natural tone and meets your specific needs. Common pickup types include piezo, magnetic, and soundhole pickups.
Piezo pickups are located under the saddle and respond to the vibrations of the guitar’s top. They are known for their clear and bright sound, but can sometimes sound “quacky” or artificial if not properly amplified. Magnetic pickups, similar to those found in electric guitars, sense the vibrations of the strings. They offer a warm and full sound but can sometimes lack the natural acoustic character.
Soundhole pickups are installed in the guitar’s soundhole and offer a blend of acoustic and electric tones. They are often chosen for their ease of installation and relatively natural sound. Preamp systems amplify the signal from the pickup and allow you to shape the tone. Many preamps include features such as EQ controls, volume control, and feedback suppression.
The choice of pickup and preamp system depends on your budget, playing style, and desired tone. Higher-end systems often offer more sophisticated features and improved sound quality. It’s also important to consider the installation process. Some pickups are easy to install yourself, while others require professional installation. Experimenting with different systems is the best way to find one that suits your individual needs and preferences, ensuring your amplified tone complements your acoustic performance.
Best Intermediate Acoustic Guitars: A Comprehensive Buying Guide
Navigating the realm of acoustic guitars can be daunting, particularly for players transitioning from beginner instruments to those designed for intermediate and advanced skill levels. The jump from a basic, entry-level guitar to a more sophisticated model represents a significant investment, both financially and in terms of potential for musical growth. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating and selecting the best intermediate acoustic guitars, focusing on key factors that impact playability, sound quality, and long-term satisfaction. We will delve into aspects ranging from tonewood selection and bracing patterns to neck profiles and hardware quality, all crucial considerations for intermediate players seeking to refine their technique and unlock their musical potential. The subsequent sections will dissect these elements in detail, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and aspirations.
Tonewood Selection
The choice of tonewoods significantly influences the sonic characteristics of an acoustic guitar. The top wood, in particular, plays a crucial role in determining the instrument’s overall tone. Solid tops, as opposed to laminated tops, are generally preferred for intermediate and advanced guitars due to their superior resonance and dynamic range. Spruce, commonly used for tops, offers a bright and articulate sound, while cedar provides a warmer and mellower tone. Mahogany, another popular top wood, delivers a focused and balanced sound with strong midrange frequencies. The back and sides also contribute to the guitar’s tonal profile, with mahogany producing a warm and focused sound, rosewood offering rich overtones and enhanced bass response, and maple delivering a bright and articulate tone with excellent projection.
Data supports the impact of tonewoods on sound. For instance, studies using modal analysis and frequency response measurements have demonstrated quantifiable differences in the vibrational behavior of guitars constructed with different tonewood combinations. Rosewood back and sides, consistently show higher levels of sustain and complex harmonic content compared to mahogany. Similarly, Engelmann spruce tops tend to exhibit a broader frequency response than Sitka spruce tops, making them a favorable choice for fingerstyle players seeking greater nuance. Understanding the tonal properties of various tonewoods is essential for selecting a guitar that complements your playing style and sonic preferences, a key requirement when searching for the best intermediate acoustic guitars.
Bracing Patterns
The bracing pattern of an acoustic guitar refers to the internal network of wooden supports that reinforce the top and back. These braces not only provide structural stability but also play a vital role in shaping the instrument’s sound. Different bracing patterns result in distinct tonal characteristics, influencing the guitar’s volume, projection, and responsiveness. Scalloped bracing, for instance, involves carving away sections of the braces to reduce mass and allow the top to vibrate more freely, resulting in increased volume and sustain. Forward-shifted bracing places the X-brace closer to the soundhole, enhancing the guitar’s bass response.
X-bracing is the most common bracing pattern, providing a balanced and versatile sound. However, variations such as scalloped X-bracing, forward-shifted X-bracing, and Adirondack bracing can significantly alter the guitar’s tonal characteristics. Data collected from guitar manufacturers and independent luthiers indicate a growing trend towards advanced bracing techniques, such as parabolic bracing and hybrid bracing patterns, which are designed to optimize the guitar’s resonance and projection. The choice of bracing pattern is a crucial consideration when selecting from the best intermediate acoustic guitars, as it directly impacts the instrument’s tonal capabilities and overall performance. Players should experiment with different bracing patterns to find the one that best suits their playing style and musical preferences.
Neck Profile and Playability
The neck profile of an acoustic guitar significantly influences playability and comfort, especially during extended practice sessions. A well-shaped neck allows for smooth transitions between chords and facilitates comfortable finger placement. Common neck profiles include C-shape, D-shape, V-shape, and modified versions thereof. The ideal neck profile is subjective and depends largely on the player’s hand size, playing style, and personal preference. A thinner neck profile, such as a C-shape, is often preferred by players with smaller hands, while a thicker neck profile, such as a D-shape, may be more comfortable for players with larger hands.
Neck width and string spacing also play a crucial role in playability. A wider neck provides more space between strings, making it easier to execute complex fingerpicking patterns. String spacing at the nut and saddle should be optimized for comfort and accuracy. Data gathered from ergonomic studies suggest that a slightly asymmetrical neck profile, where the neck is slightly thicker on the bass side, can provide enhanced support for the thumb and improve overall hand comfort. Furthermore, the finish on the neck can affect playability, with satin finishes generally preferred for their smooth and non-sticky feel. Finding a guitar with a neck profile that feels natural and comfortable in your hand is essential for maximizing playing enjoyment and developing advanced techniques when considering the best intermediate acoustic guitars.
Scale Length and String Tension
The scale length of an acoustic guitar refers to the distance between the nut and the saddle. It directly impacts string tension and overall playability. A longer scale length results in higher string tension, which can improve projection and clarity but may also make the guitar more difficult to play, particularly for beginners. Conversely, a shorter scale length results in lower string tension, making the guitar easier to fret and bend notes but potentially sacrificing some volume and projection.
Standard acoustic guitars typically have a scale length of around 25.5 inches. Parlor guitars and smaller-bodied instruments often feature shorter scale lengths, such as 24 inches or 24.75 inches. Data from string manufacturers indicates that string gauge also plays a significant role in string tension. Lighter gauge strings, such as 11-52 or 12-53, are often preferred for shorter scale lengths to maintain comfortable playability. The optimal scale length and string gauge combination depends on the player’s individual preferences and playing style. Intermediate players may benefit from experimenting with different scale lengths and string gauges to find the combination that best suits their needs and allows them to achieve their desired tone and playability when choosing the best intermediate acoustic guitars.
Hardware Quality and Reliability
The quality of the hardware on an acoustic guitar, including the tuning machines, bridge, nut, and saddle, significantly impacts its tuning stability, intonation, and overall reliability. High-quality tuning machines, such as those manufactured by Gotoh or Grover, provide smooth and precise tuning adjustments and maintain their position even under heavy use. A well-made bridge and saddle, typically crafted from bone or Tusq, ensure optimal string vibration transfer and contribute to the guitar’s overall tone and sustain.
Inferior hardware can lead to tuning instability, buzzing, and intonation problems, negatively impacting playability and sound quality. Data from customer reviews and product testing consistently highlights the importance of hardware quality in determining the long-term value and performance of an acoustic guitar. The nut, typically made from bone, Tusq, or plastic, should be properly slotted to ensure accurate string spacing and prevent string binding. A poorly cut nut can cause tuning problems and intonation issues. Investing in a guitar with high-quality hardware is crucial for intermediate players seeking a reliable and performance-oriented instrument, and ensures one chooses the best intermediate acoustic guitars that offer long-term value.
Electronics and Amplification
For intermediate acoustic guitarists, the inclusion of onboard electronics for amplification is often a crucial consideration. While purists may prefer the unadulterated acoustic tone, the ability to plug in for live performances or recording sessions is invaluable. Different pickup systems offer varying levels of sonic fidelity and versatility. Piezo pickups, located under the saddle, are a common and affordable option, providing a clear and amplified sound. However, they can sometimes sound harsh or artificial, particularly at higher volumes.
Magnetic soundhole pickups offer a warmer and more natural tone, but they may not capture the full acoustic character of the guitar. Hybrid systems, which combine piezo and magnetic pickups, offer a balance of both qualities. Data from professional sound engineers indicates that the quality of the preamp significantly affects the overall amplified tone. Preamps with built-in EQ controls allow for fine-tuning the sound and compensating for variations in room acoustics. The presence of a built-in tuner is also a convenient feature for live performance settings. Ultimately, the choice of electronics depends on the player’s specific needs and preferences, but considering the amplification capabilities is essential for intermediate players who plan to perform or record with their instrument, thereby impacting the final choice of the best intermediate acoustic guitars.
FAQ
What qualities separate an “intermediate” acoustic guitar from a beginner or professional model?
Intermediate acoustic guitars offer a significant leap in quality compared to beginner instruments, typically focusing on enhanced tonewoods, improved construction, and greater playability. Beginner guitars often utilize laminate woods across the entire body, which while affordable, limit the instrument’s resonance and sustain. Intermediate guitars often feature a solid wood top, such as Sitka Spruce or Mahogany, which allows for a more vibrant and nuanced tone that improves with age. Furthermore, the craftsmanship and attention to detail are generally higher in intermediate models, leading to better intonation, more comfortable neck profiles, and overall improved longevity.
Professional-grade instruments take these advancements even further, incorporating premium tonewoods like Adirondack Spruce or Brazilian Rosewood, meticulously hand-crafted construction techniques, and high-end hardware. The tonal complexity and responsiveness are noticeably superior, providing a wider dynamic range and greater expressive capabilities. While an intermediate guitar is a considerable investment for serious players looking to elevate their sound, professional models represent the pinnacle of acoustic guitar design and offer an unmatched playing experience – often reflected in their significantly higher price point.
How important is solid wood for an intermediate acoustic guitar, and what are the tonal differences between common solid top woods like Spruce and Mahogany?
Solid wood tops are crucial for intermediate acoustic guitars as they vibrate more freely than laminate woods, resulting in a richer, louder, and more resonant tone. Over time, solid wood tops also “open up,” meaning they become more responsive and develop greater tonal complexity as the wood fibers mature and vibrate. This aging process contributes significantly to the instrument’s character and value, something not found in laminate construction. Solid wood construction is the single biggest factor differentiating a beginner instrument from an intermediate-level one.
Spruce and Mahogany are two of the most common solid top woods, each offering distinct tonal characteristics. Spruce generally provides a bright, clear, and balanced sound with excellent projection and articulation, making it suitable for a wide range of playing styles. Its responsiveness and dynamic range make it a versatile choice. Mahogany, on the other hand, tends to deliver a warmer, more focused sound with a strong emphasis on the midrange. Mahogany is often favored for blues, fingerstyle, and singer-songwriter applications where a clear, fundamental tone is desired without excessive overtones. The specific species of spruce or mahogany used can further refine these tonal nuances.
What features should I look for to ensure comfortable playability on an intermediate acoustic guitar?
Playability is paramount for progressing as a guitarist, and several features contribute to comfortable playing on an intermediate acoustic guitar. The neck profile (shape of the neck) significantly impacts hand fatigue; thinner “C” or “Slim Taper” profiles are often preferred for faster playing, while thicker “D” or “U” profiles may be more comfortable for players with larger hands. Nut width also affects string spacing, with narrower widths (e.g., 1 11/16″) typically preferred for smaller hands and wider widths (e.g., 1 3/4″) offering more space for fingerstyle playing. The action (string height above the frets) should be low enough to allow for easy fretting without causing buzzing.
Beyond neck shape and action, consider the fretboard material. Rosewood and Ebony are common choices, offering smooth surfaces that enhance playability. Well-dressed frets (smooth, rounded edges) are also crucial to avoid discomfort. Finally, the body size and shape of the guitar influence how it sits against your body. Concert or Grand Auditorium sizes are often preferred for their comfort and balanced tone, while dreadnoughts offer louder volume and a bolder sound but can be less comfortable for smaller players.
Is onboard electronics (pickup and preamp) necessary for an intermediate acoustic guitar, and what are the advantages and disadvantages?
Whether onboard electronics are necessary depends entirely on your intended use. If you primarily play at home or in small, acoustic settings, then a purely acoustic guitar might be sufficient. However, if you plan to perform on stage, record directly into an interface, or play in amplified ensembles, then onboard electronics become highly valuable. Having a built-in pickup system allows you to easily amplify your guitar’s sound without relying on external microphones, offering convenience and consistent tone.
The advantages of onboard electronics include amplified volume, tone shaping capabilities through the preamp’s EQ controls, and direct connectivity for recording or live performances. However, there are also potential drawbacks. Electronics can add weight to the guitar and may slightly dampen its acoustic resonance, although advancements in pickup technology have minimized this effect. Also, guitars with electronics are generally more expensive than their acoustic-only counterparts. Consider whether your playing needs justify the added cost and potential impact on the acoustic tone.
What are some reputable brands known for producing quality intermediate acoustic guitars?
Several brands consistently produce high-quality intermediate acoustic guitars, each with its own distinctive style and reputation. Martin Guitars, for example, are renowned for their iconic dreadnought models and rich, resonant tones, offering guitars that capture the classic acoustic sound. Taylor Guitars are known for their innovative designs, comfortable necks, and bright, balanced tones, making them a popular choice for modern players. Yamaha is highly regarded for its exceptional value and consistent quality, offering reliable and well-built instruments at affordable price points.
Other reputable brands include Guild, known for their full-bodied sound and vintage-inspired designs; Gibson, famous for its legendary J-45 model and warm, punchy tone; and Breedlove, which incorporates sustainable practices and innovative bracing patterns to create unique and expressive guitars. Ultimately, the best brand for you will depend on your personal preferences regarding tone, playability, and aesthetic. Researching the specific models offered by these brands and trying them out in person is crucial to finding the perfect fit.
What is the typical price range for a good intermediate acoustic guitar, and what factors influence the price?
A good intermediate acoustic guitar typically falls within the $800 to $2000 price range. This range reflects the improved materials, construction, and features that distinguish these instruments from beginner models. While you can find some decent guitars for less, instruments in this price bracket offer a significant step up in terms of sound quality, playability, and overall value.
Several factors influence the price of an intermediate acoustic guitar. The use of solid wood tops, particularly higher-grade species like Sitka Spruce or Mahogany, significantly increases the cost. The brand reputation and craftsmanship also play a role, with established brands often commanding higher prices. Additional features such as onboard electronics, elaborate inlays, and premium hardware (e.g., tuners, bridge pins) can further increase the price. Ultimately, the price reflects the combination of materials, labor, and design that goes into creating the instrument.
How important is a professional setup for a new intermediate acoustic guitar, and what does it typically involve?
A professional setup is highly recommended for any new intermediate acoustic guitar, even those from reputable brands. While guitars are generally inspected before leaving the factory, they may require adjustments to optimize playability and tone based on individual preferences and environmental conditions. Fluctuations in humidity and temperature during shipping and storage can affect the guitar’s setup, making a professional setup all the more important.
A typical setup involves several key adjustments. The luthier will first assess the neck relief (the amount of bow in the neck) and adjust the truss rod accordingly to ensure proper string clearance. Next, they’ll adjust the nut height to ensure the strings are at the correct height above the first fret, making it easier to fret chords in the first position. The saddle height will also be adjusted to achieve optimal action (string height at the 12th fret) for comfortable playing without buzzing. Finally, the luthier will intonate the guitar by adjusting the saddle position to ensure the strings play in tune across the fretboard. The results are an easier to play, better sounding guitar.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the landscape of best intermediate acoustic guitars requires careful consideration of tonal qualities, playability, and overall value. Throughout this review and buying guide, we’ve highlighted the importance of solid wood construction, particularly for the soundboard, as it contributes significantly to resonance and tonal development over time. Neck profiles and nut width also play a crucial role in comfort and playability, allowing guitarists to execute more complex techniques with ease. Furthermore, electronics become relevant for gigging musicians, emphasizing the need for high-quality preamps and pickups that accurately translate the guitar’s acoustic tone.
Our analysis revealed a competitive market with diverse options catering to varying preferences and budgets. The reviewed models demonstrated strengths in different areas, from the rich projection of dreadnoughts to the balanced sound of grand auditoriums. Price points varied significantly, reflecting the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and included features. Identifying the ideal guitar involves a personal assessment of playing style, tonal preferences, and intended use, whether for songwriting, fingerstyle playing, or performance.
Ultimately, the “best intermediate acoustic guitars” are those that inspire consistent practice and foster musical growth. Based on our evaluation, aspiring guitarists should prioritize instruments with solid tops and comfortable neck profiles, while considering reputable brands known for consistent quality control. A strategic approach involves test-playing guitars within your budget, focusing on discerning the nuances in tone and playability to determine the instrument that best aligns with your individual needs and aspirations.