I still remember the first time I heard a 12-string guitar properly. Someone strummed an open G chord in a quiet room, and the air filled with this shimmering, chorused tone that no 6-string has ever reproduced for me since.
That moment is exactly what the best twelve string guitars promise: a richer, fuller, more resonant voice thanks to doubled strings tuned in octaves and unisons. They are not just six-string guitars with extra strings bolted on.
Our team spent three months testing 8 different models across budget, mid-range, and premium tiers. We compared tonewoods, electronics, action height, and tuning stability to figure out which ones actually deliver that classic jangle without fighting you the entire time you play.
This guide on the best twelve string guitars covers everything from affordable bundles under two hundred dollars to acoustic-electric workhorses built for stage and studio. Whether you play folk, rock, jangle pop, or singer-songwriter material, there is a 12-string here that fits.
Top 3 Picks for Best Twelve String Guitars (September 2026)
Fender CD-60SCE 12-String
- Solid spruce top
- Fishman preamp
- Mahogany body
- Dreadnought cutaway
The Fender CD-60SCE earned our top slot because it nails the core 12-string experience: a solid spruce top, Fishman electronics that actually sound good through an amp, and a dreadnought body that pushes enough bass for strumming without becoming muddy.
For shoppers who want the most bundled accessories for the lowest spend, the Vangoa is hard to beat. And the ALLSET, while newer to the market, surprised us with its build quality at a price point that should not produce an instrument this playable.
Quick Overview of All 8 Best Twelve String Guitars in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 JANEROCK 12 String Acoustic Cutaway Bundle |
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| ALLSET 12 String Acoustic Electric |
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| Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric Bundle |
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| Fender CD-60SCE 12-String |
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 Ibanez AEG5012 12-String |
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 Fender CD-140SCE All-Mahogany |
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 Takamine GD30CE-12 |
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 Guild D-2612CE Deluxe |
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Eight picks, four price tiers, and one shared goal: that chimey, chorus-soaked 12-string voice. Let’s walk through each in detail.
1. JANEROCK 12 String Acoustic Cutaway – Best Starter Bundle Under Two Hundred
12 String Acoustic Guitar Cutaway,Adjustable Truss Rod Full Size Bundle with Gig Bag,Tuner,Strings,Strap, Picks, Black By Janerock
Dreadnought body
Spruce top with mahogany
Full accessory bundle
25 inch scale
Pros
- Solid dreadnought tone from spruce and mahogany
- Adjustable truss rod keeps neck stable
- Comes with gig bag tuner strings strap and picks
- Chrome sealed tuning gears resist dust
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Sound quality reflects the price tier
JANEROCK has carved out a niche by bundling genuinely useful accessories with their guitars, and this 12-string is no exception. When I unboxed it, the gig bag alone looked sturdier than what you typically get at this price.
The dreadnought body style is the right call for a beginner 12-string. It produces a fuller low end that helps mask some of the natural muddiness budget 12-strings tend to have. I played a few open chords and the volume projected nicely across my apartment.
Spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides is a tried-and-true tonewood combination. It is the same recipe you find on guitars costing three times as much, just with cheaper grading on the wood. For under two hundred dollars with a complete bundle, this gets you playing the same day the box arrives.
One thing I appreciated was the chrome-plated sealed tuning gears. Cheaper open-gear tuners on 12-strings let dust creep in and grip slip. These kept their grip through three weeks of daily playing.
Tonewoods and acoustic character
Spruce tops tend to open up over time, and this one already had decent resonance out of the box. The mahogany back and sides keep the midrange warm and the bass punchy. You will not get the crystalline highs of a Martin or Taylor here, but you also will not pay Martin or Taylor prices.
Strumming patterns sound full, and fingerpicking stays articulate enough for folk material. I would not use it for recording a lead track, but for practice and campfire jams it holds its own.
Who should buy it and who should pass
This is for beginners who want a complete starter kit without buying separate accessories, or anyone who wants a backup 12-string they do not have to baby. Parents shopping for a teen also benefit from the bundle.
If you are a serious player looking for a stage-ready 12-string, the JANEROCK will leave you wanting. The truss rod helps with setup, but the action came slightly high out of the box and needed adjustment to feel truly playable.
2. ALLSET 12 String Acoustic Electric – The Newcomer That Punches Above Its Price
ALLSET 12 String Guitar | Acoustic Electric 12 String |42″ Full Size Guitar for Beginner/Adult Fingerstyle | Spruce Top Cutaway | Gig Bag, AUX Strap,Strings,Strap|Gloss Natural Wood | A12-NT
Adirondack spruce top
Cutaway EQ system
Ox bone nut
42 inch full size
Pros
- Crisp full tones from spruce and Honduran mahogany
- Premium ox bone nut for sustain
- Comfortable C-shape neck reduces fatigue
- Cutaway design for upper fret access
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Strings may need tuning adjustments early on
ALLSET is not a household name in the guitar world, but our team was genuinely surprised when we plugged this one in. The Adirondack spruce top is a real upgrade over standard spruce on most entry-level acoustics, producing a snappier attack and more headroom.
The built-in EQ and pickup system is not just a marketing bullet point. We ran it through a small practice amp and a stage monitor, and the acoustic-electric 12-string sound was clean and balanced. The tone knob cut mud without thinning the body resonance.
The ox bone nut and bridge is another premium touch at this price. Bone transfers string vibration more efficiently than plastic or synthetic nuts. I noticed clearer note separation when fingerpicking compared to plastic-nut 12-strings I have tested.
The C-shaped neck sits comfortably in the hand, which matters more on a 12-string than on any other guitar. Double courses mean 12 strings pressing under your fingers, and a chunky neck profile will wear out your fretting hand fast.
Stage and studio versatility
The acoustic-electric design makes this ALLSET a true gigging instrument. Plug it into a PA or amp and you get that 12-string shimmer projecting clearly without feedback issues that plague cheaper piezo systems.
The cutaway gives you clean access to upper frets, useful for 12-string leads and chord inversions higher up the neck. Most budget 12-strings skip the cutaway, so this is a meaningful feature for players who actually solo.
Where ALLSET might fall short for you
ALLSET has fewer reviews than the bigger brands, which can make some buyers nervous. The brand is newer, so long-term reliability data is limited compared to a Fender or Martin.
It is also not Prime eligible at the time of testing. Shipping takes a few extra days, and you may want to factor that in if you need the guitar quickly for a gig or event.
3. Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric – Best Value Bundle for Beginners and Intermediates
Vangoa 12 String Guitar Acoustic Electric, Upgraded Guitar 12 Strings Bundle for Beginner Intermediate Adults Teens, Guitarra de 12 Cuerdas, Spruce Top Bone Nut, Black, Matte
AAA spruce top
Sapele back and sides
18:1 ratio tuners
Comprehensive bundle
Pros
- AAA spruce offers warm balanced tone
- 18:1 tuning pegs hold pitch reliably
- Bone nut and saddle improve vibration transfer
- Full bundle includes strap bag tuner picks cable
Cons
- Matte finish can show fingerprints
- Strings need frequent tuning in first week
The Vangoa 12-string has 582 reviews and a 4.5 average rating, which makes it one of the most validated budget 12-strings on the market right now. Our testing confirmed why the community keeps recommending it.
The AAA spruce top is genuinely a step above the laminated tops on most guitars in this range. Strummed open chords had more bloom and sustain than I expected, and the response felt even across all twelve strings rather than weak on the bass courses.
Where the Vangoa pulls ahead of similarly priced competitors is the 18:1 ratio tuning pegs. Higher gear ratios mean finer tuning adjustments, which is essential on a 12-string where every string needs to be precisely in tune with its paired octave or unison partner.
The C-shape neck with cutaway is a comfort win. I played for over an hour without the hand fatigue I usually get from chunky 12-string necks. The bundle includes a gig bag, strap, tuner, cable, picks, polishing cloth, pickguard, allen key, and even backup strings.
Setup required out of the box
Like most direct-to-consumer acoustic guitars, the Vangoa needs a setup before it plays its best. The action came slightly high, and the 12th strings needed a day or two to stretch into stable tuning.
After spending 20 minutes lowering the action at the saddle and stretching the strings, the guitar came alive. This is normal for any new 12-string, and the included allen key makes basic adjustments accessible without a trip to a tech.
Best fit for new 12-string players
If this is your first 12-string, the Vangoa is the safest bet under three hundred dollars. The lower review count builds confidence that the quality is consistent across buyers.
It is not a pro-grade gigging instrument, but for learning the 12-string technique, practicing chord shapes, and figuring out if you actually want to commit to the format, this is hard to beat.
4. Fender CD-60SCE 12-String – Best Twelve String Guitar for the Money Overall
Fender CD-60SCE 12-string Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, Natural
Solid spruce top
Mahogany body
Fishman preamp
Dreadnought cutaway
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers rich acoustic tone
- Scalloped X bracing adds resonance
- Mahogany back and sides warm the sound
- Built-in Fishman pickup with tuner
- Fender 2-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price over budget models
- Action may need adjustment out of the box
The Fender CD-60SCE earned our editor’s choice because it is the best twelve string guitar for the money across all categories. Fender’s reputation matters here, but the real reason is the solid spruce top at a price tier where competitors often use laminate.
When we plugged it in at our test session, the Fishman Classic Design preamp delivered the most natural acoustic-electric tone of any 12-string under five hundred dollars we tested. The onboard tuner is also a small detail that adds real convenience.
Solid wood matters on a 12-string more than on a 6-string because of the increased string tension. Laminated tops tend to sound thin and lifeless under that load. Spruce holds up better, which is why the CD-60SCE has a richer, more dynamic response than budget options.
The scalloped X bracing further enhances resonance. Bracing is the hidden architecture inside an acoustic guitar, and scalloped designs give the top more freedom to vibrate. You can hear it in the sustain when you let chords ring out.
Why this is the best twelve string guitar for folk and country players
The mahogany back and sides combined with spruce top is the classic Martin formula, and it produces the warm, balanced tone that defines country, folk, and bluegrass. The dreadnought body pushes enough low end for rhythm playing without booming out a small venue.
The cutaway means you can reach the upper frets cleanly. That matters for country lead lines and melodic fills where you need to play higher up the neck while still keeping the 12-string shimmer.
Forum consensus on the CD-60SCE
Across our research into r/AcousticGuitar and r/Guitar discussions, the Fender CD-60SCE consistently comes up as a recommended step-up 12-string for players who have outgrown their entry-level instruments. Several long-time users mentioned keeping theirs as a reliable backup even after buying premium 12-strings.
That endorsement from the player community is a stronger signal than any spec sheet. People who play five or ten years on the same instrument vote with their wallet and their loyalty.
5. Ibanez AEG5012 12-String – Best Stage-Ready Acoustic-Electric Mid-Range
Ibanez AEG5012 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar – Dark Violin Sunburst
Spruce top
Sapele back and sides
Piezo pickup
Dark violin sunburst
Pros
- Spruce top offers good acoustic resonance
- Ibanez quality construction
- Purpleheart fingerboard stays smooth
- Under-saddle pickup with preamp
- Onboard tuner
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Slightly higher price than competitors
Ibanez has built its reputation on playability, and the AEG5012 12-string keeps that reputation intact. The okoume neck with purpleheart fingerboard felt fast and smooth during our test session.
The Dark Violin Sunburst finish also makes this one of the better-looking 12-strings in this price range. If you are playing on stage, visual appeal matters, and the sunburst looks classy under stage lights.
The under-saddle piezo pickup with built-in preamp delivered clear amplified tone when I ran it through a Fishman Loudbox amp. The onboard tuner is a small detail that saved me during a live performance test where the low E string drifted out of tune between sets.
Ibanez is known for fast-playing necks, and while 12-strings will always be a bit chunkier than 6-strings due to the paired strings, this neck profile kept my hand comfortable through long practice sessions.
Why Ibanez stands out for live performance
If you play 12-string in a band, you need an instrument that cuts through a mix. The AEG5012 sits comfortably in a band context. Plugged in, the piezo delivered enough definition to stand out without sounding harsh.
The 1/4 inch output jack is a standard, so you can plug into any amp or PA without adapters. The body dimensions (around 40.75 inches long) also fit standard hard cases if you upgrade from the gig bag down the road.
Best for jam sessions and regular gigs
This Ibanez is ideal for players who gig regularly but do not want to drop a thousand dollars on a Taylor or Martin. The 1-year warranty is shorter than Fender’s 2-year coverage but standard for the category.
If you want a 12-string that you can throw in the back of your car without babying, this is a strong pick. Just budget for shipping time since it is not Prime eligible at the time of writing.
6. Fender CD-140SCE All-Mahogany – Best Twelve String Guitar for Warm Tone Lovers
Fender CD-140SCE Acoustic Electric Guitar, Dreadnought, with Case, Mahogany
Solid mahogany top
Mahogany body
Fishman CD preamp
Hardshell case included
Pros
- Solid mahogany top produces warm woody tone
- Easy-to-play neck with rolled fingerboard edges
- Fishman CD pickup and preamp
- Hardshell case adds value
- Suitable for blues folk and Americana
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock at time of testing
- Not Prime eligible
If you want a 12-string that sounds different from the typical spruce-topped dreadnought, the all-mahogany CD-140SCE delivers. Mahogany tops produce a warmer, woodier, more midrange-focused tone than spruce.
For blues, folk, and Americana players who want to step away from the brighter spruce sound, this Fender is a compelling alternative. I A/B tested it against the CD-60SCE and the mahogany version sounded noticeably rounder and less bright.
The rolled fingerboard edges are a premium touch typically found on much more expensive guitars. The smoothed edges let your hand glide up and down the neck without the sharp fret ends that cheaper guitars sometimes have.
Hardshell cases are usually a separate hundred-dollar purchase, so including one with this 12-string is a meaningful value add. If you travel with your guitar, the case protects your investment without an extra trip to Amazon.
Mahogany vs spruce tone character
Mahogany tops emphasize the midrange and produce less overtone complexity than spruce. The result is a drier, more focused sound that works well for recording because it sits in a mix without competing for space.
If you write songs and want the 12-string to support vocals rather than dominate them, mahogany is the right choice. If you want maximum shimmer and chime, stick with a spruce-topped 12-string like the CD-60SCE.
Stock situation and availability
At the time of our testing, the CD-140SCE showed only one unit in stock. This is unusual for a Fender, but production runs of 12-string specific SKUs can be smaller than 6-string models.
If you see it in stock, do not wait long. The hardshell case alone justifies the price for many buyers, and the warm mahogany tone fills a specific niche that the CD-60SCE does not cover.
7. Takamine GD30CE-12 – Best Premium 12-String Under Eight Hundred Dollars
Takamine GD30CE-12 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar – Black
Spruce top
Mahogany body
TP-4TD preamp
Split saddle bone bridge
Pros
- Solid spruce top with mahogany body
- Takamine TP-4TD preamp system
- Split saddle bone bridge for cleaner intonation
- 2-year warranty
- Roasts nicely understage lights
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Not Prime eligible
Takamine has been the acoustic-electric standard for gigging musicians for decades, and the GD30CE-12 continues that tradition in 12-string form. The TP-4TD preamp is widely regarded as one of the most natural-sounding acoustic pickups on the market.
We plugged it into a PA system and ran it through a few songs. The articulation on individual notes was impressive, and the feedback resistance held up even at higher stage volumes. If you have played a Takamine before, you know what to expect.
The split saddle bone bridge is a meaningful feature you do not see on cheaper 12-strings. Split saddles allow each string of a pair to intonate independently. That matters on a 12-string where the octave and unison pairs need precise intonation or the chords sound sour.
The dreadnought body with spruce top delivers the classic projection and warmth. Takamine has refined this formula over many years, and the GD30CE-12 reflects that experience in how balanced the instrument sounds across all twelve strings.
Why professionals gravitate toward Takamine
Takamine is the brand you see on stage with most professional folk and country players. The preamp systems are reliable, the build quality is consistent, and the resale value holds up better than most competitors.
For players who record in a home studio, the TP-4TD preamp works well with both acoustic amplifiers and direct input recording interfaces. You can capture the 12-string sound with surprising fidelity without needing external microphones.
Investment value at the price point
Under eight hundred dollars for a Takamine 12-string is a meaningful upgrade from the budget tier. The 2-year warranty and proven preamp system justify the cost for serious players.
Stock can be limited since Takamine 12-strings are produced in smaller quantities than their 6-string models. If you find one in stock and want a premium 12-string that will last years, this is a strong choice.
8. Guild D-2612CE Deluxe – Best Premium Acoustic-Electric 12-String
Guild D 2612CE 12 String AE Guitar Antq Brst
Solid spruce top
Striped ebony back
Fishman Sonitone
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Solid spruce top with arched striped ebony back
- Clear powerful voice with strong bass response
- Fishman Sonitone pickup system
- Mother-of-pearl rosette premium appointments
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Limited review count on this model
- Only 1 left in stock at testing
The Guild D-2612CE Deluxe is the most premium 12-string on our list. Guild has a long history of building 12-strings that defined the folk sound of the 1960s, and the D-2612CE carries that DNA forward.
The solid spruce top paired with arched striped ebony back and sides is a tonewood combination you simply do not find at this price point. Ebony produces a bright, clear, well-articulated response that pairs beautifully with the inherent complexity of a 12-string.
The Fishman Sonitone pickup with volume and tone controls is a streamlined system that delivers clear amplified sound. The onboard electronics are subtle and tasteful, keeping the guitar’s clean aesthetic intact.
The lifetime warranty advantage
Guild offers a limited lifetime warranty on the D-2612CE, which is rare in any price tier. For players who plan to keep their 12-string for decades, that warranty provides peace of mind that no other brand at this price matches.
The mother-of-pearl rosette and Guild Peak headstock logo add visual refinement. If you care about how the guitar looks as much as how it sounds, this one delivers on both fronts.
Who the Guild D-2612CE is for
This is for the serious player who has played 12-strings for years and knows exactly what they want. It is also the right 12-string for collectors who appreciate Guild’s heritage and want an heirloom-quality instrument.
Casual players or beginners would be overspending on a guitar whose features they cannot fully use. The Ibanez, Fender, or Takamine on this list serve beginners and intermediates better at lower cost.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Twelve String Guitar?
Choosing a 12-string is different from picking a 6-string because the doubled strings change almost every variable. Higher tension, wider necks, more demanding intonation, and different tonal goals all come into play.
This buying guide covers the factors that matter most when shopping for the best twelve string guitars for your specific needs.
Tonewoods and how they shape 12-string tone
Spruce tops are the most common choice for 12-strings because they handle the increased string tension better than softer woods. Spruce is stiff and lightweight, which lets the top vibrate freely even under the heavy load of twelve strings.
Mahogany back and sides warm the tone and emphasize the midrange. If you play folk, country, or Americana, mahogany-body 12-strings will feel right at home. Sapele is a close cousin of mahogany and produces similar tonal characteristics at a lower cost.
Rosewood and ebony backs add brightness, complexity, and longer sustain. Premium 12-strings often use these woods, and the difference is audible when you A/B them against spruce-and-mahogany builds.
Scale length and playability
Scale length affects both playability and tone. Shorter scales (under 25 inches) make string tension more manageable, but you lose some bass response and sustain. Longer scales (25.5 inches and above) give you fuller tone but require more finger strength.
For beginners or players with smaller hands, a 25 inch scale offers the best balance. The Fender CD-60SCE and most dreadnought 12-strings use this measurement. If you want the absolute easiest 12-string to play, look for models with shorter scales and lighter gauge strings.
Action setup and neck profile
Action (the distance between strings and fretboard) matters more on a 12-string than on any other guitar. Twelve strings under higher tension amplify any setup mistake. Budget models typically ship with action that is too high, requiring adjustment.
Neck profile determines hand comfort. C-shaped necks suit most hands, while V-shaped or thicker profiles can wear out your fretting hand during long sessions. Ibanez and Fender are known for comfortable neck profiles at accessible prices.
Electronics for acoustic-electric players
If you play live or record through an interface, the pickup system is just as important as the acoustic tone. Piezo pickups under the saddle are standard and work well for most players. Fishman preamps, especially the Classic Design and CD systems, are widely considered among the best in budget and mid-range 12-strings.
Takamine’s TP-4TD is the premium standard for acoustic-electric 12-strings. If you are buying a 12-string primarily for stage use, the preamp quality should weigh heavily in your decision.
Budget expectations and value
A good 12-string under five hundred dollars is realistic in 2026, but you will make trade-offs. Laminated tops, less premium tuners, and basic electronics are the most common compromises. Models like the Fender CD-60SCE prove that solid tops and good electronics are possible at the mid-range.
Over five hundred dollars, you enter premium territory with solid tonewoods throughout, better pickups, and refinements like bone nuts and split saddle bridges. The Takamine and Guild on this list represent that tier.
Left-handed and string gauge considerations
Left-handed 12-strings are harder to find and cost more. Most major brands do not produce 12-string SKUs in left-handed configurations. If you play left-handed, plan to special order or accept limited inventory.
String gauge affects both playability and tone. Lighter gauges (.10 or .11) are easier to play but produce less volume and bass. Heavier gauges (.12 or .13) deliver fuller tone but require more finger strength and a more robust setup.
Maintenance and string care
12-strings need more frequent string changes than 6-strings because of the doubled stress on the bridge and nut. Plan to change strings every two to three months for casual players, more often for gigging musicians.
Always replace strings in pairs to keep the tension balanced. Pulling one string off without releasing the others can cause the bridge to lift or the neck to warp over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About 12-String Guitars
What is the best 12-string guitar brand?
Martin, Taylor, Guild, and Takamine consistently rank at the top for acoustic 12-strings, while Rickenbacker and Fender lead for electric 12-strings. The right brand depends on your budget and playing style. Martin and Taylor dominate the premium acoustic tier, while Fender and Ibanez offer strong mid-range options, and brands like Vangoa and JANEROCK deliver surprising value at the entry level.
What is the easiest 12-string guitar to play?
The easiest 12-strings to play typically have shorter scale lengths (under 25.5 inches), slimmer C-shaped neck profiles, and lower action out of the box. The Fender CD-60SCE and the Vangoa 12-String both score well on playability thanks to their dreadnought body shapes and comfortable neck profiles. Lower string tension variants also help beginners build finger strength gradually without strain.
Do 12-string guitars sound better?
12-string guitars do not sound objectively better, but they produce a different and more complex tone than 6-strings. The doubled strings create natural chorus and shimmer that no amount of effects pedals on a 6-string can fully replicate. The result is a fuller, more resonant voice that especially shines in folk, rock, and jangle pop music. Whether that sound is better depends entirely on the music you want to make.
How much does a good 12-string guitar cost?
A good 12-string guitar starts at around two hundred dollars for entry-level bundles and runs up to several thousand for premium models. Most players find excellent value in the three hundred to eight hundred dollar range where you get solid wood tops, quality electronics, and reliable hardware. The Fender CD-60SCE and Takamine GD30CE-12 represent the sweet spot in 2026 for serious players who want quality without overspending.
Final Verdict on the Best Twelve String Guitars
After three months of testing 8 different models, the best twelve string guitar for most players in 2026 is the Fender CD-60SCE 12-String. It hits the sweet spot of solid wood construction, reliable Fishman electronics, and a dreadnought body that flatters folk, country, and rock styles.
If budget is your primary concern, the Vangoa 12-String Acoustic Electric Bundle delivers more value per dollar than anything else on this list, complete with accessories that would cost a hundred dollars separately. Beginners will be playing within minutes of unboxing.
For players ready to invest in a long-term 12-string, the Takamine GD30CE-12 or the Guild D-2612CE Deluxe are both worthy. The Takamine offers professional-grade electronics that gigging musicians rely on, and the Guild delivers heirloom build quality with a lifetime warranty.
Whichever model you choose, give yourself at least two weeks of daily playing before deciding if the 12-string is right for you. The chord shapes take time to adjust to, and the strings need that long to fully stabilize. Once they do, you will hear the shimmer that makes these instruments worth the extra effort.