The Top 5 Acoustic Guitars Under $500 | Alamo Music Center

[@Aeon135]

Chris, you are my absolute favourite guitar youtuber. Humble, direct and no silly gimmicks or constant uploads for ad revenue. Never change!

[@charlesbolton8471]

I agree with what you are saying. However, I would like to point out that this is not Chris’ personal KZbin channel. It’s Alamo Music’s channel, and it likely brings them much more revenue than they could ever earn from KZbin.

[@sc12100]

Just remember, they're in the guitar selling business and are only gonna review guitars that they carry. And also, there are other guitars out there in this price range that were not mentioned and I would claim IMO are better.

[@samhealey7603]

Yes, but there's a reason why they stock certain guitars, it's not like it's lucky dip. They stock the gear that's good and is going to sell.

[@sc12100]

@@samhealey7603 They stock gear that will sell but that doesnt mean everything they sell is good. I could be wrong, but I dont think they sell Eastman, Blueridge, or Recording King. And those are great budget guitars.

[@AlamoMusic]

Thank you! I really appreciate the comment!

[@robertschultz7612]

It’s overwhelming how much better the Yamaha fg 830 sounds compared to the others

[@michaelcarman-yv9tm]

they all sounded the same to me. i'm a normal person been playing guitar for over 50 years.

[@KI_Burgberg_DE]

@@michaelcarman-yv9tm after 50 years your ears become definitely different after all those years 😉

[@jakkbatt4711]

It has a very bright sound, beautiful, I like warm sound of the fender tho

[@dago9162]

Yamaha FG830 3:38 Epiphone EJ200SCE 6:40 Fender CD-140SCE 9:15 Ibanez AEWC32FM 12:07 Taylor ACADEMY 12 15:20

[@ebslacker]

Thank you for your service 😉

[@epicscent8517]

God have a special place for guys like you în heaven

[@MrFloyd-te1nh]

Nobody watches the description of a video?

[@ben2808]

Jesus Christ loves you bros

[@ben2808]

@@ebslacker Jesus Christ loves you

[@samaltman8901]

I bought the FG830 today, it sounds incredible, I love it

[@jimin3081]

Starts playing at: Yamaha 3:38 Epiphone 6:40 Fender 9:15 Ibanez 12:07 Taylor 15:19

[@TheRealIsildursBane]

The hero we all need but don’t deserve.

[@Jack-bh5ro]

Yeah

[@Nik-ok9nu]

Pin this comment to the top!!!

[@affandisutarno9172]

Fender

[@robertdavis8010]

The thumbs down trolls never cease to amaze me. This is an awesome and helpful video designed to help you decide on the guitar right for your needs without leaving your home. Thanks for the video and useful info.

[@elbee1771]

If I had to rate them I would go: Taylor - Sounded pretty amazing for a low end Taylor, but I wouldn't expect anything less from them. When I heard the first low E I was hooked. Great range which is pretty typical for Taylors. Yamaha - Almost always will take a Yamaha over any other brand when playing lower end models. Ibanez - This thing sounded amazing when using the pickups, seemed a bit boring acoustically. Fender - Not terrible, but I would take the Yamaha or the Taylor over it, unless I really needed an AE. Might shop around though. Epiphone - Just didn't really like the sound of this one at all. Not really my style either. Great vid.

[@groovymoon]

Pretty spot on

[@skentmar105]

As a 68 year old retiree that's decided to learn guitar (I've had one since the '70s but never learned to play it) I do appreciate your comparisons and your reviews. Thanks, Chris.

[@MelodyMaker]

Smart to pick up this hobby in retirement! Be patient and persistent. Learn something new every day. Simple pleasures await.

[@AlamoMusic]

Thank you for wathcing!

[@nautiquecowboynautiquecowb5317]

I'm 65 years old and I'm trying to learn right now just purchased guitar Friday I hope I made the right decision bought a S6 seagull there are so many. Good luck in your journey learning to play.

[@MustafaBaabad]

It is also important to know the size of your guitar string. If you have the wrong one, it can really discourage you from learning further. I found the friendliest size, and yet still applying enough tension to the sound board is 0.10 - 0.47. Thicker one is still okay 0.11 - 0.52. Thicker than those sizes is not very pleasant to the fingers. Elixir is to good brand. If you happend to go to the music store try also Cort and Takamine. However, mine is Yamaha FG-840 and I am satisfied with the quality. Whenever I go to the music store I still like to try many other brands and model, but so far none can make less loyal to my Yamaha. Cheers from Indonesia.

[@donaldschleicher1184]

66 for me. Have an Alvarez I bought in ‘75. I just strum to amuse myself and would like to get better. Am also thinking about trying to build an acoustic from scratch for a winter project.

[@bjorn970]

I own a Yamaha FG700 but that Taylor just sounds amazing. Three questions if you don't mind: 1. What's the song you played on that Taylor? 2. What's a good price starting point on higher end guitars? 3. Should I rather take a new budget guitar or a used higher end guitar that's in good condition and at a similar price?

[@hidesertmusic]

The first guitar I ever bought was a Yamaha FG 225 twelve string. It also had a Nippon Gaki label in it. I paid the exorbitant price of $165.00 in 1968. It was a great sounding guitar that made my playing sound a lot better than when I played a 6 string. I kept it until I bought a Taylor Leo Kottke 12 string in 1994.

[@RogerThat902]

Yamaha is not an aspirational guitar brand, but they probably are the best value out there if you are talking about getting a perfectly fine instrument that makes you wonder how they could afford to sell them for what they do hah. I've never owned one, but played many and have always been impressed. My first guitar was an Alvarez and it wasn't nearly as good as the Yamahas I've played. Now I don't have a need for a Yamaha, but I've always wanted an excuse to own one. Nice guitars.

[@AlamoMusic]

Thanks for sharing and watching! We always enjoy hearing about other player's experiences!

[@arafathossain5092]

d

[@DearDextra]

oh god the Yamaha FG830 sounds so rich and flamboyant. imma get that one, thanks brother.

[@philipaklonis7906]

I have one! It's great.🎶🎶🎸

[@lYhayl]

I own a ej200 and a cd140sce, this last one was bought with zero knowledge about guitar just judging the sound and i dont regret it, its one of the greatest solid top around there

[@AlamoMusic]

We're big fans!

[@mitchellstephens2678]

You like the fender more the the epiphone? Was thinking of getting the epiphone but now hung up on that or the Yamaha or fender?!?!

[@denis-guidomuller4763]

Thanks Chris for this video. Taylor for 500 or 5000 dollars. It is the best.

[@festushaggen2563]

That Yamaha FG830 looks and sounds just like my FG730s. I don't think you can find a better acoustic for $300. A beautiful guitar with a huge sound. Yamaha is a great way to go on a budget.

[@brandonskala]

Thank you for recording a mic/ pickup mix for those guitars that have electronics. Very helpful. I heard the change immediately and was grateful for extra work you guys put in to the video. Kudos.

[@MarliQQLuv]

The Fg830 was the beginner guitar of my choice and I recognize it pretty well.

[@runle]

I love that you update constantly. It really helps guys like us that are always on the look for the best bang for buck guitars. Cheers!

[@nhrifle]

Problem is I want them all! Great demonstration as always, Chris!

[@libertyshooter]

Another great vodeo but the Seagull S6 is my choice!

[@stoictraveler1]

Whenever I walk into the acoustic room at guitar center, I go to the Fender Hellcat. I fingerpick, and for 260.00 it is a steal.

[@charliedillon1400]

Beautiful playing Chris! However..... I've noticed all the acoustic reviews on different channels have the expert player fingerpicking lightly . How about some big, booming strumming with some barre chords thrown in also? It's nice to hear how the guitar sounds when played heavy too. Some like it loud!

[@AlamoMusic]

Good point!

[@Equality72521sr]

I’d own any one of those, but I tend to gravitate to Alvarez almost every time.

[@markp9366]

Hi I’m looking at buying my first guitar. I felt a few and I like the feel of the Alvarez AD60SHB. Idk of uve owned one or get it but would u say that it would be a good first? Other wise would u have any other recommendations?

[@Tex4545]

@@markp9366 I have 4 Alvarez guitars. I love all of them although I have an Ovation Collectors I play the most. Most guitars in this price range take some setup for me. The Alvarez's weren't bad out of the box, but I made them better for the way I play. I suggest getting a guitar someplace that offers a professional setup with the purchase. (I still tweak them a little; but that's me.) I think the AD60 would be a great starter guitar. Don't buy junk with poor action. Most people don't stick with it because of a guitar that is hard to play and sounds terrible. (FYI I've not tried the Orangewood guitars. I've heard a lot of good things about them for the money.)

[@markp9366]

@@Tex4545 thanks for your opinion I appreciate it

[@michelleruss1]

I have the Ibanez, but that Ephiphon was beautiful. Shocked how Yamaha isnt as popular these days. They have good quality guitars, tried and true for the bank. Fantastic reveiws, thank you good Sir.

[@djmarklaw1234]

Just got a Yamaha FG Series FGX800C and I'm blown away at the sound you get for the price. I walked in expecting to spend double or triple what I actually spent. But when comparing, the sound and feel blew me away

[@firebald2915]

I agree with you on a Yamaha... I bought the Trans acoustic and I can't seem to put it down. Sound great without the effects, too. Most durable instrument. I used to play Samick cutaway but it didn't sound well unplugged. Gave away my 800 series Yamaha acoustic/electric to a young girl player and she fell in love with it. She plays gigs now ! Who knew ?!

[@dmmurray9422]

I forgot to also say his picking is so comforting, and Americana! Thanks for these videos.

[@lhvent]

The Yamaha FG830 has the most amazing sound and tone of any guitar I have ever played in its price range.

[@lhvent]

@Selim Vasquez-Lopez I can't speak to that. Orangewood is making some nice guitars but still not sure. I would go with the Yamaha FG830 because of its history.

[@dhjoubert39]

@Selim Vasquez-Lopez Orangewood is overrated on KZbin. It sounds tinny.

[@justinbgr]

It is a very balanced guitar. The tone is a perfect balance of warm and bright, and the sound really holds up well to different string gauges, unlike other dreadnoughts I've played in this price range. I think Yamahas do need a few adjustments out of the box for peak playability.

[@less_is_moresp2038]

@@justinbgr adjustments like what? I have it and I literally fall in love of the tone and the perceived overall quality of materials and construction, but I wanna improve the playability of the fg830, what to do? I ordered elixir strings phosphorus 10-47. What do you think about them?

[@firebald2915]

Elixir strings are the best sounding string on a Yamaha or any acoustic for that matter. Coated takes away the string screech and the bass is booming. I have the Yamaha acoustic on if and it roars with .11's. Lowered the bridge and nut after adjusting the neck and the action is tight but I still like to dig into it without fret buzz. Temperature changes do not affect tuning, yet I play one whole step down to D Standard. Love a bassie acoustic sound. All chording is the same as Standard tuning .

[@haroldfloyd5518]

The Fender was surprisingly good, the Taylor was okay, and the Yamaha was easily the best sounding. As usual.

[@dancassidy7471]

Exactly my Fender plays and aounds as good as my 3700 Taylor

[@AlinaSorochan]

I was so lost at trying to figure out which guitar to buy after having played on a secondhand classic nylon string guitar for a few years just for a little bit of fun and not really being a huge connoisseur of the topic (and having a low budget). Your videos helped me pick Fender cd140sce (in Mahogany). Let me tell you, SHE IS GLORIOUS! Thank you, guys!

[@lhvent]

I have a FG830 that I recently got and it is an amazing guitar. Sounds as good as some guitars costing 3X more.

[@gregbaker3701]

I still have my Yamaha FGX800C, you just can’t beat the price for what you get. It all comes down to the player and what feels good to them.

[@roberttosa2560]

All great instruments, Chris, and your playing makes them sound awesome. Also love your music of music. Thanks for sharing this review.

[@MelodyMaker]

Kind of thought this update was due Chris. A previous video on the segment definitely helped me pick out the FG800 from Yamaha. Have owned it for a couple of years now. Couldn't be happier with the purchase. It sits alongside my Simon & Patrick Songsmith.

[@AlamoMusic]

Great to hear!

[@colakeith1]

This showed me the Yamaha sounds great and is a well done guitar. The Epiphone shines really only with the fishman on.The Ibanez wasn't really up to it, and the Fender was adequate, best with its pickup as well. The Taylor shows that it is what is is an adequate beginner only. Nice presentation, though, well done. Thank you.

[@alepwalling]

currently I own the Fender CD140sce . I own it since 2016. awesome Guitar awesome Bass and Resonance

[@johnomundson9778]

How much did you purchase it for

[@alepwalling]

@@johnomundson9778 I requested the dealer to upgrade it to a Bone nut, saddle ,brass pins and Gold tuners before shipping and costed me 490$ without shipping

[@christopher2327]

Looks like you are doing this in your newer videos but it helps a lot to keep the same style or riff consistent when doing a comparison, you had strumming against fingerpicking here and it was hard to compare. That said I think the Yamaha and Taylors are the clear standouts. I wouldn't recommend Epi, Fender, or Ibanez acoustics to anyone.

[@jumpercable20]

The Yamaha FG200 was the first guitar, I ever owned, my mother bought it for me when I came home from the military in 1974. Still have it today. It still sounds good as well.

[@festushaggen2563]

I have the FG730s. Its sound and looks stack up incredibly well against much more expensive guitars. Yamaha makes quality instruments.

[@mikedun8882]

Awesome.thats what it all about Thanks for your service

[@fretworkband3204]

Good for you. I am on my 3rd Yamaha acoustic and I have the FG830. My first two were stolen over the years. Hopefully someone is still making music on them somewhere lol.

[@aniquinstark4347]

They're a brand new company but I have to add Orangewood to this list. Mine was only $275 and has the best setup I've ever received from a factory. Very close to feeling like an electric guitar.

[@J-Dawg-1]

The Taylor sounded the best to me! Very bright warm tones!

[@mr.b111]

I think you should have definitely included the Takamine GD51CE. Great value imo.

[@peterpursley9852]

I really appreciate your videos - as a lefty, with a rather thin wallet, I have to weigh my options meticulously, and your videos have been the biggest help - especially not being able to find and play the instruments myself (curse the left handed gods)

[@ronedee]

The Fender, surprisingly has the best balanced tone of the bunch, to my ear!

[@chrishammonds72]

You’d think Takamine G series would make the list over the Fender CD140

[@mfurman]

After trying many acoustic guitars, including Taylor 12 (I have been mostly Fender Stratocaster user, although I have an old dreadnought) I finally got Fender CC-60S guitar. Like it so far. By the way dreadnought size is not for me!

[@tedr9638]

why is it not for you?

[@mfurman]

@@tedr9638 it was simply too big for me. I am a small guy and, in addition, I preferred smaller, more intimate sound (mostly finger picking).

[@tedr9638]

@@mfurman ok thank you Michael, I am 5 11 and was wondering if i should get a dreadnought, I prefer strumming then finger picking so i believe a dreadnought would work well for me.

[@mfurman]

@@tedr9638 You are right, Ted. Dreadnought will be better for you - you can handle the size and you will have bigger, richer sound that will fit your playing style, I think. Enjoy 😊

[@edwardpuddy1552]

Hurts my shoulder to play a dreadnought for any lenght of time. I'm 64 all my jions are lose.

[@DouArtShi]

Thank you for helping this newbie. I bought the Yamaha today.

[@brandoncarter1579]

Man I’m sold on the Yamaha. I’ve been wanting a well built acoustic and not have to break my wallet. They always sound so good.

[@dmmurray9422]

This guy knows what he is talking about, and gives every instrument its best attributes. Like!

[@gneveln]

Five beautiful guitars well presented! I'd love to have any or all of them. Thanks for the video!

[@AlamoMusic]

Thanks for watching!

[@anthonymarinello6008]

New to this channel. I want to get back into playing and looking for an acoustic for around $500. So, it led me here. This was a huge help. Thank you.

[@AeroMetalRush]

A good addition to this list would be the Guild D-240E. Coming in at $400 dollars it has your typical dreadnought body with a nice bright sound. Compares really good with the MIM Martin's

[@JeffandHansel]

I'm a little surprised the Seagull S6 wasn't on the list. A fantastic Guitar starting at $450, but I realize their are a lot of models to choose from. Keep up the great videos, they are a huge help.

[@MelodyMaker]

That's right VC. Appreciably, there are lots of great guitars out there right now in this price range. Chris had commented on a previous video highlighting this segment that us amateurs really are lucky compared to those of yesteryear given current options. Certainly, Chris will profile those hosted in inventory at Alamo.

[@charlesbolton8471]

Blair Sveinson You’re absolutely right. Anytime they put out a new video there are always people in comments saying why not include this or that? The reason is quite simply exactly what you said. They review what the store stocks.

[@RogerThat902]

@@charlesbolton8471 Right. I pretty much said this above. They don't have every guitar in the world to demo hah. These days there are so many quality makers out there you almost have to go out of your way to find something that's not playable. Especially when we are talking about using $60 for a setup, which should probably be done anyways.

[@charlesbolton8471]

Tickled Elmo I totally agree. The budget priced guitars of today are tremendously better than the budget priced guitars of the mid 80s when I started playing. In the last 5 years I’ve finally gotten to the point where I own higher priced instruments, but I do still pay attention to the lower end gear when I go into stores and like you said it is definitely playable. The last budget priced instrument I bought was in 2014 when I bought a Squier Classic Vibe P Bass just to have a bass around if I needed one. The Classic Vibes are an excellent guitars for their price. Another thing that amazes me about Squier specifically is that I bought a Squier Affinity Tele in 2003 that I think was one of the best available in its price range and today 17 years later I could walk into my local Fender dealer and buy that exact model for only $20 more than what I paid in 2003. I also bought the exact same model for my son in 2011 for the exact price I paid for mine and there were no major differences between ours.

[@JeffandHansel]

Blair Sveinson That's right, and Chris and Alamo do an excellent job. When I started playing in 2003 the perception seemed to be that any acoustic under 3 or 400 bucks was trash. Definitely not the case anymore.

[@RogerThat902]

Don't need a guitar in this range but watched because I enjoy your reviews :)

[@AlamoMusic]

Thanks!

[@charles3200]

What about Seagull S6 original? As good as any of these, IMO

[@MildExplosion]

Would absolutely love a travel size list! I've been learning on a massive dreadnought and struggling with its size (combo of being petite and an adult beginner I suspect) so I really want one that fits my stature. I've watched your Taylor GS Mini comparison so many times lol. I'd love the Walnut or Koa. But I'm a bit clueless if it's the best for my budget since Taylor seems so premium.

[@brunomillalaf8553]

Idk if bought your new guitar yet but the taylor gs mini is a phenomenal guitar! I think I got the mahogany one and it was nice and warm. Loved the size but I didn’t like how quiet it was lol. The Koa one looks beautiful too but I heard it had more a blues sound to it and not as warm as the mahogany.

[@eliara-thevoice8430]

A Taylor GS Mini is worth the $$$$. I have a Koa GS Mini. It is fab.

[@sauravgupta7415]

I got a Martin 000-16, I hope it lasts me long. Thanks Chris God bless you.

[@AlamoMusic]

Hope you enjoy it! Thanks!

[@entropy5126]

Martin is the best acoustic bar none

[@sudkreuz7570]

Takamine is a fantastic brand, I allways go back to my Tak, the comfort, fit and finish is great, and the sound and pickup is imho far better than the Ibanez.

[@macandmefoley3037]

Bought a lefty sx about 16 years ago for about 250e and it's my baby.. Wouldn't trade it for another guitar so it's all about feel and how it sits with you imo

[@texhaines9957]

Great comparison. Epiphone was great, but I have an Academy 12 for the grandchildren.

[@charlesbranch4120]

@Selim Vasquez-Lopez Go for it! I bought an Academy 12 for $500 used so Guitar Center added a lot of extras to make up for the price, and an Academy 12e from a small music store that had been in the store for a year at $365 + $35 shipping. April-May 2020. Expecting a flood of used guitars to hit the market next year...

[@DougHinVA]

At $135 delivered with a padded case and no retail markup... I say the Orangewood 'Rey' model is top notch for a straight acoustic. Minor setup is needed, and the tuners are just adequate. Used, quality tuners are easy to get for $25-40 and a setup by a pro is maybe $25-40. The guitar is well made with spruce or mahogany for the top (I prefer spruce).

[@derekfromtauranga6012]

Maybe you should play the same strummed chords and finger picking piece on each guitar to get a more balanced review. A solid Sitka top brings out the best in an acoustic guitar along with the back and side material which gives the flavour. The eq suddenly changed at 7.00 mark. Thanks for your reviews. 😀

[@mariusj34]

What strings do you use for your acoustic guitars. I feel there are soo many but I don’t know which are used for what

[@stevengunawan6534]

Hi Chris, I always love your review and I can’t wait for you to upload new videos everyday. I cannot wait for price range 1000-2000 for this year, hopefully you can make it for us. Thanks

[@AlamoMusic]

Fingers crossed!

[@stevengunawan6534]

🤞

[@talentosa57]

I have the black version of the epiphone and i love it. It's a really big guitar but I've had it for almost 10 years and it's only gotten better with age. I'm thinking about getting a Taylor GS mini mahogany or a Taylor Academy 12. I'm really surprised the GS mini isn't in this video.

[@laynejarvis1971]

The GS Mini was not included because he said he was not including travel sized acoustics. I highly recomend an academy over the gs mini if you can hangle the larger size. I personally think it sounds much better. If you really want the small size, the GS mini is great, but also consider the martin 000jr-10. It is all solid and I think has a prettier sound, but that is subjective. I would try to play both.

[@AlamoMusic]

Both of those are really good guitars! I have a lot of fun with the mini myself!

[@talentosa57]

@@laynejarvis1971 I've heard really great things about the Martin 000jr, I just haven't had the chance to play one. But what I really wish, is that Taylor would've bulked up the academy series like they have the GS minis. In my opinion, I think the academy series is great from the ones I've played but I wish they were in different wood combos like the GS minis are. I feel like Taylor is really missing out on a good business opportunity. Like how sweet would an Academy 12 with a mahogany or a koa top sound?

[@barrybrower7610]

Guild D 240E ! ! Best budget guitar on the market !

[@markb3758]

Great video for the under $500 range. Solid choices. Why is you never review any Breedlove Guitars? They put in solid tops and backs at a lower price point than several other makers. The company was started by guys that worked for our favorite brand, Taylor, too. I own a Breedlove Signature Organic Concerto. It was higher than this price point, but not by much.

[@England66hs]

Cort gold series should be in the list, but are never considered. They are all solid guitar at this price range. Sound better than Taylor

[@JuanDelaCruz-qt5ok]

Agree. I have a cort gold d6 and it will blow away all of these.

[@termikes174]

I have an FG840 and I love it. It was a gift but I’m sure it was under $500

[@moisesjaurrietavargas4887]

Hi there! Thanks for the videos, love them. What do you think about orangewoods guitars? Do you have any video about them? Thanks!

[@josearaujo8616]

yamaha, and there isn't even other one that comes close. Its actually in a different level for the price point...

[@tomeisenmenger7048]

Strange - I tried a lot of Yamahas but chose a Seagull for my first acoustic. Better playability and tone. Made in Canada, not China.

[@termikes174]

@@tomeisenmenger7048 my first 2 acoustics were seagulls and I loved them. I do have a China Yamaha FG840 now and I love it too.

[@imvandenh]

@@tomeisenmenger7048 Seagulls are great guitars. Never played one I didn't like.

[@peterdeboer8924]

I own the 830 and the academy 12. Both are terrific. However, for finger picking I like a wider nut width like 1-3/4

[@chamade166]

@@tomeisenmenger7048 Rather buy from China than Canada. China makes iPhones and lunar space rockets. Canada makes maple syrup.

[@dllort69]

Hey! Im thinking of getting the Epiphone EJ200SCE, the Fender CD-140SCE or? do you have any other recommendation? Im looking for something that feels amazing to play under $500 so I can get back to making music... I have two old guitars and they just wont cut it for me. I want something thats gonna make me just wanna play and play non stop! please help and thanks!! love your channel and I sub

[@seanhallahan14]

Thanks, Chris! I always love these accessible reports!

[@AlamoMusic]

Glad you like them!

[@BillandJennTraveling]

Thanks! Enjoyed this video!! Sold all my guitars and haven't played in over 10 years and trying to get back into it.

[@suegates5]

Like the Taylor for Fingerstyle

[@butcharmstrong9645]

byooteeful...and the guitars ain't bad neither.

[@vxmo2068]

Ive got an Ibanez acoustic as my first guitar, and I’m thinking of getting something that suits me a little bit more now that I know what I’m doing. My mind is kinda already set on that FG830 after playing it in the store, but I have played a Mitchell acoustic that felt really warm and smooth sounding. I can’t remember the model but it was like $300- something

[@Bobchaco]

I like the Taylor

[@ALEX-Extreme]

The SJ/EJ 200 guitars are such beautiful guitars.

[@mitchellstephens2678]

I know that’s the one I’ve been wanting to get but now hung up on the Yamaha or fender here! They seem to sound better? What do you think?

[@ecmxcorp]

So what’s better? Go with one of these or jump to more expensive BUT entry level ones like the Martin D10E or CPX2E; Taylor 110E? I’ve been debating this with myself for the last two weeks. I really want an acoustic guitar but I can’t decide between this 5 or the entry levels Martin and Taylor. Please please help me with your opinions. I don’t have the chance to try them out, I’m gonna buy it online, so any help is appreciated.

[@rosssteuck4989]

Yamaha AC3R

[@EdgarLopez-pv8co]

If you have the budget, I would go with the Taylor or the Martin. I would lean towards the Taylor solely on personal opinion

[@jayweiss6842]

What type of music do you mostly play?

[@EdgarLopez-pv8co]

@@jayweiss6842 technically regional Mexican music lol. But think about as folk/bluegrass/country music

[@ecmxcorp]

@@EdgarLopez-pv8co but it's it really Worth it going from a top of the line Epi, a Regular but well reviewed fender, to an ENTRY level instrument of a High end manufacturer? I have the budget, but i don't have hands on experiencie with any of those guitars to know if i'm overpaying just for the brands name at the headstock

[@konamax9]

Great review. Thanks for taking the time. Very informative and useful.

[@jamesmorrison2063]

The injection molded "urea" nut and saddle suck on the Yamaha FG800 series. I replaced the saddle with Tusq and the nut with bone. What a difference it made in the sound for about $15 and a couple hours work!

[@SugarMapleForge]

Great video! I will let everyone know who is watching in 2023. The Taylor academy 10 is now $700 the 12 is more.

[@noname-fx6qf]

I've the Epiphone SJ200 no cutaway, 1980's Yamaha FG450 (my sentimental favourite) & Gretsch Gin Rickey I like them all for different reasons, they're good value well made guitars for the money. I've also have the Sigma DM ST it is by a long, long way the best sub $500 / $352 AUD acoustic guitar I have ever owned or played. The SJ200 only gets a run occasionally & the Yamaha FG 450 & Gretsch don't get played very much at all since I brought the Sigma. I can't heap enough praise on the Sigma DM ST when its got newish strings on it.

[@prophet8photo]

I’ve got a Yamaha FG 730s and I love it! And I think you’d have to spend 2 to 3 times as much to find a better guitar. The rosewood back and sides are definitely worth the upgrade

[@erinescence2095]

Pretty sure that is now the FG830.

[@AlamoMusic]

Right on!

[@stranac1978]

Chris, thank you, none of mention guitars isn' bad, Ibanez especially, but... Taylor 12 academy is... Taylor 🙂 I had Martin dx1ae, then few weeks ago I bought Taylor 210e, It's not same price or quallity range, I could tell that, and I'ts off topic, but pls. on Martin, strings are 011, and Taylor 210e is on 012. , do I need setup Martin for 012? sorry for off topic queston, or even "stupid" ones, only I get is contradicture answers... keep on play guys 🎼🎵🎶🎵🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸💙💙💙

[@ritesideofthefence5857]

Good stuff Chris, thank you for sharing brother.

[@luilui03able]

in my opinion the yamaha 830, has the best sound on those five, I like the sound

[@guitarman4242]

this has been a big help. I'm trying to get away from Nitro cellulose finish as it so sensitive. Can you comment on the finish of any of these. Are they polyester at this price level? thanks

[@zunif]

How can you forget about Eastman or Recording King?????? They are literally the best bang for your buck. Many of them have solid wood and great sound in that $500 price range.

[@Southernguitar74]

He doesn't sell those, so they aren't as good. LOL...Same with Alvarez, apparently.

[@hunterscott7592]

Great rundown, I’ve played a couple of these, and that Fender is truly a decent guitar. I play various Fender Sonoran style guitars, with the Strat headstocks, just because I like them and the sound is pretty good for the price

[@Radnally]

Ive always thought yamaha guitars were a great value. Taylor is usually a great guitar, but runs more money.

[@edwardpuddy1552]

Taylor is up there with Gibson on quality and price. Yamaha is the poor man's guitar. I got a 335 the only thing is the E strings are right on the edge and easy to mute out if you don't watch how your holding you hand around the neck

[@lucascollier8728]

I had a Yamaha. It played amazing but the sound had absolutely zero character.

[@JJ-nq3ll]

I love Fender but that Ibanez really resonates to me. 🎸🎸

[@oliverkirkland6541]

Vintage brand are great guitars! Under 500 dollars and brilliant!

[@JackTheRabbitMusic]

Hey Chris, is Alamo music hiring? I have been thinking of moving to TX, but want to line up some kind of job there 1st...just wondering, thanks! 🐰❤️🌸🎸🎶🤝✌️

[@AlamoMusic]

We are. Check out Indeed.com

[@thepiggyprophet]

One question What can you tell me about the Fender CD-140SCE Mahogany Electro Acoustic Guitar which is made as follows: Back Material Rosewood Body Material Mahogany Fretboard Material Rosewood Top Material Mahogany Wood Neck Material Type Mahogany

[@austinbyrd7360]

I know I probably sound dumb but I really want to get into guitar and the fender cd-140SCE looks really nice! I was wondering if you need to attach a cord into the guitar to play it?

[@khuluqin257]

Hi Christ... Maybe after this video, you should check the Cort Guitar. Its price is friendly for budget. Its carateristic sound must friendly with our ears. Thanks Christ...

[@khuluqin257]

I hope you read this 👍

[@JackTheRabbitMusic]

I love my Cort Gold guitars!! 🐰❤️🎸🎶🤝✌️

[@AlamoMusic]

Read it! Will look them up! Thanks for commenting!

[@itz4u]

You my sir are very inspirational to me. I only had my acoustic for three years but only got serious about it 10 months ago (darn it’s so hard) but I only wanted to play fingerpicking style. I’m still struggling after these months lol. But hearing you play is soooo beautiful. I haven’t played for a month cause the bridge is coming off and too expensive for me to get fixed 😞 so now I don’t know if it’s better for me to get another cheap on and what kind too get. So confused on all the types and names. Then I just heard I’d dreadnaught??. triple double zero?? So confused. But hearing you play in this video. Beautiful. It’s the reason I like finger picking. I’m 61 years old. I’m seeing all these name I’ve never heard of and think their knock offs I have a fender and heard of Yamaha. I was so desperate I thought of getting the cheapest Amazon one but reviews were bad. How do I pick or kind of a acoustic? Thanks

[@firebald2915]

Go with a Yamaha...they are durable and hold tune very well. Great neck and tuners. And they are loud, great for finger picking.

[@nateguerra319]

That Taylor sounds so beautiful I’m saving my pennies so I can get one, Alamo music center been serving my city for a long time go check them out

[@charlesbranch4120]

I picked up a year old Taylor Academy 12e from a music store that had too many guitars, and needed room, so they listed it on Reverb. it was a no brainer at $365 + 35 shipping to Idaho. Chris sold me on the series as I also picked up a mahogany necked 12 last April that didn't ship until the stores reopened in mid-May to ship their backlog of orders. So I'm learning to play thanks to Pandemic Pause 2020, and built a 5-case guitar rack that's nearly full!

[@jayweiss6842]

I'm assuming these are the best guitars for under 500 that your store sells? (I think my list would be different) but great video!

[@TheTruthNK]

Yamaha FS800 VS Fender CC 60S (which one is better?). Thank you for the great video!

[@duffermod1]

Yamaha

[@silvanostasolla8954]

Appreciate the time taken to make this video but how can you compare the sound if you strum loudly with the pick one but finger pick gently another one??