Best
AFFORDABLE
COUNTRY
MUSIC GUITAR
Dove Studio Acoustic-electric Guitar SPECTACULAR RESPONSE AND IMMENSE VERSATILITY
-
Overall: Has A Solid Sitka Spruce Top That Creates Delicious Dynamics,
Perfect For Any Genre -
Best Feature: Loaded With World-Renowned Fishman Sonitone™ Electronics For A Smooth-Sailing Performance
-
TedScore™: 7.5/10
Best
OVERALL
COUNTRY
MUSIC GUITAR
Acoustic
SJ-200 Original The King of the Flat Tops
-
Overall: Classic tonewoods
with premium electronics to
create the perfect tone -
Best Feature:
Sitka spruce
with maple creates a powerful voice
with a tight, low-end -
TedScore™:
9/10
Best
BEGINNER COUNTRY MUSIC GUITAR
-
Overall: Innovative guitar design gives you an amazing playing and sounding instrument
-
Best Feature: Hand-selected solid Engelmann spruce top with a solid rosewood back and sides provides a rich tone and projection
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Choosing the best guitar for country music is like picking the perfect pair of boots for a country line dance; it’s essential to have that rich, twangy sound that defines country music.
However, finding the right one is not easy. First, you must decide whether you want an acoustic, electric, or a combination of both.
After that decision, you have to browse through all the guitar brands with specific models and look for stores that sell the model you initially chose.
Don’t worry—I want to make your life easy! In this article, I have listed the best guitars for country music. After years of playing country music, I can vouch for these guitars!
From my experience, you want a guitar that blends resonant low tones with bright, crisp highs.
Whether fingerpicking a heartfelt ballad for a few songs or powering through a barn-burning riff, my guitar has to keep up with the dynamic range of country music and maintain that iconic sound.
I love the Gibson Acoustic SJ-200 Original because it has the particular sound and quality I want in a guitar for country music.
But read on to find out more!
Choosing the Right Guitar
Before we go to the recommended guitars, you must know how to choose one.
In this section, we’ll know the difference between electric and acoustic guitars for country music, the different guitar body types and their impact, and the appropriate guitar wood.
Electric Versus Acoustic for Country Music
I’ve seen guitarists torn between electric and acoustic guitars for country music.
Electric guitars, with their amplification and effects options, offer versatility.
But nothing beats an acoustic guitar if you’re after that raw, classic country sound. It’s the heart of country music, with that clear, ringing sound that fills the room.
If you want to read more about acoustic guitars, you may want to check this article: TOP 20 BEST ACOUSTIC GUITARS.
Guitar Body Types and Their Impact on Tone
Let’s talk bodies – guitar bodies, that is.
Hollow bodies are cherished in country music for their warm resonance, perfect for that Nashville sound.
Yet, don’t overlook a good solid body; many country legends favor them for their punch and sustain.
Selecting the Appropriate Guitar Woods
Wood selection is like choosing ingredients for a secret recipe.
A Rosewood fretboard is known for its rich, warm tones – ideal for melodious country licks.
On the other hand, Maple fretboards add brightness and clarity to your sound, making those country riffs pop.
And let’s not forget the back and sides; a mahogany body gives a guitar a mellow, woody character, while an alder body is known for its balanced tone.
Your choice of wood will shape your guitar’s personality in every strum.
Key Guitar Features for Country Music
Your chosen guitar can make all the difference when you’re strumming along to a country tune. I’ll point out exactly what to look for so we can make sure every note twangs just right.
Understanding Pickups and Electronics
Now, let’s talk about guitar pickups, the heart of the guitar’s electronic system.
If you’re after that classic, crisp twang, you’ll want to pay close attention to Single-coil pickups. These pickups are known for their bright sound, which cuts through the mix and is ideal for country licks and riffs.
Humbucker pickups, on the other hand, have a warmer, fuller tone. While humbucker pickup is not the traditional choice for country music, they’re quite versatile. Some players enjoy the smoothness they offer for crossover genres.
For a genuinely authentic country sound, I use Alnico pickups. They’re made from a blend of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt and provide that sweet, vintage tone that country music was built on.
Neck and Fretboard Preferences
All country music players spend much time on the neck and fretboard.
If you’re reaching for that country classic sound, a maple neck might be what you need. It’s dense and sturdy, providing a bright sound that perfectly complements the twang from your pickups.
Follow this table for a quick reference on popular fretboard materials for country music:
- Rosewood
- Maple
- Pau Ferro
- Warm and Mellow
- Bright and Snappy
- Balanced and Punchy
- Smooth to Touch
- Slick for Sliding
- Fast and Durable
As a country guitarist, I lean towards the rosewood fingerboard for its rich, clear sound and warm tonality.
Plus, it feels great under my fingers, making for a comfortable playing experience that can endure long jam sessions.
In contrast, a Pau Ferro fretboard can be an excellent choice if you’re a fan of brightness in your licks.
It’s a bit of a hybrid in terms of tone, offering warmth with a sharper attack, perfect for wanting expressive capabilities.
Top Guitar Brands for Country Music
Certain guitar brands immediately come to mind when I think of twangin’ and pickin’. Check out the top picks you can’t overlook if you love to play country music!
Iconic Brands and Their Signature Models
FENDER
I’ve gotta tip my hat to Fender guitars that define the sound of country music.
The Fender Telecaster’s bright, cutting tone can slice clean through any mix. Artists like Brad Paisley have demonstrated how versatile a Telecaster can be, from tender ballads to gritty, boot-stompin’ riffs.
Fender American Acoustasonic Telecaster - Matte Black
FEATURES: Hybrid design affords ten timeless acoustic and electric voicings
OTHER INFO: Piezo and magnetic pickups yield acoustic strums to Texas leads
- Select or layer tones via a 5-way Tele blade and continuous mod knob
- Resonant SIRS body — resonates like an acoustic guitar
- Expensive!
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™.
GIBSON
Now, don’t think I’ve forgotten about Gibson.
Even though it’s not a Gibson Les Paul, the Gibson SJ-200 is renowned for its full, rich sound that resonates with every strum. It gives an acoustic natural tone, making it a choice for country artists who want that robust presence in their music.
Gibson Acoustic SJ-200 Original - Vintage Sunburst
FEATURES: Classic tonewoods with premium electronics to create the perfect tone
OTHER INFO: Sitka spruce with maple creates a powerful voice with a tight, low-end
- Super jumbo acoustic-electric that pumps out the tone
- Inlaid pickguard, bridge, and headstock add definitive touches of luxury
- Expensive as compared to other guitars for country music
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™.
GRETSCH GUITARS
The Gretsch 6120 is a versatile instrument with a legendary sound.
Its unique sound adds a flavorful spice to any country tune. When I play a Gretsch, I know I’m wielding a piece of history, one that’s shaped the soundtrack of Americana.
Gretsch G6120T-55GE Vintage Select 1955 Chet Atkins
FEATURES: Period-correct version of Chet Atkins's hollow-body electric guitar
OTHER INFO: TV Jones T'Armond pickups yield sweet vintage character
- The arched maple body delivers a deliciously snappy, open-tone
- Highly playable Standard U-shaped maple neck with rosewood fingerboard
- Expensive for players on a budget
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
The Martin D-28 offers a classic country music sound with its rich, full-bodied tone and excellent sustain.
Its classic design and solid wood construction provide a resonant warmth that perfectly complements country music’s storytelling nature. It is a favorite among many country guitarists for both rhythm and lead playing.
Martin D-28 Acoustic Guitar - Natural
FEATURES: Iconic dreadnought design and tone from Martin
OTHER INFO: Solid spruce top for amazing projection and great note definition
- Solid East Indian rosewood back and sides for a well-balanced tonal range
- Vintage appointments include open-gear tuners, aged toner tops, antique white accents, and faux tortoise pickguard
- Expensive for players on a budget
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
The Yamaha LL16D, with its balanced tone and clear projection, suits the dynamic range of country music, from delicate fingerpicking to robust strumming.
Its comfortable playability and the A.R.E. treated solid Engelmann Spruce top ensure that it delivers both the expressiveness and the reliable responsiveness demanded by country musicians.
Yamaha LL16D ARE Original Jumbo - Natural
FEATURES: Innovative guitar design gives you an amazing playing and sounding instrument
OTHER INFO: Hand-selected solid Engelmann spruce top with a solid rosewood back and sides provides a rich tone and projection
- Intricate abalone inlay on the body and rosette
- Hardshell case included
- The "Original Jumbo" body size can be quite large
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
The Taylor 214ce is a versatile choice for country players. Its bright, clear tone complements strumming and fingerstyle playing.
Its built-in electronics have an amplifier that provides reliable amplification for live performances, making it a practical option for country musicians on stage.
Taylor 214ce Deluxe Acoustic-electric Guitar
FEATURES: 6-string Grand Auditorium body delivers huge, balanced tone
OTHER INFO: Solid Sitka spruce top balances tone and enhances projection
- The graceful Venetian cutaway gives you free access to upper frets
- Sapele neck with ebony fingerboard plays fast and smooth
- Sits at a higher price point compared to some entry-level
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™.
Budget-Friendly Choices for Beginners
Yamaha FGX800C
I love the Yamaha FGX800C for country music. It’s affordable, and its bright and lively tone suits rhythmic strumming and melodic picking. Its electronic system makes it easy to plug in and play at gigs, adding versatility to its overall sound.
Yamaha FGX800C Electro Acoustic Guitar
PERFECT FOR: beginners to professional players
FEATURES: Has a spruce top and walnut fretboard for a sublime, bright tone
OTHER INFO: With redesigned scalloped X bracing that enriches the low to mid-range
Yamaha FGX800C Electro Acoustic Guitar
- Projects a balanced, resonant tone
- Can be used for a variety of playing styles
- Boasts classic aesthetics with many hidden modern elements
- With a plastic nut and saddle
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 Hummingbird Studio
The Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is a fantastic fit for my country music gigs, with its rich, balanced tone and excellent sustain that shines through during vocal accompaniments.
The onboard Fishman electronics offer great amplification for live performances, capturing the classic vibe of the Hummingbird at a more accessible price point.
EPIPHONE HUMMINGBIRD STUDIO ELECTRO ACOUSTIC GUITAR
PERFECT FOR: beginners to professionals
FEATURES: Has a solid Sitka spruce top that creates delicious dynamics, perfect for any genre
OTHER INFO: Loaded with world-renowned Fishman Sonitone™ electronics for a smooth-sailing performance
EPIPHONE HUMMINGBIRD STUDIO ELECTRO ACOUSTIC GUITAR
- With a slim ''D''-shaped neck for a sleek, fast-paced, player-friendly feel
- Boasts a tone, playability, and electronics needed for a top-notch performance
- Provides a big sonic attitude with plenty of presence
- Some users have reported that the action (string height) may require adjustment to achieve optimal playability
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™.
Washburn F11SCE Heritage
If you’re just a beginner in country playing, you might want to check out the Washburn F11SCE Heritage.
I enjoy playing it with its warm, balanced tone, perfect for classic country sounds. The built-in Fishman electronics deliver a great amplified sound, making it a reliable choice for studio recordings and live performances.
Washburn F11SCE Heritage Electro Acoustic Guitar
PERFECT FOR: singers and songwriters
FEATURES: Delivers warm characters, rich harmonics, and plenty of projection
OTHER INFO: Incredibly comfortable to play with, thanks to its satin neck and cutaway
Washburn F11SCE Heritage Electro Acoustic Guitar
- With Fishman Electronics to enhance performance for the stage
- Designed to be as comfortable to play as it is tonally versatile
- Suits a wide variety of playing styles and musical genres
- The tuner may take some time to get used to
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™.
Cordoba Iberia C5-CE
If you’re looking for that one affordable yet perfect guitar for country music, the Cordoba Iberia C5-CE is one of its top guitars.
It gives a warm and mellow tone that adds a unique flavor to country arrangements. It’s affordable, which is perfect for beginners.
Cordoba Iberia C5-CE
PERFECT FOR: beginners and intermediate players
FEATURES: A traditional Spanish classical guitar with the added benefit of a sleek, slim neck
OTHER INFO: Has a beautiful solid Canadian cedar top for a rich, classical tone
Cordoba Iberia C5-CE
- With a heavenly resonance that flows from mahogany back and sides
- Comes with Fishman electronics to Amplify your sound without losing a touch of clarity
- Delivers a brilliant, amplified sound
- Radiates beauty in both looks and sound
- The volume might not be as loud as some players would prefer
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 Guitar for Country Music:
The Summary!
I look for key features when picking the perfect guitar for country music.
The sound must be crisp and clear because that twang is iconic.
It must be comfortable to play, especially for those quick-picking country riffs.
Reliability is my next priority. I’m after guitars that will stay true, gig after gig.
They should have solid construction and quality hardware. Regarding materials, I go for classic tonewoods like spruce or rosewood because these woods make my guitar sing with the warmth and resonance country music demands.
Finally, aesthetics matter to me, too. I love guitars with a classic design, maybe with some modern flair.
Here are some guitars I adore, both the higher-end models and the affordable ones.
Fender American Acoustasonic Telecaster
Gibson Acoustic SJ-200
Gretsch G6120T-55GE
Martin D-28
Yamaha LL16D ARE
Taylor 214ce
Yamaha FGX800C
Epiphone Hummingbird Studio
Washburn F11SCE Heritage
Cordoba Iberia C5-CE
Those are my top picks for making heartfelt country tunes come alive. Each has its charm, whether it’s the history they carry or the innovations they bring to my country music performances.
Hold up a minute!
If you’re looking for the best acoustic guitars around, you might want to check out this next article. It’ll give you the best affordable acoustic guitar that you can have!
In the section ‘Understanding Pickups and Electronics,’ it’s mentioned that single-coil pickups are common in country music, which is accurate. However, it’s important to note that within the genre, there’s been a significant shift towards humbucking pickups in modern country music. Artists like Keith Urban and Brad Paisley have popularized the use of guitars equipped with humbuckers, offering a thicker, more versatile sound. This evolution in preference underscores the genre’s adaptability and the importance of considering both types of pickups when selecting a guitar for country music.
picked up a guitar once, made my cat leave the room. maybe a gretsch would bring him back? lol
Interesting take on the top brands for country music, Lewis. However, I believe there’s an oversight in not discussing the role of vintage models like the Fender Telecaster from the 50s in shaping the country sound. The unique tone of older woods and craftsmanship has a significant impact on performance, something modern replicas often fail to replicate fully.
While vintage is valuable, don’t underestimate the advancements in modern guitar tech. The ability to customize sound digitally is a game changer.
Totally get where GuitarGuru is coming from. Nothing beats the warm sound of a guitar with history.
hey, just wondering if yamaha fgx800c is easy for absolute beginners? Thanks Lewis Turner for the roundup!