The Best 41 Acoustic Electric Guitars: Plug-In and Play Solutions
The Best Acoustic Electric Guitars
Acoustic electric guitars bridge the gap between traditional folk and classical music while opening doors to new amplification possibilities. This roundup compares the best acoustic electric guitars available today, helping musicians choose the perfect instrument that matches their style and playing level.
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Reviews
Fender FA-125CE Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Fender FA-125CE blends classic dreadnought tone with modern Fishman electronics, making it a versatile choice for both new and experienced players. Its mahogany neck provides a comfortable playing experience with a responsive rosewood fingerboard, while the durable laminate construction and sleek black pickguard give it a professional look. Whether you're plugging in for the first time or switching from an electric, this guitar delivers Fender's renowned quality at an affordable price point.
Ibanez AEG750 Acoustic Electric Guitar
This Ibanez acoustic electric blends a striking flame maple top with an equally impressive flame maple back and sides, creating a guitar that looks as good as it sounds. The Nyatoh neck delivers warm, robust tones, while the Ebony bridge and Advantage bridge pins ensure your strings stay put and your tuning stays perfect. The dual-control preamp makes it incredibly easy to shape your sound, from rich, powerful tones to crisp, bright clarity – all while keeping an eye on your tuning with its handy LCD display.
Lava ME4-36-SPRUCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Combining a hand-picked spruce top with a modern design, the Lava ME4-36-SPRUCE offers a unique two-tone aesthetic while maintaining remarkable lightness for travel. Its enhanced acoustic structure produces rich, expansive tones through innovative Pano Sound Field technology, making every note resonate with depth and clarity.
Lava Music Blue Lava Touch Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Combining a responsive air-sourced carbon fiber neck with a sustainable High Pressure Laminate body, this acoustic-electric fusion guitar transforms basic chords into studio-quality recordings with its built-in HILAVA system. The intuitive 3.5-inch touchscreen lets you swipe between 6-band EQ, custom effects, and social-friendly practice modes, while the built-in lessons adapt to your improving skill level. Powering all these features is a 5000mAh lithium battery that sustains playthroughs without interruption.
Lava Music Me 3 Acoustic-Electric Guitar
If you're looking for a guitar that doubles as a musical playground, the Lava Me 3 might be your perfect match. With its built-in effects, touch screen, and clear tone, it lets you experiment with sounds without any extra gear. It's light, responsive, and looks cool in space bag blue, but keep in mind the touch screen can be a bit finicky at times.
Fender Redondo Classic Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This Fender Redondo Classic combines rich acoustic tone with modern electronics, featuring a solid spruce top and mahogany construction that projects clearly whether unplugged or amplified. The included premium preamp system preserves the instrument's natural sound, while the comfortable mahogany neck and modern Viking bridge system make it a pleasure to play. The aged cognac burst finish adds a touch of vintage appeal to this already impressive package.
Yamaha CPX600 Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Yamaha CPX600 combines stunning craftsmanship with surprisingly comfortable playability. Its medium-jumbo body delivers rich, full-bodied sound while the 25" scale length ensures comfortable playing with narrower string spacing. The built-in tuner and versatile EQ system let you shape your tone perfectly for both acoustic and amplified settings.
Lava Music Blue Lava Touch Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Blue Lava uses its eco-friendly HPL construction to house a 6-string acoustic-electric guitar that sounds bigger than its modest 23.5" scale length would suggest. Built-in effects and a 3.5" touchscreen display let you explore innovative tones without traditional gear, while the FreeBoost 2.0 system handles the amplification duties. This isn't just another smart guitar—it's a complete learning tool that tracks your progress and shares it with friends, making practice more engaging than ever before.
Fender Acoustasonic Player Jazzmaster Ice Blue
The Acoustasonic Player Jazzmaster brings unprecedented versatility to your guitar rack with its intelligent switching system that transitions smoothly between acoustic and electric tones. Its modern design pairs responsive playability with premium materials like mahogany and rosewood, while the advanced hybrid system lets you blend clean and driven sounds with remarkable ease. Whether you're recording in the studio or performing live, this guitar has the voice flexibility to match your every musical moment.
Lava Music Me 4 Spruce Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This spruce-top acoustic-electric guitar combines classic design with modern amenities like a flexible truss rod system and SHARC audio processing. The included 100+ song library and 34 effects pedals help develop your skills, while the carbon fiber body construction ensures durability for frequent practice and performances.
Lava Music Me Play Acoustic Guitar with Built-in Effects and 4-Mass Acoustic Structure
The Lava Me Play delivers studio-quality sound from its compact frame, with a responsive 2.3mm action that makes it incredibly comfortable for all skill levels. Its 36" all-weather body and two-tone HPL finish create a striking visual presence while keeping maintenance stress-free. The built-in 5000mAh battery and 4GB memory let you practice with effects and backing tracks, turning every session into a performance.
Ashthorpe Full-Size Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle
From a seasoned guitarist's perspective, this Ashthorpe dreadnought delivers pro-level sound in a surprisingly comfortable, full-size design that actually feels lighter than smaller-bodied guitars. The X-braced spruce top and basswood body produce rich, balanced tone with exceptional clarity - you can tell professional-grade materials were used here. The onboard 4-band EQ system is incredibly versatile, offering precise control over your tone that usually costs significantly more in higher-end guitars. Overall, it impressed me as a great value that nails the essentials while leaving room for personalization with better strings or accessories.
Taylor T5z Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Taylor Custom T5z blends distinctive aesthetics with advanced electronics in a hollow-body acoustic-electric design. Its Urban ash body houses a figured Big Leaf maple top, while custom appointments like stained bone bridge pins and Italian acrylic fretboard inlays add a touch of luxury. The included T5z electronics system features 5-way switching, providing versatile tone shaping for both studio and stage performances.
Rogue RA-090 Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This affordable acoustic-electric guitar delivers surprisingly good sound for the price, with a responsive neck and built-in tuner. While it requires some setup and maintenance to get dialed in, players appreciate its clear tone and versatile three-band EQ. The included undersaddle pickup captures the instrument's rich, natural sound, making it a practical choice for both new players and budget-conscious musicians who want great tone without breaking the bank.
Rogue RA-090 Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
At just $80, the Rogue RA-090 delivers surprisingly decent tone for an entry-level acoustic-electric, with a responsive neck and built-in tuner. While the finish has minor imperfections and the electronics could be more refined, it plays beautifully out of the box with decent action and stays in tune well. The natural sunburst finish and comfortable C-shape neck make it a surprisingly rewarding choice for players on a budget.
Ivy IPF-300 TSB Acoustic Electric Guitar
The IVY IPF-300 TSB stands out for its precise CNC fabrication and exceptionally consistent neck, with a striking tobacco sunburst finish that adds a touch of sophistication to its versatile design. Made from mahogany and maple with jatoba fretboard, this acoustic-electric guitar delivers exceptional playability and tone, thanks to its well-crafted construction and reliable tuning system. Its nickel-wound strings and comfortable 25-inch scale length make it a practical choice for both new and experienced players.
Taylor 112ce Natural Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Taylor 112ce brings big sound in a surprisingly comfortable package. Its solid spruce top delivers exceptional clarity and projection, while the slim maple neck makes every note sing. The Grand Concert body shape combines traditional elegance with modern playability, proving that great guitars come in all sizes.
Taylor 914ce Builder's Edition Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Taylor 914ce Builder's Edition combines master craftsmanship with premium tonewoods for an exceptionally responsive acoustic-electric instrument. Its solid Honduran rosewood back and sides marry seamlessly with Lutz spruce top to deliver rich, dynamic sound with incredible sustain and clarity. The ergonomic beveled armrest and curvewinged bridge design enhance playing comfort while the V-Class bracing system projects the guitar's beautiful tone with remarkable precision.
McPherson Carbon Series Sable
When you're seeking a carbon fiber acoustic-electric that doesn't sacrifice tone for its innovative construction, look no further than the McPherson Carbon Series Sable. This right-handed guitar pairs a C-shaped carbon fiber neck with a responsive C-shaped body thateliminates the need for traditional wood maintenance due to its remarkable stability across changing temperatures and humidity levels. Players praise its balance, from the warm low end to the clear, ringing sustain that continues long after you've finished playing. The included LR Baggs Element pickup makes it equally at home unplugged or amplified, while the guitar's durable carbon fiber construction promises decades of reliable performance.
Lava Music Blue Lava Touch Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This acoustic-electric guitar brings together an innovative multi-touch display and HILAVA system in a refreshingly eco-friendly design. The 18-fret Carbon Fiber Composite neck and 3.5" touchscreen interface make it a delight to play, while the built-in loop and effect features open up new creative possibilities. However, some users have noted that the built-in speaker falls short, with particular issues around the guitar's tone quality.
Lava Music Me 3 Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Lava ME 3 brings your playing into the digital age with its intuitive 3.5" touchscreen running the Hilava OS. You've got wireless connectivity, built-in effects, and even practice modes to help you improve - it's like having a music studio in your guitar. The AirSonic 2.0 carbon fiber body makes it light and responsive, while the onboard tuner and looper let you nail your parts and keep your creative flow going strong.
Martin GPCE Inception Maple Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Martin GPCE Inception Maple combines sustainable tonewoods with cutting-edge Martin craftsmanship to create an acoustic-electric guitar that delivers remarkable clarity and projection. With its FSC-certified European spruce top and three-piece maple-black walnut back, this Grand Performance guitar produces a balanced tone that's both powerful and responsive. The onboard LR Baggs Anthem system ensures your sound shines through any mix, while the comfortable satin-finished neck and 20-fret mahogany construction make it a joy to play.
Blue Lava Touch Smart Acoustic Electric Guitar
The BLUE LAVA Touch gives you all the basics of an acoustic guitar plus tons of features that help you learn and play better. With its thoughtful touches like built-in lessons and easy recording, it's designed to make playing fun from the start. The lightweight design makes it perfect for practice sessions anywhere, while the smart features grow with your skill level.
Rogue RA-090 Concert Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Rogue RA-090 brings together affordable pricing with concert-guitar playability, though its laminate construction keeps costs down. While the neck feels comfortable and the X-bracing delivers good tone, some buyers have noted issues with sharp fret ends and tuning stability. Overall, it's a solid choice for players looking to transition from acoustic to acoustic-electric with decent sound quality and a responsive playing feel.
Ashthorpe Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar with 10-Watt Amplifier
This Ashthorpe guitar delivers impressive sound quality from its spruce top and basswood body, with easy access to higher frets thanks to its thinline cutaway design. The integrated 4-band pickup system lets you shape your tone precisely, while the included 10-watt amplifier provides plenty of warmth and character. With responsive tuning and comfortable playability, it's a practical choice whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player.
Best Choice Products Acoustic Electric Guitar Set
A beautifully crafted beginner acoustic-electric guitar featuring solid linden wood construction and a spacious dreadnought cutaway design that produces rich, full-bodied tones. The included premium accessories, such as an elegant padded case and essential playing tools, transform this guitarist from novice to confident performer. Whether you're just starting out or expanding your collection, this versatile instrument delivers remarkable sound quality and meticulous craftsmanship at an exceptionally reasonable price point.
Ashthorpe Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This full-size electric acoustic guitar from Ashthorpe blends traditional craftsmanship with modern convenience. The dreadnought body crafted from premium spruce and basswood produces rich, balanced tones that shine whether played acoustically or amplified through the included 10-watt speaker. The lightweight yet resonant construction makes it comfortable for practice sessions, while the integrated equalizer lets you shape your sound with precision. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore both acoustic and electric playing styles or an intermediate player seeking a reliable backup instrument, this versatile guitar delivers exceptional value.
Lava Music Blue Lava Touch Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Lava Music Blue Lava Touch combines innovative features like built-in practice apps and looping capabilities with surprisingly good acoustics, making it a compelling option for both newcomers and experienced players. Its lightweight design and intuitive iOS-like interface make learning enjoyable, while the compact size and comfortable carrying case suit players who need to take their instrument on the go.
McPherson Standard Top Carbon Touring Acoustic Guitar
This carbon fiber acoustic-electric guitar delivers impressive tone and durability in a convenient travel size, with a responsive soundboard and McPherson's patented bracing system. The C-shaped neck and smooth matte finish ensure comfortable playability, while the LR Baggs Element pickup captures the guitar's warm tone beautifully. The gold hardware adds a touch of elegance to this high-performing instrument.
Taylor 117e Grand Pacific Acoustic Electric Guitar
Every note on this Taylor 117e Grand Pacific hits with surprising depth and clarity, thanks to its specially roasted spruce top that adds a warm sweetness to the sound. The slim neck makes it incredibly comfortable to play, whether you're strumming folk tunes or nailing down intricate fingerstyle patterns. The built-in Expression System 2 electronics capture the full richness of the acoustic tone, so you can plug in and sound just as amazing live or studio.
Enya Nova Go SP1 Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar
When you're playing music, the last thing you want is your guitar warping in the sun or cracking in humidity. The Enya Nova Go SP1 smart acoustic guitar uses carbon fiber to solve all those problems, so you can play anywhere - from the beach to the mountains. What makes this guitar really cool is that it has built-in effects like reverb and delay, so you're not limited to just unplugged playing. Plus, it can connect to your phone for recording, or crank out full-sounding music with its internal speaker. The compact size makes it perfect for travel, and the metal tuning pegs and zero-fret design make it super easy to play.
Rogue RA-110D-CE Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Rogue RA-110D-CE delivers remarkable performance for its price point, with a laminated spruce top that projects rich, well-balanced tone both acoustically and through its reliable on-board electronics. The die-cast tuning machines ensure excellent intonation stability, while the bound fingerboard and 25.5-inch scale length provide comfortable playability. Users particularly appreciate its durable construction and responsive sound across various playing styles, making it a practical choice for both new and experienced players.
Ibanez PC54CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Ibanez PC54CE brings professional sound and build quality to beginners with its warm Nandu wood fretboard and balanced Meranti construction. The undersaddle pickup accurately captures the instrument's natural tone, while the AEQ-2T preamp adds handy features like built-in tuning. The Venetian cutaway design and comfortable PC neck shape make this acoustic-electric guitar both practical and playable.
Schecter Machine Gun Kelly Acoustic-Electric Guitar
With its mahogany body and solid sitka spruce top, this acoustic-electric guitar delivers rich, articulate tone that cuts through any mix. The comfortable "thin C" neck and 16-inch radius fretboard make it a pleasure to play, while the Fishman Sonicore pickup captures every nuance of your playing. Whether you're recording in the studio or performing live, you can trust this versatile instrument to deliver exceptional sound.
Ibanez V70CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This Ibanez acoustic-electric blends standout sound with comfy playability, featuring a spruce top and mahogany body that delivers rich resonance whether acoustic or plugged in. The rosewood fretboard and chrome tuners make it a joy to play, while the built-in electronics and onboard tuner give you pro-level functionality right out of the box. Owners praise its impressive tone and reliable performance, from quiet practice sessions to full-band gigs.
Resonator Guitar Acoustic-Electric
Strengthening your collection with rich spruce top tones and sleek sapele construction, this versatile acoustic-electric resonator guitar delivers standout performance across multiple genres. The classically styled sunburst finish and attention to detail, from the glossy rosewood fingerboard to the precision laser inlays, make it visually impressive while the solid spruce top ensures your playing sounds exceptional whether you're strumming open chords or nailing complex solos. The included piezo pickup system lets you shape your sound precisely, from clean acoustic tones to distorted blues firestorms, making this more than just another pretty face in your collection.
Blue Lava Original Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This ultralight acoustic-electric guitar packs a surprisingly powerful punch, thanks to its 4-MASS parametric structure that fuses top, body, neck, and air vibrations into one cohesive sound. The walnut and frost white HPL construction stands up to wear and tear while keeping the weight down at just 4.32 lbs. The ergonomic neck shape and thin heel make it super comfortable to play, whether you're strumming low notes or reaching for the higher frets. With L2 preamp and FreeBoost technology built in, this versatile guitar handles everything from folk to modern playing styles while staying refreshingly straightforward to use.
Yamaha FG800 Folk Acoustic Guitar
The Yamaha FG800 Folk acoustic guitar delivers impressive sound quality and playability at an exceptional value, with a solid spruce top and nato/okume back/sides construction that combines great tone with lightweight comfort. Its scalloped bracing and rosewood hardware contribute to a warm, responsive voice that cuts through clearly, while the vintage sandburst finish adds a touch of class. Whether you're a beginner exploring the acoustic world or an experienced player seeking a reliable every-day companion, this guitar exceeds expectations at every turn.
Ibanez AEG5012 12-String Acoustic Electric Guitar
Combining a slim AEG body design with premium tonewoods like spruce and sapele, the Ibanez AEG5012 delivers remarkable playability and natural tone. The 12-string setup responds wonderfully to both fingerstyle and pick playing, while the Ibanez T-bar II pickup system captures every subtle nuance of your playing. At just 1.77" wide at the nut, this comfortable neck makes the transition from 6-string play a breeze.
Best Choice Acoustic Electric Guitar Starter Set
This beautifully crafted acoustic-electric guitar, measuring 41 inches from neck to bridge, produces rich, full-bodied tones thanks to its hand-carved linden wood construction. The included padded case keeps your instrument safe while its modern dreadnought cutaway design and built-in 4-band equalizer give you studio-quality sound right out of the box. Whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking for your next great sound, this guitarist-friendly instrument won't disappoint.
Donner HUSH-I Portable Acoustic Guitar
This travel-friendly acoustic-electric guitar packs a powerful punch in its compact frame, thanks to its headless design and bone nut that makes tuning a breeze. The maple body delivers rich, natural tones whether you're plucking away on a quiet café patio or rocking out in your dorm room. With its built-in preamp system and ultra-quiet operation, this Donner HUSH guitar lets you practice without disturbance – perfect for the modern musician who needs to play anywhere, anytime.
Buyer's Guide
Acoustic electric guitars combine the natural resonance and tonal richness of acoustic guitars with the convenience of built-in pickups, offering players enhanced versatility for both stage and studio performances. Understanding key features and considerations will help you select the right acoustic electric guitar for your musical needs.
Electronics and Pickup Systems
Modern acoustic electric guitars feature various pickup designs, including undersaddle pickups, piezo pickups, and magnetic pickups. Undersaddle pickups provide a balanced, direct sound reproduction but may affect the guitar's tonal characteristics. Piezo pickups offer natural sound but with increased sensitivity to external noise. Magnetic pickups are less common but can deliver a warm, vintage tone. Consider the pickup type that best matches your playing style and the sound you prefer.
Body Construction and Materials
The guitar's weight, comfort, and resonance are significantly influenced by its body construction. Common materials include solid wood (which delivers rich, complex tones but is more expensive and less durable), Meylar composite (offering affordability and durability), and GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) (providing lighter weight and consistent tone). Consider factors like portability, durability, and tone quality when selecting material.
Bridge and Tuning Systems
The bridge's design impacts both playability and sustain. Thru-body bridges with compensated saddles provide excellent intonation and sustain but require precise setup and maintenance. Top-mounted bridges are simpler and more forgiveness for new players but may compromise sustain. Consider your skill level and playing needs when choosing a bridge design. The tuning system should offer reliable tuning stability, with modern options including machine heads with built-in tuners and precision gears for smoother operation.
Construction Quality and Finish
Quality construction and finish directly affect the guitar's longevity and playability. Look for consistent jointing with no visible gaps, securely attached hardware, and precise component installation. The finish should be smooth to the touch with minimal surface imperfections. For durability, consider guitars with polyurethane finishes for their affordability and scratch resistance, or clear nitrocellulose finishes for their vintage appearance and superior breathability, though nitrocellulose requires more maintenance.
FAQ
Are acoustic electric guitars suitable for both studio recording and live performances?
Yes, acoustic electric guitars are designed to excel in both studio and live settings. They feature built-in pickups and preamplifiers that convert the guitar's natural sound into an electrical signal, allowing for clean recording in studios while providing a bright, clear tone for live performances. Modern models often include features like volume controls and often two separate pickup systems - one for the body (for a natural, full sound) and one for the neck (for clarity during close mic'ing).
When choosing an acoustic electric, look for models with active electronics for better sound fidelity and battery life, and consider a guitar with a balanced tone that maintains its warmth and depth through the microphone or direct input. Adjusting the pickup height and type of pickup selector can further refine the sound for different environments.
How do I choose between a nylon-string and a steel-string acoustic electric guitar?
The choice between nylon- and steel-string acoustic electrics depends largely on your intended use and playing style. Nylon-string electrics, like models based on classical guitars, are typically easier to fingerstyle and produce a warmer, more mellow tone. They're ideal for players who incorporate complex chords and intricate fingerwork into their playing.
Steel-string electrics offer a brighter, more responsive tone with greater sustain, making them suitable for flatpicking and fingerpicking styles. These guitars are also more durable and can handle the increased tension of steel strings. Consider your musical style and how you plan to play when deciding which type to choose.
What should I consider when buying an acoustic electric guitar under $500?
For under $500, look for a guitar with a solid top (typically spruce or mahogany) for better sound quality, a scaled-down body size for comfort, and active electronics with separate volume controls for the body and neck pickups. Features like a 3-way pickup selector switch, volume balance control, and a built-in digital tuner add functionality without significantly impacting the price.
The electronics should include a 9V battery compartment and a 1/4" output jack for direct connection to amplifiers or recording equipment. Look for guitars with a comfortable neck shape and fretboard material that matches your playing style (rosewood is common for warmth, maple for brightness). Consider trying before you buy if possible, as comfort and playability are crucial.
Are acoustic electric guitars as durable as traditional acoustic guitars?
Acoustic electric guitars are generally as durable as their acoustic counterparts when built with similar materials and craftsmanship. Models from reputable manufacturers typically feature sturdy, solid top woods like spruce, reinforced neck joints, and robust electronics enclosures. However, the electronics and active components require more careful handling than the basic wood and steel of traditional acoustic guitars.
To maintain durability, store your electric acoustic in a protective case, avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity, and regularly check electronic components for wear. Minor maintenance like cleaning the electronics, checking pickup positions, and ensuring proper string gauge can extend the life of your instrument significantly.
How do I properly maintain an acoustic electric guitar's electronics?
Regular maintenance of an acoustic electric's electronics ensures reliable performance and longevity. Clean the pickup housing and electronics compartment monthly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and debris. Every 6-12 months, open the electronics compartment to check for loose connections, damaged components, or wear on the batteries. Allow the compartment to air out and reseat any connections as needed.
When changing batteries, use only 9V alkaline batteries and check the polarity before installation. Consider periodic servicing by a professional to check the pickup positions, electronic components, and overall functionality. Always maintain proper humidity levels (40-60%) to prevent electronic components from drying out or corroding.
What's the difference between balanced and unbalanced output in acoustic electrics?
Acoustic electrics typically offer a balanced output for optimal sound quality, while some less expensive models may have unbalanced outputs. A balanced output uses three wires - hot, ground, and common - to reduce hum and improve clarity. This configuration is preferred for longer cable runs and professional use, providing a solid, clean signal across all frequencies.
Unbalanced outputs use only two wires - hot and ground - which can introduce hum and degradation in signal quality, particularly over longer cables. While unbalanced outputs are sufficient for basic practice and short cable runs, balanced outputs are essential for studio recording, live performances, and professional setups where sound quality is paramount.
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