As a content creator for guitarplayers.net, I’m often asked about the best acoustic guitar brands. Following the popularity of my electric guitar brand tier list, many of you requested an acoustic version. So, here it is – my take on ranking acoustic guitar makers, from the absolute best to those that might not hit the mark, all based on my personal experiences.
It’s important to note that this ranking is drawn from brands I’ve personally played. The guitar world is vast, and while some instruments might share factories or brands might span from beginner to professional levels, this tier list reflects my overall impression of each brand.
Let’s dive into the rankings and see if we agree!
F Tier
For guitars in the F tier, while they aim to be budget-friendly entry points, my advice is to explore used options in the C or B tiers for better value and quality.
Rogue: Marketed as ultra-affordable starter guitars, Rogue unfortunately falls short in overall quality. For beginners, investing slightly more in a used guitar from a higher tier brand will likely provide a more rewarding playing experience.
Mitchell: As Guitar Center’s house brand during my time there, Mitchell guitars often didn’t impress. In my experience, they lacked the tonal quality and build that I would hope for, even at an entry-level price point.
D Tier
The D tier is largely populated by brands where the use of laminated tops significantly impacts the tone. Solid wood tops generally contribute to a richer and more resonant sound, which is often lacking in this category.
Washburn: While Washburn is perhaps the strongest brand in this tier, the models I’ve encountered have been consistently ‘meh’. They serve a purpose but don’t particularly stand out in terms of sound or playability.
Ibanez: Known for visually appealing guitars, Ibanez acoustics with laminated tops often prioritize aesthetics over sonic depth. While they are generally well-setup and playable, the sound quality doesn’t quite reach the levels of higher-tiered brands.
Fender: Similar to Ibanez, Fender’s acoustic offerings in this tier, even those with solid tops, haven’t resonated with me in terms of sound. They may carry the brand name, but the acoustic tone often feels underwhelming compared to their electric counterparts.
C Tier
Guild: While I appreciate Guild’s electric guitars, their acoustics tend to leave me wanting more. Many models seem to lack vibrancy, resulting in a somewhat lifeless sound that doesn’t capture the rich tones I seek in an acoustic guitar.
Gretsch: Despite my admiration for Gretsch electric guitars, their acoustic line falls a bit short for me. Construction and sound seem to lack the volume and openness that are crucial for a compelling acoustic experience.
Takamine: Across various price points, from budget-friendly to mid-range, Takamine guitars often exhibit a thin tone, particularly lacking in low-end frequencies. If a brighter sound profile with emphasis on mids and highs is your preference, Takamine might rank higher for you.
Epiphone: The Epiphone brand presents a mixed bag. Their Masterbilt series offers exceptional value and could arguably sit in the B tier. However, the more affordable, entry-level Epiphone models detract from the brand’s overall acoustic ranking, placing it in the C tier.
B Tier
Alvarez: I have personal experience with an exceptional Alvarez Yairi, which I consider A-tier quality. While Alvarez produces handmade, solid wood models, a significant portion of their range consists of more affordable guitars that, to be frank, don’t deliver outstanding sound. It’s a brand with highs and lows.
Ovation: Ovation guitars are unique and can be polarizing. They offer a distinctive sound and comfortable feel, but the round back design isn’t for everyone. Higher-end Ovations can sound impressive, and even the more affordable models offer decent sonic performance, contributing to their B tier placement.
Larrivée: While Larrivée guitars are undoubtedly well-crafted and high quality, their sonic character doesn’t particularly appeal to my personal taste. I recognize that for others, Larrivée could easily be an A-tier brand based on their preferences for tone and build.
Seagull: Seagull stands out for providing incredible value. The S6 model is exceptional for its price, and moving up the Seagull range consistently reveals even better sounding instruments. Their cedar solid tops are particularly impressive, and models equipped with electronics feature quality components, solidifying their B tier position.
Yamaha: Yamaha excels in producing some of the best starter acoustic guitars available. Their consistency is commendable, and their higher-end models are undeniably excellent. For those seeking a dependable acoustic guitar without breaking the bank, Yamaha is an outstanding choice, earning them a strong B tier ranking.
Gibson: Known for premium components and craftsmanship, Gibson acoustics, while often high quality, have presented consistency issues in my experience. This variability impacts their ranking, preventing them from consistently reaching the A tier, despite their potential.
A Tier
Martin: For those seeking a traditional, deep, and resonant acoustic sound, Martin guitars are a benchmark. Their legacy and consistently high-quality instruments firmly place them in the A tier as a top choice for classic acoustic tone.
Taylor: Taylor guitars offer a contrasting sonic profile to Martin, characterized by a brighter and more modern sound. Their consistent quality and contemporary tonal approach make them a solid A-tier contender, appealing to players seeking a more articulate and brilliant acoustic voice.
Breedlove: Sharing a similar quality level with Martin and Taylor, Breedlove guitars lean towards a modern and bright sonic character, coupled with a distinctive feel. Their innovative designs and commitment to quality position them firmly within the A tier for players seeking a contemporary acoustic experience.
S Tier
Collings: Every Collings acoustic guitar I have ever played has been simply breathtaking. The exceptional craftsmanship, unparalleled tone, and overall playing experience consistently place Collings in a tier of its own – the S tier. For sheer acoustic excellence, Collings stands apart.
So, there you have it – my acoustic guitar brand tier list. Do you agree with my assessments, or are you ready to challenge my opinions? What brands would you place in the S and F tiers? Let me know in the comments!
