Are you ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? Whether you’ve been strumming for a few years or are simply looking for a more refined acoustic experience, the right instrument can make all the difference. As you progress beyond beginner territory, you’ll need a guitar that can keep up with your growing skills and musical ambitions. This is where the world of best intermediate acoustic guitars comes in.
These instruments offer a perfect balance of quality, playability, and features that will elevate your playing and inspire you to explore new musical horizons. We’ve scoured the market and meticulously reviewed the top contenders, considering everything from tonewood and construction to playability and value for money. Whether you’re drawn to the bright resonance of a spruce top or the warmth of a mahogany body, our guide will help you find the perfect intermediate acoustic guitar to fuel your musical journey.
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An Overview of Intermediate Acoustic Guitars
Moving beyond beginner models, intermediate acoustic guitars offer a significant step up in quality and features. These instruments are designed to accommodate the growing skillset of a player, providing a more nuanced and responsive sound with enhanced playability. They often boast improved tonewoods, refined construction techniques, and sophisticated electronics, making them suitable for both practice and performance.
One of the key distinctions of intermediate acoustic guitars lies in their use of higher-quality materials. The tops are frequently crafted from solid wood, such as spruce or cedar, which provides richer resonance and a more complex sonic character. The backs and sides may also be constructed with solid woods or high-quality laminates, resulting in a more balanced tone and better projection.
Beyond materials, the craftsmanship of intermediate acoustic guitars is often superior to their entry-level counterparts. Enhanced bracing patterns and meticulous attention to detail contribute to a more responsive and nuanced tone, allowing for greater dynamic range and expressive possibilities. These guitars are also engineered for durability, with thicker necks and stronger bracing to withstand the rigors of frequent playing.
The availability of electronics is another distinguishing feature of many intermediate acoustic guitars. Built-in preamps and pickups allow for amplified performance, making them suitable for live gigs, recording sessions, or simply enjoying the convenience of a plugged-in experience. These features cater to players who are actively exploring different performance venues and seeking to expand their sonic palette.
By combining quality materials, refined construction, and potentially enhanced electronics, best intermediate acoustic guitars offer a significant upgrade in both sound and playability. They provide a platform for developing technique, exploring different genres, and expressing musical ideas with greater depth and nuance. Whether you’re pursuing a career in music or simply seeking a more fulfilling playing experience, an intermediate acoustic guitar is a worthwhile investment.
5 Best Intermediate Acoustic Guitars
1. Taylor 214ce
The Taylor 214ce is a fantastic option for intermediate guitarists who are looking for a guitar with a balanced and warm sound. Its spruce top and layered sapele back and sides provide a rich and full tone that is well-suited for a variety of musical styles. The Taylor 214ce also features a comfortable neck profile and a smooth satin finish, making it a pleasure to play for long periods.
The addition of Taylor’s Expression System 2 pickup system makes the 214ce perfect for gigging musicians. The pickup provides a natural and clear amplified tone, and the built-in tuner ensures that you’re always in tune. With its beautiful aesthetics, exceptional playability, and impressive sound, the Taylor 214ce is a top choice for intermediate guitarists.
2. Martin 000-15M
The Martin 000-15M is a classic acoustic guitar known for its balanced tone and responsive feel. Its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides produce a rich and warm sound that is perfect for fingerstyle playing and folk music. The Martin 000-15M has a comfortable neck profile and a comfortable playing experience. It features a traditional X-bracing pattern, which provides a strong and durable structure.
This guitar features a beautiful and traditional aesthetic, with a high-gloss finish and classic rosette. The Martin 000-15M is a great choice for intermediate players who are looking for a classic, high-quality acoustic guitar with a versatile sound.
3. Yamaha FG800
The Yamaha FG800 is an excellent choice for intermediate guitarists looking for a reliable and affordable acoustic guitar. Its spruce top and nato back and sides produce a clear and balanced tone that is perfect for a variety of genres. The Yamaha FG800 also features a comfortable neck profile and a smooth satin finish, making it a comfortable and easy-to-play guitar.
The Yamaha FG800 is a solid option for those who are looking for a well-built and well-sounding acoustic guitar without breaking the bank. It’s also a great choice for gigging musicians due to its reliable performance and durable construction.
4. Gibson J-45 Standard
The Gibson J-45 Standard is a legendary acoustic guitar known for its warm and powerful sound. Its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides produce a rich and resonant tone that is perfect for blues, folk, and rock music. The Gibson J-45 Standard features a comfortable neck profile and a satin finish, offering a smooth playing experience.
The Gibson J-45 Standard is a guitar for those who appreciate the classic sound and feel of a traditional acoustic guitar. It’s a versatile instrument that is capable of producing a wide range of tones, making it a great choice for intermediate guitarists who are looking for a high-quality instrument.
5. Guild D-40
The Guild D-40 is a stunning acoustic guitar that delivers a powerful and full-bodied sound. Its solid spruce top and Indian rosewood back and sides produce a rich and resonant tone that is perfect for fingerstyle playing and strumming. The Guild D-40 also features a comfortable neck profile and a beautiful high-gloss finish.
The Guild D-40 is a great choice for intermediate guitarists who are looking for a high-quality, high-end acoustic guitar with a unique and beautiful tone. Its elegant aesthetics and superior sound make it a worthy investment for any serious guitar player.
Why Do People Need Intermediate Acoustic Guitars?
For guitarists who are beyond the beginner stage and seeking to upgrade their playing experience, stepping into the world of intermediate acoustic guitars is a natural progression. These instruments offer a significant improvement over entry-level models, providing a refined sound, better playability, and a more nuanced musical expression.
Intermediate acoustic guitars are designed to meet the growing demands of seasoned players. They boast superior materials and construction techniques that contribute to a richer tone, increased sustain, and a more responsive feel. With enhanced craftsmanship, these guitars offer a more comfortable playing experience, allowing for intricate fingerwork and extended practice sessions without fatigue.
Choosing the right intermediate acoustic guitar can be a rewarding journey, leading to a deeper connection with the instrument and a wider range of musical possibilities. Whether you’re exploring folk, blues, or classical music, the best intermediate acoustic guitars can unlock a new level of artistry and precision in your playing.
As your skills evolve and your musical tastes mature, an intermediate acoustic guitar becomes a worthy investment that reflects your dedication to the craft. It’s a stepping stone towards achieving your full musical potential and experiencing the joy of playing a truly exceptional instrument.
Types of Intermediate Acoustic Guitars
There are several types of acoustic guitars available for intermediate players, each with its unique characteristics and sound. The most common types include dreadnought, jumbo, and concert guitars. Dreadnought guitars are known for their loud, powerful sound, making them ideal for strumming and playing rhythm. Jumbo guitars offer a similar sound profile but have a larger body, providing a fuller, richer tone. Concert guitars, on the other hand, are smaller and produce a warmer, more mellow sound, making them suitable for fingerstyle playing. Ultimately, the best type for you depends on your personal preference and playing style.
Another important consideration is the guitar’s construction. Some guitars are made entirely of solid wood, while others use a combination of solid and laminated wood. Solid wood guitars offer superior tone and resonance, but they are also more expensive. Laminated wood guitars are less expensive, but they may lack the same depth and warmth. Consider your budget and playing goals when choosing between solid and laminated wood guitars.
Finally, you should consider the guitar’s electronics. Many intermediate acoustic guitars come equipped with built-in pickups and preamps, allowing you to amplify your sound for live performances or recording. While not essential for all players, electronics can be a valuable addition, especially if you plan on playing in amplified settings.
Choosing the Right Size and Shape
Finding the right size and shape is crucial for comfort and playability. Acoustic guitars come in various sizes, with the most common being 000, 00, and dreadnought. 000 guitars are the smallest and offer a more compact and intimate feel. 00 guitars provide a slightly larger playing surface, while dreadnought guitars are the largest and offer the most projection. Consider your body size and playing style when selecting a size.
The shape of the guitar also plays a role in its sound and comfort. The body shape can influence the volume, tone, and projection of the guitar. The most common body shapes include dreadnought, jumbo, and concert. Dreadnought guitars are known for their powerful sound and bold projection, while jumbo guitars offer a fuller, richer tone. Concert guitars are smaller and produce a warmer, more mellow sound.
The neck of the guitar is another important consideration. The neck should be comfortable to hold and grip. The width of the neck, also known as the nut width, can affect your playing experience. A wider nut offers more space for your fingers, which can be beneficial for fingerstyle players. Conversely, a narrower nut can be more comfortable for strumming. Ultimately, the best size and shape will depend on your individual preferences and playing style.
Essential Features for Intermediate Players
While some features are essential for all acoustic guitars, some are specifically important for intermediate players. Here are a few key features to look for:
One important feature is the guitar’s action. Action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. Lower action makes it easier to press down on the strings and play chords, while higher action requires more effort. Intermediate players often prefer a lower action, as it allows for more precise playing and faster fingerwork.
Another important consideration is the guitar’s intonation. Intonation refers to the accuracy of the guitar’s tuning across the fretboard. A well-intonated guitar will stay in tune throughout the entire fretboard, regardless of what chord or note you play. Intermediate players should look for guitars with excellent intonation, as it will make playing and tuning easier.
Finally, consider the guitar’s materials. Higher-quality materials will produce a better sound and last longer. Look for guitars with solid wood tops, as they offer superior tone and resonance compared to laminated wood tops. Intermediate players who are serious about their playing should invest in a guitar with high-quality materials that will provide a great playing experience for years to come.
The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Intermediate Acoustic Guitars
As your guitar skills blossom, you’ll crave a more sophisticated instrument that can keep up with your growing repertoire and aspirations. This is where intermediate acoustic guitars come in. These guitars offer a balance of quality, playability, and tone, providing a platform for you to elevate your playing to new heights. Finding the perfect intermediate acoustic guitar, however, requires careful consideration of various factors. This guide will delve into seven key aspects to help you navigate the selection process and find the perfect instrument for your evolving musical journey.
1. Budget
The first step is to establish a realistic budget. Intermediate acoustic guitars span a wide price range, reflecting their varying quality, materials, and craftsmanship. While you might be tempted to splurge on a top-of-the-line model, remember that your budget shouldn’t compromise your ability to purchase essential accessories like a good guitar case, tuner, and picks.
A well-built intermediate guitar can be found within a reasonable price range, typically between $500 to $1500. This range offers a good balance of quality and value, allowing you to invest in a guitar that will serve you well for years to come. Don’t be afraid to shop around and compare prices from different retailers to find the best deals.
2. Body Shape and Size
Choosing the right body shape and size is crucial for comfort and playability. The most common acoustic guitar shapes are dreadnought, jumbo, grand auditorium, and concert. Each shape boasts a unique tonal characteristic, influencing the overall sound projection and resonance.
Dreadnought guitars, known for their large size and loud volume, are popular choices for strumming and fingerstyle playing. Jumbo guitars, even larger than dreadnoughts, offer a full-bodied sound and deep bass. Grand Auditorium guitars strike a balance between projection and warmth, making them versatile instruments suitable for various playing styles. Concert guitars, with their smaller size, are ideal for fingerstyle playing and deliver a delicate and nuanced tone.
3. Top Wood
The top wood of an acoustic guitar significantly impacts its tone and responsiveness. Popular top woods include spruce, cedar, mahogany, and rosewood. Spruce is known for its bright and clear sound, making it a go-to choice for a wide range of musical genres. Cedar, on the other hand, offers a warm and mellow tone, perfect for fingerstyle playing and folk music. Mahogany delivers a rich and balanced sound, while rosewood produces a deep and resonant tone.
Consider the type of music you play and your preferred tone when selecting the top wood. If you are looking for a brighter and more articulate sound, spruce might be the right choice. If you prefer a warmer and more mellow sound, cedar or mahogany might be more suitable.
4. Back and Side Wood
While the top wood is the most significant factor in determining an acoustic guitar’s tone, the back and side woods also play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound. These woods contribute to the guitar’s resonance, sustain, and projection.
Popular back and side woods include mahogany, rosewood, maple, and walnut. Mahogany is known for its warm and balanced sound, while rosewood delivers a deep and rich tone. Maple is known for its bright and articulate sound, while walnut offers a warm and mellow tone. The choice of back and side woods can subtly influence the guitar’s overall tone and responsiveness.
5. Neck and Fingerboard
The neck and fingerboard play a crucial role in the playability and comfort of an acoustic guitar. A comfortable neck with a smooth fingerboard is essential for effortless fingering and a pleasant playing experience.
Look for necks with a comfortable profile that feels natural in your hands. The fingerboard material, often made of rosewood, ebony, or maple, can influence the feel and playability of the guitar. Ebony, known for its smooth and hard surface, provides a fast and frictionless playing experience. Rosewood offers a warmer feel, while maple delivers a brighter and more responsive touch.
6. Electronics
Many intermediate acoustic guitars come equipped with built-in electronics, making them stage-ready and suitable for amplified performances. This is an essential feature for performers who rely on microphones or sound systems for live gigs.
Consider the type of electronics the guitar offers, such as a preamp, pickup system, and tuner. A preamp boosts the guitar’s signal, while a pickup system converts the string vibrations into an electrical signal. Tuners ensure accurate tuning, especially in noisy environments.
7. Trying Before Buying
Finally, no guide on finding the best intermediate acoustic guitars is complete without emphasizing the importance of trying before buying. Every guitar is unique, and its feel, sound, and playability can vary even within the same model.
Visit your local music store or a trusted online retailer with a good return policy. Take your time, play different models, and experiment with various playing styles. Listen carefully to the tone, feel the neck, and assess the overall comfort. Only after you’ve had a chance to try several guitars can you confidently choose the one that feels and sounds best to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an acoustic guitar “intermediate”?
An intermediate acoustic guitar is typically designed for players who have progressed beyond beginner models but aren’t quite ready for professional-level instruments. These guitars offer several key features that distinguish them from beginner models, including:
- Improved build quality: Intermediate guitars use better materials and construction techniques, resulting in increased durability, resonance, and a more refined sound.
- Enhanced playability: Features like a comfortable neck profile, lower action, and precise fretwork make these guitars easier to play, allowing players to explore more advanced techniques.
- Versatile tone: Intermediate guitars often have a wider tonal range, making them suitable for various genres and playing styles.
What are the different types of acoustic guitars?
Acoustic guitars come in several main types, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Dreadnought: Known for their large body size, Dreadnoughts produce a powerful and full-bodied sound, ideal for strumming and fingerpicking.
- Concert: Concert guitars are slightly smaller than Dreadnoughts, offering a balanced tone with a bit more focus on the mid-range frequencies. They’re well-suited for fingerstyle playing and solo performances.
- Grand Auditorium: This popular body style offers a rich and full sound with a balanced tonal response, making it versatile for various playing styles.
What features should I look for in an intermediate acoustic guitar?
When choosing an intermediate acoustic guitar, consider these essential features:
- Top wood: The top wood is crucial for the guitar’s sound quality. Solid spruce is a popular choice for its bright and resonant tone, while mahogany offers a warmer and more mellow sound.
- Back and sides: The back and sides contribute to the guitar’s overall tone and projection. Solid woods, like rosewood or mahogany, provide a rich and balanced sound.
- Neck: A comfortable neck with a smooth finish is essential for ease of playability. Look for guitars with a neck profile that suits your hand size and playing style.
What is the ideal price range for an intermediate acoustic guitar?
The price range for intermediate acoustic guitars can vary significantly, depending on the brand, materials, and features.
- Entry-level intermediate: You can find solid-top guitars in this range, offering decent build quality and a good starting point for intermediate players.
- Mid-range intermediate: These guitars usually feature high-quality materials and craftsmanship, resulting in superior sound and playability.
- High-end intermediate: This category includes guitars with exceptional craftsmanship, rare woods, and advanced features, catering to discerning players seeking the best possible sound.
What are some popular acoustic guitar brands for intermediate players?
There are many reputable brands that offer excellent intermediate acoustic guitars.
- Yamaha: Known for their quality and affordability, Yamaha offers a wide range of guitars suitable for various skill levels.
- Taylor: Taylor guitars are renowned for their craftsmanship, innovative design, and exceptional sound quality.
- Martin: Martin is a legendary brand with a long history of crafting high-quality instruments.
What is the best way to care for an intermediate acoustic guitar?
Proper care is essential for maintaining the condition and sound quality of your acoustic guitar.
- Regular cleaning: Wipe down the guitar after each use with a soft cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Humidity control: Keep your guitar in a case or humidifier to prevent damage from extreme humidity or dryness.
- Professional maintenance: Schedule regular checkups and adjustments by a qualified luthier to ensure your guitar stays in optimal playing condition.
Where can I find the best deals on intermediate acoustic guitars?
Many online retailers and music stores offer a wide selection of intermediate acoustic guitars at competitive prices.
- Online retailers: Amazon, Sweetwater, and Guitar Center are great online resources for finding deals and comparing prices.
- Local music stores: Visiting a local music store allows you to try out different guitars and get personalized advice from experienced staff.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the right best intermediate acoustic guitar is a significant step in your musical journey. The guitars listed in this review represent a diverse range of styles, tones, and price points, all designed to meet the evolving needs of intermediate players. Whether you’re pursuing fingerstyle, strumming, or a blend of techniques, these instruments offer the quality, features, and playability to elevate your skills and inspire your musical expression.
Ultimately, the best guitar for you will depend on your individual preferences and playing style. We encourage you to explore the detailed reviews, consider your budget, and prioritize features that align with your musical aspirations. With careful consideration, you’ll find the perfect best intermediate acoustic guitar to take your playing to the next level and unlock a world of musical possibilities.