AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 12-String Acoustic Guitars Under $2,000 2026

The top pick is Takamine G Series GD30CE Dreadnought ($562). Harley Benton Custom Line CLJ-412E SB gives you the most for the money at $280. Taylor 254ce Plus leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 61 models across 19 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 19, 2026

61models in this chart
19brands
$562median price
9price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 12-String Acoustic Guitars Showing: Under $2,000 · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Takamine G Series GD30CE Dreadnought

    GD30CE-12N · Takamine

    57 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width48 mm (1.89")
    • Scale643 mm (25.31")
    • Frets20 frets
    • Strings12-string

    The GD30CE-12N is a fantastic entry point into the world of 12-string acoustics. It offers a surprisingly balanced sound with that characteristic shimmering chorus, and the built-in tuner is a real convenience. Ideal for singer-songwriters or players wanting a fuller sound without a premium price tag.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, articulate 12-string tone
    • Mahogany back and sides provide warmth and sustain
    • TP-4TD preamp offers reliable amplification with a built-in tuner

    Cons

    • 12-string guitars are inherently harder on the fingers, requiring more strength
    • Mahogany can sometimes lack the complex overtones of rosewood or maple
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand83
    • Lineup61
    • Price50
    • Specs57
    • Maker78
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$562 now
    $562€499 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. Taylor 150ce

    Taylor

    68 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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.
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs71
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,124 now
    $1,124€999 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Ibanez AJ7012M1E Artwood

    AJ7012M1E-BK · Ibanez

    14 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width48 mm (1.89")
    • Scale647.7 mm (25.5")
    • Frets20 frets
    • Fingerboard radius400 mm (15.75")
    • Strings12-string

    This guitar uses a real spruce top for a punchy sound, which is great for live gigs. The plastic parts are cheap but hold up okay for the price. It fits players who want a jumbo shape with thick strings and built-in tuning.

    Pros

    • Solid Sitka spruce top delivers strong projection and attack
    • T-bar undersaddle pickup ensures stable, consistent tone
    • Large 45 mm nut width aids fretting on thick strings

    Cons

    • Okoume back and sides lack the resonance of solid wood
    • Plastic nut and saddle can affect intonation over time
    64AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand55
    • Lineup39
    • Price82
    • Specs100
    • Maker69
    ↓ 10.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $472 · Aug 17$422 now
    $422€375 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Framus Vintage Hootenanny 12 TN

    Framus

    Not on Reverb yet5 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width50 mm (1.97")
    • Scale643 mm (25.31")
    • Strings12-string
    • FingerboardRosewood fingerboard

    The Framus Hootenanny 12 TN is a seriously good-sounding 12-string. It’s got that classic round-shoulder dreadnought vibe with a warm, full tone that’s perfect for folk, country, or adding some shimmer to your strumming. A great option for players looking for vintage character and solid construction without an exorbitant price tag.

    Pros

    • Solid Sapele back/sides deliver warm, resonant bass response.
    • Sitka spruce top provides excellent projection and clarity.
    • Mahogany neck offers comfortable playability and sustain.

    Cons

    • 12-string guitars are inherently harder on the fingers, requires build-up.
    • Sapele can sometimes lack the visual 'bling' of more exotic woods.
    61AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup100
    • Price94
    • Specs57
    • Maker69
    ↓ 14.5%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $1,315 · Aug 17$1,124 now
    $1,124€999 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Taylor 254ce Plus

    Taylor

    32 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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.
    61AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand71
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs57
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,574 now
    $1,574€1,399 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Ibanez AEG5012 12-String

    AEG5012-BKH · Ibanez

    48 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width45 mm (1.77")
    • Scale634 mm (24.96")
    • Strings12-string

    This Ibanez is a solid 12-string option for players wanting a bright, amplified acoustic. It's surprisingly playable for a 12-string, thanks to the comfortable neck profile, and the onboard tuner is a real convenience. Ideal for singer-songwriters or anyone wanting a fuller, richer acoustic sound without a premium-priced tag.

    Pros

    • Spruce top delivers a bright, responsive acoustic tone.
    • Okoume back and sides add warmth and projection.
    • Ibanez Tbar II pickup provides a usable amplified sound.

    Cons

    • Okoume can sometimes lack the complexity of mahogany or rosewood.
    • The high-gloss finish might feel a little thick for some players.
    60AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand80
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs43
    • Maker69
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$388 now
    $388€345 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Takamine GD74CE-12U

    GD74CE-12U NAT · Takamine

    30 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width47.5 mm (1.87")
    • Scale644 mm (25.35")
    • Strings12-string
    • FingerboardLaurel fingerboard

    This GD74CE-12U is a seriously impressive 12-string dreadnought – the solid spruce top really shines, and the maple back keeps things focused. It’s a great option for players wanting a bright, chimey 12-string voice with usable amplification, especially suited for folk, country, or layered textures in a band setting.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, shimmering 12-string tone.
    • Maple back and sides provide a balanced, articulate response.
    • Takamine TP-3G preamp offers effective, easy-to-use onboard EQ.

    Cons

    • The 12-string construction makes it noticeably heavier than a standard dreadnought.
    • Maple can sometimes lack the warmth of mahogany, requiring EQ adjustment.
    60AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand70
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs57
    • Maker78
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$1,113 now
    $1,113€989 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Fender CD-140SCE 12-String

    CD-140SCE-12 WA Nat · Fender

    35 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width45 mm (1.77")
    • Scale643 mm (25.31")
    • Frets20 frets
    • Strings12-string

    This Fender CD-140SCE-12 is a great entry point into the world of 12-string guitars. The spruce top gives it that classic shimmer, and the Fishman electronics make it surprisingly versatile for stage or recording. It's a solid choice for singer-songwriters or anyone wanting that lush, layered sound without a premium-priced investment.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top delivers bright, shimmering 12-string tone
    • Ovangkol back/sides add warmth and sustain
    • Fishman electronics offer surprisingly good amplified sound

    Cons

    • 12-string guitars are inherently harder on the fingers
    • Ovangkol can sometimes exhibit a slightly 'woody' tone initially
    59AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand73
    • Lineup39
    • Price50
    • Specs57
    • Maker57
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$438 now
    $438€389 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. Fender California Deluxe Villager E

    CA DLX Villager E HSB · Fender

    11 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width47 mm (1.85")
    • Scale629 mm (24.76")
    • Frets20 frets
    • Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
    • Strings12-string

    This guitar plays bright thanks to its solid spruce top, but it stays warm with mahogany back and sides. The slim neck helps beginners and pros alike reach those high notes easily. While the Fishman pickup makes playing in loud rooms simple, the finish looks great but might need care over time.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top for bright, responsive attack
    • Mahogany back and sides deliver warm midrange
    • Fishman CD-1 preamp handles volume and tone

    Cons

    • Honey Sunburst finish may show wear easily
    • No specific weight listed for player comfort
    59AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand51
    • Lineup61
    • Price50
    • Specs86
    • Maker57
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$505 now
    $505€449 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Harley Benton Custom Line CLJ-412E SB

    Harley Benton

    Not on Reverb yet5 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width48 mm (1.89")
    • Scale649 mm (25.55")
    • Frets20 frets
    • Strings12-string

    This Harley Benton CLJ-412E SB is a surprisingly capable 12-string acoustic, offering a full, warm tone with a built-in Fishman pickup for easy amplification. It’s a great option for players wanting that shimmering 12-string vibe without spending a fortune, perfect for folk, country, or adding texture to more contemporary styles.

    Pros

    • Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly rich and vibrant 12-string tone.
    • Fishman Presys-II pickup system offers clean amplification and accurate tuner.
    • Ovangkol fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience and good sustain.

    Cons

    • Jumbo body can be unwieldy for smaller players or those used to slimmer guitars.
    • Mahogany back and sides may lack the nuanced projection of all-solid wood construction.
    58AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs57
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$280 now
    $280€249 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 61 12-String acoustic guitars

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Takamine GJ72CE-12 NAT G70 Series 12-String Jumbo Cutaway…GJ72CE-12-Nat · Takamine
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  2. 12
    Takamine GJ72CE-12 BSB G70 Series 12-String Jumbo Cutaway…GJ72CE-12BSB · Takamine
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  3. 13
    Taylor 250ce-BLK PlusTaylor
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$1,799€1,599
    $1,799€1,599Check ↗
  4. 14
    Breedlove Discovery S Conc 12-St CE BSBreedlove · 2 finishes
    Index 54↓ 37.6%
    54
    ↓ 37.6%$562€499
    $562€499Check ↗
  5. 15
    Yamaha APX700II-12 Thinline Acoustic/Electric Cutaway 12-String…APX700II-12 NT · Yamaha
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$955€849
    $955€849Check ↗
  6. 16
    Fender Tim Armstrong Signature Hellcat-12Tim Armstrong Hellcat 12 · Fender
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$562€499
    $562€499Check ↗
  7. 17
    Guild Westerly Collection F-1512F-1512 Nat Westerly · Guild
    Index 53↓ 1.0%
    53
    ↓ 1.0%$1,169€1,039
    $1,169€1,039Check ↗
  8. 18
    Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 Rancher Falcon Jumbo 12-String Cutaway with…G5022CWFE-12 Falcon Rancher · Gretsch
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$787€699
    $787€699Check ↗
  9. 19
    Guild Westerly Collection D-1212D-1212 Nat Westerly · Guild
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$899€799
    $899€799Check ↗
  10. 20
    Baton Rouge X11LS/F-AB-12 FolkBaton Rouge · 3 finishes
    Index 50Stable
    50
    Stable$235€209
    $235€209Check ↗
  11. 21
    DAngelico Premier Fulton LS Matte BlackDAngelico · 2 finishes
    Index 50Stable
    50
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  12. 22
    Harley Benton Custom Line King-12 CE NTHarley Benton
    Index 50Stable
    50
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  13. 23
    Breedlove Artista Pro Concert BA 12 CE WBreedlove
    Index 50↓ 25.0%
    50
    ↓ 25.0%$1,012€899
    $1,012€899Check ↗
  14. 24
    Framus Vintage Hootenanny 12 SB NitroFramus
    Index 50↓ 17.9%
    50
    ↓ 17.9%$1,061€943
    $1,061€943Check ↗
  15. 25
    Harley Benton Custom Line CLD-10SCE-12BKSHarley Benton
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  16. 26
    Harley Benton Custom Line CLD-10SCE-12 w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  17. 27
    Harley Benton Cust.Line CLJ-412E 3SB w/CaseHarley Benton
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$381€339
    $381€339Check ↗
  18. 28
    Martin Guitar D-X2E 12-String Rosewood LHMartin Guitar · 2 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$989€879
    $989€879Check ↗
  19. 29
    Takamine EF381SC w/SoftcaseTakamine · 2 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$1,687€1,499
    $1,687€1,499Check ↗
  20. 30
    Yamaha LL16-12 ARELL 16-12 A.R.E NT · Yamaha
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$1,349€1,199
    $1,349€1,199Check ↗
  21. 31
    Harley Benton D-200CE-12NTHarley Benton
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$123€109
    $123€109Check ↗
  22. 32
    Harley Benton D-200CE-12BKHarley Benton
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$123€109
    $123€109Check ↗
  23. 33
    Harley Benton D-200CE-12BK w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$134€119
    $134€119Check ↗
  24. 34
    Harley Benton D-200CE-12NT w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$134€119
    $134€119Check ↗
  25. 35
    DAngelico Premier Bowery 12 LS TBCBDAngelico
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  26. 36
    DAngelico Premier Bowery 12 LS VNaturalDAngelico
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  27. 37
    Harley Benton Cust. Line CLJ-412E 3SB w/BagHarley Benton
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  28. 38
    DAngelico Premier Fulton Caramel BurstDAngelico
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  29. 39
    Guild F-2512E Maple Westerly ArchbacGuild · 2 finishes
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$667€593
    $667€593Check ↗
  30. 40
    Godin Mahogany Folk 12 Rustic B A/EGodin
    Index 46Stable
    46
    Stable$1,124€999
    $1,124€999Check ↗
  31. 41
    Ibanez AEG1221-BOTIbanez
    Index 45↓ 5.3%
    45
    ↓ 5.3%$440€391
    $440€391Check ↗
  32. 42
    Ibanez PF1512ECE PerformancePF1512-NT · Ibanez · 2 finishes
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$252€224
    $252€224Check ↗
  33. 43
    Furch Blue G-SW 12 aFurch
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$1,518€1,349
    $1,518€1,349Check ↗
  34. 44
    ESP LTD TL-12LTD TL-12 BK · ESP
    Index 43Stable
    43
    Stable$843€749
    $843€749Check ↗
  35. 45
    Baton Rouge X34S/D-12Baton Rouge
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$483€429
    $483€429Check ↗
  36. 46
    Baton Rouge AR61S/ACEC-12Baton Rouge
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$730€649
    $730€649Check ↗
  37. 47
    Guild D-2612CE Deluxe ATBGuild
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$782€695
    $782€695Check ↗
  38. 48
    Breedlove Discovery S CN SAT. BLK DBL12Breedlove
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$899€799
    $899€799Check ↗
  39. 49
    Breedlove Pursuit EX S Concert SW 12Breedlove
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$1,012€899
    $1,012€899Check ↗
  40. 50
    Takamine P3DC-12 w/SoftcaseTakamine
    Index 42↓ 2.1%
    42
    ↓ 2.1%$1,574€1,399
    $1,574€1,399Check ↗

12-String Acoustic Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 78 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $562 — half of all 12-String acoustic guitars here cost less.

4
15
15
23
21
<$150$150–300$300–500$500–1k$1k+
Nut width48 mm (1.89")

median of 77 models · 45 mm (1.77")–50 mm (1.97")

Scale644 mm (25.35")

median of 74 models · 630 mm (24.8")–650 mm (25.59")

Frets20

median of 55 models · 20–21

Strings12-string

median of 76 models · 12-string–12-string

How to choose the best 12-String acoustic guitars

Tone

12-strings are all about that layered richness. We're looking for a balanced response - not just a sparkly top end, but also a respectable low-end thump to cut through a mix. That 'fat midrange honk' is what separates a good 12-string from a thin, brittle one.

Playability

The wider neck and doubled strings can be a handful. Action (string height) is crucial - too high and it's a workout, too low and you'll get fret buzz. Neck profile also matters; a comfortable shape will make those complex chords easier to manage.

Build Quality

At this price point, you're making trade-offs. Solid tops are ideal, but laminate tops are common. Construction quality (bracing, neck joint) impacts sustain and overall resonance. Cheap hardware will feel clunky and might not hold up to gigging.

Intonation

A 12-string's intonation is even more critical than on a 6-string because of the doubled strings. Poor intonation will make chords sound muddy and out of tune, and it's a pain to correct.

Pickup Voicing (if applicable)

Many 12-strings now come with pickups. Headroom is key; you want the pickup to handle a little grit without immediately going into muddy breakup.

Buying guide

Alright, so you're chasing that shimmering, chorus-like sound of a 12-string but don't want to remortgage the house? It's a totally valid goal. Finding a 12-string that sounds good, plays decently, and won't completely fall apart on stage under $2000 requires a little digging, but there are some serious contenders out there. Let's break down what you can realistically expect and which guitars deliver the best bang for your buck.

Don't expect a $2000 12-string to compete with a $5000 Martin. Corners will be cut - typically in the woods used and the hardware. Solid tops are worth seeking out, but even a well-built laminate top can sound decent.

Prioritize playability; a comfortable neck and manageable action are more important than fancy tonewoods. Intonation is non-negotiable - if it's off, walk away.

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 78 12-String acoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue. 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 solid top 12-strings common under $2000?

You'll find some, but they're less common than laminate tops. Solid tops generally offer better resonance and sustain, but the difference isn't always huge. Look for spruce or mahogany tops.

What about fret buzz? Is that normal on 12-strings?

A little fret buzz is common, especially with lower action. Excessive buzz is a sign of poor construction or a neck that needs adjustment. Have a tech check it out.

How important is the bracing pattern?

Bracing significantly impacts the guitar's tone and structural integrity. X-bracing is generally preferred for its balanced response, but scalloped bracing can add warmth and sustain. It's tough to discern the difference without experience.

Can I realistically gig with a 12-string under $2000?

Absolutely. Just be realistic about its limitations. It won't have the same headroom or projection as a higher-end model, so be mindful of your stage volume. Regular setup checks are a must.

What's the deal with string gauges on 12-strings?

Lighter gauges are easier to play, but can sound thin. Heavier gauges offer more fullness and sustain, but require more finger strength. Experiment to find what works best for you and your playing style.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 69Takamine G Series GD30CE Dreadnought · $562€499
Check price ↗
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