Following up on my electric guitar brand tier list, many of you asked for an acoustic version. So, here it is – my take on the acoustic guitar brands that shine the brightest and those that, well, don’t quite hit the right chord, all based on my personal experiences.
To keep it fair, this ranking includes only brands I’ve personally played. I know that some guitars are made in the same factories, and some brands offer both beginner and high-end models. Therefore, these tiers reflect my overall impression of each brand as a whole.
Let’s dive into the rankings, from the bottom to the top:
F Tier: Avoid if Possible
Rogue: Positioned as budget-friendly entry-level guitars, but in this category, your money is better spent on a used guitar from a higher-ranked brand (think C or B tier) for significantly better quality and sound.
Mitchell: Often seen as Guitar Center’s house brand, and having worked there, my experience suggests they consistently fall short in terms of overall quality and sound compared to other brands.
D Tier: Laminated Limitations
The majority of brands in D tier land here primarily due to their reliance on laminated tops, which, in my opinion, compromise the tonal quality. Solid wood tops consistently deliver a richer, more resonant sound.
Washburn: Potentially the strongest contender in D tier, but even Washburn acoustics I’ve encountered generally deliver a ‘meh’ experience. While not terrible, they lack the sonic depth and character of higher-tier brands.
Ibanez: Aesthetically pleasing and often well-setup for playability straight out of the box, Ibanez acoustics suffer from the same laminated top issue. While comfortable to play, the sound lacks the richness and resonance expected from a quality acoustic.
Fender: Similar to Ibanez, Fender acoustics, even those with solid tops in some ranges, haven’t impressed me sonically. They often feel like they prioritize playability and brand recognition over delivering a truly exceptional acoustic tone.
C Tier: Decent but Lacking
Guild: While I appreciate Guild’s electric guitars, their acoustics often leave me wanting more. Many Guild acoustics I’ve played sound somewhat lifeless and uninspiring compared to others in this price range.
Gretsch: Another brand I admire for their electric guitars (placing them in B tier for electrics), Gretsch acoustics seem to miss the mark slightly. Their construction and sound often lack the volume and openness I seek in an acoustic instrument.
Takamine: Regardless of price point, from budget models to more expensive ones, Takamine acoustics often sound thin and lack low-end warmth. However, if you prefer a brighter tone with pronounced mids and highs, Takamine might appeal more to your sonic preferences.
Epiphone: The Epiphone Masterbilt series deserves a B tier ranking due to its exceptional value for money, offering features and sound quality that punch above their weight. However, Epiphone’s more budget-oriented offerings drag the brand down to the C tier overall in my personal assessment.
B Tier: Solid Performers
Alvarez: I personally own an Alvarez Yairi, which I’d easily place in A tier – these Japanese-made models with solid woods are exceptional. However, a significant portion of Alvarez’s lineup consists of more affordable guitars that, while decent, don’t quite reach the same sonic heights, hence the B tier ranking.
Ovation: Over the years, I’ve encountered numerous great-sounding Ovation guitars. Their unique construction and round back design create a distinctive sound and feel. Ovations are polarizing – players tend to either love or dislike their unique tonal character and playing experience. Higher-end Ovations sound fantastic, while even their more affordable models offer respectable sound quality.
Larrivée: While I personally don’t find Larrivée acoustics particularly appealing in terms of tone, I acknowledge their high build quality and craftsmanship. Many players consider Larrivée an A-tier brand, and I can appreciate why, even if they don’t align with my personal sonic preferences.
Seagull: Seagull guitars represent exceptional value, particularly the S6 model, which is outstanding for its price. Moving up the Seagull range reveals even better sounding instruments. Their solid cedar tops are resonant and warm, and models with electronics often feature high-quality components.
Yamaha: Yamaha excels at producing some of the best beginner acoustic guitars for the money. Their guitars offer consistent quality across the board, and their higher-end models are undeniably excellent. If you’re seeking a reliable and good-sounding acoustic guitar at a minimum price, Yamaha is a top choice.
Gibson: Renowned for high-quality materials and craftsmanship, Gibson acoustics, while generally excellent, have sometimes suffered from quality control and consistency issues in my experience. When you get a good one, it’s fantastic, but inconsistency prevents them from consistently reaching the A tier in my book.
A Tier: Exceptional Acoustics
Martin: If you’re chasing that classic, deep, and resonant traditional acoustic sound, Martin guitars are a benchmark. Their guitars are known for their rich tone and heritage, making them a top choice for many acoustic players.
Taylor: Taylor guitars deliver a brighter, more modern acoustic sound with exceptional clarity and playability. Known for their consistent quality and innovative designs, Taylor guitars are a favorite among players seeking a contemporary acoustic voice.
Breedlove: Similar in quality to Martin and Taylor, Breedlove guitars lean towards a modern and bright tonal character and often feature distinctive body shapes and a slightly different playing feel. They offer a unique voice within the high-end acoustic market.
S Tier: The Pinnacle of Acoustic Excellence
Collings: Every Collings acoustic guitar I’ve ever played has been simply breathtaking. Collings represents the pinnacle of acoustic guitar craftsmanship, consistently delivering instruments with unparalleled tone, responsiveness, and build quality. For me, Collings stands alone in the S tier.
So, there you have it – my acoustic guitar brand tier list. Now it’s your turn! Do you agree with my rankings, or are you ready to completely disagree? What brands would you place in the S and F tiers? I’m eager to hear your thoughts and opinions!
