Best Overall
Intermediate
Acoustic Guitar
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Overall: 8.5/10
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Best Feature: Quick and responsive playability.
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TedScore™: 8.5/10
Best Budget
Intermediate
Acoustic Guitar
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Overall: 9/10
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Best Feature: Exceptionally playable
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best Value Intermediate
Acoustic Guitar
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Overall: 9/10
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Best Feature: Comfortable play with modified low oval neck
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TedScore™: 9/10
Strumming through the cacophony of beginner chords and entry-level twangs, you’ve graduated to a rite of passage—picking the best acoustic guitar for intermediate players.
I’ve been where you are, fingers itching for a fretboard that sings with each nuanced touch.
As a professional musician who’s played to audiences from dimly-lit coffee shops to the grandeur of concert halls in London, I’ve learned that the right guitar doesn’t just fill a room, it fills the soul.
My journey began with a hand-me-down six-string that knew more campfire songs than a scout leader! But as my skills sharpened, so did my ear for quality.
I’ve tested countless guitars on stages worldwide, and I’ve distilled that symphony of experiences into wisdom I’m eager to share with you.
Trust me, finding that middle ground between a beginner and a bank-breaking professional instrument is an art in itself.
And right from the off, I can tell you I normally recommend the Fender CD-60s for my students on a budget, and the Taylor Academy 12 Grand Concert for my students who have a bit cash to play with.
So, let’s find an acoustic guitar that resonates with your ambition and reflects the seasoned player you’re becoming.
What Makes An Acoustic Guitar for Intermediate Players?
When you’re at an intermediate level of playing the acoustic guitar, your needs and expectations from the instrument are likely to change. You’re no longer a beginner trying to get the hang of the strings and frets.
Instead, you’re someone who understands the basics and is ready to delve deeper into the craft.
Generally speaking, an intermediate guitar should have more advanced features than a beginner’s instrument and often requires more advanced playing techniques.
For example, an intermediate guitar may have a slightly thicker neck with greater action and fret spacing, making chords easier to play.
It may feature higher-quality wood construction, such as rosewood or mahogany, which helps create better overall sound quality.
An intermediate guitar is typically more durable and withstands heavier playing techniques than beginner’s instruments.
How Much Should an Intermediate Acoustic Guitar Cost?
Before jumping into a buying decision, it’s essential to understand the cost of an intermediate acoustic guitar and if there is a “magic number” to stay within.
While there isn’t one set magic number for what an intermediate-level acoustic guitar should cost, you can generally expect to spend anywhere from £/$400 – £/$1200 on your instrument.
Because of the complexity and craftsmanship that goes into hand-made guitars, you’ll typically pay more for a higher-quality guitar.
Things to Consider When Buying an Acoustic Guitar
Acoustic guitars come in various shapes and sizes, each offering a unique sound profile and aesthetic. Dreadnoughts and jumbos, for instance, are larger and deliver a robust, loud sound.
On the other hand, parlour and concert-style guitars are more compact and produce a more focused, intimate sound. Choosing a body style largely depends on your musical preferences and playing style
The sound quality of an acoustic guitar is influenced by its construction materials and design. High-quality woods like spruce, mahogany, and rosewood are often used in the best-sounding guitars.
However, the choice of wood also influences the tone. For example, spruce produces a bright, vibrant sound, while mahogany offers a warmer, darker tone.
‘Action’ refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A low action is easier to play, making it a popular choice for beginners and intermediate players. However, if the action is too low, it may cause buzzing sounds.
A high action has a louder volume and is preferred by some professional players for certain styles of music. The guitar’s neck width and shape can also influence the guitar’s playability. Steel-string acoustic guitar necks are narrower and easier to grip than classical ones.
Comfort should never be underestimated when buying a new acoustic guitar. If the guitar is too large or small for you, it will affect your ability to play effectively and can even lead to physical discomfort.
Smaller-bodied guitars are usually more comfortable for younger players or those with a smaller frame. Spend time holding and playing different guitars to see which size is most comfortable for you.
Some brands are renowned for their high-quality guitars for intermediate players and professionals.
Brands like Gibson, Martin, and Taylor have earned their reputations through years of producing reliable, high-quality instruments.
Remember that a well-established brand often means customer trust and satisfaction.
The 11 Best Intermediate Acoustic Guitars
Whether you’re a fan of the classic dreadnought shape or prefer to try something new, an acoustic guitar out there fits your style. Here are our top picks for the best intermediate acoustic guitars.
From full-sized jumbos to comfortable parlor guitars, all of the instruments on this list are sure to please any aspiring acoustic guitarist.
With an intermediate guitar, you can explore new playing levels and take your music to the next level.
Takamine GN93CE NEX Electro Acoustic, Natural
Intermediate guitar players love the Takamine GN93CE NEX Electro Acoustic for its classic sound and straightforward design. Most acoustic guitars in the market offer an acoustic-electric variant or incorporate a built-in preamp system.
In contrast, the GN93CE designed by Takamine stands out due to its exceptional onboard preamp technology, which has demonstrated superior performance in our assessment.
The GN93CE boasts an advanced preamp equipped with an array of features that set it apart. These features encompass a comprehensive three-band EQ, a highly effective notch filter, a precision tuner, and a noteworthy EQ bypass option.
The other noteworthy aspects of the GN93CE include its distinctively shaped dreadnought body with an X-shaped top bracing, a rosewood back and sides, and a NEX cutaway for easy access to all frets. It also includes a solid Sitka spruce top that adds warmth and depth to the sound.
For individuals who prioritize the quality and versatility of the preamp system, the GN93CE presents itself as a compelling choice. Its impressive preamp functionalities warrant thorough consideration for those seeking optimum control and adaptability in this crucial aspect of acoustic guitars.
Finally, the gold die-cast tuners with black buttons add a touch of refinement to its overall appeal.
Best For quality preamp tone
Takamine GN93CE NEX Electro Acoustic, Natural
FEATURES:
- Scale Length: 25.4"
OTHER INFO: .012-.053 Gauges
- Solid spruce top for exceptional tonal richness
- Highly versatile TK-40D preamp system
- Well-suited for both lead and rhythm playing
- Crafted to perfection in Japan
- Attractive quilted maple design on the body back
- Smooth and stable gold die-cast tuning machines
- Occasionally subdued natural resonance
- Limited access to higher frets
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Martin LXK2 Little Martin w/ Gig Bag
For intermediate guitarists with smaller hands or those who prefer a more compact acoustic guitar body, the Little Martin LXK2 emerges as an optimal choice.
While it does not feature a solid top or integrated electronics, a variant is available, the LX1E, which comes fitted with a preamp for those desiring plug-in capabilities.
Despite their minor disparities, both guitars share a remarkable similarity and produce a high-quality resonance, a particularly noteworthy feat given their reduced body size.
Owing to its effortless maneuverability, this guitar is also an excellent selection for live performances. The neck is made from stable and reliable mortise/tenon construction, with a modified low-oval shape allowing for precise fretwork.
The top is crafted from a Hawaiian koa HPL pattern textured finish, lending to the instrument’s unique tone and depth. It also features a crowned cross brace placed at an angle, which helps add resonance and sustain.
The back and sides are constructed from a Koa wood pattern HPL textured finish, adding to the guitar’s uniqueness. The nut material is comprised of white Corian, which is considered to be a classic choice for acoustic guitars.
Martin guitars are also renowned for their reliable tuning mechanics.
Best For Small Hands
Martin LXK2 Little Martin w/ Gig Bag
FEATURES: Pearloid Parallelogram inlays
OTHER INFO: Onboard SoniTone Preamp and SoniCore Pickup
- High-pressure laminate for supreme durability
- Solid/LX taper headstock for stable tuning
- Comfortable play with modified low oval neck
- Ideal for stage performances and travel
- Quality and affordability in balance
- Comes with a handy gig bag
- Basic version lacks a preamp
- Does not feature solid tonewood construction
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Epiphone Dove Studio Electro Acoustic, Violinburst
Epiphone Dove Studio Electro Acoustic has an eye-catching violin burst finish and is a perfect piece of art with unparalleled sound quality.
The select maple body’s neck and fingerboard are made from hard maple with Pau Ferro fingerboard inlays on a pearloid parallelogram for added aesthetics.
The bridge has a dove-shaped pearloid inlay for smooth string positioning and better tuning stability. It also offers Fishman Sonicore pickup for crystal clear sound and Fishman Sonitone Soundhole Preamp controls with two knobs – master volume and master tone.
The Tortoise Shell pickguard with classic ‘dove’ artwork is the cherry on top of the cake!
The beauty of Epiphone Dove Studio is its sound quality and performance. Its spruce top creates a natural resonance and rich organic tone that will appeal to novice and experienced players alike.
The resonant midrange of the select maple body adds warmth while maintaining clarity, making it perfect for fingerpicking, strumming, or light bluesy leads.
Best For mid range tone
Epiphone Dove Studio Electro Acoustic, Violinburst
FEATURES: Modified 0-14 Fret Body Size
OTHER INFO: Herringbone Style Rosette
- Perfectly balanced tone across all frequencies
- Easy to play neck profile, suitable for all playing styles
- Natural, warm and acoustic sound projection
- Loud and clear output; no need to raise the volume
- Easy to adjust Fishman electronics for optimal tone
- Durable construction with smooth black binding
- Heavy body style
- Initial action might be a bit high for some players.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ibanez AEG70, Purple Iris Burst High Gloss
The Ibanez AEG70 is an ideal acoustic electric guitar for intermediate players looking for a reliable instrument with classic acoustic sounds.
This guitar has a stunning flamed maple top, a Sapele body back and sides, and a beautiful vintage violin high gloss finish. The neck is made from Nyatoh for superior tone and playability, while the fingerboard is crafted from walnut for an extra smooth playing experience.
The hardware and electronics of this guitar give it a distinct advantage. It features an Ibanez T-Bar II undersaddle pickup and the Ibanez AEQ-TTS Preamp, allowing you to shape your sound perfectly.
The bridge is made from walnut for a comfortable playing experience, while the chrome die-cast tuners ensure your guitar stays in tune no matter what.
The Ibanez IACSP6C coated strings are designed to produce a rich, warm tone with plenty of sustain.
This guitar also has a unique soundhole rosette made from acrylic, giving it an eye-catching look. With its combination of high-quality components and classic styling, the Ibanez AEG70 will stand out in any crowd.
Best For warm tone
Ibanez AEG70, Purple Iris Burst High Gloss
FEATURES: Scale Length: 634mm
OTHER INFO: Number Of Frets: 20
- Long-standing track record and high playability.
- Balanced sound from sapele wood.
- Glossy top with three attractive burst options.
- Easy to play and hold with its Nyatoh neck type and walnut fingerboard.
- Ibanez T-Bar II under-saddle pickup for smooth, professional sound.
- Subpar preamp; could improve the plugged-in sound.
- Average tuners, potential tuning instability with heavy strumming.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha FG850 All Mahogany Acoustic Guitar, Natural
Yamaha has long been known for producing high-quality acoustic guitars, from beginner models to expert-grade instruments.
The Yamaha FG850 All Mahogany acoustic guitar is one of the best offerings yet for intermediate players.
This stunning guitar features an all-mahogany body shape, giving it a versatile sound and a natural finish for maximum resonance. The Nato neck is comfortably slim, and its rosewood fingerboard is perfect for smooth chord transitions.
The scalloped X bracing ensures great sound projection, and the set-in neck construction makes it comfortable to play.
The dreadnought design enhances the guitar’s overall projection, making it ideal for energetic jam sessions and dynamic live shows, a handy feature since the guitar lacks a built-in preamp.
However, it’s worth noting that the guitar may require some initial adjustments upon unboxing, as the setup might have a relatively high action.
Additionally, the included strings could be of improved quality. Making these adjustments significantly enhances the guitar’s performance and playability.
Best For versatile sound
Yamaha FG850 All Mahogany Acoustic Guitar, Natural
FEATURES: Scale: 650mm
OTHER INFO: Number Of Frets: 20
- Produces a resonant and robust acoustic tone.
- Enhanced richness due to an innovative bracing system.
- Crafted from premium tonewoods for superior quality.
- Eye-catching appearance featuring a natural finish on a solid mahogany body.
- Lacks built-in preamp
- Possible initial setup adjustment required
- Included strings are of lower quality
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Fender CD-60S Acoustic, Natural
The Fender CC-60SCE Acoustic Guitar is an excellent option tailored to those embarking on their musical journey or at an intermediate skill level who are prepared to embrace the amplified experience.
Designed with a compact concert-sized body, it ensures comfortable playability in any stance, with a convenient single-cutaway construction providing seamless access to higher frets.
This instrument guarantees an exceptionally effortless playing encounter, coupled with a sonorous output bound to captivate your senses.
Crafted with a solid spruce top, it exudes amplified resonance and pristine tonal clarity, complemented by the warmth of the laminated mahogany body, as well as a walnut fingerboard and bridge.
Its slim C-shaped mahogany neck ensures effortless navigation, while die-cast chrome tuners maintain your tuning stability with absolute precision.
Best For comfortable playability
Fender CD-60S Acoustic, Natural
FEATURES: Coated 80/20 Bronze String (.012-.052 Gauge)
OTHER INFO: Number Of Frets: 20
- Walnut fretboard with rolled edges adds a classy detail.
- Exceptionally playable.
- Remarkable value for the price.
- Presents well-balanced tones.
- Out-of-the-box intonation and setup are superb.
- Exhibits a relatively simple appearance.
- Falls short of top-tier craftsmanship.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Sigma 000T-28S Acoustic, Natural
The list of acoustic guitars for intermediate players is incomplete without the Sigma 000T-28S Acoustic.
With its solid Sitka spruce top and Tilia body, this guitar has a natural charm that’s perfect for any level of player.
The 000-12 fret body gives the instrument a balanced tone, further enhanced by the Micarta bridge. To add to its beauty, each guitar is finished with an ultra-thin UV w/ Aging Toner finish in natural colors.
The neck on the 000T-28S is made from mahogany, with a low profile shape and dovetail neck joint construction.
The fingerboard material is Micarta, and it has a nut made of bone.
For tuning machines, Grover Open Geared are used to keep string tension in check. Finally, D’Addario EXP16 strings finish the package.
Best For Balance Tone
Sigma 000T-28S Acoustic, Natural
FEATURES: Scale Length: 645 mm
OTHER INFO: Neck Finish: PU-Lacquer
- Crafted by expert artisans in Japan and Korea.
- Renowned for excellent build and sound.
- Tilia's body gives a crisp and clear projection of sound.
- Fast play enabled by a low-profile neck.
- Bone Nut secures tuning and tension.
- Precise tuning with Grover tuners.
- Simple design may not appeal to all.
- Manufacturing changes could lead to model inconsistencies.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Fender FSR Redondo Special Electro Acoustic, Blacktop
Feeling the need for some serious musical power? Enter the FSR Redondo Special Electro Acoustic Guitar.
It boasts a solid mahogany top, body and neck, giving it an exceptionally warm, rich tone.
The blacktop finish gives it a classy look that will attract attention everywhere you go.
The slim C-shaped neck is extremely comfortable to play on and provides easy access to the higher frets. The Pau Ferro fretboard with Maple inlays adds to the overall look and feel of the guitar.
For the hardware, you get sealed Nickel tuning machines and a Fishman pickup/preamp with a built-in tuner. This allows you to plug into any amplifier and control your sound exactly how you want it.
The strings are Fender Dura-Tone coated 80/20 bronze (.012-.052 gauge). This gives the guitar a fantastic sound that is perfect for intermediate players.
Best For Sound Tone
Fender FSR Redondo Special Electro Acoustic, Blacktop
FEATURES: Fingerboard Inlay: Maple Dots
OTHER INFO: Modern Viking Pau Ferro Bridge
- Sound that will project throughout any venue.
- Durable construction and reliable electronics.
- Great tonal range thanks to the FSR Redondo Special design.
- A wide variety of tone options with the built-in preamp.
- Easy-to-access controls allow for easy adjustment.
- Tuner is a bit finicky and may require some maintenance.
- Not as much volume as other similarly priced electro-acoustic guitars.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
PRS SE P20E, Antique White
Acoustic guitar’s tone has captivated audiences for centuries, and the PRS SE P20E in Antique White is a perfect example of this timeless sound.
This mid-priced guitar is ideal for intermediate players looking to take their playing to the next level.
The PRS SE P20E features a solid mahogany top and sides, a creme herringbone top border, and a rosette. The body is a PRS Tonare design for superior resonance and tone, while the ebony bridge delivers exceptional sustain and playability.
A wide fat mahogany neck and 20-fret ebony fingerboard adorned with Birds inlays make for a comfortable playing experience, and the bone nut and saddle ensure top-notch performance.
The hardware is finished in gold, while the vintage-style tuners with butterbean buttons provide precision tuning. The Fishman GT1 acoustic pickup adds a touch of modernity with volume and tone control for versatility.
Finally, the PRS SE P20E comes complete with a SE Gig Bag, ensuring your instrument will be safe and sound for many years.
Best For sustain and playability
PRS SE P20E, Antique White
FEATURES: Vintage Style Tuner with Butterbean Buttons
OTHER INFO: PRS X Hybrid/Classical Bracing
- Emulates classic parlor guitars with PRS aesthetics.
- Highlights PRS' attention to detail, including bird inlays.
- Provides articulate sound and smooth playability.
- Features Fishman GT1 pickup for diverse amplification.
- Has a well-crafted neck shape for comfort.
- Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.
- Limited volume for those seeking booming sound.
- Sharp corners on the bone nut.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Taylor Academy 12 Grand Concert Acoustic
The Taylor Academy 12 Grand Concert Acoustic perfectly blends playability and sound. From its tapered waist to its shorter scale, this guitar is designed for comfort and ease of use for intermediate-level players.
With a Sitka spruce top and layered sapele back and sides, it offers sublime sound with dynamic clarity and plenty of tonal warmth. The ebony fretboard adds responsiveness for crisp, articulate sound with a bright attack that will easily cut through the mix.
It also features chrome tuners and buttons for quick and accurate tuning adjustments.
This is your ideal guitar for those looking to make an impression in music. Its stunning visuals are matched by its incredible playability and quality of sound.
Best For sustain and playability
Taylor Academy 12 Grand Concert Acoustic
FEATURES:Scale Length: 24-7/8"
OTHER INFO:4mm Dot Italian Acrylic Fretboard Inlay
- Energetic high mids and trebles.
- Quick and responsive playability
- Crisp, articulate notes with no fret buzz.
- Featherweight design allows you to perform for longer without fatigue.
- Micarta saddle for improved intonation and tuning stability.
- Tone is specialized in nature.
- Not suitable for heavier styles of playing.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha LL6ARE Electro Acoustic, Sunburst
The blend of acoustic and electric guitars has always been integral to a musician’s arsenal.
It is key for intermediate guitar players to have a solid acoustic-electric instrument to refine their skills. Enter the Yamaha LL6ARE Electro Acoustic, Sunburst color.
Designed with a traditional Jumbo body style, the LL6ARE is constructed of solid Engelmann Spruce A.R.E top and rosewood for the back and sides. The combination offers a bright, dynamic sound that will bring out the best in any performance.
The neck is crafted with mahogany and rosewood 5-ply for a traditional feel, with the rosewood fingerboard adding to the overall richness of the sound.
Yamaha has outfitted this guitar with die-cast gold tuners (TM-29G) and an SRT Zero Impact Pickup to ensure solid intonation.
Whether playing on stage or in the studio, this guitar will deliver a robust sound that will captivate any audience.
Best For Refine Tone
Yamaha LL6ARE Electro Acoustic, Sunburst
FEATURES:Body Depth: 100-125 mm
OTHER INFO:Hard Bag Included
- A.R.E technology for improved sound projection
- Preamp with SRT Zero Impact Pickup for better sound clarity
- Traditional neck profile for enhanced playability
- 44 mm nut width makes string bending easier than ever
- Rich and deep tonal character.
- Exceptional playability.
- Can be a bit too dense for some players' tastes
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Accessories for Your Acoustic Guitar
Equipping yourself with a quality guitar tuner is essential to owning and playing an acoustic guitar.
Whether you are a beginner or an intermediate player, having the right tools to get your guitar sounding its best is critical.
Clip-on tuners are great for guitarists who want to tune their instruments quickly and accurately. This type of tuner attaches directly to the headstock of your guitar and picks up the vibrations of each string.
The tuner then displays a digital readout to show which notes you need to play to get it ideally in tune.
If you’re a more serious player, use a handheld digital tuner. These provide an even more accurate tuning solution and tell you which strings are out of tune.
Handheld tuners are great for live performances or recording sessions, as they give you the confidence that your guitar is always in perfect tune.
Planet Waves NS Micro Headstock Tuner
FEATURES:Battery Included: Yes
OTHER INFO:360-degree swivel mechanism
- User-friendly and easy to attach
- Precision tuning with advanced technology
- Traditional neck profile for enhanced playability
- 44 mm nut width makes string bending easier than ever
- Rich and deep tonal character.
- Exceptional playability.
- Tuner placement/removal felt risky.
- Performance declined with loud instruments due to vibration interference.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Extra Strings
Having a spare set of strings is also essential to owning and playing an acoustic guitar.
As strings wear out over time, it’s important to be able to replace them, so having extra strings on hand will ensure that you won’t miss a beat when you’re ready to play.
A good quality string set will last longer and produce a much better sound than a cheap set.
It’s also vital to ensure you have strings that are the right gauge for your guitar. Too light or too heavy of strings can drastically affect your tone and intonation.
Elixir 16027 NANOWEB Custom Light Phosphor Bronze Strings, 11-52
FEATURES:String Gauges: .011, .015, .022, .032, .042, .052
OTHER INFO:Phosphor Bronze Material
- Produces bright and articulate tone with excellent clarity
- Enhanced tuning stability and comfort of playing
- Superb string feel both under your fingers or a pick
- Easy to fit on your guitar due to its light gauge
- Not ideal for heavy genres like metal or rock
- Lighter gauge may be challenging for players with large hands
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Guitar Case or Gig Bag
Finally, you’ll want to invest in a good-quality guitar case or gig bag. This will help protect your instrument from damage and keep it safe while traveling with it.
A hardshell case is the best option for protecting against drops and impacts, while a soft gig bag is perfect for those who need something more lightweight and portable.
Gator GBE-DREAD Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Gig Bag
FEATURES: 10mm Padding
OTHER INFO: 41.5" Overall Length
- Padding keeps your guitar safe
- 600 Denier polyester for tough protection
- Adjustable backpack straps make it easy to transport
- Internal dimensions tailored for Dreadnought Guitars
- Lightweight design allows players the freedom to
- Few users found the padding to be minimal,
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Acoustic Guitar For Intermediate Players
Summary
For those who have reached an intermediate level, it’s essential to continue with lessons and ongoing learning on your instrument. This stage presents an excellent opportunity for experimentation and honing your musical style.
In my opinion, there is no single “best” acoustic guitar for intermediate players.
The “best” choice depends on your budget, style preference, desired features, and more. With my guide above, you now have the necessary information to find the perfect acoustic guitar for your journey.
So what do you think? Have you decided on the right acoustic guitar for you?
Leave a comment and let us know! We’d love to hear from you.
Happy strumming! And if you haven’t seen it yet, check out the new article I’ve written called ’21 Essential Guitar Accessories’.
is a gig bag really needed?
Yep, unless you never plan to leave the house with it. Then maybe you can skip.
Definitely, GuitarDude95. It’s essential for protecting your guitar, especially when you’re taking it places.
not sure about including Epiphone Dove Studio in the mid range tone category. i mean, it’s decent, but there are better options out there for the price. anyone else feel this?
Absolutely loved your detailed outline on intermediate guitars, Lewis Turner. The breakdown by specific needs like ‘Best for Small Hands’ and ‘Best for Warm Tone’ is incredibly helpful for filtering options based on personal preference. It’s evident that a lot of thought went into categorizing these for different types of players. Cheers for the effort!
hey, do you think the Fender CD-60S is a good fit for folk music? been playing for a bit and wanna upgrade
MelvinG, the Fender CD-60S has a versatile sound that suits folk music quite well. Its comfortable playability will be a good match for the fingerstyle commonly found in folk.