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: May 6, 2026 • Next update: May 13, 2026
#1
⭐
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
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Taylor 814ce Special Edition Charcoal
by
Taylor
Specialty Applications
Unique Designs
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
This 814ce Special Edition Charcoal is a serious instrument—the V-Class bracing really opens up the sound and makes it incredibly responsive. The Charcoal Burst finish is undeniably gorgeous, and the Expression System 2 pickup handles stage volume beautifully. It's ideal for the discerning player seeking a premium-voiced, versatile, and beautifully crafted guitar for both fingerstyle and strumming.
PROS
- • V-Class bracing delivers exceptional projection and sustain.
- • Solid rosewood back/sides provide rich, complex overtones.
- • Expression System 2 pickup offers natural amplified tone and clarity.
- • Graphite nut and Micarta bridge enhance stability and intonation.
CONS
- • The Charcoal Burst finish, while striking, may not appeal to all tastes.
- • Grand Auditorium body can feel slightly large for players with smaller frames.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many players.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 622477
$5,829
#3
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
PRS SE T40E TS incl. Case
by
PRS
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
The SE T40E TS is a seriously impressive acoustic, especially considering the price point. The solid top and ovangkol back deliver a rich, balanced tone, and the Fishman electronics are a real bonus for stage work. It’s a fantastic choice for intermediate to advanced players looking for a well-built, versatile acoustic with a comfortable feel and a touch of PRS class.
PROS
- • Solid Sitka top delivers excellent projection and clarity.
- • Ovangkol back/sides add warmth and sustain, a premium touch.
- • Fishman GT-1 system offers a surprisingly natural amplified tone.
- • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience.
CONS
- • Tonare Grand body shape may be slightly unwieldy for smaller players.
- • Wide fat neck profile isn't ideal for those preferring thinner, faster necks.
- • RS Hybrid X bracing, while good, isn't the most resonant bracing pattern.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 617780
$714
#4
⭐
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
#5
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Breedlove Rainforest S Concert CE BG
by
Breedlove
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
This Rainforest S Concert is a real gem for players seeking a warm, focused acoustic tone. The all-mahogany build gives it a rich, woody character that’s fantastic for fingerstyle and mellow strumming – it's a great choice for singer-songwriters and those who like a less-bright acoustic voice. It offers a good balance of quality and affordability.
PROS
- • Solid African mahogany top delivers a focused, warm, and articulate tone.
- • Fishman Presys I pickup system provides clear amplified sound with discreet onboard tuner.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard offers smooth playability and a pleasing visual contrast.
- • Black binding and chrome hardware elevate the aesthetic, hinting at a premium build quality.
CONS
- • All-mahogany construction might lack the bright shimmer some players prefer.
- • The black gold high-gloss finish can be a fingerprint magnet and show wear easily.
- • Slightly heavier than some concert-sized guitars due to the solid woods.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 618741
$604
#6
⭐
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
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor 24ce
by
Taylor
Custom Features
Specialty Applications
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The 24ce is a seriously well-made guitar – a great all-around performer. The solid top gives it a richer voice than many in its class, and the Fishman pickup system is surprisingly good for amplified gigs. This is perfect for singer-songwriters or players who want a balanced, comfortable instrument with a professional amplified tone.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany top delivers warm, focused tone with excellent clarity.
- • African mahogany back/sides add projection and a balanced sonic character.
- • Fishman Sonitone GT-2 provides a natural amplified sound, surprisingly responsive.
- • Maple neck with Crelicam ebony fingerboard offers smooth playability and sustain.
CONS
- • Laminated back and sides limit the potential for long-term sonic evolution.
- • Mahogany's inherent brightness might not suit all playing styles; lacks some versatility.
- • The 'Natural Matt' finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can show fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 621313
$659
#8
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
DAngelico Excel Gramercy NaturalMahogany
by
DAngelico
Unique Designs
Creative Expression
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The D'Angelico Gramercy is a really solid choice for players wanting a warm, focused acoustic with a respectable amplified voice. The all-mahogany build gives it a lovely, mellow tone perfect for fingerstyle or softer strumming, and the Fishman pickup is surprisingly good. This is a great option for intermediate players looking for a quality instrument without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany construction delivers warm, rich, and focused acoustic tones.
- • Fishman Presys VT pickup system offers excellent amplified clarity and versatile voicing options.
- • Rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience with a pleasing feel.
- • D'Angelico Stairstep tuners ensure stable tuning and reliable performance.
CONS
- • Mahogany's tonal character can be less versatile compared to spruce tops for brighter styles.
- • Solid mahogany bodies can be slightly heavier than guitars with laminate construction.
- • The 'C' neck profile might not suit players preferring a flatter or thicker neck.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 621792
$604
#9
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Furch Rainbow Gc-DG Custom
by
Furch
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Key Feature:
This Furch Rainbow Gc-DG Custom is a beautifully crafted instrument, built for the discerning player who appreciates a rich, balanced tone and exceptional craftsmanship. The combination of Sitka top and Madagascar rosewood delivers a mature, resonant voice, perfect for fingerstyle players or those seeking a sophisticated acoustic experience. It’s a serious guitar for the serious musician.
PROS
- • Madagascar rosewood back/sides deliver exceptional warmth and sustain.
- • Solid Sitka top provides clarity and responsiveness across the tonal spectrum.
- • Ebony fingerboard and nut ensure smooth playability and precise intonation.
- • Gotoh 510 machine heads offer reliable tuning stability and a premium feel.
CONS
- • The Madagascar rosewood makes it a premium-priced instrument, limiting accessibility.
- • The 45mm nut width might feel wide for players accustomed to narrower necks.
- • Rosewood's tonal characteristics may not suit players seeking a brighter, more aggressive sound.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 620951
$6,819
#10
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Taylor 214ce Plus Special Edition TB
by
Taylor
Unique Designs
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The 214ce Plus Special Edition TB is a fantastic all-around guitar, especially for gigging singer-songwriters or players needing a reliable amplified sound. The V-Class bracing really opens up the sound, giving it a surprising amount of volume and clarity, while the Trans Blue finish adds a touch of personality. It’s a premium-priced instrument that offers a great balance of features and performance.
PROS
- • Solid Engelmann spruce top provides excellent clarity and projection.
- • Sapele back and sides offer a warm, balanced tonal foundation.
- • Expression System 2 pickup delivers remarkably natural amplified sound.
- • Ebony fingerboard and Tusq saddle contribute to smooth playability and sustain.
CONS
- • The high-gloss finish, while beautiful, can feel a bit sticky for some players.
- • Sapele laminate, while good, isn't as tonally complex as all-solid wood.
- • Trans Blue finish might not appeal to players preferring more traditional aesthetics.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 617264
$1,814
#11
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Taylor 214ce Plus Special Edition TG
by
Taylor
Creative Expression
Experimental Music
Custom Features
Key Feature:
This 214ce Plus Special Edition is a fantastic all-arounder. The solid top gives it a real voice, and the V-Class bracing makes it surprisingly responsive. It's a great choice for gigging singer-songwriters or players wanting a well-built, amplified instrument with a comfortable feel.
PROS
- • Solid Engelmann spruce top delivers balanced, articulate tone.
- • V-Class bracing enhances sustain and projection significantly.
- • Ebony fingerboard and Tusq saddle offer smooth playability.
- • ES2 Expression System pickup provides exceptional amplified clarity.
CONS
- • Spruce top might be too bright for some players' preferences.
- • Laminated back and sides limit the overall tonal complexity.
- • Trans Grey finish, while attractive, can show fingerprints easily.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 617270
$1,814
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Maton The Performer
by
Maton
Specialty Applications
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The Performer 808C is a beautifully crafted instrument with a voice all its own. Bunya's unique tonal character combined with the maple back and sides creates a balanced and resonant sound, ideal for fingerstyle players and those seeking a refined acoustic tone. It’s a premium-priced guitar that rewards the serious player with exceptional build quality and a truly special feel.
PROS
- • Bunya top delivers a uniquely warm, complex, and articulate tone.
- • Solid Queensland maple back/sides provide excellent projection and sustain.
- • AP5pro pickup system offers a natural amplified sound with useful controls.
- • Ivory binding and mosaic rosette showcase exceptional craftsmanship and premium aesthetics.
CONS
- • Bunya wood can be less common and may affect long-term availability.
- • The 25.5” scale might feel slightly less comfortable for players preferring shorter scales.
- • The natural matte finish, while visually appealing, might require more careful maintenance.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 619480
$2,309
#13
⭐
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
#14
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CLG-70ASR CE SBK Solid w/Bag
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton is a real surprise – you’re getting all-solid wood construction and a Fishman pickup at a very affordable price point. It's got a balanced sound, a comfortable neck, and a decent amplified tone, making it a fantastic choice for gigging singer-songwriters or players looking for a versatile acoustic-electric without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, responsive, and articulate tone with good projection.
- • Sonokeling rosewood back and sides add warmth and sustain, balancing the top's brightness.
- • Fishman Sonicore pickup and Presys II preamp offer a surprisingly natural amplified sound.
- • Dovetail neck joint improves sustain and provides a comfortable, stable feel in the hand.
CONS
- • Sonokeling, while beautiful, can be a bit harder on the fingers compared to ebony.
- • The armrest, while a nice touch, might feel bulky or unnecessary for some players.
- • While well-built for the price, hardware quality isn't quite on par with premium brands.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 621532
$428
#15
⭐
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
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.
