Folk music is a unique and delicate genre with a sound that has somewhat managed to remain unaltered over the years. Just like every other style of music, folk has its typical musical instruments.
Apart from instruments like the flute, whistle, pipes, violin, accordion, melodeon, mandolin, harmonica, and tenor banjo, the acoustic guitar remains one instrument that will always play a dominant role in folk.
Both in contemporary and old-school folk, the acoustic guitar always has its place in folk records and live performances alike.
With the numerous brands of acoustic guitars available in the world today, it can sometimes be hard for a guitarist to choose the right guitar for folk.
This is especially common among beginner players or players who wish to dive into the amazing world of folk music from other styles.
Acoustic guitars have a traditional, woody, and warm sound that complements and satisfies the overall tonal expectations of folk.
There can hardly be folk without an acoustic guitar. This further makes the job of choosing an acoustic guitar for folk a lot more intimidating. But, you need not worry too much. We are here to make things a lot easier for you.
In this article, we will discuss in depth the best acoustic guitars for folk music. It doesn’t matter your playing level or budget, there will always be a perfect guitar for every folk player, regardless. All you have to do is read on.
Table of Contents
10 Best Acoustic Folk Guitars
- Taylor 214ce
- Martin D-28
- Gibson J-45
- Yamaha FG800
- Seagull S6
- Fender CD-60S
- Alvarez Artist Series AD60
- Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert CE
- Epiphone Hummingbird
- Guild D-240E
Review of 10 Best Acoustic Folk Guitars
1. Taylor 214ce
The Taylor 214ce is a Grand Auditorium model acoustic-electric guitar that is part of Taylor’s 200 series.
It has a solid Sitka Spruce top and Laminate Rosewood back and sides which helps it produce a bright tone with clarity in the higher frequencies and at the low end.
The guitar is fitted with Taylor’s Expression System 2 electronics. According to a review on Six String Acoustic, the 214ce has good clarity of sound and you can hear everything that is going on clearly when you play it.
Although being a very versatile acoustic guitar, the build and tone also make it very perfect for folk music. The high frequencies are not harsh to the ears; it is soft and soothing—just perfect for folk.
The Taylor 214ce is well suited for acoustic folk music because of its tonally balanced sound that sounds good whether you are strumming, flat-picking or finger-picking.
Pros:
- Great sound:
The Taylor 214ce has a clear and balanced tone, with a strong midrange and crisp treble. It’s great for both strumming and fingerpicking styles.
- Comfortable playability:
The guitar has a slim, fast neck and a slightly smaller body than some other dreadnoughts, making it easy to play for extended periods.
- High-quality construction:
Taylor is known for their attention to detail, and the 214ce is no exception. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, layered rosewood back and sides, and a sturdy ebony fretboard.
- Built-in electronics:
The 214ce comes with Taylor’s Expression System 2 pickup system, which produces a natural and dynamic amplified sound.
Cons:
- Higher price point:
The Taylor 214ce is not the most affordable guitar on the market, so it may be out of reach for some folk players.
- Lack of tonal variety:
While the guitar sounds great, some players may find that it doesn’t offer as much tonal variety as other models.
- May require adjustments:
Some players have reported that the guitar’s action (string height from the fretboard) is too high out of the box, which may require a professional setup from a skilled luthier.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Taylor 214ce:
Taylor 214ce – How Does it Sound?
Gear Stories: Taylor 214ce Review with Brad Abbott
2. Martin D-28
The Martin D-28 is a distinguished dreadnought acoustic guitar that was first introduced in 1931. It is celebrated for its rich and resonant sound and outstanding projection.
The guitar boasts a solid Sitka Spruce top with Aging Toner and East Indian Rosewood back and sides. Its forward-shifted non-scalloped X-bracing enhances sound projection and provides remarkable tone sustain.
The solid spruce top and rosewood back and sides result in a bright and clear tone with a pronounced high-end presence and potent bass.
The distinct treble and midrange make the D-28 an exceptional guitar for rhythm and bluegrass playing. The low end is focused and tight without any superfluous boominess.
The Martin D-28 is well suited for acoustic folk music due to its deep and mellow tone produced by its wide and deep body, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recording.
Pros:
- Iconic sound:
The Martin D-28 is known for its full, balanced tone, with a strong bass response and sparkling trebles. It’s a versatile guitar that can handle the playing needs of folk music perfectly well.
- High-quality construction:
Martin is known for their attention to detail and use of premium materials, and the D-28 is no exception. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, East Indian rosewood back and sides, and a sturdy ebony fretboard.
- Comfortable playability:
The D-28 has a comfortable neck shape and a slightly wider nut width, making it easy to play for extended periods.
- Classic design:
The guitar’s simple yet elegant design is instantly recognizable and has been imitated by many other guitar makers over the years.
Cons:
- Higher price point:
The Martin D-28 is a premium guitar and comes with a higher price tag than many other acoustic guitars on the market.
- Heavier weight:
The guitar’s solid wood construction gives it a rich tone, but it also makes it a bit heavier than some other acoustic guitars.
- May require adjustments:
Some players have reported that the guitar’s setup out of the box could be improved, particularly in terms of the action (string height/distance from the fretboard).
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Martin D-28:
3. Gibson J-45
The Gibson J-45 is a round-shoulder dreadnought acoustic guitar that has been dubbed “The Workhorse” by those who have played it. It has a Sitka Spruce top, a Mahogany body and neck, and a Rosewood fingerboard.
The hand-scalloped X-bracing gives this classic acoustic guitar the resonance, presence, and playability that Gibson is known for.
With top-of-the-line electronics, it sounds incredible on stage when plugged in and played acoustically.
A review on MusicCritic states that the combination of the solid spruce top and mahogany body produces a deep and mellow tone that is sharp and distinct.
The frequency pairs well with the deep and full bass – a sound that emanates from the depths of the round-shouldered dreadnought body.
The back and sides of the body are made from mahogany, creating a steady and resounding sound that fills an entire room.
The Gibson J-45 is well suited for acoustic folk music because of its rich bass and shimmering clarity. It manages to be both durable and tough, but with its rich bass and shimmering clarity, it also sounds like a dream.
Pros:
- Warm and balanced tone:
The J-45 has a rich, full-bodied sound with a strong midrange and clear trebles. It’s a great guitar for both strumming and fingerpicking styles.
- High-quality construction:
Gibson is known for their attention to detail and use of premium materials, and the J-45 is no exception. It features a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a sturdy rosewood fretboard.
- Comfortable playability:
The J-45 has a comfortable neck profile and a slightly smaller body than some other dreadnoughts, making it easy to play for extended periods.
- Classic design:
The guitar’s simple yet elegant design is instantly recognizable and has been used by many legendary musicians over the years.
Cons:
- Higher price point:
The Gibson J-45 is a premium guitar and comes with a higher price tag than many other acoustic guitars on the market.
- May require adjustments:
Some players have reported that the guitar’s setup out of the box could be improved, particularly in terms of the action (string height).
- Heavier weight:
The guitar’s solid wood construction gives it a rich tone, but it also makes it a bit heavier than some other acoustic guitars.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Gibson J-45:
Gibson J-45 Vintage Acoustic Guitar Played By Carl Miner
J45 vs Hummingbird: Only One Gibson Is Staying
4. Yamaha FG800
The Yamaha FG800 is an affordable, entry-level guitar that is uniquely suited to folk music. It has a solid Sitka Spruce top, Nato back and sides, and a Rosewood fingerboard.
The hand-scalloped X-bracing gives this classic acoustic guitar the resonance, presence, and playability that Yamaha is known for.
According to a review on Six String Acoustic, the solid spruce top and Nato body produce a deep and smooth tone that is sharp and distinct.
The frequency pairs well with the deep and full bass – a sound that comes from the depths of the dreadnought body.
The back and sides of the body are made from Nato, creating a steady, resounding sound that will command an entire room, right to the very back.
The Yamaha FG800 is well suited for acoustic folk music due to its rich bass and shimmering clarity. It is both durable and tough while also delivering a dreamy sound with its rich bass and shimmering clarity.
Pros:
- Great value:
The Yamaha FG800 is an affordable guitar that offers excellent quality and playability for the price.
- Solid construction:
The guitar features a solid spruce top, nato/okume back and sides, and a rosewood fretboard. The materials used are durable and can withstand regular use.
- Balanced tone:
The FG800 has a balanced tone with a warm low end and clear highs, making it a versatile guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles.
- Comfortable playability:
The guitar has a comfortable neck shape and a slightly narrower nut width, making it easy to play for extended periods.
- Classic design:
The guitar’s simple and classic design is both elegant and functional, with a clean and natural finish.
Cons:
- Limited tonal depth:
While the FG800 delivers a balanced and clear tone, it may not have the same depth and richness as more expensive guitars with solid wood back and sides.
- Limited customization options:
As an entry-level guitar, the FG800 doesn’t offer much room for customization, such as different wood types or finishes.
- Basic features:
The guitar doesn’t come with any advanced features, such as built-in electronics or a cutaway design for higher fret access.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Yamaha FG800:
Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar Demo
Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar in Exclusive Brown Sunburst Finish
5. Seagull S6
The Seagull S6 is a high-quality acoustic guitar that has been designed and crafted specifically for acoustic folk music. It is a popular choice among musicians who appreciate the instrument’s exceptional sound, playability, and durability.
One of the most striking features of the Seagull S6 is its exceptional sound quality.
The guitar has a warm, balanced tone that is ideal for acoustic folk music. Its solid cedar top provides a full, rich sound that is perfect for strumming and fingerpicking.
The guitar’s wild cherry back and sides add a bright, crisp sound that complements the cedar’s warmth and depth. The result is a well-rounded, versatile sound that is perfect for a wide range of folk music styles.
Another reason why the Seagull S6 is an excellent choice for acoustic folk music is its exceptional playability. The guitar has a slim, comfortable neck that is easy to play, even for beginners.
The fretboard is smooth and easy to navigate, and the action is low and comfortable.
The guitar’s comfortable feel makes it easy to play complex chords and fingerpicking patterns, which is essential for creating the intricate rhythms and melodies that are characteristic of folk music.
Pros:
- Rich and balanced tone:
The Seagull S6 delivers a warm and balanced tone that’s well-suited for a variety of playing styles, including fingerpicking and strumming.
- High-quality construction:
The guitar features a solid cedar top, wild cherry back and sides, and a rosewood fretboard, all of which contribute to its excellent tone and durability.
- Comfortable playability:
The S6 has a comfortable neck shape and a slightly narrower nut width, making it easy to play with for extended periods.
- Great value:
Despite its high-quality construction and excellent sound, the Seagull S6 is priced affordably, making it an excellent value for the price.
Cons:
- Limited customization options:
The S6 doesn’t offer much room for customization, such as different wood types or finishes.
- Basic features:
The guitar doesn’t come with any advanced features, such as built-in electronics or a cutaway design for higher fret access.
- Slightly heavier weight:
The solid wood construction of the guitar gives it a rich tone, but also makes it slightly heavier than some other acoustic guitars.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Seagull S6:
Our Most Popular Acoustic Guitar – The New Seagull S6 Original
Seagull S6 Original {Canadian made, eh?}
The Fender CD-60S is a great guitar for acoustic folk music. It has a solid mahogany top with laminated mahogany on the back and sides, which gives it a warm and mellow sound with a pronounced midrange.
The neck profile is very approachable for beginners and young players, and it’s suitable for both flat-picking and fingerstyle playing. The guitar has a wide, well-balanced tone that belies its modest price.
According to Guitar World, “the CD-60S is one very playable dreadnought with a wide, well-balanced tone that belies its modest price. Ideal for beginners – fun for all.”
Pros:
- Affordable price:
The CD-60S is priced affordably, making it a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
- Solid construction:
The guitar features a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which contribute to its clear and balanced tone.
- Comfortable playing experience:
The CD-60S has a comfortable neck shape and a slightly narrower nut width, making it easy to play for extended periods.
- Built-in tuner:
The guitar features a built-in tuner, making it easy to keep the guitar in tune at all times.
- Stylish design:
The guitar has a classic Fender look, with a natural finish and a black pickguard.
Cons:
- Limited tonal options:
While the CD-60S has a clear and balanced tone, it may not offer as much tonal versatility as some other acoustic guitars.
- Basic features:
The guitar doesn’t come with any advanced features, such as built-in electronics or a cutaway design for higher fret access.
- Not ideal for advanced players:
While the CD-60S is great for beginners, more advanced players may find the guitar lacking in certain areas.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Fender CD-60S:
Fender Classic Design Series CD-60S All-Mahogany Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Demo
FENDER CD 60S All Mahogany Sound Test
7. Alvarez Artist Series AD60
The Alvarez Artist Series AD60 is a high-quality acoustic guitar that has been designed and crafted specifically for acoustic folk music.
It is a popular choice among musicians who appreciate the instrument’s exceptional sound, playability, and durability.
One of the most notable features of the Alvarez Artist Series AD60 is its exceptional sound quality.
The guitar has a warm, rich tone that is ideal for acoustic folk music. Its solid spruce top provides a bright, clear sound that is perfect for strumming and fingerpicking.
The guitar’s mahogany back and sides add a deep, resonant sound that complements the spruce’s brightness and clarity. The result is a well-rounded, versatile sound that is perfect for a wide range of folk music styles.
According to Guitar.com, “Alvarez has been producing reliable, affordable, and well-made guitars for over 50 years.
The award-winning Alvarez AD60 offers a bold voice in an affordable package, despite not being as well known or widely available as other brands in the acoustic sector.”
Pros:
- Excellent construction:
The AD60 features a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, giving it a warm, well-balanced tone. The guitar is also well-built and sturdy, ensuring that it will last for years.
- Great playability:
The guitar’s neck is comfortable and easy to play, and the action is set up nicely, making it easy to fret notes and chords.
- Good value for the price:
The AD60 is priced affordably, making it a great value for the quality of the guitar you get.
- Versatile sound:
The guitar has a balanced and versatile tone that works well for a wide range of styles, from fingerpicking to strumming.
Cons:
- Some may find the tone too bright:
While the AD60 has a well-balanced tone overall, some players may find it a bit too bright or lacking in bass.
- Limited tonal options:
The guitar doesn’t offer much in the way of tonal customization, so players looking for more sonic flexibility may want to consider other options.
- No onboard electronics:
The AD60 doesn’t come with any built-in electronics, so you’ll need to use a separate pickup or microphone if you want to amplify your sound.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Alvarez Artist Series AD60:
Alvarez Artist AD60 Dreadnought
Alvarez Artist Series Overview…High Quality, Great Value Acoustic Guitars!
8. Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert CE
The Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert CE guitar is an excellent choice for folk music for several reasons. First and foremost, this guitar has exceptional sound quality.
It is made from high quality materials including a solid Myrtlewood top and layered Myrtlewood back and sides, which produces a warm, clear, and balanced tone that is ideal for acoustic folk music.
This wood combination also adds a unique aesthetic appeal to the guitar, with a beautiful, swirling wood grain pattern.
In addition to its outstanding sound quality, the Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert CE guitar is also incredibly easy to play.
It has a slim, comfortable neck that makes it easy to move up and down the fretboard, making it perfect for complex fingerpicking patterns and chord progressions that are commonly found in folk music.
The guitar’s low action and smooth fretboard also make it incredibly easy to play, even for beginners. Another reason why the Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert CE guitar is an ideal choice for folk music is its unique design.
The concert body shape of this guitar is perfectly suited for folk music, as it produces a balanced tone that is ideal for both strumming and fingerpicking styles.
The guitar’s cutaway design also allows for easy access to the upper frets, which is essential for creating intricate melodies and solos.
Pros:
- Unique and eye-catching design:
The Pursuit Exotic Concert CE features a beautiful and unique design, with a solid Myrtlewood top and stunning Ziricote back and sides. This gives the guitar a warm and rich tone with plenty of sustain.
- Excellent playability:
The guitar has a comfortable neck and low action, making it easy to play and fret notes and chords.
- Great electronics:
The built-in Fishman pickup and preamp system offers a clear and natural sound when amplified, with plenty of tonal options to dial in the perfect sound.
- Good value for the price:
While it may be priced slightly higher than some other options, the quality of the guitar and its unique design makes it a great value for the price.
Cons:
- Some may find the tone too bright:
While the Myrtlewood top offers a warm and rich tone, some players may find the guitar to be a bit too bright or lacking behind in bass.
- Limited tonal options:
The guitar doesn’t offer a ton of tonal customization, so players looking for more sonic flexibility may want to consider other options.
- May not be suited for heavy strumming:
While the guitar is great for fingerpicking and more delicate playing styles, it may not be the best choice for players who prefer to strum heavily.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert CE:
Breedlove Pursuit Exotic Concert CE | Review
Acoustic Guitar Review: Breedlove Pursuit Exotic S Concert Edgeburst CE
The Epiphone Hummingbird guitar is a great choice for folk music due to its unique sound, playability, and aesthetics.
The guitar has a rich history that dates back to the 1960s. Also, it has been a favourite of musicians across many different genres, including folk.
One of the most notable features of the Epiphone Hummingbird guitar is its exceptional sound quality. It has a warm, full-bodied tone that is perfect for acoustic folk music.
The guitar’s solid spruce top provides a bright, clear sound that is perfect for strumming, while the mahogany back and sides add a deep, resonant sound that complements the spruce’s brightness and clarity.
The result is a well-rounded, versatile sound that is perfect for a wide range of folk music styles. In addition to its exceptional sound quality, the Epiphone Hummingbird guitar is also very playable.
The guitar has a slim, comfortable neck that is easy to play, even for beginners. The fretboard is smooth and easy to navigate, and the action is low and comfortable.
Pros:
- Iconic design:
The Hummingbird is instantly recognizable with its distinctive pickguard design and natural finish. It’s a guitar with a classic and timeless look that will never go out of style.
- Great sound:
The solid spruce top and mahogany body of the Hummingbird produce a warm and balanced tone that is perfect for a variety of playing styles. It’s a guitar that sounds great whether you’re strumming chords or playing intricate fingerpicking patterns.
- Good value:
The Epiphone Hummingbird is a great value for the price. It offers excellent sound quality and design for a fraction of the cost of some other high-end acoustic guitars.
- Comfortable playability:
The guitar’s slim taper neck and low action make it easy and comfortable to play, even for beginners.
Cons:
- Some players may find the Hummingbird’s tone too bright or lacking in bass.
It’s a matter of personal preference, but some players may prefer a guitar with a more rounded or balanced tone.
- The pickguard design can be a bit polarizing –
some players love it, while others may find it too flashy or distracting.
- The guitar’s electronics
(if equipped) may not be as high-quality as some other options on the market.
Here are a few YouTube videos showcasing the Epiphone Hummingbird:
Epiphone Hummingbird Studio | A great guitar for anyone!
Epiphone Hummingbird Pro Electro Acoustic Review – The Best Epiphone Acoustic?
10. Guild D-240E
The Guild D-240E is a great acoustic guitar that is well-known for its excellent craftsmanship and warm sound. It has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which provides a balanced tone and excellent projection.
The guitar also features a rosewood fingerboard and bridge, adding to its overall appeal and comfort.
One of the standout features of the Guild D-240E is its Fishman Sonitone pickup system, which makes it a great choice for live performances or recording sessions. The system is easy to use and provides a clear and natural sound.
Overall, the Guild D-240E is an excellent choice for folk music. Its exceptional sound quality, comfortable playability, reliable pickup system, and vintage aesthetics make it an ideal choice for both beginners and professionals alike.
Whether you’re playing at home or on stage, the Guild D-240E is sure to impress with its versatile tone and classic design.
| Pros | Cons |
| Great craftsmanship and build quality | The sound may be a bit mellow for some players who prefer a brighter tone |
| Warm and balanced tone | The guitar may require some setup adjustments to achieve optimal playability |
| Fishman Sonitone pickup system provides clear and natural sound | |
| Comfortable to play with a rosewood fingerboard and bridge |
Here’s a link to a video review of the Guild D-240E:
Guild D-240E Flamed Mahogany Acoustic Guitar Demo
Guild Westerly Collection D-240E Acoustic Guitar Demo
What Qualities Should an Acoustic Guitar Have to Be Perfect for Folk Music?
When it comes to folk music, the right acoustic guitar can make all the difference. While there are many different types and styles of acoustic guitars out there, not all of them are ideal for playing folk music.
To find the perfect acoustic guitar for folk music, there are certain qualities that you should look for.
Warm and Full Tone
One of the most important qualities that an acoustic guitar should have for folk music is a warm and full tone. This means that the guitar should be able to produce a rich, full-bodied sound that is well-suited to the genre.
This is typically achieved through the use of solid wood for the guitar’s top, back, and sides, which can help to create a more resonant and dynamic sound.
Balanced Sound
Another important quality to look for in an acoustic guitar for folk music is balance. The guitar should be able to produce an even sound across all of its strings/frequencies, with no one string/frequency overpowering the others.
This can be achieved through the use of high-quality materials and construction techniques, as well as through careful setup and adjustment of the guitar’s action and intonation.
Comfortable Playability
To play folk music effectively, the guitar must be comfortable and easy to play. This means that the guitar should have a comfortable neck profile, a smooth and responsive fretboard, and a well-adjusted setup that allows for easy and accurate fretting and strumming.
Durability and Reliability
Folk music often involves a lot of traveling and performing; it’s important to choose an acoustic guitar that is built to last.
Look for a guitar that is made from high-quality materials and construction techniques, and that is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use and travel.
Traditional Styling
Finally, for many folk musicians, the look and feel of the guitar are just as important as its sound and playability.
Look for an acoustic guitar that has a traditional, timeless design that reflects the rich history and cultural significance of folk music.
This can help to create a deeper connection between the musician and the instrument and can add to the overall experience of playing and performing folk music.
What are the Size Considerations when Purchasing an Acoustic Folk Guitar?
Acoustic guitars are a staple in folk music and finding the perfect one can make all the difference in your sound.
However, with the plethora of acoustic guitars available on the market, it can be difficult to know where to begin when choosing one for folk music.
One important consideration when making your decision is the size of the guitar. While some believe that bigger is always better, this may not necessarily be the case when it comes to folk music.
Understanding the size considerations for acoustic folk guitars can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect instrument for your style and needs. Here are some guidelines to consider when it comes to size and folk guitars:
Body size
The size of the guitar’s body can have a significant impact on its sound. In general, smaller-bodied guitars tend to have a more focused and articulate sound, while larger-bodied guitars tend to have a more boomy and resonant sound.
For folk music, many people prefer a guitar with a mid-sized body, such as a dreadnought or concert-size guitar.
These guitars strike a good balance between clarity and resonance, making them well-suited to a variety of playing styles.
Scale length
The scale length of the guitar refers to the length of the strings from the nut to the bridge.
A longer scale length can make the guitar feel more responsive and dynamic, while a shorter scale length can make it easier to play certain chords and notes.
For folk music, a scale length of around 25.5 inches is a good choice, as it provides a good balance of playability and tonal response.
Neck width
The width of the guitar’s neck can also have an impact on its playability. A wider neck can make it easier to fingerpick and play complex chord shapes, while a narrower neck can make it easier to play faster and more technical passages.
For folk music, a neck width of around 1.75 inches at the nut is a good choice, as it provides a good balance of comfort and playability.
Body Depth
The depth of the guitar’s body can also affect its sound. A shallower body tends to produce a brighter and more focused sound, while a deeper body produces a more resonant and boomy sound.
For folk music, a body depth of around 4 inches is a good choice, as it provides a good balance of clarity and warmth.
Folk Guitars VS Dreadnoughts; What are the Differences?
Folk guitars and dreadnoughts are two popular types of acoustic guitars, each with its unique characteristics and sound.
While both guitars are often used in folk music, there are some key differences to consider when choosing between them. Here are some of the main differences between folk guitars and dreadnoughts:
Body Size
One of the main differences between folk guitars and Dreadnoughts is the size of the guitar’s body. Folk guitars typically have a smaller body than dreadnoughts, which gives them a more focused and articulate sound.
Dreadnoughts, on the other hand, have a larger body, which gives them a more powerful and resonant sound.
Shape
Another difference between folk guitars and dreadnoughts is the shape of the guitar. Folk guitars typically have a more curvaceous, rounded shape, which makes them comfortable to play while sitting down.
Dreadnoughts, on the other hand, have a more boxy, square shape, which makes them well-suited for playing while standing up.
Sound
Perhaps the most significant difference between folk guitars and dreadnoughts is the sound they produce.
Folk guitars tend to have a brighter, more focused sound, which makes them well-suited for fingerpicking and playing intricate melodies.
Dreadnoughts, on the other hand, tend to have a deeper, more resonant sound, which makes them well-suited for strumming chords and playing with a band.
Playability
The playability of a guitar is another important consideration. Folk guitars tend to have a shorter scale length and a wider neck, which makes them well-suited for fingerpicking and playing intricate melodies.
Dreadnoughts, on the other hand, tend to have a longer scale length and a narrower neck, which makes them well-suited for playing chords and more technical passages.
How Much Should You Spend on a Folk Guitar?
When it comes to purchasing a folk guitar, there are a variety of options available at different price points.
While it’s possible to find a decent folk guitar for under $200, it’s important to consider the quality of the instrument before making a purchase.
In general, the amount you should spend on a folk guitar will depend on a variety of factors, including your budget, skill level, and playing style.
Here are some general guidelines to consider when deciding how much to spend on a folk guitar:
Beginner Level
If you’re a beginner just starting with folk guitar, you may not want to invest too much money in your first instrument.
A decent beginner-level folk guitar can typically be purchased for between $100 and $300. These guitars may not have the highest-quality materials or construction, but they will be sufficient for learning basic chords and techniques.
Intermediate Level
If you’ve been playing folk guitar for a while and are looking to upgrade to a higher-quality instrument, you can expect to spend anywhere from $300 to $1000.
At this price point, you can expect to find guitars with better materials and construction, which will result in better sound and playability.
Professional Level
If you’re a professional musician or serious hobbyist, you may want to invest in a high-quality, handcrafted folk guitar.
These guitars can cost anywhere from $1000 to $5000 or more and are typically made with the highest-quality materials and construction.
They offer superior sound quality, playability, and aesthetic beauty, and are designed to last a lifetime.
Ultimately, the amount you should spend on a folk guitar will depend on your individual needs and budget.
It’s important to do your research and try out different guitars in your price range before purchasing to ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
A good rule of thumb is to spend as much as you can afford on a quality instrument that will serve you well for years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the perfect acoustic guitar for folk music requires careful consideration of several factors, including size, shape, sound, playability, and price.
While there are a variety of options available at different price points, it’s important to choose an instrument that is well-suited to your skill level, playing style, and preferences.
Whether you’re a beginner just starting or a professional musician looking to upgrade your instrument, investing in a high-quality folk guitar can make all the difference in your sound and overall playing experience.
By doing your research and trying out different guitars, you can find the perfect instrument that will serve you well for years to come.
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