Best Acoustic Guitars for Intermediate Players: Reviews and Recommendations
As an intermediate player, finding the right acoustic guitar is essential for enhancing your skills and enjoying your music. Having been through my own guitar journey, I understand the challenges of stepping up from beginner-friendly guitars to something that offers more complexity and depth in sound. In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the best acoustic guitars that I believe are perfect for intermediate players. These guitars strike the right balance between affordability, quality, and sound, ensuring you’ll find one that suits your musical needs.
1. Yamaha FG830 – Best for Versatile Sound
The Yamaha FG830 has earned its reputation as a go-to guitar for many intermediate players. Its solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and advanced scalloped bracing deliver a rich and resonant sound that can handle a variety of genres. Whether you're strumming folk tunes or diving into some light rock, the FG830 provides a warm tone with plenty of sustain.
What I appreciate most about this guitar is its excellent playability. The neck is comfortable and smooth, making it easy to navigate the fretboard even when you're challenging yourself with more advanced techniques. Plus, it's priced reasonably, offering great value for the quality it delivers.
2. Fender CD-60S – Best for Beginners Transitioning to Intermediate
If you’re transitioning from a beginner guitar to something more advanced, the Fender CD-60S might be just what you need. While it’s marketed as a beginner guitar, its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides give it a more refined sound compared to basic entry-level instruments. It’s an excellent choice for players looking to develop their skills without breaking the bank.
The Fender CD-60S has a bright, clear tone that works well for a variety of genres. Its affordability doesn’t come at the expense of sound or comfort. I found that it has a relatively forgiving action, which is ideal for those who are working on their finger strength and dexterity.
3. Taylor 214ce – Best for Performance
For players who are getting more serious about performing or recording, the Taylor 214ce is a fantastic choice. It features a solid Sitka spruce top with layered rosewood back and sides, delivering a vibrant, clear sound with excellent projection. Taylor’s renowned expression system also ensures that when plugged in, your guitar’s natural sound is faithfully amplified, making it a great choice for gigs.
What stands out about the Taylor 214ce is its fast, easy-to-play neck. The guitar’s playability is superb, allowing for smooth transitions between chords and effortless lead playing. It’s also lightweight, making it comfortable for long playing sessions. This guitar may come at a higher price, but the quality and sound justify the investment for any intermediate player.
4. Seagull S6 Original – Best for Acoustic Purists
If you’re someone who values an earthy, natural acoustic sound, the Seagull S6 Original is a fantastic option. Made with a solid cedar top and wild cherry back and sides, the Seagull S6 provides a smooth, mellow tone with plenty of warmth and resonance. The sound is fuller than some other guitars in this price range, making it ideal for solo performances or intimate jam sessions.
The craftsmanship of the Seagull S6 stands out, with a hand-crafted build that speaks to its dedication to quality. The neck is wide and slightly thick, which is great for players who want more space to move around and experiment with fingerstyle or advanced techniques.
5. Gibson J-45 – Best for Classic Sound
The Gibson J-45 is often hailed as one of the best acoustic guitars for intermediate to advanced players, offering a classic sound that’s rich in warmth and projection. Its solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides deliver a balanced tone with just the right amount of depth. The J-45 is versatile enough to handle both strumming and fingerpicking, making it a top choice for players who want a guitar that can handle all styles of playing.
The playability of the J-45 is top-notch, with a smooth neck and comfortable body that make it easy to play for extended periods. The guitar’s vintage look is also a bonus, with its sunburst finish and distinctive body shape making it a real eye-catcher. While it’s on the pricier side, the quality and tone of the J-45 make it an investment worth considering for serious players.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar for Your Needs
Choosing the best acoustic guitar as an intermediate player requires balancing sound quality, comfort, and price. As you can see, each of the guitars mentioned offers unique features that cater to different musical preferences and playing styles. Whether you're looking for a versatile instrument for all genres, a guitar that's perfect for performance, or one that focuses on a pure, natural sound, there's a guitar on this list that will meet your needs.
Before making your purchase, I recommend trying out the guitars in person if possible. Every player has different preferences when it comes to feel and sound. It’s important to find a guitar that fits your unique style and helps you continue progressing as a musician.
