Best Acoustic Guitars Under $1000: Quality and Value Combined

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Best Acoustic Guitars Under $1000 women playing guitar

For enthusiasts with a bit of room in their budget for an acoustic guitar, the current market offers a delightful array of instruments that stand out. We’ve curated a selection that we believe represents the pinnacle of acoustic guitars under $1,000, taking into account various factors such as robust construction, top-notch hardware, and exceptional tone.

In this price range, you’re not just purchasing an instrument; you’re investing in a superior musical experience. While not everyone may classify guitars in this tier as high-end, for many, it represents a significant and worthwhile step up from more budget-friendly alternatives.

Our carefully compiled list features acoustic guitars crafted by renowned manufacturers, ensuring enduring value over time. This means not only can you acquire these instruments with ease, but there’s also the potential for a return on your investment should you decide to upgrade in the future.

Navigating the competitive landscape of acoustic guitars under $1,000 has become increasingly rewarding. Recent advancements in manufacturing, design, and overall quality mean that you no longer need to deplete your funds to secure an outstanding guitar.

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Beyond the basics of solid construction and high-quality hardware, these guitars boast additional features such as onboard electronics and other high-end attributes. What’s even more exciting is the innovation prevalent in the best acoustic guitars within this price range.

For those on the lookout for a compelling deal on a remarkable strummer, our picks for the best acoustic guitars under $1,000 offer a harmonious blend of value and quality in today’s dynamic market.

Table of Contents

Best Acoustic Guitars Under $1000

1. Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium Sitka Rosewood Acoustic Guitar

Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium Sitka Rosewood Acoustic Guitar

Features

  • Material : Spruce Wood
  • Neck Material: Mahogany
  • Number of Strings: 6

Introducing the Taylor 214CE, a fantastic acoustic guitar that effortlessly combines comfort, versatility, and exceptional sound—all while offering great value for your money!

Crafted with layered Koa sides and back complemented by a Sitka spruce top, Taylor’s 214CE is designed to deliver a clear and well-balanced tonal response. The Saelee neck, boasting a 25.5-inch scale length Ebony fingerboard, adds to the guitar’s comfortable playability.

Featuring a Venetian cutaway, a glossy finish, and an integrated ES2 electronic system, the 214CE stands out as one of the most popular models in its price range—and for good reason.

What truly sets this guitar apart is its remarkable tone. The concert-style design showcases Taylor’s renowned acoustics, providing a rich, robust, and full sound even when played unplugged. With every strum, you’ll feel the resonance comfortably against your arm.

To put its electronic capabilities to the test, I used a Fender Blues Jr. amplifier set to “clean and chimney.” The result? No consequences, just a moderate volume and a pleasant surprise. The guitar’s pickups excel in capturing the authentic acoustic sound, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate both amplified and unplugged performances.

In conclusion, the Taylor 214CE is not just an instrument; it’s an experience. With its quality construction, superior acoustics, and electronic prowess, this guitar undoubtedly earns its spot as a top contender in the under $1000 category.

Pros
  • Great sounding electronic system that is simple to use
  • Fantastic strings are available right away
  • Perfect for a variety of playing styles
  • High-quality materials
Cons
  • A guitar may need to be set up immediately after purchase

2. Ovation Mod TX Collection Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Ovation Mod TX

Features

  • Material: Wood
  • Neck Material: Maple
  • Number of Strings: 6

The Ovation 2078TX-5 stands out as an exceptional acoustic guitar within the under $1000 range. Crafted with precision by Ovation, this guitar boasts a deep contour style that not only adds a touch of elegance but also delivers an outstanding definition and crisp, clear sound.

Designed with a deep contour body type, the 2078TX-5 features a solid Sitka spruce top and scalloped bracing, contributing to a clean, balanced sound with strong volume projection. The multi-port sound holes not only enhance the overall aesthetics but also minimize feedback, ensuring a flawless performance.

In terms of appearance, the stunning black finish adds a premium touch to the instrument, making it visually striking. The convenient cutaway design facilitates easy access to the upper frets, adding to the overall comfort and versatility of the guitar.

The 22-fret maple neck, accompanied by a Pau Ferro fingerboard, provides an exceptionally comfortable playing experience. Resembling more of an electric neck than a traditional acoustic one, it offers a well-timed motion, making string pressing a breeze. The neck profile is fantastic, catering to the right size for hands, ensuring a delightful playing experience.

What truly impressed me was the remarkable sound of this acoustic gem. The lower bout’s slightly enlarged soundboard enhances the projection, resulting in a full and dynamic sound. The music emanates with incredible clarity and expressiveness, making listening to the 2078TX-5 a truly pleasurable and immersive experience. This Ovation creation proves to be not just an instrument but a companion that elevates your musical journey.

Pros
  • Easy to play
  • Comfortable
  • Lovely Sounds
  • High-quality equipment
Cons
  • Sometimes, electronic problems

3. Yamaha 6 String Series A3M Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Yamaha 6 String Series A3M

Features

  • Material: Spruce
  • Neck Material: Mahogany
  • Number of Strings: 6

The Yamaha A3M guitar stands out with its solid wood cutaway, a distinctive feature in the world of dreadnought-style guitars. Crafted with a solid Sitka spruce top and solid mahogany sides and back, this instrument delivers a tone that goes beyond words, requiring both attentive listening and a tactile connection to fully appreciate its depth, warmth, and richness.

Navigating the mahogany neck of the A3M is a pleasure, especially with its rosewood fingerboard and a comfortable 23.6-inch scale. Adding to its allure is Yamaha’s Studio Response Technology (S.R.T.) for electronics, seamlessly capturing the remarkable sound signature of this guitar.

During our test, the Fender Blues Jr. amplifier proved to be an excellent companion to the A3M. When precisely tuned, the guitar resonated with a delightful blend of warmth and articulate notes. The A3M’s electronics further enhance its performance, boasting a built-in EQ, switchable pickup, and a built-in preamp.

What truly sets the A3M apart is the incredible range of sounds achievable through its electronic controls. The versatility is nothing short of astonishing, offering musicians the flexibility to tailor their tone. The inclusion of a feedback reduction setting adds another layer of practicality, making it an ideal choice for various performance venues.

Even when unplugged, the A3M exhibits a bold and powerful voice, showcasing its acoustic prowess within this body style. In conclusion, the Yamaha A3M is not just a guitar; it’s an instrument that transcends expectations, delivering a harmonious blend of craftsmanship, tone, and technological innovation.

Pros
  • Excellent sound quality and lovely tone
  • Premium parts
  • The wood is solid
Cons
  • Not found

4. Fender Paramount PM-1 Standard Dreadnought, Natural

Fender Paramount PM-1

Features

  • Material: Mahogany
  • String Material: Nickel
  • Number of Strings: 6

When it comes to acoustic guitars under $1000, Fender has truly excelled with the Paramount PM-1. This guitar boasts outstanding electronics, delivering an impressive combination of superb sound and high-quality craftsmanship. Crafted with precision, the PM-1 features a warm and rich tone, thanks to its mahogany back and sides, coupled with a genuine Sitka spruce top that ensures a clear and musically appealing high end.

The dreadnought body shape not only enhances the overall volume but also ensures ergonomic playability. A delightful vintage touch on the guitar is the checkerboard purfling on the top, which adds a distinct visual appeal when caught in the right light.

The neck, constructed from mahogany, hosts 20 frets over a 25.3-inch scale length. The C-style neck design offers simplicity in playability and a comfortable grip. The pearl dot inlays and a high-quality bone nut add to the guitar’s overall elegance. The neck’s playability is noteworthy, offering an excellent feel that complements the flawless action, making it easy to press the strings.

With its rich, warm, and dazzling sound accompanied by excellent volume projection, the PM-1 provides a truly pleasant tone with every strum. The enjoyable playability of the neck, combined with the harmonious sound, creates a wonderful playing experience. This guitar is not only suitable for beginners but also comes equipped with electronics, making it an even more attractive option at its affordable price point.

Pros
  • Electronics that are simple to use—tuners, tone controls
  • An excellent guitar
  • Stunning sound
Cons
  • Not found

5. Martin GPC-X2E Macassar Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Martin GPC-X2E

Features

  • Material: Sapele Wood
  • Neck material type: Mahogany
  • Number of strings: 6

The Martin GPC-X2E stands out as a noteworthy acoustic-electric guitar within the under $1000 range. Crafted with precision from Macassar wood, this guitar boasts a rich, dark tone that exudes both presence and volume. In the competitive landscape of affordable acoustics, the Martin GPC holds its ground admirably.

Featuring the grand performance body shape, the GPC-X2E employs Saelee for the top and HPL Macassar for the back and sides, creating a harmonious blend of wood and size that results in a deep, powerful tone without any intrusive high frequencies. The secret lies in Martin’s use of scalloped X-bracing on the soundboard, achieving a balanced and resonant acoustic profile.

Visually, the guitar is a masterpiece, with a natural wood grain finish on the top and attractive back and sides, enhancing its overall appeal. The inclusion of a cutaway further facilitates easy access to the higher frets, adding to its versatility.

The Performer Artist Series neck profile enhances the playability of the GPC-X2E. With a thin design that sits comfortably in your palm, the neck boasts a smooth, hand-rubbed finish, steering clear of a sticky gloss. While the neck primarily uses select hardwoods, the occasional use of laminates ensures consistent quality. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the fantastic feel and ease of play of this neck make long jam sessions a breeze.

Having played various Martins over the years, the surprising element of the GPC-X2E lies in its tone. It produces a deep, balanced, and present acoustic tone, meeting the ideal requirements for enthusiasts. Each strum elicits a natural and musical response, making this guitar a standout choice in the under $1000 acoustic guitar category.

Pros
  • Extremely excellent sound
  • Easy To Play 
  • Fisherman Pickup System
  • Martin Standard
Cons
  • Due to supply chain concerns, the fake tortoise pickguard was replaced with a black one

6. Martin Guitar Road Series D-10E Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Martin Guitar Road Series D-10E

Features

  • Material: Sapele Wood
  • Neck Material Type: Hardwood
  • Number of Strings: 6

When it comes to the finest acoustic guitars on the market, Martin stands out as a premier manufacturer, and the D-10E is a shining example of their excellence.

Crafted with precision, the body of the D-10E is entirely made of layered sapele, presenting a visually stunning instrument. Its dreadnought body shape contributes to a rich, warm, and open sound with impressive loudness projection. As expected from a Martin guitar, the D-10E is nothing short of fantastic.

The high-performance tapered neck enhances playability, offering comfort and ease of use. With 20 frets, a 25.4′′ scale length, and a robust mortise and tenon neck joint, this guitar is built for durability. The Richlite fretboard and elegant pearl inlays add to its aesthetic appeal.

True to the Martin legacy, the D-10E is designed to deliver exceptional performance and tone. Strumming the strings produces a vast, mellow, and highly versatile tone that is thoroughly enjoyable. Adding to its versatility, this model features built-in electronics that deliver fantastic sound quality. The guitar’s electronics effectively capture the richness of its acoustic tones.

In my experience, playing the D-10E through my Fender Acoustasonic 90 amplifier was a breeze. The built-in electronics, when properly adjusted, effortlessly reproduced the guitar’s exceptional sound. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, achieving a fantastic sound is a straightforward process, especially if you have an amplifier with sufficient controls.

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Pros
  • Balanced music
  • High performance neck with sapele all around
  • Body of a dreadnought guitar
  • Playing is joyful
Cons
  • Not found

7. Yamaha Storia I Acoustic Guitar

Yamaha Storia

Features

  • Material: Solid Spruce
  • Neck Material: Nato Wood
  • Number of Strings: 6

Yamaha has simplified the process for novice players to acquire top-notch instruments, and the Storia stands out as a testament to their commitment. This well-crafted guitar delivers an exceptional tone, making it an ideal choice for players entering the musical realm.

Crafted with a solid spruce top and back, complemented by a mahogany body in a concert-style design, the Storia boasts a wood arrangement that excels in producing a warm and well-balanced sound with a noticeable brightness. The semi-gloss finish adds a touch of elegance to the body without being overly ostentatious, ensuring a visually pleasing instrument. Playing the Storia is a delightful and stress-free experience.

The Storia’s NATO/NATO neck material features rounded corners and a comfortable radius, measuring approximately 25 inches in length. This scale length strikes a balance, offering ease of play without compromising on versatility. The acoustic guitars in the Storia range come equipped with ivory inlays and a standard Urea nut.

In terms of sound quality for its price, the Storia acoustic guitar shines as a hidden gem. The concert-style body enhances the bass end, providing a crisp low register and a midrange tone that is beautifully balanced. Playing the Storia is a joy; its strings respond with a shimmering quality when strummed, though it may lean towards being a touch too bright in certain settings. For those embarking on their journey to purchase their first acoustic guitar, the Storia presents itself as a fantastic and compelling option.

Pros
  • Wonderful look
  • Electric acoustic guitar
  • Great Materials
  • Convenient and comfortable to play
Cons
  • It could be more difficult to play than other guitars

8. KLOS Travel Guitar, Durable Carbon Fiber Acoustic Guitar

KLOS Travel Guitar

Features

  • Material: Carbon Fiber
  • Neck Material: Mahogany
  • Number of Strings: 6

Are you on the lookout for the perfect acoustic guitar under $1000 that marries innovation with exceptional sound quality? Look no further than the KLOS acoustic guitar – a truly distinctive instrument that blends uniqueness with a beautiful tone, making every strum an enjoyable experience.

Crafted entirely from carbon fiber, the KLOS guitar stands out in the crowd. What sets it apart is not just its unique material but also its removable neck, adding a layer of convenience for storage or on-the-go musicians. Perfect for avid travelers or those with limited storage space, this guitar is designed to meet the demands of a dynamic lifestyle.

The carbon fiber construction of the KLOS guitar is a testament to modern ingenuity. While carbon fiber might not be universally acknowledged yet, its popularity is on the rise. One of its standout features is its ability to tolerate diverse environments, making it a resilient companion for musicians. Forget about ideal humidity conditions; the KLOS guitar lets you play with confidence year-round.

Beyond its durability, the KLOS guitar impresses with its sound quality. The carbon fiber body imparts a distinct tone, with lower frequencies delivering a tighter and clearer bass. This unique sound profile enhances note distinction, providing musicians with a fantastic playing experience.

One noteworthy aspect of the KLOS guitar is its neck, boasting 14 frets before the body. Playing on this neck is a joy, especially for those with smaller hands. The slender design ensures comfort, and operating the strings requires minimal effort. What truly sets the KLOS guitar apart is its innovative feature – a removable neck. A handy screwdriver is included, allowing you to detach the neck effortlessly. Simply remove four screws to make the guitar more portable, with the added benefit of preventing string unraveling when there’s no tension.

The KLOS acoustic guitar under $1000 is a harmonious blend of modern construction and classic playability. Its carbon fiber composition, unique sound profile, and portable design make it a top choice for musicians seeking a reliable and distinctive instrument. Experience the joy of playing anytime, anywhere, with the KLOS acoustic guitar.

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Pros
  • Wide, full tones
  • Equipment Included
  • Skinny neck
  • Extremely comfy and foldable.
  • Great Durability
Cons
  • Compared to a wooden replica, the bass is not as war

9. Taylor GS Mini-e Solid Koa

Features

  • Material: Koa
  • Body Material: Koa
  • Number of Strings: 6

The Taylor GS Mini-e Koa stands out as an exceptional acoustic guitar, combining superb craftsmanship with a compact design. While its size may be smaller, its tone packs a powerful punch, making it a noteworthy choice for those in search of an ideal acoustic guitar for learning or adding to their collection.

Crafted with a solid Hawaiian Koa top and a layered body, the Mini-e Koa boasts a unique combination of woods that imparts a noticeable sheen to the top-end frequencies. This guitar truly shines, especially considering its more affordable price range. It’s a perfect addition to any collection or a standalone piece for enthusiasts.

Despite its compact size, the Mini-e Koa doesn’t compromise on power and produces a stunningly gorgeous tone. A distinctive feature of this guitar is its inclusion of a pickup and preamp combo, adding versatility to its acoustic charm. With a built-in tuner and superb sound quality, the Mini-e Koa is not only a visual and auditory delight but also a practical choice for musicians seeking a well-rounded acoustic experience.

Pros
  • Plays easily and feels fantastic
  • Being smaller makes it convenient to transport
  • Hardware and building supplies
  • Strong middle frequencies and a warm sound
  • woodsy tone give this track a lot of power
Cons
  • It is smaller than other guitars

10. Blueridge Guitars 6 String Acoustic Guitar

Blueridge Guitars

Features

  • Material: Material
  • Neck Material: Mahogany
  • Number of Strings: 6

Blueridge Guitars stands out as a premier manufacturer in the realm of high-quality acoustic guitars, and the BR-43 model exemplifies their commitment to excellence. Crafted with precision and care, this acoustic gem offers an exceptional playing experience while delivering a broad and well-rounded tone.

The classic dreadnought silhouette of the BR-43, coupled with its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, contributes to a timeless aesthetic. The instrument boasts a natural high-shine surface, enhancing its visual appeal from every angle. The scalloped bracing adds strength and clarity to the overall tone, ensuring a remarkable acoustic performance.

Playing the BR-43 is a delight, thanks to its slender mahogany neck and a dovetail joint that connects it seamlessly to the body. The electric/acoustic hybrid 1.65-inch nut width provides a comfortable and ergonomic feel, making it easy for musicians to navigate the fretboard. The well-designed action facilitates smooth string movement, enhancing the overall playability of the instrument.

The combination of a solid Sitka spruce top and laminated mahogany sides results in a guitar that produces a rich, assertive, and clearly-projected sound. Strumming the strings yields a sonorous experience, with every note resonating beautifully. The dreadnought-size body and narrow neck contribute to the instrument’s incredible feel, ensuring that the BR-43 is not only a joy to play but also a pleasure to behold.

Overall, the Blueridge Guitars BR-43 is a superbly crafted acoustic guitar that seamlessly blends aesthetic appeal with exceptional playability. From its classic design to its rich and resonant sound, this instrument stands out as a top choice in the category of acoustic guitars under $1000.

Pros
  • Fantastic sound
  • Slim neck and solid top
  • Very simple to play
  • Good Products
Cons
  • Has no case included

Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Best Acoustic Guitars Under $1000

If you’re on the lookout for an acoustic guitar under $1000, the market offers a plethora of excellent options. Navigating through various brands, models, and features can be overwhelming, but fear not – this guide is designed to streamline the buying process and help you discover the ideal acoustic guitar that fits both your needs and budget.

Consider Your Playing Style and Preferences

Before delving into the sea of choices, take a moment to contemplate your playing style and musical preferences. Are you into fingerpicking or strumming? Does a bright or warm tone align more with your musical vision? Understanding these nuances will serve as a compass, guiding you towards guitars that match your unique style.

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Choose the Right Body Style

Acoustic guitars boast different body styles, each offering a distinct sound and feel. The three primary styles to consider are dreadnought, concert, and orchestra. Dreadnoughts, with their large and powerful build, are ideal for certain genres. Concert guitars, being smaller and more comfortable, cater to a different playing experience. Orchestras strike a balance, providing a versatile and well-rounded sound.

Look for Solid Wood Construction

Opt for guitars with solid wood construction, as they tend to deliver superior tone and durability compared to laminated alternatives. Seek out guitars with solid tops, backs, and sides, with popular wood choices including spruce, mahogany, rosewood, and maple.

Check the Craftsmanship

The craftsmanship of a guitar significantly influences its sound quality and longevity. Look for instruments with clean, smooth finishes, precisely fitted components, and straight necks. Evaluate tuning stability and intonation by playing chords up and down the neck, ensuring a consistent and reliable performance.

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Consider Brand Reputation and Customer Service

Not all guitar brands are created equal. Prioritize those with stellar reputations for quality and reliability, backed by excellent customer service and warranties. Reading online reviews and engaging with forums can provide valuable insights into the experiences of fellow players.

Don’t Forget About Accessories

When budgeting for your guitar, don’t overlook the cost of essential accessories such as a case, strap, and tuner. These items contribute to the overall playing experience and are crucial for protecting your new instrument.

By keeping these considerations in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision when selecting the best acoustic guitar under $1000 that aligns perfectly with your musical journey.

FAQ on Acoustic Guitars Under $1000

Why Choose These Acoustic Guitars Under $1000?

In the realm of acoustic guitars priced under $1,000, a plethora of exceptional options awaits. To streamline our selection process and ensure we highlighted the top choices, we dedicated ample time to hands-on playing, rigorous testing, and uncovering the unique characteristics of each instrument.

Our commitment to thoroughness extended to seeking insights from fellow guitar enthusiasts, allowing us to benefit from shared experiences. This collaborative approach helped us arrive at our final choices, considering factors such as tone, playability, hardware materials, and finishes.

Moreover, we verified that each guitar on our list held the potential for enhancement, though none necessitated immediate modifications, in my opinion.

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What to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Guitar Under $1000?

Beyond the obvious consideration of cost, several factors can significantly impact the ease of learning and playing experience. Factors such as the guitar’s size, shape, and width are crucial. An uncomfortable or poorly tuned guitar can dampen motivation and hinder progress. Therefore, it’s advisable not to hastily settle for the first model you encounter.

Which Acoustic Guitar Is the Most Playable Under $1000?

While all the selected acoustic guitars are user-friendly, the Taylor GS Mini may be especially comfortable for those with a smaller build. Alternatively, the Fender Paramount PM-1, though larger in size, offers relative simplicity of play, coupled with exceptional sound quality.

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Do Inexpensive Guitars Improve Over Time?

The evolution of an acoustic guitar over time is contingent on environmental conditions. Proper humidity levels are pivotal; excessive humidity may harm the instrument, while the right levels contribute to its aging process, enhancing its tonal qualities.

What Is the Cost of a Quality Acoustic Guitar?

Acoustic guitars in the midrange price bracket, ranging from $500 to $1000, offer effective functionality. Models in this range may even include onboard electronics as a bonus. For those seeking a durable and easily playable guitar, we recommend staying within this price range.

Our curated list exclusively features high-quality acoustic guitars, showcasing expert design and craftsmanship. Regardless of your choice, you’ll find satisfaction in the excellent construction quality and sound characteristic of this price range.

While pricier options exist, each higher-tier acoustic guitar promises a smile-inducing experience with every strum, justifying the investment made.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating the realm of acoustic guitars under $1000 may seem like a daunting task, but armed with the right guidance and knowledge, you can effortlessly discover a guitar that aligns with your playing style, preferences, and budget. When embarking on the quest for an acoustic guitar within this price range, consider crucial factors such as the musical genre you wish to explore, the body style that complements your comfort, the intricacies of craftsmanship, the reputable brand standing, and the accompanying accessories.

It’s essential to emphasize that the selection process extends beyond brand reputation and price; the tactile experience and tonal qualities while playing are equally paramount. With a modest investment of time in research and a measure of patience, the ideal acoustic guitar tailored to your requirements awaits, allowing you to strum your favorite tunes with unparalleled joy and resonance.

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