Our Favorite Acoustic Guitars from $200 to $1000 | Updated for 2024

[@EzzyR561]

You’re a good dude copper. Never would’ve thought people would show negative comments towards you.

[@shirlmccullough1993]

Who’s being negative to “da man”!!! That’s ugly!

[@AARDFD]

Welcome to the internet- idiot trolls abound. Best to ignore them…

[@ronmoore1219]

Haters are gonna hate. I don’t care how you dress or wear your hair- or have no hair, like Chris and me. I’m interested in your talent, experience, knowledge and your humanity. I think the vast majority of us out here feel that way, as well. This was a great presentation on first, or utility(?) guitars. I started on an A10e, and it’s the one I take off the stand when I hear a song I think I can figure out. I bought it after watching a video Chris did on it. So you guys are touching a lot of people out here.

[@johnwashburn3793]

I've got nothing but love for y'all! You typically show value pieces around the holidays. Yesterday we were high in the custerdome. Today we are back in the lobby.

[@simonG-S]

You're awesome Cooper, keep going that way, no matter what they say.

[@bluelakesail]

This is the perfect video for where I am in my search. Truly appreciate all the thought you put into it. As an adult beginner I have become consumed with listening to musician interviews, watching and reading guitar recommendations, and researching lessons. Thank you.

[@alexanderbreeding1830]

Best of luck on your journey. I would encourage you to not simply take anyone's word for what guitar to buy, though it is a great starting point, IMO. You have to find the guitar that speaks to you, that you enjoy playing for not only the fit but the feel as well as does the instrument help or hurt your playing ability. Most importantly, again IMO, is that you find the right sound, and that's something that's going to be different for everyone. What's' the old saying? I'm not sure what it is, but I know it when I see it. You'll know the right one when you've picked it up, played it, loved the sound and you just can't put it down. Otherwise it's too much like work . . .

[@Charly-ul9qe]

I have a Martin 000-10 Jr and it's been one of the best purchases I've ever made in my life. I love it

[@chanwahmok9832]

Bought the same model as well... Best value for the money... All solid and a slightly smaller body for bedroom playing

[@chanwahmok9832]

The set up was near perfect! Change out the bridge pins to snakewood pins and replace the strings with D'Addario XS Phosphorus Bronze light stings...

[@chanwahmok9832]

Over a year or so light playing, the tone has matured a bit... Mellow and rings evenly across all 6 strings

[@MikeMaselli-p6y]

Damn...this is a site about guitars people. It offers great vids. Chill. Great job Cooper & Chris! Love hearing about gear in budget and on my wish list. Hang in there man!

[@briankotak403]

Your videos are always so informative and great. You and Chris do a fabulous job. Keep up the great content

[@snoudoubts1745]

I've been binge watching this channel and not once thought a video was not well-made or not informative. Really chill dudes talking about guitar and playing 'em. What's not to love?

[@chokinzoku]

Ditto! Super chill guys and Cooper is hella down to earth kind of dude I'd hang with for sure! So many monster egos with gifted players, and he sure got most of them beat on attitude alone.

[@ianson3]

Outstanding video. New record in the "amount of information per minute" category.

[@tao265]

Thank you for mentioned the Guild OM120. I had not considered this guitar but it’s now at top of my list!

[@leemangilley3891]

Guild is always a good choice, I have a d 140 and it's awesome. I've played several of the lower end guilds and every one of them punch way above there weight class

[@frankwren8215]

Just wanted to say I really appreciate a presenter who is calm and doesn't shout at me. Good vibes on these videos.

[@timelliott6036]

Thank you for your considered opinion and suggestions. I appreciate it!

[@Wobbz9413]

Keep on being you Cooper. You are a great reviewer, and an absolutely fantastic performer. Im a fan and when I had hair, it was long like yours. No, seriously, it was!!

[@pablor6305]

Finally lucked into taylor academy 12e by accident after 25 years and now I'm finally rapidly improving. Great recommendation

[@JohnCaughell]

Been playing electric 20 years now. The academy was my first acoustic, bought it almost 8 years ago and my favorite and most used. Best guitar purchase.

[@jasoncunningham7787]

F all the haters dude!!!!! You're the man.... thanks for what you do!

[@barthrvatin8297]

+1 on the Martin DJr Streetmaster 🤘🏻🤘🏻 it gets played as often as my 000-18. Undeniably Martin DNA and an easy grab and go.

[@bian8274]

I absolutely love your content and your talent. If I ever get the chance to visit Texas, I will certainly pass by your shop. Keep up the amazing work!

[@ricardobelcredi2475]

You are a good person Cooper and great great musician, keep going with your posts, they are awesome. Greeting from a a 68 old dude that live in Chile

[@BlaisPianoGuitars]

Your show is one of the best, I watch often.

[@lowellcalavera6045]

Thanks, Cooper. Solid reviews, as always. I've had my Guild OM-120 for about 6 years, and it's amazing.

[@marathon1951]

Nice, Finally found a guy who gave me the info I've been looking for without that carnival atmosphere... I'm old, beginner, didn't listen to my dad many years ago when he wanted to teach me guitar. He was a guitar player, singer, dancer, had a lady partner in the clubs in the 30's. Will look at the Fender and Yamaha.

[@joekean8555]

Decided on academy 12 e viewed on this channel. Love it. I am 70 and have a lot of fun learning. My best to all.

[@Jamzocd]

I just bought a Taylor 212ce that has a solid Sitka top and layered Rosewood back and sides that is beautiful and the sound is balanced and outstanding. I got it on a summer special with $230 off of the $999 they retail for.

[@mewichigo3410]

Your video comparing the Yamaha FS800 with the Fender CC60S convinced me to get the FS800 a few days ago and I LOVE IT! What an awesome guitar for such a cheap price! I previously had an Ovation but found it very difficult to play and this one is sooooo much easier & sounds just as good or better. So thank you very much for showcasing great cheap instruments and keep making great content :D

[@ntserver1]

Thank you. As a non-musician but an audiophile I found this both informative and interesting. I have a niece who may like a guitar soon - this has certainly broadened my horizons.

[@The_Damninal]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. It is appreciated.

[@davidaubuchon7309]

Enjoy your videos. Thanks for posting!

[@NiklasHolmHansen]

Don't let the haters get to you Coop. Both you and Chris are excellent content creators and no, you don't feature too much Taylor on the channel. Keep on doing just what you do!

[@mcoelho8659]

I really hope you read this, because I want to say you are really, really amazing!!! You transmit to me much more truth being a guy that is not trying to call the attention, and when you play, it's always a huge pleasure to hear! I'm from Brazil, and the first guitar I've bought was in the USA. It was an Yamaha FSX700SC (SB). Fantastic! The second was a Martin Road Series Special, that came with a hard case. I can't be happier! The Martin has an incredible chocolat smell and It makes the play time much more tasty! So I'm happy to see that I chose well, considering the opinion of someone I admire, you! Big thanks!!!

[@dalecoffing8655]

Thanks for this vid! I have a Martin 10E great guitar. Play it in church, outdoor gig, and even in the pit for musicals. This was my wife's pick over several other guitars. I would also recommend it and I was never a fan of Martin. Great working musicians guitar. Again thanks for listening to us.

[@mgn2949]

Nice review, look forward to your picks for nylon strings in the lower/beginner price range, thanks, enjoyed it.

[@Beristain25]

Got my Taylor GS mini about a month ago thanks to you guys. Absolutely been loving it

[@mrodriguez4879]

So did I! It’s awesome!

[@drewheyman7173]

It’s truly awesome. I’ve had mine a couple of months now

[@brianodonnchadha4477]

Hugely informative. Exactly what i needed. Many thanks

[@petedogg369]

Nothing beats a good used Tacoma for under $1000 USA made and all real wood. Great construction and sound great.

[@jetwoman10001]

i am glad you featured the academy 12. i have it with electronics. I like it more than any GS mini i have ever had. It sounds great, is so comfortable, and I find the fretboard easier than a GS mini. I am 74, my fingers are somewhat stiff, and i’m a small woman - only 5’0”. Not a beginner. By the way I love your videos .

[@scoggers1628]

+1 for the Martin Dreadnought Jr. Very playable and doesn't sound too thin like other short scale acoustics. They also have a 1 3/4" nut which makes them more suitable for finger picking than other comparable guitars.

[@haroldclark1787]

I want to be Cooper when I grow up. He is beyond groovy!

[@bighes100]

I was one saying why all expensive guitars lately, it's nice to see a video that shows there's still awesome choices of guitars available for under $1000 which the majority can enjoy. There's Alvarez also 👍

[@jeffberdin]

Was also thinking Alvarez!

[@kenhoward3512]

This is a useful comparison of guitars, in a specific price range, favored by a modest guy whose honesty and capability as a player shine through, nothing like the typical "sales guys" I've dealt with at music stores. This has helped me narrow my choices for my next acoustic guitar.

[@toddmcmakin]

Great video. Thanks for pulling that together. I realize time is limited but i would love to have seen Eastman and the IBG Epiphone Hummingbird listed here.

[@bouchaiblbriki3984]

Hi Coopper. You have earned my respect since the first time I saw you playing the first demo on AMC. Everytime I come to this channel, I do it to learn what to look for in a guitar. I know what haters sound like ... look like ... I have always had to deal with some bully in some place. They have one thing in common. Most of them are losers who feel within their inner guts that they are sure unable to do what you can do or be what you are. I can't thank you enough for every piece of advice you provide. I came across your channel in 2019 and thanks to Chris's advice, I was able to know what is wrong with my guitar and get a better one. I can only affoard budjet but decent/playable guitars but I look forward to every video you put out there just to enjoy seeing guys play high end guitars.

[@codycouch]

Yamaha AC3R is in the conversation and can easily be purchased new for $900 or below. Sounds as good as any Taylor I’ve owned including my 814CE and 714CE.

[@Patriot1777]

Martin all the way 😊, I own the Mexican one and it's wonderful.

[@שרוןמזרחי-ז1ג]

I really like your reviews very professional with a lot of patience thank you very much.

[@CoveredandCommitted]

Thanks for putting this together. Very, very helpful for a beginner like myself.

[@WolfCat5102]

Excellent video, Cooper. You seem like a great guy and definitely are a world class player.

[@ThomasPayne-v1q]

Love your channel and your videos. Thanks for great knowledge.

[@rob1261a]

They don’t talk about or sell Eastman. Eastman has all Solid Wood guitars starting at 600. Also the Yamaha Red Label under 1k - FS3 /FG3.

[@redlycan23]

Geeeez I wish I could play like you do I have a looong ways to go. Great reviews man and Merry Christmas!

[@glynnp42]

Excellent review Cooper. First time I've come across your channel. Very thorough, great work. So sorry that you are hearing BS about your appearance or speach, you deserve better. Don't let asshats get you down! Now that I've found your site, looking forward to more reviews! Thanks!

[@tick_magnetedschaper5611]

I am looking for a travel guitar to take along to the Arizona Desert or the Gulf Coast. I really appreciate you doing this show. Thanks!

[@Wobbz9413]

Seriously, try the Yammie CSF3M. All solid woods, beautiful sound and finish under $1000...

[@markbeavers101]

Look no further than the Taylor mini. It qualifies as a great travel guitar and so much more I have 2 and love them both

[@rodneysnextchapter615]

I got an all laminant mini martin so it won't ruin or mess up the tone in humidity.

[@andybrown141]

I have no idea why anyone would say negative things about you. I have always valued your down to earth , no nonsense guitar advice and playing . People are just mean because of their own insecurities . Very sad. I still value what you bring !

[@melodyrose5365]

i actually found alamo music bcause i was looking for the right taylor for me, (which i found thanks to you), and i’m basically only here to watch your taylor guitar videos. so for me, i’m super happy with all the taylor videos you make 😇 but you’re so good, that i end up watching your videos even when i have no real interest in the guitar 😂😂

[@markharwood7573]

Great video, Cooper. You make that Martin sound really good to.

[@johnwashburn3793]

I agree with the all solid wood, even on a "starter" guitar. The two Martins are guitars I have considered but went different (more expensive) direction.

[@jimross9429]

I have a Taylor 114-CE that I got back in 2016 and it’s been a great guitar. I played the 114, 214 and 314 Taylor’s when I picked mine up. They were all nice guitars but to my ear this particular 114 sounded and played the best of the bunch. Later on I picked up a 214 CE-DLX but I hardly ever played it because I still preferred the 114 so the 214 was sold.

[@karenm6076]

I think your hair is lovely - Paul Davis had long hair and a beard and he was a fantastic singer/guitarist! Don't change for anyone! Just be YOU ❤‍🩹

[@sidoughty428]

Excellent, thank you Cooper, great channel for those who love guitars.

[@flyonwall360]

Excellent video. My girlfriend's oldest son is looking to learn how to play guitar and is falling for all the gimmicks and bling. He has cerebral palsy and has limited use of his right arm and hand. He is in his mid-30s but has the mind of a teenager. Myself, I started playing at age 11 in 1976, and I've been trying to steer him in the right direction. This video will be a big help. As for the GS- mini versus the Martin Jr, I have the Martin 000CJr-10e. I had a bad experience with soft Martin frets and have a DRS1 that sits in a case because the frets are that bad. However, I decided to give Martin another chance and went with the OOOCJr-10e. I chose Martin because the Jr is all solid wood and has a cutaway. If I had to do it again, I would probably go with the GS-mini because the playability is incredible. My biggest disappointment, however, is the gig bag. I loath gig bags. Call me old school, but when I go to a gig, the last thing I want is my acoustic getting crushed in my KIA. I will never buy another guitar without a proper case.

[@pppowder]

I appreciate the video man. i been trying to do some research and this helped me

[@AbComp870]

You’re one heck of a player

[@abeellis4470]

Cooper, I always love your videos. I didn’t read the comments, and I know you can’t cover everything, but I highly recommend Alvarez Masterworks Series guitars to those who want an all solid wood guitar under $1000.

[@rebekaharmstrong4510]

As well informed professionals I enjoy watching you & Chris. I am most grateful for all you do to inform all of us Guitar enthusiasts so we can be good stewards & make wise choices. I have a Martin Backpacker, but my Bucket List, Dream come true is my Taylor GS Mini Guitar, Mahogany with an epic Taylor made Gig Bag. I bless you all in the holy name of JESUS.

[@markbeavers101]

I've got 2 mini mahoganies. What more needs to be said. Put some Martin Retri Monel strings on them. They are the perfect string for a mahogany guitar.

[@markwhite4433]

Pay no mind to the " haters" you and Chris are great and I was really impressed that you answered the phone when I called the store lookifor the Martin Road Series... Great reviews and great demos... * Willie Nelson made braids cool a long time ago 😎🎸🎶💙

[@markwhite4433]

...and for the record, I love my Martin SC 10E Road Seies 🎸💙

[@JohnCaughell]

I've had my taylor academy 12e for almost 8 years now and it's still my favorite.

[@anthonyb2334]

Cooper, I appreciate your video. Very good information on these guitars. I’m not a beginner and have tried many guitars over my 50 year musical journey. I think Yamaha and Guild are great guitars for beginners. I have owned 4 GS mini and agree they are great small guitars. Easy to play, GREAT portability and GREAT out of the box. I keep selling mine because they just don’t do it for me. I like the Academy series better, or the Martin Juniors, but that’s me. I prefer 00, 000 , OM, or Concert shapes. But again that’s me and each of the guitars previewed fits the bill at You are spot on when you mention the Inspired by Gibson models. Great value under $1000. I own the Epiphone J45 and it’s a really nice guitar. And having owned the Martin 00010, that was an excellent choice to demo. I think you have put out a very good informative video. Keep up the good work. Thank you

[@kerricorser4562]

Hi Cooper! I just bought the Guild D1212 all mahagony 12 string. Its so beautiful, sound goes from super soft to big and deep! Its amazing! Its very easy to play and on the hands too, I am a beginner (again). I have a Takamine Jumbo 12, that's harder to play... but they have very distinctive voices. I wish I had 4 arms so i could play them at the same time ❤ Lol I told myself to only choose one. Nah...😂😅😊 The jumbo just rings clear with its spruce top and maple back and sides, its worth the extra effort it will take to play. The all mahagony is super full and warm, yet it resonates. You guys mention how mahagony is more contained, but this Guild is super rich. The sound kind of gets me high...really. Its like puppy love ❤. I cant stop strumming them. Guild is very well made. Impressive. So if um...some schmuck was saying hateful crap about you, just fuck em, really. Wear braids babe. You could wear a fricking potato on your head, you'd still be the golden haired King of Guitars. I got a brick in my grandma purse for those haters. Just sayin. I love watching you and Chris. This is good stuff. I wanna play guitar like you guys!

[@tkong2031]

I took your advice Cooper and bought the Yamaha FSX-800C tried to get it at Alamo because I live in San Antonio but felt pushed into a Guild Guitar at the down town store. So I bought it at Guitar Center, Love this guitar thanks for the recommendation

[@Radioteleskopes]

Really, really, big thanks sir! I am beginner guitarist and I am looking for a affordable acoustic guitar. Thank you so much! Do no think too much or take into consideration those kind of people, absurd minds that shoud learn listening really good guys with a deep knowledge of musical instrument like you. I really appreciate your words, your good intention and advice in finding my first acoustic guitar. And I think most people watching this video do too. I can sense in this video and all the ones you appear in, what a good person you are when you express yourself, your passion for music and what a good worker and communicator you are. I hope Alamo Music center knows all that too. Have a special day and Happy New Year 2025!

[@MatthewCuda]

Thanks! Always useful information

[@pjr114]

Cooper love your videos. Question: Is the new Guild m260e all solid wood or laminate back and sides. I have read conflicting specs on various web sites. Thanks for your help.

[@AlamoMusic]

Laminate back and sides! It sounds great, though.

[@pjr114]

@@AlamoMusic Many thanks.

[@qmj9720]

Thanks for the Guild mention. I've had a Starfire III for 25 years that I love. If I can find a Guild acoustic that I'll like half as much I'd be a happy man.

[@johnnygreenway3579]

Great video. Very helpful advice on buying an electric/acoustic guitar. The Takamine is another good guitar for about $449. I also love the Taylor for about $1599. Great sounding guitar!

[@charlesawest6729]

Some sick minds just like to "throw shade" on others. l appreciate the explanations and descriptions of guitars from both Cooper and Chris. If you are guitar junkie like me, you have to follow these guys.

[@biswajithazarika8212]

What about Cort ad880ce Please reply

[@stephaniealward3961]

Great job🎉thanks😊

[@ForTheLoveOfGuitars]

Cool video. I'm definitely going to try out a Taylor GS Mini soon.

[@Thunderontheroad]

Keep doing what you are doing. I’m completely new to this and have been binge watching all of your videos. No one speaks perfectly also I’m bald so yea I’m jealous of the hair🤣. As for high end stuff yes I watch videos about Lamborghinis but no way I’m ever owning one same with the $20 grand plus guitars again it’s great to watch.

[@TommySG1]

You seem like a pretty straight up dude Cooper, I enjoy you and Chris’s videos a lot. Negativity I suppose will come in all shapes and sizes, perhaps they’re just jealous of your playing skills ahah 🤙 Regardless, keep doing what you guys are doing and thanks.

[@BaktaBak3]

Both you guys are good lookin....plus nice personalities ! ! ! IMO........ Busking Betty from Bak-ta-Bak 🎸🎸🎸 Videos and sharing your knowledge are a plus.😃😊👍

[@happytrails1963]

So many nice guitars. FS830 very nice beginnner guitar. Possibly save couple more peso's and get LL16D its amazing.

[@otherspect]

Thanks heaps for the info

[@BeardnScars]

Crazy that a 10 is solid while the 11 and 12 aren’t. Thank you for all the info on this vid!

[@thepizzaveteran]

You guys need to take a look at Kepma. I purchased a Kepma Elite GA2-232 for $679. The quality is fantastic, playability is great, intonation/setup out of the box spot on. They also have built in effects that work acoustically and sound great. IMO they are much better than the similarly priced Martin and Taylor guitars.

[@willmarshall4685]

I own one of there minis….fantastic guitar.

[@Rods010]

If you have a Yamaha LJ16 could you please do a review on it?

[@L4sleeko]

Birds pick at the best fruit. You’ve got talent, the detractors probably don’t and that’s why we’re watching you and not them. 👌

[@TapFeetOffBeat]

Best cheap pawnshop guitars I've owned, Seagull Entourage, Yamaha f series, a peavey briarwood, $200 range 90s made Alvarez/Ibanez. That Seagull was hands down the best and I think I got it for 300.

[@maxganschinietz5098]

I really love your videos and I think we all do, so never listen to the dumbest hate I’ve ever heard of towards such a nice guy and such a beautiful channel. I think we should appreciate, that there is such a guitar channel with such nice experiences guys like yours with good reviews and opinions ans especially good sound! I love it and I always listen to your advices.❤

[@Luke_735]

Great stuff as always, Coop. You handsome devil, you. Wish you would've played that Yamaha! I have the FS800 and it's a fantastic beater/alternative to my higher end stuff. Amazing for beginners, and the FSX800C you showed is definitely worth it. Keep pickin', you beautiful beast.

[@be.kind.to.animals]

Good info. Wish the editing added guitar name and model on the screen and add a photo of the Gulid you didn't have to show. Always watch your videos, long time, and a long time subscriber.

[@kodycayson5757]

Would love for you all to demo some strings back-to-back like Martin LS, elixir, compare some coated/non-coated strings, etc. It can get a bit expensive for the hobbyist to test a bunch of string and would love to hear the differences. The production quality and playing are top notch! Thank you for providing reviews of gear!

[@NorthCountryOutlaw]

Local Shop has a sale on 114ce sapele for $699 so thinking about getting it

[@RichardsGuitarshop]

Hi. I quickly said hello to you when I visited the Furch factory. I hope you dont mind me pointing out a couple of things? Furch Violet - would that not be just in your $1000 in the USA? Maybe not - If it does - this is an incredible instrument and all solid woods. My only other comment is - why are you not doing Eastman? They utterly dominate this price point (under $1000).

[@Charlie-h7x]

I think you should look at Alvarez. I got a all solid top spruce and solid mahogany back and sides. Great gig bag for $599+ tax. Had to get set up. It was on sale. Luthier with 30yrs experience said it was a quality guitar. Love this thing. Prior to this I had bought a Fender Parlor $200. Solid top spruce laminate mahogany. Personally I don’t think this gets enough attention. No set up was needed. Just changed strings. As a beginner maybe I’m missing something but I like both very much. I do enjoy your videos

[@SJLamb-te3dt]

I personally would love a video on smaller guitars fit for someone who is aging and hasn’t the same grip strength anymore. A list of guitars that are easy players and easy to carry around.

[@bailey123198]

🙃Well done Cooper!! To go 30 minutes straight with that much content is pretty impressive!!! I do think inflation is causing many to go to $300-$1,000 price range, even if it is a second quitar. 🎶🎤. I am looking for a 2nd guitar so this is most helpful to me. Thank you 🙋‍♂

[@ananyathakur9116]

Please suggest - Taylor academy 12e or GS mini e mahogany? 😮 I’ve heard mahogany lasts longer ! I did try hands on the GS mahogany and Koa. Koa had a better sound but out of my budget. I really like the Academy’s size and build but haven’t played it as it was out of stock. Could anyone suggest which one is better please 🙏

[@mediapcaccount1154]

People are sayin that time will take care of people like me That I'm livin too fast; they say I can't last for much longer Little they see that their thoughts of me is my savior And little they know that the beat always goes a little faster -Willie Nelson

[@shaneroberts9466]

My daughter started playing at age 5 on a Baby Taylor, and she upgraded to a GS Mini at age 13, and at age 20 she upgraded to an A20e. She picked the A20e and its a fabulous guitar. The Martin juniors are really good guitars also and I've had two but prefer the GS Mini. I do like other standard Martins but never owned one because despite sounding great they don't feel as good for me as the Taylor. Yamaha acoustics are typically my alternate goto after Taylor for all the same reasons as Taylor and my very first acoustic was a Yamaha. I've had a few Fender acoustics and some were better than others and I found overall their quality control very inconsistent to the point I wont consider them again, but I'll go Telecaster any and every day and have several. I don't mind the expensive guitar videos but not exclusive to Alamo many guitar channels do seem to have much focus on the upper line models these days and during a time when money is super tight and the market is flooded with guitars to the point where used guitar sales is practically dead its probably good to slide in the lower model guitars more. I like all of the reviews regardless, thanks for showing a mixed variety as supply allows.👍