12-String Acoustic BUYER'S GUIDE

#12string. #12stringguitar. #12stringsongs #twelvestringguitar. #vangoa
Which 12-String acoustic guitar is going to give you the most bang for your buck? In this video, I rate and review 5 12-String acoustics that I currently own or have owned in the past few years. I've played these guitars for 100s of hours and I know what each guitar can and can't do.
I'll put the Mitchell 120DS, Ibanez AEG12, Takamine GJ72-CE, Taylor 150e, and the Vangoa VA20 through the ultimate test: How does each sound playing classic 12 string riffs? I rate each guitar from 1 to 10 in the following categories: build quality, sound, playability, looks, value, and then give it an overall score. At the end I'll weigh the pros and cons of each and make a couple of recommendations.
100% FREE TABS are available for any of the songs covered in my videos. Email me at [e-mail] with any tab requests.
00:00 - Intro
00:57 - Mitchell D120S 12E
01:50 - Ibanez AEG12
02:43 - Takamine GJ72CE-NAT
03:32 - Taylor 150e
04:30 - Vangoa VA20CE
05:27 - Pros and Cons of each
07:02 - Top Recommendation
07:43 - Best Value Recommendation
08:18 - Final Thoughts
Vangoa 12- String Guitar Giveaway Contest (3/20/22-4/30/22)
I'm giving away another COMPLETE VANGOA 12-STRING PACKAGE THIS MONTH. TO ENTER:
. details will be announced LIVE on THE GUITAR SHOW, Sat, March 19th at 7:00PM EDT
. Subscribe to the channel
. Make sure that all bell notifications are turned on (i.e. you're notified of all uploads)
That's it. If you have any questions, please shoot me an email at [e-mail]. Good luck!
Links to the New Upgraded Vangoa 12-String Models:
(the US models are Amazon Affiliate links meaning I make a couple of dollars if you purchase a guitar using this link. I made sure all the links are to the least expensive price listed on Amazon)
US:
Sunburst:amzn.to/3C8JnIv
Black Matte: amzn.to/3qtEN5v
Natural: amzn.to/321ba1n
Sapele Brown: amzn.to/3HrmHqW
Black Left Handed: amzn.to/3HjFRyC
Canada:
Black: www.amazon.ca/dp/B07TJHYQFS
Natural: www.amazon.ca/dp/B07YXR31Y3

[@jah8859]

A fair and balanced review. The Takamine did sound the best, but heck the Vangoa was not 1,000,000 miles away...☮💗

[@dh2970]

Mark - great info, thanks for sharing your experience with these 12 strings.

[@michaelirby1747]

Once again you did a great job presenting the information in a fair and balanced way. There is definitely a sound difference among the guitars but when factoring in price the vangoa is hard to beat for someone looking for their first 12 string. Thanks again for sharing your expertise.

[@dr.chriswalsh3789]

Keep up the outstanding content Mark!

[@thepnkflyd]

You gotta pick the one that is going to motivate you to play more!! Will be different for everybody!

[@blakewilliams1293]

Very Fair Assessment. Thanks for the video..

[@jamesreardon6819]

Thx for this comparison, Mark. Helpful to us sitting on the fence. Cheers.

[@tomg8888]

Good info Mark! I did get to try a few 12 strings, went with Taylor.

[@TeshaWheel]

Really appreciate the reviews as I am looking to purchase a great 12 string guitar! Thank you!

[@AndyDion]

Great video Mark! I still need to get a 12 string acoustic one day! I love my Dano electric 12 string. Rock on 🤘 Mark

[@PeteLamont]

I always love a Takamine, especially the jumbo 12s. Great video as always. Thanks for posting!

[@steby123]

I own a Takamine GJ 72-12 SB which I find it to be what I need in my usage acoustically and amplified !!!

[@tracigarcia7808]

Thanks. Always great info.

[@clemlabelle8740]

I REALLY LIKE this video. You should do one of these for all of your guitars. At the end of the day, everybody is going to be a little biased but I feel like you take bias out of it better tahn anyone. Thanks Mark!

[@bobv.375]

I don’t have a 12 string acoustic yet. Wish I had a Vangoa…

[@velmafeldman6955]

I have my second 12 string. My first was a Sigma which i don't have anymore. I now have an Alvarez 5021 12 string. Love it.

[@NDFlyFisher]

Great review Mark. Thanks! I always appreciate your guitar reviews. I have one acoustic 12 string now but it won’t be my last. And my next guitar will be the Eastwood Classic electric 12 string you reviewed awhile back. Pretty sure I’ll be getting at least one more acoustic 12 string too.

[@rwhit104]

That was a great explanation of the 12 strings you've had experience with. I also think you always wanting people to find their personal fit. You don't approach videos with the mine or you're wrong vibe. I really appreciate that.

[@8MinuteAxe]

I don't like talking out of my ass. I can only form an opinion on the things I know and even then, not necessarily a good one. :)

[@colemowry8681]

Good stuff. Thanks my friend

[@lynnglidewell7367]

Vangoa sounds good to my ear or at least good enough to enjoy. Good marks on playability as well. I don't like spending lots of money on anything, including Guitars. Sold!

[@ada2837]

Thanks for the recommendation, I happened to be looking for a 12 string guitar and the Vangoa was perfect for me.😀

[@AdamBurseMusic]

Great video Mark and great for anyone looking for a great value 12 string 😀🤘🎵🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@theotherside001]

Thank you, very informational.

[@Charles53412]

Finally after being block from commenting for 12hrs., I can finally do so again ! The review was great Mark ! Your opinion is always straight forward and honest. Thank for keeping it Real !

[@topkat48]

Good review, Mark. I hope in the future you will have the chance to play and review some different 12 string guitars other than the five that you reviewed today. I realize it may be difficult to review all of the 12 string makers but who knows what we will see moving forward.

[@kevbob]

Drooling for that Takamine. I love the look of big jumbos and that one is gorgeous. (They fit me fine.)

[@brettjensen994]

Thanks for your thoughts on those guitars you have some real time with. Great riffs! BTW, I enjoy my Vangoa, they really are a good value

[@HahnJames]

Great review. It was very concise. I have a Takamine GD30CE. It has a split bridge. I didn't notice if yours did, too. It was hard to tell from the pic. I don't know if having a split bridge makes a big difference or not. Long ago, I had a 1982 Yamaha L series 12 string. It was a great guitar. I thought the strings were perfectly spaced whereas, I think my Takamine's strings are a little close to each other. I find it easier to play if I hold it more like a classical player would with the nut at the level of about the bottom of my ear. I know a guy from Japan (through doing Judo) who tells me that the e at the end of Takamine should be pronounced like the a in cake.

[@olivier5866]

Vangoa & Mitchell are my favorites, 60’s & 70’s memories 🤍

[@jeffpjz3506]

Good job, Mark, I bought a Vangoa 6 string guitar before, that's amazing. I would love to try their 12 string.

[@cantodojason]

Great, Mark!! Thanks!!

[@alkitzman9179]

Hey Mark that was a very good video especially for someone who doesn't own a 12 string Acoustic yet . I am with you on the Takamine as the most beautiful of all you rated. Yes a jumbo is a bit tougher to play . I have a Gretsch G-5022CWFE Jumbo which is the size of the Takamine.( I am holding it on the Picture you see ) I am 6'3 so a larger Guitar is alright for me. I do agree the hand angles are a bit tricky on a Jumbo. I also Agree that a Vangoa is a great bargain for someone who wants to try out a 12 string for not a lot of cash . You did a excellent job in explaining all of these Guitars

[@lollipophead5539]

I really enjoyed this video. Great format and where else can you get five reasonably thorough reviews in less than 10 minutes?

[@ShiningHourPop]

Very interesting comparison. Thanks

[@larryjurkovskis4612]

Ventura V-697 was a beautiful sounding guitar, after many years of playing it, It was stolen from me, Miss It So much, I haven't been able to find anything that sounds as good, I've felt musicly crippled ever since, was my Best Friend for 34 years.😢

[@8MinuteAxe]

Hey Larry. Could the guitar just be on vacation? I'm trying to make you smile, not rub it in. That sucks. Maybe it's time to treat yourself to a new one that you've always wanted. I appreciate you checking out the video. Please take care and be well. Mark

[@grievouserror]

Thanks, Mark, for a worthwhile comparison. I wound up listening to most of it, as opposed to watching, and found the Vangoa really stood out among the budget-friendly models. Particularly versus the Ibanez; NO comparison.

[@8MinuteAxe]

I hate to dump on Ibanez but I really had to sweeten the sound in post to get anything usable. I hate to say that Vangoa is just as good as all the rest of the cheap 12 strings and it's better made, cheaper, and has better customer service, but that's really what it comes down to.

[@mentalcog2187]

As per usual,.. a Taylor is going to stand out for sound and playability. Never played a Taylor 12 but it would be lovely. I was very surprised by the sound of the Vangoa, especially when compared to the Ibanez! The Ibanez did not sound very good compared to any of the guitars! Loved your approach the reviewing in such a manner. Very straight forward as though you're genuinely were helping us shop for a 12 string. No sales pitch and very candid. Refreshing! Thanks for that.

[@randycompton5230]

That Takamine really is pretty. The Vangoa is a good value.

[@sandrataylor51]

This is the only one of your shows I didn't manage to watch live for ages Mark, so I have just watched it now. Some nice comparisons there but you threw me with the photo of the Takamine as it wasa only a 6 string one but I was pleased to see that you did actually play the 12 string model 😎

[@100Aces]

Thanks Mark!!

[@3cardmonty602]

The vangoa sounds like a great buy. I’d love to have one.

[@larryswanson8443]

I am looking for the 12 string that would be best for me. You have given me much to think about. Thank you

[@westfield90]

That 30 seconds of Hotel California just put me in the market for a 12 string. Also love your Tshirt 👍

[@savagebiker1879]

Wait how did he play HC without Don Henley copyright blocking him into the shadow realm!?

[@womplestilskin]

I'm subbed with notifications on

[@stankruger6823]

Great video

[@charliewerchan7252]

I def have my sights set on the Taylor 150e, I test played at GC and after picking up about 7 or 8 other guitars, picked the Taylor up between other guitars. Beautiful sound and extremely playable. Currently have a Guild 12 , sounds beautiful, but def a finger workout for the fret hand. Again, def gunning for the Taylor.

[@malcolmbrewer]

Enjoyed this Axe... I LOVE jumbo guitars... its the big sound that I like

[@malcolmbrewer]

Hi Axe, the scammer is still operating about your Give-away....

[@9jmorrison]

Love your rating

[@kellybupp3436]

Outstanding review . Please review the Yamaha FG 8012 . I have one and would love your opinion.

[@jeffryarchambeau5441]

Now you've got me looking for my 12-string fix all over KZbin. I just listened to Roy Clark "Ghost Riders in the Sky" smoking hot in Branson 1990s

[@markbrown7103]

I have a D’Angelo 12 string guitar tea burst I paid just about $600 for it. That didn’t include the cakes. It’s a beautiful guitar I like 12 strings they sound so good and so warm and so beautiful love your video. Have a great day.😄🎸👍

[@gawinvanwaesberghe847]

Really appreciated the tips and tricks when buying a 12 string you hide in your video's. After #9 stil looking for more tips 😀

[@zdunne]

I have had my eye on a 12 string that is $299 (I think it is either a Taylor or a Takamine)at one the local shops I visit every week. I also keep an eye out for things on the used market. I haven’t bought it yet due to some of my other living expenses so far.

[@burtonwitaschek6431]

Great reviews. When I win the loto, I’ll try the Taylor. I keep holding out hopes for a Vangoa. One thing that is concerning about the Vangoa is there great customer service. Kinda says their customer service is needed frequently. What is the most common issue with the Vangoa? Doesn’t matter… sounds great and as long as it’s an easy player, I’ll take it! lol

[@markgustafson6361]

Mark, you need to add the Breedlove ECO Pursuit S Concert 12-string to your list. It sounds great and is easy to play. The price is good also.

[@johnanttila5847]

Thank you 😊

[@almfoto]

I would like to hear the same song on all 5 guitars, something that would allow me to hear the real difference comparitively. Dyer maker is a great choice!

[@chrishedlund3196]

Had a Mitchell and it was so good.

[@rossgill7462]

Thank you for this Mark. I've been looking for a 12 string ever since I traded away my Seagull Coastline 12 a few years ago which I still regret doing. I've tried the Taylor and found it quite comfortable to play but I lean more to shorter scale 12 strings. I rather like the Seagull S-12 and the Art and Lutherie Legacy 12 for that reason along with their concert-sized bodies which are more comfortable for someone with right shoulder issues. Both are under $1000 Canadian ($750 USD ?) My ideal, though, would be a Gibson 12 in sunburst like the one Gordon Lightfoot played but that isn't going to happen anytime soon.

[@codyluka8355]

Yes, that Gibson that Gordon Lightfoot plays is very nice. Unlike me, he makes a living playing it, lol! If I were to upgrade from my Takamine, Laravee makes a very nice 12 string. I tried one out just before the pandemic and loved it. I almost pulled the trigger for it, but I couldn't justify trading my Takamine, a guitar that I really like, for the Larrave. I can completely understand your regret when you traded your Seagull. I think I'd feel the same way.

[@bobhughes9982]

Takamine is the one I would get would if I didn't already have a Vangoa. A friend my had one and I loved it. But, the vangoa, plays very well and well enough for me. .Also, Love my Harley Benton 12 string electric, same one you play, and It plays loud enough, without my amp..so I can just pick it up and play. I'am very happy with these two guitars that you reviewed, and would not have them if not for your review, If you don't have a 12 string this video gives you a direction in what to look for, what you can afford, and what you need. Thank You

[@chillhowie5969]

Thanks Mark. I thought the Vangoa sounded great for the money. Keep the videos coming.

[@freesk8]

Thanks! :)

[@terrybi]

I have had 12 string guitars for many years. I've had a few 6 strings but didn't like them so I sold them after maybe a few months of having them. I presently own two 12 string guitars, a 2004 Songbird model 212 made in Cranberry Pen, and I own a 2019 Taylor 150e. I do not own any 6 string guitars at all because my 12 strings have me spoiled to the point that I can't find a 6 string I really like, well, that's what my wife says anyway. great reviews BTW!

[@codyluka8355]

Eight years ago I bought my first 12 string guitar, a Takamine GD30CE-12NAT, and I couldn't agree more with your review. They are very well built guitars and they sound amazing. Even though the G-Series are built in China, they are constructed to the high quality standards that Takamine is famous for. This guitar is an electroacoustic and a tuner is included, which is very handy to have on a 12 string. The electronics are high quality and easy to use. It truly is the best bang for your buck when compared to the more expensive Martin and Taylor instruments. Personally I would stick to the dreadnought size over the jumbo, but the choice is yours. You can't go wrong with a Takamine.

[@rwr2643]

Breedlove makes great 12 string guitars , I owned the taylor 150 for a while, the breedlove blew it out of the water and for less money ,Thanks for the good review

[@8MinuteAxe]

Hey brother. I currently have 2 Breedlove guitars. I play traditional chat Atkins style finger style and I reach for the Breedlove most of the time for that. I think the Taylor 150 is a fantastic guitar. To me, it please better than the 254 and 352 or 354, although the 354 does sound a little better. I'm biased towards Taylor. I currently own a custom Koa GS Mini Plus, a 322, a 410, and the 150. I currently own 13 12-string guitars and without a doubt my favorite is the Reverend Airwave 12. I'm getting a Schecter 12 next week and I just picked up a 74 Glen Campbell Signature Ovation 12 in mint condition. I'm thinking of getting rid of the lot and getting a 754, but people that follow the channel enjoy seeing different guitars. Regarding Ovation, I got it for a third of its price. I'm not a big ovation fan. I toured for several years using a custom legend. I hated the thing but it was durable and ALWAYS cut through the mix whenever we played venues with the poor sound system, which was pretty often. I was given 8 new guitars the other day. Guitar Heaven. I just finished shooting a video about it. I'll upload it on Saturday or Sunday. Thanks so much for checking out the video. I sincerely appreciate your time and kind words. Enjoy the rest of your week. Take care and be well. Mark

[@johnlaccohee-joslin4477]

I have yet to hear a twelve string with a laminate top that pleased me, i fact i have not heard a really reasonable sounding laminate top in any form, i think that its the top that gives a guitar its tone. The taylor is about one of the nicest sounding of all. I did have a remarkable red cedar top that was very well braced and that really had depth to it, but i forget who it was made by.

[@ayerxiao936]

Great video Mark！ I thought the Vangoa sounded great for the money.

[@MoviesNStuff]

I like takamine, but I'm biased

[@yellowcat1310]

nice that you played some Rush with that Taylor.

[@TheVitalEdge]

#7. Valuable comparative information on the 12 string guitars. I too, love my Taylor guitar (its a 6 string) I really like the Mackensie & Marr's 12 string. I'm looking for a 12 cutaway. Any recommendations, Mark? (Thanks for your time and effort making this video. It makes buying a 12 guitar easier on the rest of us!)

[@snuffyballparks6501]

I've had my 1979 Guild F212XL for near 40 years. Stunning power and chime. It is a handful to play, but just wondaful tone. No top out with aggressive strumming. I prefer playing arpeggio style when possible on my 12.

[@stevekirkby6570]

Love the Taylor, but my, the Vangoa seems like a true bargain for the occasional user (i.e. me!) Thanks for an informative vid mate.

[@howdot2286]

I am fortunate enough to own a 1966 Harmony 12 string I bought in 1967. Never give it up

[@dbc5048]

Any view on the Ovation/Adamas 12 string offers. The Adamas range I love!

[@grandprixdriver]

I have an Ovation 12 string Elite 2758AX. It has an awesome sound.Especially, when plugged in. I picked it used at a good price. I play mostly 6 string and electric. But always wanted a 12string. Always had my eye on the 2758 model. So, when it finally came around, I had to get it. And the price was right. It retails for about $1800 I believe. I've only had it for a few months, so I'm still learning and figuring it out.But I love it. Just have to get used pushing down a little harder. Especially, after playing electric.

[@jeffcollins1172]

I’ve had a Seagull S12, the Vangoa, but ended up with a Martin D28-12. Blows all 12 strings away. Yes it probably cost more but I bought mine on the used market for $1700. I use it in my band to play country songs; it’s l ways up for the task and is very pleasant to the ear, I just can’t put it down some days. It’s in my guitar arsenal to stay. I now have the Martin D28 6 string and 12 string, all I’ll ever need! You’ll go through life buying and selling guitars; losing money on each. I love playing guitar, it’s a big part of my life, why not get the best.

[@adrianroberts6983]

Hi Mark. Key thoughts are: How dreadful does the Ibanez sound? And the Mitchell isn't much better for the price point. The Takamine sounds amazing, but maybe not much fun to play. The Taylor is the one to go for if you've got the money, but if like me you haven't, then the Vangoa is brilliant. I have the Vangoa and love it.

[@SamiKankaristo]

Over here in Finland, the Takamine is going for 499 €, while the Taylor is 999 €, so I'm going for the Takamine, sounds like an amazing deal. I was a bit worried about the playability, since a couple of videos talked about it, but looks like the nut width is the same on both, and I'm not really worried about the jumbo size, since I already have a 6-string jumbo (which I would assume to be a similar size, although it's a different manufacturer). Hopefully the action isn't too high, but another video mentioned that there are shims under the bridge pieces (from the factory), so could just take those out. Thanks for an honest review, feels like you didn't pull any punches.

[@anthonymoore3570]

It's definitely interesting to listen to this video rather than watch. It helps remove the mindset that more expensive = better when you're just judging on tone.

[@robertmorrison8195]

Thanks for the comparison, Mark. Very informative. Do you have any experience with the Ovation Balladeer 6751?

[@JohnstownJohnny]

Here I am! 🤠 How's it going? JJ

[@paulquinn344]

I bought an Ovation-style 12-string under the brand Cozart. I have had it for a year and am pleasantly surprised by the quality, sound, and playability. I would love to see your take on it. It is about the same price range as the Vangoa

[@markhill9275]

i think the Harley Benton is best value, Crikey you even get a second neck with it! That's value!

[@brucejohnson8434]

I'd love to get your thoughts on Breedlove 12 strings. Hope you get a chance to play them

[@josephmilsark123]

Great video Mark. Here are the 12 string guitars that I have. Takamine & Co. F-385 12 NAT. I made it acoustic electric by putting in a sound hole pickup Takamine GD30CE-12 BLK.It’s a great guitar to play. The sound really rings out. I went with Takamine because that brand is being endorsed by The Eagles and also because my dad has a Takamine EG540C NAT. For my dad’s 64th birthday, I upgraded his guitar a little bit. Thanks to eBay, I got him a new preamp and installed it myself. The beauty of the new preamp is that it has a built in digital tuner. I kept his original endpin jack and piezo pickup stock. I was able to just plug those in and with just a little bit of drilling, I screwed in the new preamp and it secured right in. I even gave him an extra strap button and a strap so he can play standing up since his endpin jack doubles as a strap button.

[@guitardude4700]

I had that takamine and I kept trying to work with it to make it sound better and I ended up selling it. I did play the Taylor 12 string at a guitar center and that is the nicest neck I’ve ever played on a 12 string.

[@FarrellMcGovern]

I must say, I am very tempted by the Taylor. I haven't played one of their 12-strings but a while back during a song circle, I got a chance to play a Taylor 6-string acoustic, and, well, it was fantastic to play. I've played a number of 6-string guitars, including some high end Martins, but that Taylor was very very nice. My current 6-string is a shallow body Ovationa Applause, and it is a decent guitar. I had originally gotten it because it is the type of instrument that will travel well, and I am hoping to get out and do some camping in my small trailer, and I don't have a problem with bringing the Ovation with me, while I would be concerned with a higher end instrument like a Taylor.

[@moisesperez4605]

I agree with you my friend, I have a Taylor 814CE, and a 524CE, and the action is great and their play ability is very good, is it possible you can tell me, because I am blind I want to know the trailer and this guitar review, what Taylor is it? I like the fact that he said that the strings or nice and spaced.

[@FarrellMcGovern]

@@moisesperez4605 The Taylor I played was a couple of years ago, before the plague, and I can't remember the number, but I do remember how well it played! My trailer is a 13 foot fiberglass camper made by UHaul, known as the CT 13.

[@moisesperez4605]

Hi totally agree but when should not travel with a high and Guitar, I have two Taylor guitars, the first one is an 814, Rosewood back inside Spruce top, the second one is that 524 But I agree the Taylor guitars are very easy to play, well built. mahogany back inside, their play ability is awesome, and I would not take a high and Guitar as well out there traveling with it, I’m going to try to find something similar to that Taylor Guitar a lower price range. As far as a travel Guitar

[@johndufford4986]

Have you ever looked at Seagulls? My wife bought me a used one for Christmas. It’s got some cosmetic damage, but sounds great and is pretty comfortable to play.

[@yellowcat1310]

glad to know where the Ibanez ranked. i've been considering one. not a 12 string but still, their low end i'll just avoid and be checking out Vangoa since a Takamine or Taylor is not in my price range. how about a Martin? i guess you probably have a vid with one. i'll look. so does Vangoa have a full line of guitars?

[@markharwood7573]

I play a high end Taylor but that Vangoa sounds fine to me for sessions and general fun. After my experience with other brands, though, I wonder how long it will last. If it's built to last it's a steal at the price.

[@kramnosboj3891]

Mark, what about the "Hollows" 12 strings. Guild, Gretsch, etc Would love to hear your opinion. Thanks and enjoy your reviews.

[@stephensparks3621]

Had a Mitchell Mahogany 12, sounded nice but was not friendly to my left hand ( Arthur syndrome). Replaced it with a Seagull 12 grand auditorium which is more comfortable and has great sound and volume. Try one, they like to be played.

[@user-uu1wc6yz5z]

When I heard the Vangoa ..... I thought ..... wow.... good sound for basically no money . I don't prefer the aesthetics of that one in the vid but really for that price point .... 😳

[@jackliu3634]

Vangoa guitar is best value for begiiner. very recommended

[@arinzhang1634]

Yes, I bought it too, vangoa's service and quality are very good!

[@tonycollins9727]

I have a wonderful Fender 12 string, around 40 years old. Of the ones featured here, the Taylor is attractive, but I do wonder how it would fare with the string tension from 12 strings. I have two Taylor 6 strings, both have needed a neck reset. While they are great to play, they are somewhat fragile.

[@don6538]

Hey Mark, I know you did the review on guitars you have owned and played. I have Guild and Taylor 12 strings, and they are great. Guild F-1512 and Taylor 355. They are both Jumbo shaped but are very easy to play, especially seated. The Guild is still being made. Play on.

[@8MinuteAxe]

Hey Don. I'm always reluctant to do reviews of stuff that I don't know well. I've heard nothing but good things about the 1512 and I've played the 355. Let's face it. If you're OK with a jumbo the sound of a jumbo 12 string that's well built is really tough to beat. My Takamine sounds incredible. I've never had a problem being 5 7. As a matter of fact, the world is built better for shorter people...except when it comes to jumbo guitars. Lol. They are tough for me to play. I appreciate the feedback. Hopefully viewers interested in those guitars will sew your comment. I really appreciate you taking the time to check out the video and comment. Have a great week and take care. Mark

[@don6538]

Hey Mark, I basically love a Jumbo shaped guitar, as I find they have great natural balance. And all those curves can make for some extended action with the sound waves bouncing around in odd directions. I'm a little over 5'8" with wide shoulders which helps. My favorite six string is an X-braced rosewood Taylor 818 Grand Orchestra. It's a Jumbo with a wider waist, and has a monster sound if you want it, but also handles gentle stuff very nicely. I fingerpick everything using my nails as picks. Be well. Don

[@markstacey2906]

I think I might dip my toe in the water with the Vangoa it seems to be remarkable value for money and if I can't get on with it what have I lost...Thanks for sharing.....

[@gregorycarpenter]

Could you review the Norman B50 12 string - all solid wood? It's made in Quebec, Canada.

[@8MinuteAxe]

Hey Gregory thanks for the tip. I'm gonna see if I can locate it.I appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment. Take care and have a great weekend. Mark

[@charlesdang2557]

Thanks for the comparison, Mark. What higher end Taylor 12 string would you want to own? I am sure you have borrowed or play tested some. Would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks again, brother!

[@ednunes4000]

I like the Taylor, but it's not a low cost guitar. Please do a comparison of the entry level Martin, Seagull, Guild, Alvarez, Epiphone