10 Best 12 String Guitar 2025 in the United States

The Fender CD-60SCE 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is a solid choice for those seeking rich, resonant sound in their music, particularly if you're into genres like country, folk, or bluegrass. The dreadnought body shape is known for delivering a bold bass tone, which enhances your performance. Crafted with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, the guitar offers a deep and full sound that is further enriched by the walnut fingerboard and mahogany neck. This combination of premium materials contributes to the quality and durability of the instrument.

For those who perform live or require amplification, the built-in Fishman Classic Design pickup and preamp tuner provide reliable and convenient sound control. This can be particularly useful for adjusting your tone on the go. The Fender CD-60SCE also comes with a 2-year warranty, giving you peace of mind regarding its construction and longevity.

However, there are a few things to consider. The guitar's fixed bridge system might limit customization options for some players, and the neck width, typical of 12-string guitars, can be challenging for beginners or those with smaller hands. Also, the instrument requires a 9V battery for the electronics, which means you need to keep spare batteries handy. At 0.176 ounces, it's relatively light for a 12-string guitar, making it easier to handle during long playing sessions. The Fender CD-60SCE is a well-crafted, versatile 12-string guitar ideal for intermediate and advanced players who value quality sound and reliable performance.

The Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar is well-regarded for its quality construction and sound. Featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this guitar delivers a rich, warm tone with excellent resonance. The dreadnought body shape ensures a robust sound projection, making it suitable for various music genres, especially folk and rock.

The rosewood fingerboard and bridge add to its durability and aesthetic appeal, while the diecast tuners help keep the instrument in tune, which is particularly essential for a 12-string guitar where tuning stability can be a challenge. The adjustable truss rod is a handy feature, allowing players to tweak the neck relief for optimal playability, which can be beneficial given the extra tension from the additional strings.

The lack of built-in electronics may be a drawback for those looking to perform amplified, but this also means there are no electronic components to potentially fail over time. Weighing in at 6.82 pounds, it is relatively manageable in terms of weight. This guitar might be particularly appealing to intermediate to advanced players seeking a high-quality, reliable 12-string acoustic guitar without the need for built-in electronics.

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.