Best 12-String Guitars in 2026: 15 Picks Compared
The Taylor 855e is our top pick for a 12-string guitar, offering both acoustic resonance and an on-board pickup for amplified performance. We evaluated 20 12-string guitars in the catalogue, focusing on specifications like body type, solid-top construction, electronics, and included accessories. The list below covers acoustic, acoustic-electric, and electric models, with a kit for players starting from scratch and high-end options for professionals.
15 picks from 25 guitars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.
Quick list
Which one is right for you?
- For beginners: If you're just starting with a 12-string, a kit with everything included saves you from buying accessories separately. The Vangoa Solid Wood kit pairs a spruce-topped acoustic-electric with a gig bag, picks, and extra strings. See pick 11
- For acoustic purists: Acoustic-only players who want a traditional 12-string without electronics should consider the Martin HD12-28, a high-end acoustic that relies on its wood and body design for tone. See pick 8
- For electric players: Electric guitarists who want 12-string jangle can look at the Rickenbacker 360, a semi-hollow electric that's been a staple of 12-string rock for decades. See pick 9
- For gigging musicians: Acoustic-electric models with built-in pickups are essential for live sets. The Takamine GD30CE-12 provides on-board electronics for amplified performance without the need for an external microphone. See pick 3
All 15 picks in detail
1 Best overall
Taylor 855e Legacy 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
$3,499.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)
The Taylor 855e is a large-body acoustic-electric with a built-in pickup, giving you both acoustic volume and amplified control. It stands out among our picks as a premium acoustic-electric without a kit or extra accessories, making it a straightforward choice for professionals.
Pros
- Built-in pickup for live and recording
- Acoustic-electric design adds versatility
- No kit or extra accessories to sort through
Cons
- No solid-top flag in the catalogue
- Large body may not suit smaller players
Good fit if
- Players who want a premium acoustic-electric for stage and studio
- Guitarists who prefer a full-sized body without extra gear
Skip if
- Players on a strict budget
- Players who want a kit with accessories
Verdict: A top-tier acoustic-electric for players who need an on-board pickup and a refined instrument.
2 Best solid-top acoustic
The Yamaha FG820 is one of only three picks in this list with a solid top, a feature that typically improves resonance and dynamic range. It is a pure acoustic, so players looking for a traditional, unplugged 12-string experience will find few competitors.
Pros
- One of three picks with a solid top
- Traditional acoustic design with no electronics
- Known brand with a long history of acoustic guitars
Cons
- No onboard electronics
- No included accessories
Good fit if
- Acoustic purists who want a solid-top 12-string
- Players who already own an amplifier and prefer a dedicated acoustic
Skip if
- You need a pickup for live performance
- You want a kit with extra gear
Verdict: A solid-top acoustic that delivers the core 12-string sound without extra complications.
3 Best acoustic-electric for stage
Takamine GD30CE-12 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
$749.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)
The Takamine GD30CE-12 pairs an acoustic body with a built-in pickup, making it a practical choice for gigging musicians. It is a straightforward acoustic-electric without the added complexity of a kit, and it is one of several picks with on-board electronics at a mid-tier position in our selection.
Pros
- Built-in pickup for amplified performance
- Acoustic-electric design with cutaway-style convenience
- Focused, no-nonsense feature set
Cons
- No solid-top construction specified
- Not a kit, so you must source accessories separately
Good fit if
- Performers who need to plug into a PA or amp
- Players who want a simple acoustic-electric without extra add-ons
Skip if
- You prefer a pure acoustic without electronics
- You need a kit with everything included
Verdict: A reliable acoustic-electric for stage and rehearsal, chosen for its built-in pickup and straightforward specs.
4 Best acoustic-electric for versatility
Ibanez AEG5012 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
$399.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)
The Ibanez AEG5012 is an acoustic-electric with a slim, comfortable body shape that suits both fingerstyle and strumming. It lacks a solid-top designation, but its on-board electronics make it a flexible choice for players who want one guitar for different settings.
Pros
- Built-in pickup for amplified use
- Acoustic-electric design adds flexibility
- Slim body shape is comfortable for all-day playing
Cons
- No solid-top flag
- Not a kit, so you must buy a case and picks separately
Good fit if
- Players who switch between unplugged practice and amplified gigs
- Those who prefer a lower-profile body for comfort
Skip if
- You need a kit with accessories
- You want a traditional dreadnought shape
Verdict: A versatile acoustic-electric that balances playability and plugged-in convenience.
5 Best acoustic-electric for projection
Ovation Standard Balladeer 2751AX 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
$1,224.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:34 PDT - Details)
The Ovation Standard Balladeer 2751AX uses a composite roundback body, a design known for projecting sound without feedback. It is an acoustic-electric with a built-in pickup, and its unique body is a different take on the 12-string acoustic-electric formula.
Pros
- Built-in pickup for amplified performance
- Roundback body offers a distinct look and projection
- Acoustic-electric design adds stage flexibility
Cons
- Roundback body may feel unusual to guitarists used to flat-backed acoustics
- No solid-top construction specified
Good fit if
- Performers who need extra volume and feedback resistance
- Players who want a distinctive-looking instrument
Skip if
- You prefer traditional all-wood construction
- You want a kit with accessories
Verdict: A unique acoustic-electric with a roundback body that stands out on stage.
6 Best electric kit
Gretsch G5422G-12 Electromatic Double-Cut 12 String Guitar Bundle
- Strings
- 12
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
$999.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:13 PDT - Details)
The Gretsch G5422G-12 Electromatic is the only electric 12-string in our list that comes as a kit, bundling the guitar with necessary accessories. Its double-cutaway hollowbody design is a classic for rock and rockabilly, and the kit makes it easy to start playing immediately.
Pros
- Electric hollowbody design with a lively tone
- Includes a kit with extras (listed as kit)
- Double-cutaway style offers easy upper-fret access
Cons
- Not a pure acoustic, so unplugged sound is limited
- Kit contents are not itemized in the catalogue
Good fit if
- Electric players who want a ready-to-play 12-string with all the basics
- Rock and roll guitarists seeking that Gretsch twang
Skip if
- You need a traditional acoustic tone
- You prefer a solid-body electric for lower feedback
Verdict: A complete electric 12-string package with the Gretsch look and sound.
7 Best electric for retro tone
The Danelectro 59X12 is a solid-body electric with a lipstick pickup design, giving it a bright, jangly tone associated with 1960s pop and rock. It is one of the few fully electric 12-strings in our list, and its single-cutaway shape is a classic.
Pros
- Solid-body electric design for low feedback
- Iconic lipstick pickups deliver a bright, jangly sound
- Single-cutaway shape resembles vintage models
Cons
- No acoustic voice; must be played through an amplifier
- Not a kit; no accessories included
Good fit if
- Electric players who want 12-string jangle for rock or pop
- Those who value a compact, solid-body instrument
Skip if
- You need an acoustic tone
- You want a kit with a gig bag and picks
Verdict: A retro-minded electric 12-string that brings classic jangle to the amp.
8 Best premium acoustic
Martin HD12-28 12-String Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
- Strings
- 12
$3,799.99 (as of 10/26/2026 01:05 PDT - Details)
The Martin HD12-28 is a heritage model from a storied maker, featuring a rosewood back and sides and a spruce top in the classic D-28 tradition. It is a pure acoustic with no electronics, and its reputation makes it a top choice for serious players.
Pros
- Heritage Martin model with premium tonewoods
- All-acoustic design for a pure, unplugged voice
- Rosewood back and sides typically offer rich overtones
Cons
- No onboard electronics
- Not a kit; no accessories included
Good fit if
- Collectors and professionals who want a reference-grade acoustic
- Players who never need to amplify and want a heirloom instrument
Skip if
- You need a pickup for live gigs
- You are on a strict budget
Verdict: A premium acoustic 12-string that sets the benchmark for traditional tone.
9 Best electric for jangle
Rickenbacker 360 12 String Jetglo Semi Hollow Electric Guitar & Case
- Type
- Electric
- Strings
- 12
$3,099.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:53 PDT - Details)
The Rickenbacker 360 12-string is the archetypal electric 12-string, famous for its jangly, chiming sound heard on countless rock records. It is a semi-hollow electric with a built-in pickup system, and its iconic shape and tone make it a legend.
Pros
- Semi-hollow body for a bright, resonant tone
- Iconic 12-string jangle used in many classic recordings
- Includes a case for protection
Cons
- Electric only; no acoustic voice
- Premium price point
Good fit if
- Rock and pop guitarists chasing that classic 12-string chime
- Players who value a historical and collectible instrument
Skip if
- You need an acoustic tone
- You prefer a solid-body electric for low feedback
Verdict: The definitive electric 12-string for players who want the jangle that shaped rock music.
10 Best dreadnought acoustic
Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe
- Type
- Acoustic
- Strings
- 12
$3,399.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:56 PDT - Details)
The Breedlove Roots Dreadnought is the only pick with 'dreadnought' explicitly in its name, and its large body is designed for loud, booming projection. It is a pure acoustic with no electronics, making it a strong choice for players who want a traditional full-sized 12-string.
Pros
- Explicit dreadnought body for maximum volume
- All-acoustic design with no extra features
- Solid wood construction implied by the Roots series
Cons
- No onboard electronics
- No included accessories
Good fit if
- Bluegrass and folk players who need projection
- Guitarists who prefer a large, full-sized body
Skip if
- You need a pickup for amplification
- You want a compact or slim-profile instrument
Verdict: A straightforward dreadnought acoustic that excels at projecting a big 12-string sound.
11 Best kit with solid top
Vangoa 12 String Guitar Solid Wood
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
- Solid top
- Yes
$303.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:44 PDT - Details) Typical price: $319.99, 5% off
The Vangoa Solid Wood is the only kit in our list that also carries a solid-top designation, giving beginners a quality start with a spruce top and mahogany body. It includes the guitar plus accessories, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
Pros
- Kit includes guitar, gig bag, picks, and extra strings
- One of the few picks with a solid top
- Acoustic-electric design adds flexibility
Cons
- Kit contents are not itemized in the catalogue
- Budget-focused, so premium features are limited
Good fit if
- Beginners who want everything in one box
- Players who want a solid-top acoustic-electric without a high price
Skip if
- You need a high-end instrument for professional recording
- You prefer to choose your own accessories separately
Verdict: An affordable all-in-one 12-string kit with a solid top that gets you started right away.
12 Best acoustic-electric for comfort
Takamine GD-37CE PW 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
$1,075.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)
The Takamine GD-37CE PW is a jumbo-bodied acoustic-electric that offers a comfortable cutaway and built-in electronics. It is listed as a pearl white finish, but the focus is on its practical features for players who need a big sound and easy access to the upper frets.
Pros
- Built-in pickup for amplified performance
- Jumbo body provides loud, full sound
- Cutaway design allows upper-fret access
Cons
- No solid-top construction specified
- Not a kit; accessories not included
Good fit if
- Players who need a loud, projecting acoustic-electric
- Guitarists who want a cutaway for lead work
Skip if
- You prefer a smaller body for easier handling
- You want a pure acoustic with no electronics
Verdict: A jumbo acoustic-electric with a cutaway that suits both rhythm and lead playing.
13 Best semi-hollow electric
Ibanez Artcore AS7312 Semi-Hollow 12-String
- Type
- Electric
- Strings
- 12
$599.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)
The Ibanez Artcore AS7312 is a semi-hollow electric 12-string with a classic double-cutaway design. It offers a warm, resonant tone that differs from solid-body models, and it sits at a practical price point for players wanting an electric 12-string without going to the top of the range.
Pros
- Semi-hollow body for a warm, resonant tone
- Double-cutaway for easy high-fret access
- Affordable electric option compared to others in this list
Cons
- No acoustic voice; must be amplified
- Not a kit; no accessories included
Good fit if
- Electric players who want a thicker, woody tone
- Jazz and blues guitarists exploring 12-string textures
Skip if
- You need a bright, jangly sound for pop
- You prefer a solid-body for maximum feedback resistance
Verdict: A versatile semi-hollow electric 12-string that delivers vintage character at a sensible price.
14 Best thin-body acoustic-electric
The Taylor T5z-12 is a thin-body hybrid that can be played acoustically or plugged in, and its compact design makes it highly portable. It is listed as a 12-string without explicit body type, but Taylor's T5 series is known for blending acoustic and electric tones.
Pros
- Thin body for comfort and easy handling
- Hybrid design offers both acoustic and electric voices
- Built-in electronics for versatile amplified use
Cons
- No solid-top flag
- Not a kit; accessories not included
Good fit if
- Players who want a lightweight, travel-friendly 12-string
- Those who need a guitar that can switch between acoustic and electric sounds
Skip if
- You want a full-bodied dreadnought acoustic
- You prefer a traditional solid-body electric
Verdict: A compact hybrid 12-string that adapts to many playing situations.
15 Best premium acoustic-electric
Martin Grand J-16E 12-String 16 Series Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
- Solid top
- Yes
$2,599.99 (as of 10/26/2026 01:05 PDT - Details)
The Martin Grand J-16E combines a solid spruce top with a solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, and it includes on-board electronics. It is one of only two picks in our list that offers both a solid top and a pickup, making it a high-end choice for players who want the best of both worlds.
Pros
- Solid spruce top for rich resonance
- Solid East Indian rosewood back and sides
- Includes built-in electronics for amplified use
Cons
- Premium price point
- No kit; extra accessories not included
Good fit if
- Serious performers who want a high-quality acoustic-electric
- Recording artists who need a guitar that works both in the studio and on stage
Skip if
- You are on a budget
- You prefer a purely acoustic guitar without electronics
Verdict: A premium acoustic-electric with solid tonewoods and reliable on-board electronics.
Specs compared
| # | Guitar | Type | Strings | Size | Left-handed | Kit or bundle | Amp included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Taylor 855e Legacy 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | Takamine GD30CE-12 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Ibanez AEG5012 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Ovation Standard Balladeer 2751AX 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Gretsch G5422G-12 Electromatic Double-Cut 12 String Guitar Bundle | not stated | 12 | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 7 | Danelectro 59X12 12-string Electric Guitar | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | Martin HD12-28 12-String Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | Rickenbacker 360 12 String Jetglo Semi Hollow Electric Guitar & Case | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe | Acoustic | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | Vangoa 12 String Guitar Solid Wood | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 12 | Takamine GD-37CE PW 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | Ibanez Artcore AS7312 Semi-Hollow 12-String | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Taylor T5z-12 Classic 12-String | not stated | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 15 | Martin Grand J-16E 12-String 16 Series Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How we chose these
We started with 20 12-string guitars in the catalogue. After removing near-duplicate listings (same model with different finishes or accessories), we shortlisted 15 instruments that represent the range of body types, electronics, and build styles available. We compared each guitar's published specifications: solid-top construction, acoustic-electric or electric design, and whether the listing included a kit with accessories. We did not test any guitar in person; our recommendations rely on the seller's specifications and the manufacturer's published information. The prices shown on this page are live prices read from the store listing and may change at any time.
What to look for
Body types and their impact on sound
The body shape of a 12-string guitar heavily influences its volume and tone. Dreadnought bodies, like the Breedlove Roots Dreadnought, are large and project a strong bass with a boomy character, making them ideal for flatpicking and playing with others. Jumbo and grand auditorium bodies, as seen on the Takamine GD-37CE, offer rich projection and a wide frequency range. For a more balanced tone, auditorium or orchestra models tame bass and smooth highs. If you prioritize comfort, a thin-body hybrid like the Taylor T5z-12 is lighter and easier to handle. Consider how you plan to use the guitar and what kind of sound you want to emphasize when choosing a body type.
Solid top vs. laminated top
The top (soundboard) is the most important part of an acoustic guitar for tone. A solid wood top vibrates more freely and typically improves with age, offering better resonance and dynamic range. Laminated tops are more durable and cost-effective but tend to sound less vibrant. In our list, only the Yamaha FG820, the Vangoa Solid Wood, and the Martin Grand J-16E are explicitly marked as having a solid top. If you are a serious player or are looking for a long-term instrument, a solid top is a worthwhile investment. For beginners or players on a strict budget, a laminated top is acceptable, but you may outgrow it as your ear develops.
Acoustic, acoustic-electric, or electric
12-string guitars come in three main configurations. Pure acoustic models, like the Martin HD12-28, require no electronics and offer the most natural, unplugged sound. Acoustic-electric guitars, such as the Takamine GD30CE-12, include a built-in pickup and preamp, allowing you to plug into an amplifier or PA system for live performance and recording. Electric 12-strings, like the Rickenbacker 360 or the Danelectro 59X12, are designed to be played through an amplifier and produce a bright, jangly tone that is perfect for rock and pop. Consider where you will be playing: if you never play through an amp, a pure acoustic is sufficient; if you gig regularly, an acoustic-electric is more convenient; if you are a dedicated electric player, an electric 12-string is your choice.
Electronics and onboard controls
For acoustic-electric models, the quality and features of the onboard electronics matter. Basic systems offer volume and tone controls, while more advanced ones include built-in tuners and phase switches to reduce feedback. For example, Martin's Fishman systems (used in some models) provide a blend control to shape your sound. In our catalogue, the Martin Grand J-16E and the Taylor 855e are examples of guitars with built-in pickups, but we do not have detailed specifications on the exact preamp models. If you plan to perform, look for a guitar with a tuner and a phase switch to help you manage feedback. If you only need a pickup for occasional recording, a simple volume and tone control may be enough.
Kits vs. bare guitars
Some listings, like the Vangoa Solid Wood and the Gretsch G5422G-12 Electromatic, come as kits that include accessories such as a gig bag, picks, extra strings, and sometimes a strap or tuner. These are excellent for beginners who need everything to start playing right away. Kits save you the hassle of buying accessories separately and often provide good value. However, the specific contents are not always itemized, so you may not know exactly what you are getting. Bare guitars, on the other hand, require you to purchase a case, picks, and other essentials separately. If you already own accessories, a bare guitar is fine; if you are starting from scratch, a kit is a convenient way to begin.
Questions
What is the difference between a 6-string and a 12-string guitar?
A 12-string guitar has six courses of paired strings, with two strings per note. The extra strings add a chorus-like shimmer and complexity to the sound. One string in each course is tuned to the same pitch as a 6-string guitar, while the other is tuned an octave higher for the lower four courses. This doubling produces a fuller, richer tone and makes chords sound more expansive, but it also increases string tension and can make the guitar more demanding to play.
Is a 12-string guitar harder to play than a 6-string?
Yes, most players find a 12-string more challenging at first. The added strings increase neck width and string tension, so you need more finger strength for fretting and strumming. The higher tension can also make the guitar feel stiffer. However, with regular practice, many players adapt, and the unique sound is worth the effort. If you are a beginner, you might start with a 6-string and later try a 12-string once your fingers have built up strength.
How do I tune a 12-string guitar?
A 12-string guitar is tuned in courses: the fourth, fifth, and sixth courses have a pair tuned an octave apart (the lower string to the standard tuning, the upper string an octave higher). The first three courses are paired in unison. The most common tuning is standard E-A-D-G-B-E, where the lower four courses have the octave pair. Some players use lighter gauges to reduce tension, and you may need a specialty tuner that can detect octave pairs. It is important to tune carefully because the doubled strings can easily slip out of tune if not stretched properly.
Should I buy strings specifically for a 12-string guitar?
Yes, you should use a set of strings designed for a 12-string guitar. These sets include the correct wire gauges for both the plain and octave strings, and they are balanced to maintain proper tension across the neck. Using 6-string sets would result in mismatched tension and poor intonation. Many brands offer 12-string sets with either phosphor bronze or 80/20 bronze materials, so you can choose based on your preferred tone.
Can I play a 12-string guitar through an amplifier?
Yes, if the guitar is equipped with a pickup. Acoustic-electric 12-strings have a built-in pickup that can be connected to an amplifier or PA system. Electric 12-strings are designed to be played through an amplifier. Amplifying a 12-string can produce a huge, shimmering sound that is great for live performance and recording. Be mindful of feedback, especially with acoustic-electric models, and use the tone controls and possibly a feedback suppressor to manage it.
Update history
- : First published.