10 Best 12 String Guitar 2025 in the United States

The Takamine GD-37CE PW 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar offers a solid mix of features for enthusiasts of rich, resonant sound. With a spruce top and maple back and sides, this guitar is designed to produce a bright and clear tone, ideal for genres where these qualities shine. The mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard provide a comfortable playing experience, especially important for the extra strings in a 12-string setup, which typically require more finger strength.

The guitar's stunning pearl white finish not only makes it visually appealing but also adds to its unique presence on stage. The inclusion of alloy steel strings promises durability and a crisp sound that can sustain the guitar’s tone. The built-in electronics make it versatile for both acoustic and amplified performances.

However, at 11.05 pounds, the guitar is relatively heavy, which may be a consideration for players who prefer lighter instruments. While the guitar bridge system is described as a 'tremolo,' which is unusual for acoustic guitars, this may simply refer to the design rather than functionality, as a traditional tremolo system isn't typical for acoustic-electrics.

The Vangoa 12-string acoustic-electric guitar offers a rich and robust sound thanks to its AAA spruce top and sapele back and sides. This combination of tonewoods ensures a well-balanced and warm sound, which is further enhanced by the 12 strings, producing a louder and more resonant tone. The dreadnought body shape contributes to the guitar's powerful sound projection, making it suitable for both acoustic playing and larger venues when plugged in. The built-in EQ and preamp provide additional sound options, which is great for live performances.

The tuning pegs with an 18:1 ratio allow for precise tuning, and the bone nut and saddle help in better sound vibration transfer, improving the tone quality. The slender size C-shape neck and cutaway design make it comfortable to play, even for beginners or those with smaller hands. Additionally, the built-in truss rod helps maintain a straight neck, keeping the action comfortable. The matte finish not only adds to the guitar's durability but also makes it easy to clean.

However, the guitar's large size and weight (10.98 pounds) might be a bit cumbersome for younger players or those looking for a more portable option. The bundled accessories, including a padded bag and backup string set, are a nice touch for beginners. This guitar is an excellent choice for intermediate players and those looking to explore the fuller sound of a 12-string guitar, whether playing acoustically or amplified.

The Takamine GD30CE-12 is a well-crafted 12-string acoustic-electric guitar that shines in its category, particularly for players looking for a rich, resonant sound and good electronics for amplification. Its spruce top contributes to a bright and clear tone, while the mahogany back and sides provide warmth and depth, making it appealing for various music styles, especially folk and pop. The ovangkol fingerboard not only looks great but also offers smooth playability, which can be enjoyable for both beginners and more experienced players.

The guitar's TP-4TD preamp system is a notable strength, allowing for easy amplification without sacrificing sound quality. This is great for performers who need to plug in for gigs, as it delivers a balanced tone through an amplifier. The split saddle bone bridge enhances intonation, making it easier to keep the guitar in tune across the fretboard.

The neck width and scale length might be a little challenging for those who are new to 12-string guitars, as they can be wider and may require some adjustment if you’re used to 6-string models. The action may also need some tweaking for optimal playability, as some players have reported it being a bit high out of the box. Furthermore, weighing in at 8 pounds, it can feel a bit hefty during long playing sessions. Ideal for intermediate players or gigging musicians seeking a quality 12-string guitar, the GD30CE-12 offers excellent value and performance in its price range.