10 Best 12 String Acoustic Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Taylor 254ce Plus is a 12-string acoustic-electric guitar crafted for players seeking a rich, full-bodied sound and reliable performance both unplugged and amplified. Its spruce top combined with Indian rosewood back and sides offers a bright, clear tone with warm overtones, making it ideal for complex chord work and shimmering 12-string textures. The mahogany neck paired with an ebony fingerboard provides smooth playability and durability.

Its fixed bridge and phosphor bronze strings are typical in 12-string guitars, delivering sustain and a classic bright tone. Being an acoustic-electric, it allows easy connection to amps or PA systems for versatile use during live performances. Weighing nearly 20 pounds, it is on the heavier side, which is common for 12-string guitars and may affect comfort during long sessions.

The natural finish highlights the quality woods, and the included 2-year warranty adds peace of mind. This guitar suits musicians looking for a high-quality 12-string with a balanced, articulate sound and solid craftsmanship, while players are encouraged to try it out to ensure the neck feel and action meet their personal needs.

The Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat 12-String Concert Acoustic Guitar is a solid pick for musicians who appreciate quality sound and craftsmanship. One of its standout features is the solid mahogany top, which contributes to a rich and full tone, perfect for strumming or fingerpicking. The scalloped bracing enhances the guitar's resonance, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned players looking for a reliable instrument. The built-in Fishman preamp with tuner adds convenience for those who want to plug in and perform, ensuring you can keep your guitar in tune easily.

The walnut fingerboard and back provide a pleasant feel while playing, complementing the aesthetic with its natural color. With a scale length of 25.3 inches, it offers a comfortable reach for most players. However, users should note that the neck width could feel a bit wider than typical guitars, which might be a concern for those with smaller hands.

On the downside, the guitar weighs around 10.4 pounds, which may be a bit heavy for some, especially during long practice sessions. Additionally, while the one-year warranty is a good start, it may not be as reassuring as a more extended warranty that some competitors offer. The action, although adjustable, may require some tweaking to suit individual preferences.

The Takamine GJ72CE-12NAT Jumbo Cutaway 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a notable choice for those seeking a rich and expansive sound typical of jumbo 12-string guitars. It features a solid spruce top and flame maple back and sides, which contribute to its robust and lush tone. The slim mahogany neck and 12-inch-radius bound rosewood fingerboard offer excellent playability, making it comfortable for extended playing sessions.

Additionally, the built-in TK-40D preamp system includes a tuner, three-band EQ, gain controls, and other features that provide versatility and sound quality, particularly useful for live performances or recording sessions. The elegant natural gloss finish adds to its aesthetic appeal. However, at 8.15 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially during long performances. The fixed bridge system might not appeal to those who prefer more flexibility in their guitar setup. Also, while the electronics are versatile, they require a 9V battery, which adds a maintenance aspect that purely acoustic guitars do not have.

This guitar is well-suited for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate detailed sound customization and high-quality build.