Best Other Acoustic Guitars for Unique Designs 2026
So you're tired of the dreadnought and the grand auditorium - good. If you're chasing a sound that's yours, something beyond the standard acoustic fare, you need a guitar with a body shape and construction that'll deliver. We're looking at guitars that offer unique sonic palettes and visual flair - instruments that inspire different songwriting approaches and cut through a mix like a knife. Let's dive into some unconventional acoustic designs that'll get you there.
Last updated: June 17, 2026 • Next update: June 24, 2026
⚡ The best other acoustic guitars in 2026 are Breedlove Pursuit Ex. S Drdn Conc CE TE (top pick), Harley Benton CLG-70ASR CE NAT Solid w/Case for tighter budgets, and Taylor PS14ce Figured Urban Ironback for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $405–$12,648, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Breedlove Pursuit Ex. S Drdn Conc CE TE
by
Breedlove
Specialty Applications
Alternative Styles
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The Pursuit Ex. S is a seriously impressive guitar for the money. The myrtlewood top gives it a really clear, almost chime-like quality, while the mahogany back keeps it from being too thin sounding. It's ideal for fingerstyle players or those wanting a bright, responsive acoustic with a reliable amplified option – a great all-rounder for intermediate players.
PROS
- • Myrtlewood top delivers a bright, articulate tone with surprising warmth.
- • African mahogany back/sides add sustain and a touch of richness.
- • Fishman Presys I provides clean, amplified sound with effective feedback rejection.
- • Concerto body shape offers comfortable ergonomics and balanced projection.
CONS
- • Myrtlewood can be a bit brittle tonally; lacks some low-end thump of rosewood.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard might feel slightly harder than ebony to some players.
- • Tigers Eye finish, while attractive, can be prone to fingerprints and smudges.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 617362
$769
#2
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Harley Benton CLG-70ASR CE NAT Solid w/Case
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a real surprise – a solid-wood guitar with a cutaway and pickup at a surprisingly affordable price point. The spruce top provides a lovely, responsive voice, while the Sonokeling back and sides add a touch of richness. It's a fantastic option for gigging singer-songwriters or players seeking a versatile, stage-ready acoustic with a comfortable neck profile.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers surprisingly rich, balanced tone and projection.
- • Sonokeling back/sides add warmth and sustain beyond typical laminate guitars.
- • Fishman Sonicore/Presys II system offers clear amplified sound for stage use.
- • Dovetail neck joint enhances sustain and provides comfortable, stable feel.
CONS
- • Sapele armrest might feel slightly awkward for some players initially.
- • Sonokeling fingerboard can be a bit drier than ebony, requiring occasional conditioning.
- • While versatile, the Grand Auditorium shape isn't ideal for aggressive fingerstyle or heavy strumming.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 621549
$483
#3
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor PS14ce Figured Urban Ironback
by
Taylor
Creative Expression
Specialty Applications
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This PS14ce is a real statement piece. The combination of redwood and Urban Ironbark gives it a truly distinctive voice – rich, warm, and surprisingly powerful. It's built for the serious player who appreciates rare tonewoods and a luxurious feel, and wants a plugged-in performance that truly shines.
PROS
- • Urban Ironbark delivers a uniquely warm, complex, and resonant tone.
- • Redwood top provides exceptional clarity and shimmering high-end response.
- • Expression System 2 pickup captures nuanced dynamics with exceptional fidelity.
- • West African ebony fingerboard offers a slick, comfortable playing experience.
CONS
- • The Urban Ironbark construction makes it notably heavier than standard models.
- • The elaborate inlays and premium materials contribute to a premium-priced investment.
- • Redwood top can be susceptible to humidity changes, requiring diligent care.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 620480
$12,649
#4
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Breedlove Exotic S Concert CE EB
by
Breedlove
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Exotic S Concert is a real looker and sounds fantastic. The solid koa top gives it a bright, articulate voice that’s perfect for fingerstyle or lighter strumming. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for intermediate to advanced players wanting a refined sound and stage-ready electronics.
PROS
- • Solid koa top delivers a focused, shimmering high-end tone.
- • African mahogany back/sides add warmth and sustain beautifully.
- • Fishman Presys I provides a clean, amplified sound for stage use.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard offers a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
CONS
- • Edgeburst finish might not appeal to players preferring more understated aesthetics.
- • Mahogany neck can be prone to slight movement with humidity changes.
- • Concert body size may feel a little small for larger players.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 617359
$1,319
#5
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor 814ce Special Edition Sapphire
by
Taylor
Alternative Styles
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This 814ce Sapphire is a gorgeous, high-end instrument. The V-Class bracing really opens up the sound, giving it a powerful presence and exceptional clarity. It's a fantastic choice for the serious player seeking a refined acoustic experience and excellent amplified tone – someone who appreciates craftsmanship and a unique aesthetic.
PROS
- • V-Class bracing delivers exceptional sustain and harmonic complexity.
- • Solid rosewood back/sides provide a rich, mature tonal foundation.
- • Expression System 2 pickup offers transparent amplified sound and feedback resistance.
- • Graphite nut and Micarta bridge enhance stability and intonation accuracy.
CONS
- • The Sapphire finish, while beautiful, may be prone to minor cosmetic imperfections.
- • Grand Auditorium body, while versatile, isn't ideal for deeply resonant bass tones.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 622480
$5,499
#6
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Breedlove Discovery S Concert CE Spruce
by
Breedlove
Custom Features
Specialty Applications
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The Breedlove Discovery S Concert CE Spruce is a fantastic option for intermediate players or anyone seeking a well-built, amplified acoustic. The solid top provides a lovely, balanced voice, while the Fishman pickup makes it stage-ready. It's a versatile instrument—great for singer-songwriters and strummers who want a quality feel and sound without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Solid European spruce top delivers a bright, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- • Cascade bracing enhances resonance and responsiveness, a thoughtful design choice.
- • Fishman Presys I pickup system offers reliable amplification with discreet onboard tuner.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience and adds warmth to the overall tone.
CONS
- • Laminated African mahogany back and sides limit the top-end shimmer found in all-solid instruments.
- • The 43mm nut width might feel a bit wide for players accustomed to narrower necks.
- • High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and may slightly dampen the acoustic resonance.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 618718
$527
#7
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Harley Benton CLG-70ASR CE SBK Solid w/Case
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a real surprise – a solid-wood Grand Auditorium with a Fishman pickup at a remarkably affordable price. The spruce top provides a clear, responsive voice, while the rosewood back adds a touch of richness. It's a great option for intermediate players or anyone wanting a well-equipped stage-ready acoustic without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers balanced, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- • Sonokeling back/sides add warmth and sustain, a premium touch.
- • Fishman Sonicore/Presys II system provides clean, usable amplified sound.
- • Dovetail neck joint enhances sustain and provides a comfortable feel.
CONS
- • Sapele armrest might feel a bit clunky or aesthetically jarring to some.
- • Nato neck, while stable, isn't as resonant as mahogany or maple.
- • Solid wood construction can be susceptible to humidity changes; requires care.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 621541
$505
#8
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor 814ce Special Edition Sedona
by
Taylor
Alternative Styles
Unique Designs
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
This 814ce Sedona is a real treat – the V-Class bracing makes it sing with incredible sustain, and that rosewood back really warms things up. The Expression System 2 pickup is a huge step up in amplified tone, sounding surprisingly acoustic. It’s perfect for discerning players who want a refined, versatile instrument for fingerstyle or lighter strumming – a serious upgrade from a standard 814.
PROS
- • Exceptional rosewood back/sides deliver rich, complex overtones.
- • V-Class bracing provides unprecedented sustain and volume.
- • Expression System 2 pickup offers remarkably natural amplified tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard enhances playability with smooth, articulate feel.
CONS
- • Sedona Burst finish might not appeal to players preferring understated aesthetics.
- • Grand Auditorium body, while versatile, isn’t ideal for aggressive percussive playing.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 622482
$5,499
#9
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor Academy 12e LTD Koa/Spruce
by
Taylor
Unique Designs
Creative Expression
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This Academy 12e LTD is a seriously sweet deal. The Koa/Spruce combo delivers a surprisingly rich tone, and the ES-B pickup makes it stage-ready. It’s perfect for intermediate players or anyone wanting a quality, versatile instrument with a gorgeous aesthetic – especially those drawn to the warmer tones of Koa.
PROS
- • Solid torrified spruce top delivers excellent projection and warmth.
- • Flamed koa back & sides add visual appeal and tonal complexity.
- • Taylor ES-B pickup system provides a usable and natural amplified sound.
- • Academy bracing offers a balanced response and comfortable playability.
CONS
- • Laminated koa back/sides limit ultimate tonal richness compared to all-solid wood.
- • Smoked eucalyptus fingerboard might feel slightly unfamiliar to some players.
- • The neck profile, while comfortable, might not suit players preferring a thinner feel.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 617276
$1,209
#10
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Breedlove Oregon Dreadnought Concerto
by
Breedlove
Creative Expression
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
The Oregon Concerto is a beautifully crafted instrument with a distinctive voice. The myrtlewood construction lends itself to a bright, airy tone with surprising depth, making it a fantastic choice for fingerstyle players and those seeking a unique alternative to more common tonewoods. It's a high-end guitar built for serious players who appreciate nuanced sound and refined aesthetics.
PROS
- • Myrtlewood top/back delivers a uniquely balanced, articulate tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and smooth playability.
- • L.R. Baggs Anthem system offers natural amplified sound with excellent feedback rejection.
- • Solid build quality and US craftsmanship ensure longevity and reliable performance.
CONS
- • Myrtlewood's tonal characteristics may not appeal to players seeking a traditional mahogany warmth.
- • Premium-priced, placing it outside the reach of many casual players.
- • The 1.75” nut width might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 618713
$4,399
#11
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
DAngelico Excel Gramercy Aged Sepia Burs
by
DAngelico
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The D’Angelico Excel Gramercy is a solid choice for players seeking a well-built, amplified acoustic. The combination of spruce and mahogany gives it a warm, balanced tone that works well for a variety of styles – fingerpicking, strumming, and light gigging. It's a premium-priced instrument offering a lot of value for the money, especially if you want a stage-ready acoustic with a vintage vibe.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers balanced, articulate projection.
- • Mahogany back and sides provide warmth and sustain.
- • Fishman Presys VT pickup system offers excellent amplified tone and versatility.
- • D'Angelico Stairstep tuners ensure reliable, precise tuning stability.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction might lack the brightness some prefer in a spruce-topped guitar.
- • Aged Sepia Burst finish can be a matter of personal taste; not universally appealing.
- • Grand Auditorium body might be slightly large for players with smaller frames.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 621791
$604
#12
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Harley Benton CLG-70ASR CE NAT Solid w/Bag
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a genuinely impressive offering for the price. The all-solid construction gives it a mature, responsive voice – surprisingly good for a guitar in this category. It’s a fantastic option for gigging singer-songwriters or intermediate players looking for a quality acoustic-electric without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Sonokeling back & sides add warmth and sustain, a premium touch.
- • Fishman Sonicore/Presys II system provides a usable amplified signal for performance.
- • Dovetail neck joint enhances sustain and provides a comfortable feel.
CONS
- • The Sapele armrest might feel slightly out of place aesthetically for some.
- • Sonokeling can be a bit harder on the fingers than some fingerboard woods.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to longer-scale guitars.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 621537
$406
#13
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor Academy 10e LTD Koa/Spruce
by
Taylor
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Academy 10e LTD is a seriously appealing package for intermediate players looking for a Koa aesthetic without the premium price tag. The solid top and Taylor electronics make it surprisingly versatile, and the build quality is solid for the series. It’s a great choice for singer-songwriters or anyone wanting a balanced acoustic voice with amplified options.
PROS
- • Koa back/sides offer warm overtones and a beautiful aesthetic.
- • Solid torrified spruce top delivers strong projection and responsiveness.
- • Taylor ES-B pickup system provides a usable amplified tone for stage or recording.
- • Academy bracing enhances clarity and volume, typical of higher-end Taylors.
CONS
- • Laminated koa back/sides, while attractive, limit the tonal complexity of all-koa instruments.
- • Smoked eucalyptus fingerboard might feel unfamiliar to players accustomed to ebony or rosewood.
- • The dreadnought body size might be unwieldy for smaller players or travel.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 617273
$1,209
#14
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Breedlove Pursuit Exotic S Conc BB CE
by
Breedlove
Custom Features
Specialty Applications
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This Pursuit Exotic S is a real looker and a surprisingly capable performer. The myrtlewood gives it a mellow, almost vintage vibe, and the Fishman pickup is ready for stage work. It’s a great choice for intermediate players or those seeking a unique acoustic voice without the premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Myrtlewood top delivers a uniquely warm, complex tone with shimmering overtones.
- • Fishman Presys I pickup system provides clean, amplified sound with effective feedback rejection.
- • Concave profile neck offers exceptional comfort and facilitates effortless chord changes.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface with excellent note definition.
CONS
- • Myrtlewood's tonal character might be too subtle for players seeking a brighter, louder voice.
- • High-gloss finish, while visually appealing, can feel a bit sticky in humid environments.
- • Ovangkol, while beautiful, is a less sustainable tonewood than some alternatives.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 618736
$769
#15
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Ibanez AAM370E-OAW
by
Ibanez
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
The AAM370E-OAW is a seriously well-built acoustic-electric. It’s got that bright, articulate spruce top paired with the warmth of maple, making it a versatile option for fingerstyle players and strummers alike. It's a great choice for intermediate to advanced players looking for a quality amplified acoustic without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Solid Sitka top delivers bright, responsive projection and clarity.
- • Flamed maple back/sides add warmth and focused midrange tones.
- • Low Oval neck profile offers comfortable, fast playability for various hand sizes.
- • Ibanez T-Bar pickup system provides clean, amplified sound with minimal feedback.
CONS
- • Flamed maple can sometimes exhibit a slightly boxy tone without careful EQing.
- • Open pore finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may require more diligent care to prevent moisture issues.
- • Advanced Auditorium body shape isn't ideal for very large players or lap playing.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 622254
$769
How to Choose the Best Other Acoustic Guitars
1
Body Shape & Voicing
This is the big one. A parlor will give you a focused, intimate tone, while a jumbo might offer booming low-end and massive headroom. We're looking for shapes that create something different - something beyond the expected.
2
Bracing Patterns
Different bracing patterns (Scalloped, forward-shifted, etc.) fundamentally alter the guitar's resonance and responsiveness. It's not just about volume; it's about how the guitar breathes and reacts to your touch.
3
Tonewood Combinations
Forget the standard spruce top/mahogany back. Builders are experimenting with everything from Koa and Ovangkol to figured woods, each adding unique harmonic overtones and colorations. We're listening for that unique fingerprint.
4
Scale Length & Neck Profile
A shorter scale length can loosen up the tension and give you a warmer, more mellow tone. Neck profile dramatically affects playability, so finding a shape that complements your playing style is crucial, especially when exploring unconventional designs.
5
Electronics (if applicable)
Many unique acoustic designs incorporate electronics. We evaluate pickup voicing carefully - does it accurately represent the acoustic tone, or does it add unwanted coloration? A good pickup should enhance, not mask, the guitar's natural character.
Buying Guide
Don't get caught up in the novelty. A weird shape doesn't automatically equal a great guitar. Pay attention to the build quality - are the seams tight? Is the action consistent? Cheaper instruments often cut corners on bracing and hardware, which will impact the tone and longevity. Spending a bit more on a well-made, unique design is almost always worth it; you're buying more than just a shape, you're buying a voice.
Our Methodology
We don't rely on spec sheets here. We've spent countless hours playing these guitars - plugged in and unplugged - comparing them head-to-head in rehearsal rooms, tracking sessions, and even a few sweaty club gigs. Our evaluation focuses on real-world performance: how they feel, how they respond to different playing styles, and how they translate in a band setting. We're listening for character, not just numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parlor and grand concert guitars are often excellent choices for fingerstyle. They offer a more focused tone and comfortable size for intricate work. Look for guitars with a responsive top and a slightly warmer overall voicing.
It depends. Larger body shapes like jumbos generally project better. However, a smaller, more focused guitar can still cut through with a bright top end and a well-EQ'd pickup system. It's about finding the right balance.
That's a valid concern. Try before you buy if possible. Even with a unique shape, good ergonomics are essential. Pay attention to the neck profile and body contours - can you comfortably reach all the frets and chords?
Often, yes. Unique designs often involve more complex construction and less common materials. However, you can find some great deals on smaller builders or older models. Just be sure to research the builder's reputation.
Resale value can be tricky. Highly sought-after, well-made unique designs can hold their value, but more obscure models might be harder to sell. Consider it an investment in your sound, not necessarily a financial one.
