Acoustic guitars hold a special place in music, offering warmth, depth, and a purely organic sound. Just like with electric guitars, the world of acoustic brands can be overwhelming. You asked for it, so here it is – my take on the acoustic guitar brand landscape, presented in a tier list format. This is based on my personal experiences playing these instruments, and aims to help guide you toward finding the best acoustic guitar for your needs and preferences.
Keep in mind, this is a subjective ranking. Guitar manufacturing is complex, and even within a single brand, you’ll find a range of models from entry-level to professional grade. Some guitars are even made in shared factories. Therefore, this tier list reflects my overall impression of each brand as a whole, considering the various guitars I’ve played from their lineups.
Let’s dive into the tiers, from those I find less impressive to the brands that consistently blow me away:
F Tier: Steer Clear
For beginners looking for the absolute cheapest option, these brands might seem tempting. However, in my experience, you’re better off seeking out a used guitar from a higher-ranked brand in the long run.
Rogue: While positioned as ultra-affordable starter guitars, Rogue instruments often fall short in terms of playability and sound quality. Investing a little more, even in a used instrument, will provide a far better playing experience and encourage progress.
Mitchell: As Guitar Center’s house brand, Mitchell guitars are readily accessible. Unfortunately, in my experience working with guitars, they consistently lack the quality and tone I look for, even at the entry level.
D Tier: Laminated Limitations
The brands in this D tier often utilize laminated wood tops in their construction, particularly in more affordable models. While this keeps costs down, it significantly impacts the guitar’s resonance and overall tone. Solid wood tops, in my opinion, are crucial for achieving a richer, more vibrant acoustic sound.
Washburn: Washburn sits at the top of this tier, as some models offer slightly better quality than others in this category. However, the majority of Washburn acoustics I’ve encountered have been underwhelming in terms of sonic character, sounding rather ‘meh’ overall.
Ibanez: Known for their sleek aesthetics and playability, Ibanez acoustics often appeal visually. However, the reliance on laminated tops across many of their models hinders their acoustic performance. While they often play comfortably and are well-set up from the factory, the fundamental sound quality simply isn’t there for me.
Fender: Surprisingly, even Fender, a legendary name in guitars, lands in the D tier for their acoustics. Similar to Ibanez, even Fender models boasting solid tops often fail to deliver a truly inspiring acoustic tone in my experience.
C Tier: Middle of the Road
Brands in the C tier offer a step up in quality, but still leave something to be desired in my personal preference. While not inherently bad, they don’t quite reach the sonic excellence of higher tiers.
Guild: While I appreciate Guild’s electric guitars, their acoustics haven’t resonated with me as strongly. Many Guild acoustics I’ve played sound somewhat lifeless, lacking the vibrant character I seek in an acoustic instrument.
Gretsch: I’m a big fan of Gretsch’s electric guitars, placing them in the B tier for their electric lineup. However, their acoustic guitars fall short in comparison. There’s a certain lack of volume and openness in their construction and sound that prevents them from reaching their full potential, in my opinion.
Takamine: Regardless of price point, from budget-friendly to more expensive models, Takamine guitars often share a similar sonic profile. I find them to sound thin and lacking in low-end frequencies. However, if you prefer a brighter acoustic tone with more emphasis on mids and highs, Takamine might be a better fit for your preferences.
Epiphone: Epiphone is a bit of a mixed bag. Their “Masterbilt” series, in my opinion, punches well above its weight and could even be considered B tier due to its incredible value for money. However, the more budget-oriented Epiphone models bring the overall brand ranking down to the C tier for me.
B Tier: Solid Choices
Now we’re getting into brands that consistently offer good quality and value. The B tier represents brands I’d happily recommend and consider owning myself.
Alvarez: I have personal experience with the higher end of Alvarez guitars, owning an Alvarez Yairi which I consider A tier quality. These Japanese-made models with solid woods are exceptional. However, Alvarez also offers a wide range of more affordable guitars that, while well-made, don’t always deliver outstanding sound. This mix brings the overall brand to the B tier, though their higher-end instruments are truly impressive.
Ovation: Ovation guitars are unique and somewhat polarizing. Their distinctive round backs and composite materials create a different playing experience and sound. I’ve played many Ovations over the years that sound fantastic, particularly the more expensive models. Even their more affordable options often sound decent. However, the unique sound isn’t for everyone, and the round back can be uncomfortable for some players.
Larrivée: Larrivée guitars are undeniably well-crafted instruments of solid quality. Many players would likely rank them in the A tier, and I understand why. However, personally, their sonic character doesn’t particularly appeal to me. While objectively excellent guitars, they simply aren’t my preferred sound.
Seagull: Seagull guitars offer exceptional value for money, particularly their S6 model, which is a standout in its price range. Moving up the Seagull product line, the sound quality only improves. Their solid cedar tops are resonant and warm, and models equipped with electronics often feature high-quality components. Seagull is a brand that consistently impresses with its quality and affordability.
Yamaha: Yamaha is synonymous with consistency and reliability, especially when it comes to beginner guitars. They produce some of the best starter acoustic guitars for the money. Yamaha instruments are consistently well-made, and their higher-end acoustic guitars are undoubtedly excellent. If you’re seeking a dependable and good-sounding acoustic guitar on a budget, Yamaha is an excellent choice.
Gibson: Gibson is a legendary brand known for high-quality materials and craftsmanship, particularly in their electric guitar division. However, their acoustic guitar quality control and consistency have been inconsistent in my experience. While a good Gibson acoustic can be exceptional, inconsistencies in quality prevent me from placing them in a higher tier overall.
A Tier: Top Performers
These brands represent the upper echelon of acoustic guitar quality, consistently delivering exceptional sound, craftsmanship, and playing experience.
Martin: Martin guitars are synonymous with traditional acoustic guitar tone. If you’re seeking a deep, rich, and classic acoustic sound, Martin is the benchmark. Their guitars are known for their powerful low-end and resonant character, perfect for bluegrass, folk, and traditional styles.
Taylor: Taylor guitars offer a more modern and brighter sonic approach compared to Martin. Known for their clarity, articulation, and balanced tone, Taylor guitars are incredibly versatile and popular across various genres. Their build quality and playability are consistently excellent.
Breedlove: Breedlove guitars share a similar level of quality with Martin and Taylor, but often lean towards a modern and bright sound profile, with a slightly different overall feel. They are known for their innovative designs and use of sustainably sourced tonewoods, appealing to players seeking a contemporary acoustic voice.
S Tier: The Best of the Best
This tier is reserved for brands that consistently deliver instruments that are simply breathtaking. In my experience, one brand stands out above the rest in this category.
Collings: Every Collings acoustic guitar I have ever played has been exceptional. Period. The level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and sonic perfection is consistently astounding. Collings represents the pinnacle of acoustic guitar building, in my opinion, offering instruments that are truly inspiring to play.
So, there you have it – my acoustic guitar brand tier list! Do you agree with my rankings? Are there brands you would place higher or lower? What are your S and F tier brands? I’m eager to hear your thoughts and opinions in the comments!
Alt text: A musician passionately playing an acoustic guitar, showcasing the instrument’s beauty and musicality.
Alt text: Close-up of a Collings guitar headstock, highlighting the brand’s logo and the exquisite craftsmanship of high-end acoustic guitars.
Alt text: Detailed view of a Taylor acoustic guitar body, emphasizing the elegant wood grain and the brand’s signature bright and modern aesthetic.
