As an intermediate guitarist, you are no longer a beginner, and you have likely mastered the basics of playing chords, strumming, and fingerpicking. You are now at a stage where you are ready to take your playing to the next level, and your guitar should match your growing skillset. Finding the right acoustic guitar can be a challenge, as the options available are vast, and it’s essential to consider factors like tone, playability, build quality, and price.
In this article, we will explore what makes the best acoustic guitar for intermediate players and recommend some of the top guitars that can help you continue to improve your playing while giving you the sound and feel you desire.
What to Look for in an Acoustic Guitar for Intermediate Players
When it comes to selecting an acoustic guitar for intermediate players, there are several key factors that you should consider. These factors include playability, tone quality, build quality, and personal preferences. Let’s take a closer look at each of these aspects:
1. Playability
Playability refers to how comfortable the guitar is to play, including the feel of the neck, the action of the strings, and the ease with which you can perform various techniques. As an intermediate player, you may already have some specific preferences in terms of neck shape, string action, and overall comfort, so it’s important to choose a guitar that matches those preferences.
Neck Profile: The neck profile plays a significant role in the comfort and ease of playing. Some players prefer a thicker neck, while others may prefer a slimmer profile. The shape of the neck also influences how easily you can move around the fretboard. Make sure to choose a neck profile that feels comfortable in your hand.
Action: The action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. If the action is too high, it can make pressing the strings difficult and cause strain on your fingers. Conversely, if the action is too low, you might experience buzzing when you play. An intermediate player typically looks for a balance in string height, making it easier to play with less effort but avoiding unwanted buzzing.
Fretboard Radius: The radius of the fretboard affects how easily you can perform bends and fingerpicking. A flatter radius (such as 16”) is ideal for players who frequently bend strings, while a more rounded radius (such as 12”) is preferred by those who play a lot of chord-based music.
2. Tone Quality
Tone quality is one of the most important aspects of an acoustic guitar. Intermediate players often have a refined ear for sound, and they want a guitar that delivers a rich, full tone. The tone is largely influenced by the type of wood used for the body, the top, and the neck of the guitar.
Tonewoods: The type of wood used in the construction of an acoustic guitar greatly influences its sound. For instance, solid spruce is often used for the top because it provides a bright and clear tone, while mahogany is often used for the back and sides because it produces a warm, full sound. Cedar, maple, and rosewood are other popular tonewoods that offer a variety of tonal characteristics.
Size and Shape of the Body: The body size and shape also affect the tone of the guitar. Larger-bodied guitars, such as dreadnoughts, produce a more robust and resonant sound with plenty of bass, while smaller-bodied guitars, like concert or parlor guitars, offer a more focused sound with better clarity in the midrange.
3. Build Quality
The build quality of a guitar is a critical factor in determining its longevity, stability, and overall sound. As an intermediate player, you will want a guitar that is durable and well-constructed, with precise attention to detail. Look for guitars with strong and consistent craftsmanship, as these will ensure that your instrument stays in tune and plays well for years to come.
Solid Wood vs. Laminated Wood: Solid wood is often preferred for acoustic guitars because it ages better and develops a more complex and richer tone over time. Laminated wood is more affordable and can still provide a good sound, but it doesn’t have the same tonal depth and resonance as solid wood. For intermediate players, a solid wood guitar is usually the better investment.
Finish: A high-quality finish not only protects the guitar but also contributes to the tone and aesthetics. A glossy finish gives the guitar a polished look, while a matte finish provides a more natural feel and appearance. Both finishes can be found in high-quality guitars, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
4. Price Range
As an intermediate player, you are likely looking for a guitar that offers great value for the price. While there are many high-end, premium guitars available, it’s essential to find a guitar that provides the right balance of quality and affordability. The price of a good intermediate guitar typically ranges between $300 and $1000, although you can find guitars in higher and lower price ranges depending on your budget.
Guitars in the mid-range price range usually offer solid wood construction, better tonal quality, and improved playability compared to entry-level models. However, you don’t need to break the bank to find a guitar that suits your needs and elevates your playing.
Top Acoustic Guitars for Intermediate Players
Now that we’ve covered what to look for in an acoustic guitar for intermediate players, let’s explore some of the top models that stand out in terms of quality, tone, and playability. These guitars are specifically designed for players who have outgrown entry-level instruments and are looking for something that offers a higher level of craftsmanship and sound.
1. Yamaha FG830
The Yamaha FG830 is a highly regarded acoustic guitar that delivers exceptional value for the price. This dreadnought-style guitar features a solid spruce top with rosewood back and sides, which gives it a bright, clear tone with a rich midrange and solid bass response. The FG830 is known for its excellent build quality, comfortable neck profile, and smooth playability, making it a fantastic choice for intermediate players.
Tonewood: Solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides
Body Style: Dreadnought
Neck Profile: Slim, comfortable neck
Price Range: $400–$500
2. Fender CD-60SCE
The Fender CD-60SCE is a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that’s perfect for intermediate players who want the flexibility of plugging in for live performances or recording. The guitar features a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a built-in Fishman pickup system for amplified sound. With its balanced tone, smooth playability, and affordability, the CD-60SCE is an excellent choice for players who need a reliable acoustic guitar for both practice and performance.
Tonewood: Solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides
Body Style: Dreadnought with cutaway
Neck Profile: Comfortable “C” shape
Price Range: $300–$400
3. Taylor 314ce
For intermediate players looking to invest in a high-quality guitar, the Taylor 314ce is a standout option. This acoustic-electric guitar features a solid spruce top with solid sapele back and sides, delivering a rich, dynamic tone with excellent clarity and balance. The 314ce also has the renowned Taylor playability, with a smooth, fast neck and low action that make it a joy to play. The built-in Expression System 2 pickup ensures that you can amplify your sound without sacrificing tone quality.
Tonewood: Solid spruce top, solid sapele back and sides
Body Style: Grand Auditorium with cutaway
Neck Profile: Slim, easy-to-play neck
Price Range: $1000–$1300
4. Martin D-15M
The Martin D-15M is a stunning all-mahogany dreadnought guitar that offers a warm, full-bodied tone with excellent projection. This guitar is built with solid mahogany for both the top and the back/sides, resulting in a smooth, mellow tone with strong midrange frequencies. The D-15M is perfect for intermediate players who prefer a rich, balanced sound with a bit of vintage character. Its traditional build quality and craftsmanship make it a durable choice for musicians who want a guitar that will last.
Tonewood: Solid mahogany top, solid mahogany back and sides
Body Style: Dreadnought
Neck Profile: Comfortable “Modified Low Oval” shape
Price Range: $1000–$1200
5. Guild D-240E
The Guild D-240E is another excellent option for intermediate players who want a high-quality dreadnought with excellent tonal clarity and projection. This guitar features a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides, delivering a balanced tone with bright treble and deep bass. The built-in Fishman pickup system allows you to plug in and perform live without worrying about losing tone quality.
Tonewood: Solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides
Body Style: Dreadnought
Neck Profile: Comfortable, smooth neck
Price Range: $500–$600
Conclusion
Choosing the best acoustic guitar for intermediate players involves considering factors like playability, tone quality, build quality, and budget. The guitars mentioned in this article are all excellent choices for intermediate players, offering the right balance of craftsmanship, tone, and comfort. Whether you prefer a dreadnought, grand auditorium, or all-mahogany design, there is a guitar on this list that can help elevate your playing to the next level.
Remember, the best guitar for you is one that feels comfortable in your hands and produces the sound you desire. Test out a few models in person, and trust your instincts when it comes to finding the perfect guitar to match your musical style and skill level.
