Following up on the electric guitar brand tier list, here’s an acoustic version, ranking various Acoustic Guitar Brands from best to worst based on firsthand experience. This ranking is designed to offer guidance, especially for those navigating the vast world of acoustic guitars. Please remember, this is based on personal experience and is intended to spark discussion!
It’s important to note that this list includes only brands I’ve personally played. Understanding that many guitars are produced in shared factories and brands often span entry-level to high-end instruments, these tiers reflect my overall impression of each brand’s offerings.
Let’s dive into the rankings:
F Tier
This tier represents brands that, in my experience, fall short in delivering satisfactory quality and sound, even at entry-level price points.
Rogue: While positioned as budget-friendly beginner guitars, exploring used options from C or B tier brands would likely yield a more rewarding playing experience.
Mitchell: Commonly found as Guitar Center’s house brand, Mitchell guitars, in my opinion, have consistently lacked in overall quality and tone.
D Tier
The D tier is largely populated by brands where the prevalent use of laminated tops noticeably impacts the tonal quality. Solid wood tops generally contribute to a richer, more resonant sound in acoustic guitars.
Washburn: Considered the stronger brand within this tier, Washburn guitars I’ve encountered have often been underwhelming in terms of sonic performance.
Ibanez: Known for visually appealing designs and comfortable playability, Ibanez acoustic guitars with laminated tops often lack depth in sound. While they are typically well-set up, the tonal quality doesn’t match their aesthetic appeal.
Fender: Similar to Ibanez, Fender acoustics in this category, even those with solid tops, have not impressed me with their sound quality.
C Tier
Brands in the C tier offer a step up, but still present compromises in certain areas, preventing them from reaching higher rankings.
Guild: While Guild excels in electric guitars, their acoustic counterparts often feel somewhat uninspired and lack vibrancy in tone.
Gretsch: Despite my appreciation for Gretsch electric guitars (ranked in the B tier for electrics), their acoustic guitars often lack the desired volume and sonic openness. The construction and sound profile seem less compelling in their acoustic line.
Takamine: Across various price points, from budget-friendly to more expensive models, Takamine guitars tend to sound thin and lacking in low-end frequencies. However, players who prefer brighter tones with pronounced mids and highs might find Takamine more appealing.
Epiphone: The Epiphone Masterbilt series stands out for exceptional value and could be placed in the B tier. However, the more affordable Epiphone models bring the overall brand ranking down to the C tier due to inconsistencies in quality and sound.
B Tier
The B tier is populated by brands that consistently offer good quality, often representing excellent value for money and a noticeable step up in sound and construction.
Alvarez: Owning an Alvarez Yairi model, which could be considered A tier quality, highlights the brand’s potential. However, many standard Alvarez guitars, while affordable, don’t always deliver exceptional sound, impacting the brand’s overall B tier placement.
Ovation: Ovation guitars possess a distinctive sound and comfortable feel, with many high-quality models encountered over the years. Their unique round back design and sound are polarizing – players tend to either love or dislike them. Higher-end Ovations sound impressive, and even the more affordable models offer decent sound.
Larrivée: While Larrivée guitars are undeniably well-made and represent solid quality, their sound profile personally doesn’t resonate as strongly compared to other brands in higher tiers. However, recognizing subjective preferences, Larrivée could easily be considered an A tier brand for some players.
Seagull: Seagull guitars offer outstanding value, particularly the S6 model, which is highly regarded. Moving up the Seagull product line reveals increasingly refined sound and quality. Their cedar solid tops are especially resonant, and models equipped with electronics feature quality components.
Yamaha: Yamaha produces some of the best beginner acoustic guitars for the price. Their guitars are consistently reliable, and their higher-end models are undoubtedly excellent. For players seeking a quality acoustic guitar on a budget, Yamaha is a top recommendation.
Gibson: Known for premium components and craftsmanship, Gibson acoustic guitars are often hampered by inconsistencies in quality control. While capable of producing exceptional instruments, variability in quality prevents a higher tier placement.
A Tier
The A tier showcases brands known for consistently producing high-quality instruments with distinct tonal characteristics and refined craftsmanship.
Martin: Martin guitars are synonymous with a deep, resonant, and traditional acoustic sound. They are a benchmark for many players seeking that classic acoustic tone.
Taylor: Taylor guitars are recognized for their bright, modern, and articulate sound profile, coupled with excellent build quality and playability. They appeal to players seeking a more contemporary acoustic voice.
Breedlove: Breedlove guitars share a similar quality level with Martin and Taylor but lean towards a modern and bright sound, often with a unique and comfortable neck profile. They offer a distinctive playing experience and sonic character.
S Tier
The S tier is reserved for brands that represent the pinnacle of acoustic guitar craftsmanship and consistently deliver exceptional instruments.
Collings: Every Collings acoustic guitar I have played has been truly exceptional. They represent a gold standard in acoustic guitar manufacturing, with unparalleled attention to detail and sonic excellence.
Ultimately, this tier list is intended as a guide based on personal experiences. Your own preferences and experiences may lead you to different conclusions. What are your thoughts? Do you agree with these rankings, or would you rearrange these acoustic guitar brands? What brands would you place in the S and F tiers?
