Best Cole Clark Other Acoustic Guitars 2026
Alright, let's talk Cole Clark. You've probably seen them - that distinctive headstock, those gorgeous finishes. They've carved out a real niche for themselves, especially for players wanting a stage-ready acoustic with a bit more oomph than your average dreadnought. If you're tired of getting lost in the mix and want a guitar that sings, Cole Clark is absolutely worth a serious look.
Last updated: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Cole Clark TL2EC-BLBL-HH Thin Line
by
Cole Clark
Experimental Music
Alternative Styles
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Cole Clark TL2EC is a beautifully crafted instrument with a seriously refined voice. The blackwood construction gives it a deep, resonant tone that’s perfect for fingerstyle players or those needing a stage-ready acoustic with powerful, versatile pickups. It’s a premium option built for players who demand top-tier materials and a professional-grade amplified sound.
PROS
- • Exceptional blackwood resonance delivers a rich, warm, and articulate tone.
- • F.E.A. bracing enhances projection and reduces unwanted overtones.
- • Cole Clark's 3-way blend system provides versatile amplified options, from clean to driven.
- • Queensland Maple neck offers excellent stability and a comfortable, responsive feel.
CONS
- • The all-blackwood construction makes it a premium-priced instrument, limiting accessibility.
- • River She Oak fingerboard can be slightly harder than ebony, requiring adjustment for some players.
- • Thin line design might feel less substantial to players accustomed to full-bodied acoustics.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 567059
$4,289
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Cole Clark AN2EC-RDBL-SB
by
Cole Clark
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Cole Clark AN2EC-RDBL-SB is a beautifully crafted instrument – the solid woods give it a warm, mature tone that really opens up with time. It's ideal for discerning players seeking a premium acoustic with excellent amplified capabilities; fingerstyle players and those wanting a refined, balanced sound will love it.
PROS
- • Solid Redwood top delivers a remarkably responsive and articulate voice.
- • Blackwood back and sides contribute to a rich, complex, and mature tonal character.
- • Cole Clark’s 3-way blend pickup system offers versatile amplified options and quality sound.
- • Queensland Maple neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable, familiar feel for many players.
CONS
- • Nitrocellulose finish, while beautiful, can be susceptible to scratches and wear.
- • The 44mm nut width might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
- • The natural matte finish, while aesthetically pleasing, might not appeal to all players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 529208
$3,079
#3
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Cole Clark AN3EC-BB
by
Cole Clark
Alternative Styles
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The AN3EC-BB is a seriously special acoustic. That Bunya top gives it a lush, almost vocal quality that you just don’t find elsewhere. It's a fantastic choice for fingerstyle players, singer-songwriters, and anyone wanting a premium instrument with a unique voice and great amplified capability.
PROS
- • Bunya top delivers a uniquely warm, complex, and resonant tone profile.
- • Blackwood back and sides enhance projection and sustain beautifully.
- • Cole Clark 3-way blend pickup system offers versatile amplified options.
- • Queensland Maple neck provides excellent stability and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Premium-priced, placing it outside the reach of many players.
- • Matt Nitrocellulose finish, while visually appealing, is prone to fingerprints.
- • Bunya wood's availability can impact future production and resale value.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 532962
$4,178
#4
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Cole Clark TL2EC-BLBL-HSS Thin Line
by
Cole Clark
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Cole Clark TL2EC is a beautifully crafted instrument, seriously impressive for its all-blackwood build. It’s a fantastic choice for discerning players who want a stage-ready acoustic with a powerful, articulate voice and flexible pickup options - ideal for fingerstyle, recording, or performing in various settings.
PROS
- • Exceptional blackwood resonance delivers rich, complex overtones.
- • Cole Clark’s 3-way blend pickup system offers versatile tonal options.
- • Queensland Maple neck provides excellent stability and comfortable playability.
- • Grover machine heads ensure smooth, accurate tuning stability.
CONS
- • The all-blackwood construction contributes to a noticeably heavier feel.
- • The River She Oak fingerboard might feel slightly harder than ebony to some players.
- • The unique snowflake inlays, while aesthetically pleasing, are a matter of personal taste.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 567055
$4,289
#5
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Cole Clark AN3EC-RDBL-AE
by
Cole Clark
Creative Expression
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This Cole Clark Angel is a seriously refined instrument. The redwood top gives it a really responsive voice, and the blackwood back provides a gorgeous, focused tone that really sings. It's perfect for discerning players seeking a premium acoustic with excellent amplified options – think fingerstyle, singer-songwriters, or anyone wanting a beautifully voiced, stage-ready guitar.
PROS
- • Redwood top delivers exceptional clarity and dynamic range.
- • Blackwood back/sides provide warmth and sustain, beautifully balanced.
- • Cole Clark pickup system offers versatile amplified tones, surprisingly natural.
- • Queensland maple neck ensures stability and a comfortable, modern feel.
CONS
- • The matte nitro finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be more delicate.
- • The shorter scale length might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 611094
$4,949
#6
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Cole Clark AN2EC-BLBL Angel
by
Cole Clark
Specialty Applications
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The AN2EC-BLBL Angel is a beautifully crafted instrument; the all-Blackwood design gives it a distinctive, powerful voice. It’s ideal for players seeking a refined acoustic tone with excellent amplified capabilities – think fingerstyle players or those needing a stage-ready guitar with a sophisticated aesthetic.
PROS
- • Solid Blackwood construction delivers a rich, focused, and resonant tone.
- • Cole Clark’s 3-Way Face Blend System offers versatile amplified options.
- • Queensland Maple neck provides excellent stability and a comfortable playing feel.
- • Grover machine heads ensure smooth and accurate tuning stability.
CONS
- • The all-Blackwood construction can contribute to a slightly darker, less airy tone.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many players.
- • The 44mm nut width might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 544449
$2,529
#7
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Cole Clark AN2EC-RDBL
by
Cole Clark
Alternative Styles
Custom Features
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This Cole Clark AN2EC-RDBL is a beautifully crafted instrument perfect for serious players who appreciate a refined tone and comfortable feel. The combination of Redwood and Blackwood delivers a balanced, articulate sound that shines both acoustically and amplified, making it an ideal choice for fingerstyle players and those seeking a versatile stage guitar.
PROS
- • Redwood top delivers exceptional clarity and dynamic range across the spectrum.
- • Blackwood back and sides provide a warm, focused tone with rich overtones.
- • Cole Clark 3-way blend pickup system offers versatile amplified options for stage.
- • Queensland Maple neck ensures stability and a comfortable, responsive playing feel.
CONS
- • Matt nitro finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be more susceptible to minor scratches.
- • The 44mm nut width might feel slightly wider for players accustomed to narrower necks.
- • Blackwood, while beautiful, isn't as tonally 'loud' as some other backwood choices.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 532967
$2,858
#8
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Cole Clark AN2EC-BLBL-HUM Angel
by
Cole Clark
Custom Features
Specialty Applications
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The AN2EC-BLBL-HUM Angel is a beautifully crafted instrument, perfect for discerning players seeking a sophisticated acoustic voice with serious amplified capabilities. The Blackwood construction provides a warm, dark tone, while the Lollar humbucker adds a touch of vintage electric character. This is an excellent choice for fingerstyle players and those who need a stage-ready acoustic-electric.
PROS
- • Solid Blackwood top and back deliver a rich, complex, resonant tone.
- • Cole Clark’s 3-way system provides versatile acoustic and amplified options.
- • Lollar Imperial humbucker adds a warm, articulate, powerful electric tone.
- • Queensland Maple neck offers excellent stability and a comfortable playing feel.
CONS
- • All-Blackwood construction contributes to a relatively heavier instrument.
- • The premium-priced tag puts it out of reach for many players.
- • The all-Blackwood aesthetic might not appeal to those preferring brighter tones.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 501603
$3,189
#9
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Cole Clark TL2EC-BLBL Thin line
by
Cole Clark
Specialty Applications
Experimental Music
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The Cole Clark TL2EC-BLBL is a beautifully crafted, premium-priced instrument. The all-blackwood construction gives it a uniquely warm and focused voice, perfect for fingerstyle players and those seeking a refined acoustic tone with amplified versatility. This is a great choice for discerning musicians who appreciate sustainable materials and a comfortable, shorter scale length.
PROS
- • Solid blackwood construction delivers a rich, complex, and focused tone.
- • Queensland maple neck provides exceptional clarity and comfortable playability.
- • Cole Clark 3-way blend pickup system offers versatile amplified options.
- • Snowflake inlays add a touch of elegance without sacrificing functionality.
CONS
- • The all-blackwood build contributes to a heavier than average instrument.
- • The short scale length might feel cramped for players used to longer scales.
- • Nitrocellulose lacquer, while beautiful, requires careful handling to avoid scratches.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 519191
$2,859
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Cole Clark AN2EC-BLBL-HH
by
Cole Clark
Specialty Applications
Unique Designs
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
This Cole Clark AN2EC is a serious instrument—the all-blackwood build gives it a really focused, powerful voice, and the pickup system is surprisingly adaptable. It’s a fantastic choice for players who want a stage-ready acoustic with a darker, more mature tone, especially those in genres like jazz, blues, or soulful folk. It's a premium-priced guitar, but the build quality and sound are top-notch.
PROS
- • Solid blackwood construction delivers a rich, warm, and resonant tonal foundation.
- • Cole Clark's 3-Way Blend pickup system offers exceptional versatility for stage and studio.
- • River She Oak fingerboard provides a uniquely smooth playing experience and attractive contrast.
- • Grover machine heads ensure reliable tuning stability, a crucial detail for serious players.
CONS
- • The all-blackwood build contributes to a relatively heavy instrument, demanding some getting used to.
- • The tone, while gorgeous, might lack the bright, airy character preferred by some fingerstyle players.
- • The premium-priced nature makes it a significant investment for many guitarists.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 611097
$4,399
#11
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Cole Clark TL2EC-BLBL-HUM
by
Cole Clark
Custom Features
Creative Expression
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Cole Clark is a serious instrument for the discerning player. The all-blackwood construction gives it a really focused, mature tone, and the Lollar humbucker is a real gem for amplified performance. It’s perfect for players seeking a premium acoustic with excellent stage-ready electronics, particularly those in jazz, blues, or fingerstyle genres.
PROS
- • Solid blackwood construction delivers a rich, complex, and warm tone.
- • Lollar humbucker provides a powerful, articulate amplified signal, surprisingly clean.
- • Queensland maple neck offers exceptional playability and comfortable feel.
- • Sustainable Australian woods showcase Cole Clark’s commitment to quality and responsibility.
CONS
- • The all-blackwood build contributes to a relatively heavy instrument.
- • The matte nitro finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be more susceptible to fingerprints.
- • The scale length (650mm) might feel slightly longer for players accustomed to shorter scales.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 529260
$3,189
How to Choose the Best Other Acoustic Guitars
1
Australian Heritage & Construction
Cole Clark guitars are built in Victoria, Australia, using sustainably sourced timbers. This means a build quality that's generally solid, though the focus is on playability and stage-readiness rather than heirloom-level craftsmanship.
2
Fan Bracing System
This is their signature. It's not just marketing; fan bracing genuinely alters the guitar's tonal response, giving you more bass thump and sustain without sacrificing clarity. It helps the guitar cut through a band mix better than traditional X-bracing, which can often get muddy.
3
Pickup Systems (Onyx & Fusion)
Cole Clark's proprietary pickup systems are surprisingly good. The Onyx is a solid choice for straightforward amplification, while the Fusion system (with its blend of piezo and microphone) offers more tonal flexibility for recording. They're not going to replace a high-end acoustic mic, but they're gig-ready.
4
Neck Profiles & Playability
Their necks are generally comfortable - not too thick, not too thin - and the action is typically set up well from the factory. This makes them a joy to play, especially for players with hand fatigue from long gigs. This is a massive win compared to some other brands that ship with unplayable action.
5
Aesthetic & Finish Quality
The finishes are beautiful, no doubt about it. They're not flawless, mind you - you might find a minor blemish or two - but they're visually appealing and often feature unique Australian timbers. It's a nice touch, especially when you're on stage under bright lights.
Buying Guide
Cole Clark guitars aren't the cheapest option, but they offer a lot of value for the money. Don't expect boutique-level detail in the finish - they're built for working musicians. The Onyx pickup is perfectly serviceable, but if you're serious about recording, the Fusion system is worth the upgrade. Ultimately, they're a solid choice if you need a reliable, stage-ready acoustic that sounds good both acoustic and amplified.
Our Methodology
We don't just pore over spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars - plugged in through a PA, mic'd in studios, and battling it out in rehearsals with a full band. Our evaluations are based on real-world performance, A/B comparisons against similar guitars in their price range, and how they feel in the hands - because a guitar is more than just numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are Australian brands, but Cole Clark leans more towards a balanced, articulate tone with a focus on stage performance, while Maton often has a warmer, more traditional acoustic vibe. It really comes down to personal preference - try both if you can.
Parts availability can be a bit of a challenge compared to more common brands like Martin or Taylor. Finding a luthier familiar with their fan bracing system might take a little searching, but it's not a dealbreaker.
The Onyx is a piezo pickup - straightforward and reliable. The Fusion combines a piezo with a condenser microphone, giving you more tonal shaping options and a more natural amplified sound, but at a higher price.
Absolutely. The fan bracing provides excellent sustain and clarity, which works beautifully for fingerstyle. The slightly wider string spacing can be beneficial for fingerpicking as well.
Like any acoustic guitar, humidity control is key. Cole Clark necks are generally well-constructed, but drastic temperature and humidity changes can still cause issues. A good quality case and a humidifier are your friends.
