AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Taylor 12-String Acoustic Guitars 2026
The top pick is Taylor 150ce ($1,116). Taylor Legacy 855e leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 11 models, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 31, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets20 frets
- Strings12-string
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
The 150ce 12-string is a solid choice for players wanting that iconic 12-string chime with Taylor's renowned playability. The torrefied top gives it a nicely aged character right out of the box, and the ES-2 system makes it stage-ready. It's a great option for singer-songwriters or anyone looking for a full, vibrant sound without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Solid torrefied spruce top delivers a warm, responsive, and aged tone.
- Taylor ES-2 electronics offer excellent amplified tone with useful EQ controls.
- Sapele laminated back and sides provide structural stability and a balanced sonic foundation.
Cons
- Laminated back and sides limit the ultimate resonance and complexity compared to all-solid wood.
- 12-string guitars can be physically demanding; this one might fatigue less experienced players.
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,116 now$1,116€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets20 frets
- Strings12-string
The 254ce Plus is a really sweet 12-string—it’s got that signature Taylor chime, but with a richer, more mature voice thanks to the torrefied top. The C-Class bracing really makes it sing, and the ES2 pickup system is fantastic for live performance. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for singer-songwriters or anyone wanting a versatile, powerful 12-string that’s a joy to play.
Pros
- Solid torrefied spruce top delivers mature, open tone and projection.
- C-Class bracing enhances sustain and clarity, a real Taylor innovation.
- Crelicam ebony fingerboard and TUSQ bridge offer exceptional feel and tone transfer.
Cons
- Rosewood plywood back/sides limit the overall tonal complexity compared to solid wood.
- The 12-string nature demands heavier strings, increasing neck strain for some players.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,563 now$1,563€1,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius382 mm (15.04")
- Strings12-string
- BodySapele body
This 354ce 12-string is a seriously refined instrument. Taylor's V-Class bracing really shines here, giving it a remarkably balanced and powerful voice that cuts through a mix. It’s a premium-priced option, perfect for experienced players seeking a high-quality 12-string with excellent amplified capabilities.
Pros
- Sapele back and sides deliver a warm, rich, and focused 12-string tone.
- Sitka spruce top provides excellent projection and dynamic range, responding well to various playing styles.
- Taylor ES2 pickup system offers a natural amplified sound, minimizing the 'quack' often associated with 12-strings.
Cons
- The 12-string construction results in a heavier instrument, potentially fatiguing for extended playing.
- The natural matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be more susceptible to fingerprints and minor scratches.
66AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$2,680 · Aug 17$2,680 now$2,680€2,399 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Taylor 354ce Studio Special Edition
354ce Studio Special Edition H · Taylor
20 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Strings12-string
This honeyburst 12-string feels like a big, warm instrument with a deep thump from the Sapele wood. The solid spruce top bounces back quickly, but the wide neck might be hard for smaller hands. It's a premium-priced choice for players who want rich low-end and clear pickup tones without needing to plug in.
Pros
- Solid Sitka spruce top offers strong attack and response
- Sapele back and sides provide rich, dark tonal depth
- V-class bracing delivers powerful low-end projection
Cons
- 12-string neck is significantly wider than standard guitars
- High-end pricing may limit accessibility for casual players
63AudioFu
Index↓ 8.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,680 · Aug 17$2,457 now$2,457€2,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Strings12-string
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This 250ce-BLK Plus is a fantastic option for players wanting that shimmering 12-string sound without the premium price tag. The solid top and Expression System 2 make it stage-ready, and the cutaway gives easy access to the higher frets. It's ideal for singer-songwriters or anyone looking for a bright, versatile 12-string that’s easy to play and sounds great amplified.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a bright, articulate voice with excellent projection.
- C-Class bracing enhances resonance and provides a comfortable, responsive feel.
- Taylor Expression System 2 pickup offers natural amplified tone and feedback resistance.
Cons
- Laminated maple back and sides limit the overall tonal complexity compared to all-solid wood.
- The 12-string format can be demanding on the fingers and require more frequent string changes.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,786 now$1,786€1,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets20 frets
- Strings12-string
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Taylor plays big and clear thanks to its solid spruce top and V-Class bracing. The Grand Auditorium body shape keeps the sound warm without being too thin. It comes with a built-in pickup so you can play in any room easily. It suits players who want a full, modern voice without extra gear.
Pros
- Solid spruce top with V-Class bracing for strong response
- Grand Auditorium body shape offers balanced tone
- Expression System 2 pickup provides reliable output
Cons
- High price point limits budget-conscious buyers
- No weight listed makes handling feel uncertain
54AudioFu
Index↓ 21.5%since Aug 17$3,686 · Aug 17$2,894 now$2,894€2,590 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Strings12-string
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Legacy 855e is a serious 12-string – the solid rosewood back and spruce top combo delivers a lush, full sound that's perfect for fingerstyle players or anyone wanting a warm, resonant 12-string voice. The L.R.Baggs pickup system makes it stage-ready, and the build quality is undeniably Taylor. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the craftsmanship and tone justify the investment for the discerning player.
Pros
- Solid Sitka top delivers rich, complex overtones and impressive projection.
- Rosewood back and sides provide warmth and sustain, characteristic of a high-end instrument.
- L.R.Baggs Element VTC pickup system offers clean, amplified tone without feedback issues.
Cons
- The jumbo body can be a bit unwieldy for players with smaller frames or shorter arms.
- 12-string guitars inherently require more frequent setup and string changes.
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$4,131 now$4,131€3,698 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Taylor Next Generation 552ce 12-Fret
552ce 12-Fret Next Generation · Taylor
4 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale632 mm (24.88")
- Strings12-string
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This guitar feels like a solid, bright instrument with a great balance of volume and clarity. The cedar top and mahogany body give it a warm yet responsive sound that cuts through any mix. It suits players who want reliable tone without needing complex electronics.
Pros
- Solid red western cedar top for bright, punchy tone
- Scalloped V-Class bracing boosts string response and volume
- Taylor Claria pickup system ensures reliable playability
Cons
- Heavy weight may tire players during long sessions
- No onboard EQ controls for custom sound shaping
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Sep 4Sep 4$3,574 now$3,574€3,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets20 frets
- Strings12-string
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This is a rare 12-string jumbo with a beautiful solid koa top. It comes with a great pickup but is very heavy and has no built-in controls. It suits players who want a unique, hand-signed instrument and plan to use an external amp.
Pros
- Solid Hawaiian koa top and back for rich tone
- Limited run of only 52 pieces worldwide
- Hand-signed by co-founders Bob and Kurt
Cons
- Very heavy due to full solid koa construction
- No built-in volume control or EQ knobs
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 29Oct 29$7,261 now$7,261€6,499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Strings12-string
This 264ce-K DLX is a gorgeous 12-string offering a truly lush, layered sound. The koa top really shines, and the ES2 pickup system is a significant upgrade for live performance. It's ideal for players seeking a premium-priced 12-string with a refined tone and comfortable playability, particularly suited for fingerstyle or softer strumming.
Pros
- Solid koa top delivers rich, shimmering overtones and projection.
- C-Class bracing enhances volume and sustain across the 12 strings.
- ES2 Expression System provides natural, articulate amplified tone.
Cons
- Hawaiian koa plywood back/sides limit overall resonance compared to all-koa models.
- 12-string guitars are inherently harder on the fingers and require more frequent string changes.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$2,233 now$2,233€1,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 11 12-String acoustic guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
12-String Acoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 107 models we track, not a sample.
Median $2,680 — half of all 12-String acoustic guitars here cost less.
median of 105 models · 45 mm (1.77")–50 mm (1.97")
median of 101 models · 630 mm (24.8")–650 mm (25.59")
median of 72 models · 20–21
median of 105 models · 12-string–12-string
How to choose the best 12-String acoustic guitars
Bracing Patterns
Taylor's V-bracing is key. It allows for a thinner profile while maintaining incredible stiffness - crucial for a 12-string's added tension. This means better resonance and a more comfortable neck feel, especially important for longer gigs.
Tonewood Choices
You'll see a lot of Sitka Spruce tops, which are a safe bet for versatility. But pay attention to the back and sides - Mahogany offers a warmer, more focused tone, while Indian Rosewood brings a richer, more complex overtone series. It's about finding that sweet spot between clarity and warmth.
Neck Profile and Playability
12-strings can be brutal on the fretting hand. Taylor's consistently comfortable neck profiles, especially their Performance neck, make them surprisingly playable, even for extended periods. Lower action is a must - don't be afraid to have a setup done.
String Spacing & Nut Width
Taylor's generally wider string spacing on their 12-strings is a blessing. It eases fingerpicking and reduces that dreaded string-clash issue that plagues some 12-string designs. It's a subtle detail, but a huge factor in playability.
Cutaway vs. Non-Cutaway
Cutaways open up access to the higher frets, which can be a real advantage on a 12-string. If you're a lead player or need to reach those higher voicings, it's a worthwhile feature, even if it slightly impacts the guitar's overall projection.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're chasing that shimmering, chimey 12-string tone? Taylor's a name that keeps popping up, and for good reason. They've carved out a unique space in the 12-string world, not just replicating the jangle of a vintage Rickenbacker but offering something distinctly Taylor: refined projection, a balanced response, and a surprising amount of clarity. Let's dive into what makes their 12-strings tick, and which model might be the right fit for your gig or songwriting session.
Don't chase the loudest 12-string you can find; you need something that cuts through a mix without getting muddy. A good setup is non-negotiable - 12-strings need more attention to action and intonation. If you're serious about recording, consider a model with a built-in pickup system; Taylor's Expression System 2 (ES2) is pretty good for acoustic amplification, though it's not going to magically turn it into a perfect electric sound.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 11 12-String acoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 107 in the category). Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are Taylor 12-strings worth the price?
They're an investment, no doubt. You're paying for thoughtful design and consistent build quality. Cheaper 12-strings often suffer from intonation problems and a harsh, unbalanced tone. Taylor's offer a noticeable step up in playability and sonic refinement.
What's the difference between the 300 and 400 series 12-strings?
The 400 series generally gets better tonewoods - typically Indian Rosewood back and sides versus layered Rosewood or Sapele on the 300 series. It's a subtle difference, but the 400 series often has more complexity and sustain.
Can I use any strings on a Taylor 12-string?
Stick with lighter gauge strings - anything heavier and you risk putting undue stress on the neck. Taylor recommends .011-.049 gauge sets. Experimenting is fine, but proceed with caution.
Are Taylor 12-strings easy to record?
They can be. The V-bracing helps with a more even frequency response, but the inherent complexity of a 12-string can be challenging. Careful mic placement and EQ are key to taming any harshness.
I'm a beginner - is a Taylor 12-string a good choice?
They're not the easiest guitars to learn on, due to the increased tension and wider neck. But if you're determined, a well-setup Taylor will be more forgiving than some cheaper options. Just be prepared for a workout!
