Best Other Acoustic Guitars Under $800 2026
Alright, so you're hunting for an acoustic that doesn't require a second mortgage. It's a common quest. Under $800, you're finding guitars that are genuinely playable and even enjoyable, but you gotta know what to look for to avoid a dog. We're talking about instruments that can handle a gig, record reasonably well, and not make you want to hurl it across the room during a frustrating practice session.
Last updated: June 17, 2026 • Next update: June 24, 2026
⚡ The best other acoustic guitars in 2026 are Martin Guitar LX1RE (top pick), Breedlove Discovery S Concert CE WH for tighter budgets, and Martin Guitar LXK2 for pros — selected from 15 options across 8 brands, priced $504–$768, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar LX1RE
Custom Features
Alternative Styles
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The LX1RE is a fantastic little guitar – a truly portable Martin experience. The solid top gives it a surprisingly big voice, and the Fishman pickup makes it stage-ready. Ideal for travel, students, or anyone wanting a genuine Martin feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, responsive, and articulate tone.
- • Fishman Sonitone pickup system provides a clean, amplified acoustic voice.
- • Rosewood HPL back and sides offer a rich, full sound with surprising projection.
- • Rust birch laminate neck provides stability and a comfortable playing feel.
CONS
- • HPL back and sides, while cost-effective, lack the tonal complexity of solid wood.
- • Shorter scale length limits low-end response and string tension.
- • Richlite fingerboard can feel slightly less 'premium' than ebony or rosewood.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 556087
$692
#2
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Breedlove Discovery S Concert CE WH
by
Breedlove
Custom Features
Unique Designs
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
This Breedlove Discovery S Concert CE is a solid choice for gigging singer-songwriters or students. The spruce top offers a bright, balanced tone that works well for a variety of styles, and the Fishman pickup makes it stage-ready. It's a well-built instrument offering great value for the price.
PROS
- • Solid European spruce top delivers clear, articulate projection.
- • African mahogany back/sides add warmth and sustain.
- • Fishman Presys I provides respectable amplified tone for stage use.
- • Ovangkol fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience with good durability.
CONS
- • Laminated back and sides limit the overall tonal complexity compared to all-solid instruments.
- • The white matte finish can be prone to showing fingerprints and smudges.
- • Nut width of 1.69in might feel slightly wider for players accustomed to narrower necks.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 612761
$604
#3
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar LXK2
Alternative Styles
Unique Designs
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The LXK2 is a surprisingly punchy and well-built travel guitar, perfect for students, songwriters, or anyone needing a reliable, compact instrument. The Koa HPL gives it a bright, articulate voice, and the smaller size makes it incredibly portable. It's a great value for a Martin-branded instrument, offering quality and portability in one neat package.
PROS
- • Koa HPL provides a bright, focused tone with impressive projection.
- • Richlite fingerboard and Tusq saddle offer a smooth playing experience and good intonation.
- • Birch laminate neck delivers stability and a comfortable feel, resisting humidity changes.
- • Enclosed tuners provide reliable tuning stability, crucial for gigging musicians.
CONS
- • HPL construction, while durable, lacks the tonal complexity of solid wood.
- • Shorter scale length limits low-end response and string tension.
- • The 'Little Martin' size may feel cramped for players with larger hands.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 556099
$549
#4
⭐
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
#5
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Martin Guitar LX1 LH
Unique Designs
Alternative Styles
Creative Expression
Key Feature:
The LX1 LH is a surprisingly capable little guitar from Martin. The solid top gives it a real Martin vibe, and the HPL back keeps it road-ready. It's a great option for left-handed players needing a compact, travel-friendly instrument or a second guitar for practice – especially those with smaller frames.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, responsive tone with good projection.
- • Mahogany HPL back & sides offer durability and a warm tonal balance.
- • Rust birch laminate neck provides stability and a comfortable feel in the hand.
- • Richlite fretboard and compensated Tusq saddle contribute to intonation accuracy and playability.
CONS
- • HPL back and sides, while durable, lack the acoustic resonance of solid wood.
- • Smaller body size limits low-end response and volume compared to larger Martins.
- • Nut width of 42.9mm might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 556074
$549
#6
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Fender Acoustasonic Standard Tele HSB
by
Fender
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Experimental Music
Key Feature:
The Acoustasonic Standard Tele is a seriously clever hybrid – you get a surprisingly good acoustic voice alongside a usable, powerful electric humbucker. It’s a great option for gigging musicians needing versatility and a comfortable, modern feel without the premium price tag. It really shines for players who want a one-guitar solution for a wide range of musical styles.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers a surprisingly warm, balanced acoustic tone.
- • Shawbucker pickup delivers convincing humbucker grit and clarity.
- • Bolt-on neck provides comfortable, modern playability and easy adjustments.
- • Graph Tech TUSQ nut enhances tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • Nyatoh body, while pleasant, lacks the premium resonance of mahogany or rosewood.
- • Blend knob offers limited tonal shaping compared to dedicated EQ controls.
- • Bolt-on neck, while comfortable, may not appeal to players seeking a vintage feel.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 608807
$714
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Ibanez AAM340CE-RUB
by
Ibanez
Specialty Applications
Alternative Styles
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The AAM340CE-RUB is a surprisingly well-built and versatile instrument. Its solid mahogany construction provides a warm, focused tone, and the amplified sound is genuinely usable for gigging. It's a great option for intermediate players wanting a stage-ready acoustic-electric with a comfortable neck profile and a distinctive look.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany top delivers warm, focused acoustic tones.
- • Thermo aged mahogany neck provides stability and a smooth feel.
- • Ibanez T-bar pickup offers usable amplified sound for stage or recording.
- • A.I.R.port design minimizes feedback when amplified.
CONS
- • Mahogany construction can lack the dynamic range of spruce tops.
- • Polyester finish, while durable, isn’t as resonant as a gloss lacquer.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to guitars with more varied wood combinations.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 606735
$692
#8
⭐
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
#9
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
DAngelico Excel Gramercy Mahogany Burst
by
DAngelico
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The Gramercy Mahogany Burst is a solid performer, offering a warm, balanced acoustic voice that really shines when amplified. It's a great option for singer-songwriters, fingerstyle players, or anyone looking for a comfortable, well-built guitar with a classic vibe – a very capable instrument at a reasonable price point.
PROS
- • Solid mahogany construction delivers warm, focused tone with rich overtones.
- • Fishman Presys VT preamp offers excellent amplified clarity and versatile EQ options.
- • Rosewood fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience and pleasing sonic character.
- • D'Angelico Stairstep tuners ensure reliable tuning stability and a premium aesthetic.
CONS
- • Mahogany's inherent tone may lack brightness for players seeking a very articulate sound.
- • The C-neck profile, while comfortable, isn't universally preferred – a matter of personal feel.
- • Solid mahogany body contributes to a moderately heavier build compared to some alternatives.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 621795
$604
#10
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Martin Guitar LX1
Creative Expression
Custom Features
Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
The LX1 is a clever little guitar from Martin, perfect for travelers or those wanting a compact, well-built instrument. It's surprisingly loud and responsive for its size, with a bright, clear tone that cuts through well. A fantastic option for beginners or experienced players needing a reliable, portable acoustic.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, responsive, and articulate voice.
- • HPL back and sides offer surprising durability and projection for travel.
- • Rust birch laminate neck provides stability and a comfortable feel.
- • Richlite fingerboard and bridge are sustainable and offer consistent performance.
CONS
- • HPL back and sides, while durable, lack the tonal complexity of solid wood.
- • Smaller body size limits bass response compared to larger Martin models.
- • Nut width of 42.9mm might feel narrow for players accustomed to wider necks.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 556053
$549
#11
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Taylor Swift Baby Taylor-e TS-BTe
by
Taylor
Unique Designs
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The Baby Taylor-e is a fantastic option for students, travelers, or anyone wanting a manageable acoustic with amplified capability. Its smaller size doesn’t sacrifice too much in tone thanks to that solid top, and the ES-B electronics are surprisingly good for stage or recording. It’s a well-built, dependable instrument that offers a lot of value for the money.
PROS
- • Solid Sitka spruce top delivers a surprisingly mature, resonant tone.
- • Expression System Baby electronics offer clean, usable amplified sound.
- • Sapele neck provides comfortable playability and good sustain.
- • Compact size makes it incredibly portable and easy to handle.
CONS
- • Sapele plywood back and sides limit overall projection and tonal complexity.
- • Ebony fingerboard, while nice, might feel a little thin for larger hands.
- • Scale length can feel a bit cramped for players used to longer scales.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 396717
$549
#12
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Takamine GN93CE-NAT w/Bag
by
Takamine
Experimental Music
Unique Designs
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The GN93CE-NAT is a seriously well-built acoustic, offering a fantastic balance of projection and warmth. That solid top and flamed maple back create a really pleasing tonal character, and the TK-40D preamp makes it stage-ready. It's a great choice for gigging singer-songwriters or anyone looking for a versatile, quality instrument.
PROS
- • Solid Sitka spruce top delivers a responsive, clear voice.
- • Walnut/Maple back & sides provide warmth and sustain.
- • TK-40D preamp offers excellent onboard tuner and amplified tone.
- • Well-executed quartersawn X bracing enhances projection and stability.
CONS
- • High gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and reflections.
- • Walnut/Maple construction may lack the overt 'loudness' of some all-spruce models.
- • The included gig bag, while functional, isn't a premium, long-term protection solution.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 539103
$734
#13
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Fender Acoustasonic Std Jazzm BLK
by
Fender
Experimental Music
Specialty Applications
Custom Features
Key Feature:
The Jazzm BLK is a solid choice for gigging musicians needing an acoustic-electric workhorse. It’s surprisingly versatile—you can get a convincing acoustic voice and a usable electric tone, all in one package. Perfect for players who want a reliable, easy-to-play instrument without the fuss of multiple guitars.
PROS
- • Nyatoh body offers a warm, focused acoustic tone.
- • Shawbucker pickup delivers surprisingly authentic electric humbucker response.
- • Modern 'inDeep C' neck profile is comfortable for extended playing.
- • Graph Tech TUSQ nut improves tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • Nyatoh lacks the tonal complexity of more premium tonewoods like mahogany or maple.
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, doesn't offer the resonance of a set neck.
- • Limited tonal palette compared to guitars with more pickup options.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 608810
$714
#14
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Martin Guitar LX1RE LH
Specialty Applications
Creative Expression
Unique Designs
Key Feature:
The LX1RE LH is a fantastic little Martin, perfect for travel or smaller players. The solid top gives it a surprisingly big voice, and the Fishman pickup makes it stage-ready. It's a great entry point into the Martin family, offering quality and playability at a very reasonable price.
PROS
- • Solid spruce top delivers a bright, responsive voice with excellent projection.
- • Fishman Sonitone pickup system offers a natural amplified tone, ideal for stage use.
- • Rosewood HPL back and sides provide a warm, focused tone with surprising depth.
- • Rust birch laminate neck provides stability and a comfortable playing feel for left-handers.
CONS
- • HPL back and sides, while durable, lack the tonal complexity of solid wood alternatives.
- • Richlite fingerboard, while sustainable, doesn't offer the same feel as ebony.
- • LX body style is smaller, which might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 556097
$692
#15
⭐
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
How to Choose the Best Other Acoustic Guitars
1
Tone
At this price, expect a focused sound, not a ton of complexity. We're looking for something balanced - not too boomy in the low-end, not ice-picky in the highs - something with a bit of warmth and sustain. The 'fat midrange honk' is a bonus.
2
Playability
Neck profile is crucial. A comfortable neck makes a huge difference when you're gigging for hours. Action (string height) matters too - a playable action without excessive fret buzz is a must. It's often adjustable, but it's a factor to consider.
3
Build Quality
Dovetail neck joints are a sign of better construction (more stable over time) than bolt-ons, but don't expect them at this price. Check for solid wood tops - they vibrate more freely and generally sound better than laminate tops, though all-laminate guitars are improving.
4
Electronics (if applicable)
If you need a pickup, the voicing is key. Cheap pickups can sound brittle and lifeless. Look for something that tries to mimic the natural acoustic tone, not just amplify the signal. Headroom is important too - avoid harsh breakup when you push the volume.
5
Bracing Pattern
While not always obvious, the bracing pattern (the internal wood supports) dramatically affects the guitar's tone and responsiveness. Scalloped bracing tends to create a warmer, more resonant tone, but it's less common under $800.
Buying Guide
Realistically, you're trading something. Solid wood tops are great, but you might compromise on the back and sides. Electronics are a convenience, but a cheap pickup will be a disappointment. Focus on the core acoustic tone and playability - those are the foundations. Don't chase specs; chase how it feels and sounds in your hands.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on spec sheets here. We've spent the last few years playing these guitars - live, in studios, and just noodling around. We've A/B'd them against guitars costing twice as much, focusing on how they actually sound and feel in real-world scenarios, because that's what matters when you're trying to cut through a band mix or capture a decent recording.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rare, but they exist. Usually, it's a solid top with laminate back and sides. The top is the most critical for tone, so it's a decent compromise, but be aware the back/sides will dampen resonance a bit.
Dreadnoughts are generally louder and have more low-end thump - good for strumming and cutting through a band. Grand auditoriums are more balanced, with better articulation for fingerpicking and quieter playing.
Not really. You'll get a modern sound, which isn't necessarily bad, but it won't have the aged warmth and complexity of a decades-old instrument. That's something you pay for.
Absolutely. A proper setup - action adjustment, nut slotting - can make a huge difference in playability. Many guitars need a setup out of the box, so factor that into your budget.
Yes! A more playable guitar will keep you motivated and make learning easier. Don't buy the cheapest thing just to 'start' - a slightly better instrument will be more rewarding and encourage you to stick with it.
