Best 12 String Guitars in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
The Martin Grand J-16E takes the top spot for its combination of a solid spruce top, onboard electronics, and a proven acoustic-electric platform. We compared 20 catalog listings and narrowed them to 15 distinct 12-string guitars using only stated specifications and maker-published information. No instrument was physically tested; prices shown are live and read directly from each store listing.
15 picks from 20 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 and first-time 12-string buyers: A kit with a solid spruce top and acoustic-electric pickup gets you started without separate purchases. The Vangoa solid-wood kit is a practical entry point. See pick 4
- For live performance and recording: An acoustic-electric with a solid top and reliable electronics lets you plug in directly. The Martin Grand J-16E fits this need with a Fishman-style system (per the listing). See pick 1
- For players who want a traditional jangle: Electric 12-string jangle is a distinct voice. The Rickenbacker 360 offers semi-hollow construction and a case, though the exact pickup details are not stated in the listing. See pick 14
- For acoustic purists: If you want a pure acoustic 12-string with a rosewood heritage sound, the Martin HD12-28 is a flagship choice, though the listing does not state the back and side wood. See pick 13
All 15 picks in detail
1 Best overall
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)
This Martin combines a solid spruce top with acoustic-electric electronics, making it ready for both stage and studio work. It is one of only two picks that pair a solid top with onboard electronics, and the Martin 16 Series reputation supports its placement at the top.
Pros
- Solid spruce top, which supports volume and clarity
- Acoustic-electric design for plugging in
- Cutaway body (per listing) for upper-fret access
Cons
- No stated scale length or nut width
- Satin-finished back and sides per listing, which may show fingerprints
Good fit if
- Players who need a single guitar for both acoustic practice and live sets
- Those who prefer a solid-top instrument with electronics over a pure acoustic
Skip if
- You want a traditional dreadnought shape without a cutaway
- You are on a tight budget and prefer to add your own pickup later
Verdict: The Martin Grand J-16E is the most balanced all-around 12-string here because it combines a solid top, onboard electronics, and a recognizable maker name.
2 Best jumbo acoustic-electric
Takamine GJ72CE-12BSB Gloss Brown Sunburst Jumbo 12 String Acoustic
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
Jumbo bodies offer more projection and bass, which can help a 12-string's doubled strings stay defined. This Takamine is the only jumbo-size acoustic-electric in the list, and its brown sunburst finish adds visual distinction without affecting the stated specs.
Pros
- Jumbo body size for louder, deeper tone
- Acoustic-electric for stage use
- Cutaway design (per listing) for upper-fret access
Cons
- Larger body may be less comfortable for smaller players
- No solid-top designation in the listing
Good fit if
- Players who want maximum volume and bass from a 12-string
- Acoustic performers who play in a band or unplugged jam session
Skip if
- You prefer a smaller body for fingerstyle or couch playing
- You need a solid spruce top for recording purposes
Verdict: The Takamine GJ72CE is the pick for players who want a commanding, loud acoustic-electric 12-string with a jumbo body.
3 Best traditional acoustic
This Yamaha is a pure acoustic with a solid top, a rare combination in the list. It skips electronics to save cost and complexity, making it a direct choice for players who only need an unplugged instrument.
Pros
- Solid top for better resonance and long-term tone
- No electronics to maintain or replace
- Traditional dreadnought shape per listing
Cons
- Not acoustic-electric, so no built-in pickup
- No stated nut width or saddle material
Good fit if
- Acoustic players who never plug in and want a reliable practice and performance guitar
- Buyers who want a solid-top 12-string without paying for electronics
Skip if
- You need to connect to an amplifier or PA
- You prefer a cutaway for high-fret access
Verdict: The Yamaha FG820 delivers a solid top in a straight acoustic body, making it a strong pick for unplugged traditionalists.
4 Best starter kit
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
This Vangoa comes with a kit designation and includes a solid spruce top and mahogany body per the listing name, making it the only budget-oriented pick with a solid top and a full package. The acoustic-electric pickup adds flexibility for beginners who want to experiment with amplification.
Pros
- Kit includes accessories (per listing designation)
- Solid spruce top listed in the product name
- Acoustic-electric for headphone or amp practice
Cons
- Brand is less established than Martin, Yamaha, or Takamine
- Kit contents are not itemized in the listing
Good fit if
- First-time 12-string buyers who want a low-risk, all-in-one purchase
- Players who want a solid-top guitar but need to keep the initial investment minimal
Skip if
- You are looking for a premium instrument with a recognized heritage brand
- You do not need accessories or a pickup and prefer a pure acoustic
Verdict: The Vangoa solid-wood kit is the most practical gateway into 12-string playing because it pairs a solid top with a complete package.
5 Best affordable acoustic-electric
Ibanez AEG5012 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
$399.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)
At its stated price point, this Ibanez offers an acoustic-electric design with a slim body (per the AEG series, though not fully specified). It is one of the least expensive acoustic-electric picks and comes from a major Japanese manufacturer with a long guitar history.
Pros
- Acoustic-electric with onboard controls
- Slim body per Ibanez AEG series design
- Ibanez brand with decades of manufacturing history
Cons
- No solid-top designation
- No stated pickup brand or preamp model
Good fit if
- Players on a budget who need a stage-ready acoustic-electric
- Those who prefer a lighter, smaller-bodied acoustic for comfort
Skip if
- You want a full-size dreadnought or jumbo projection
- You demand a solid top for tonal development
Verdict: The Ibanez AEG5012 covers the essentials of an acoustic-electric 12-string at a lower entry point than most rivals.
6 Best mid-range dreadnought acoustic-electric
Takamine GD30CE-12NAT Dreadnought 12-String Cutaway Acoustic-Electric
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
$749.00 (as of 10/26/2026 02:30 PDT - Details)
Takamine is known for reliable acoustic-electric systems, and this dreadnought with a cutaway is a versatile workhorse. It appears twice in the pool under different colors; we selected the natural finish for this comparison.
Pros
- Dreadnought body for strong bass and projection
- Cutaway for upper-fret access
- Acoustic-electric with Takamine electronics (per brand history)
Cons
- No solid-top confirmation in the listing
- No stated preamp model
Good fit if
- Playing in a band or open mic where the guitar needs to be heard
- Players who want a familiar dreadnought shape with a plug-in option
Skip if
- You need a solid top for studio-grade recording
- You prefer a smaller, more ergonomic body
Verdict: The Takamine GD30CE-12NAT is a dependable mid-range acoustic-electric dreadnought that balances price and features.
7 Best roundback acoustic-electric
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)
Ovation's signature roundback body is not stated in the listing's specs, but the model name includes 'Balladeer', a known roundback design. This pick stands out for players who want a distinctive, feedback-resistant body shape for live performance.
Pros
- Lyrachord roundback body design (per model name)
- Acoustic-electric for direct plug-in
- Cutaway design for upper frets
Cons
- Roundback feel may be unfamiliar to traditional acoustic players
- No solid-top confirmation in the listing
Good fit if
- Stage performers who need feedback control and a distinct look
- Players who prefer a balanced sound across acoustic-electric settings
Skip if
- You want a wood-bodied acoustic with traditional resonance
- You are looking for a solid spruce top for unplugged tone
Verdict: The Ovation Balladeer offers a unique roundback experience and reliable electronics, making it a strong choice for live acoustic-electric work.
8 Best hollowbody electric
Gretsch G5422G-12 Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Double-Cut 12-string
- Type
- Electric
- Strings
- 12
$949.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:13 PDT - Details)
This Gretsch is a double-cut hollowbody electric 12-string, a style known for rich, full electric tone. The pool contained a bundle version of the same guitar; we chose the non-bundle listing to avoid duplicate picks.
Pros
- Hollowbody construction for acoustic-like resonance
- Double-cutaway for upper-fret access
- Gretsch Electromatic series, an established electric guitar line
Cons
- No pickup or hardware details in the listing
- Hollowbody may be prone to feedback at high volume
Good fit if
- Electric players who want the chime of a 12-string without switching to acoustic
- Musicians playing genres from rockabilly to indie jangle
Skip if
- You need an acoustic or acoustic-electric 12-string
- You are looking for a solidbody for maximum sustain and feedback resistance
Verdict: The Gretsch G5422G-12 brings classic hollowbody electric character to the 12-string format, ideal for players who live in the electric world.
9 Best solidbody electric
A solidbody electric 12-string is rare, and this Danelectro is the only solidbody in the list. Its simple design and lipstick pickups (per the 59 model line) deliver a distinctive jangle that cut through a mix.
Pros
- Solidbody construction for sustain and feedback control
- Unique Danelectro aesthetic and pickup design (per model name)
- Lightweight build typical of Danelectro, though not stated
Cons
- No specific pickup model stated
- No case or gig bag included in the listing
Good fit if
- Electric guitarists who want a 12-string for recording and stage
- Players who prefer the look and feel of a solidbody over a hollowbody or acoustic
Skip if
- You want an acoustic or semi-hollow tone
- You need a versatile acoustic-electric for unplugged practice
Verdict: The Danelectro 59X12 is a straightforward solidbody electric 12-string, offering a distinct look and keep-it-simple feature set.
10 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 provides a semi-hollow body that bridges the gap between hollowbody and solidbody options. It is one of two semi-hollow electrics in the list, and its double-cutaway design makes upper-fret access easier than a full hollowbody.
Pros
- Semi-hollow construction for a balanced, warm electric tone
- Double-cutaway for playing above the 12th fret
- Ibanez Artcore series known for affordability and build quality
Cons
- No pickup details in the listing
- No case or accessories included
Good fit if
- Jazz, blues, and rock players who want a versatile electric 12-string
- Guitarists who want feedback resistance without sacrificing acoustic-like depth
Skip if
- You want the pure jangle of a Danelectro solidbody
- You prefer a full hollowbody's natural resonance
Verdict: The Ibanez Artcore AS7312 is a solid semi-hollow choice for electric players who need a comfortable, flexible 12-string.
11 Best acoustic-electric with cutaway
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)
This Takamine pairs a pearl white finish with a cutaway acoustic-electric design, a combination not found elsewhere in the list. It offers a distinct visual identity while retaining Takamine's reputation for reliable onboard electronics.
Pros
- Pearl white finish for a unique stage look
- Cutaway for access to higher frets
- Acoustic-electric with Takamine electronics (per brand history)
Cons
- No solid-top confirmation
- White finish may show wear more easily than natural wood
Good fit if
- Performers who want a visually striking guitar that also plugs in
- Players who frequently play lead lines above the 12th fret
Skip if
- You prefer a natural wood finish and traditional acoustic look
- You are looking for a jumbo or dreadnought body for maximum volume
Verdict: The Takamine GD-37CE PW stands out with its white finish and cutaway, offering a stylish yet practical acoustic-electric package.
12 Best premium acoustic-electric
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)
Taylor is a dominant name in premium acoustics, and the 855e Legacy model is positioned at the top of this list's pricing range. Its acoustic-electric design and Taylor's respected bracing and neck design make it a high-end choice for serious players.
Pros
- Taylor Legacy series with premium appointments
- Acoustic-electric for studio and live work
- Cutaway design per model name
Cons
- No solid-top or wood details in the listing
- Premium pricing places it beyond most budgets
Good fit if
- Professional performers and recording artists who need a top-tier instrument
- Collectors who value Taylor's brand and Legacy series heritage
Skip if
- You are a beginner or intermediate player on a modest budget
- You want a pure acoustic without electronics to keep weight down
Verdict: The Taylor 855e Legacy is the flagship acoustic-electric 12-string in this list, built for players who want the best from a major maker.
13 Best traditional 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 classic dreadnought-style acoustic, and while the listing does not specify the back and sides, the model number suggests the heritage D-28 rosewood construction that Martin is known for. It is a pure acoustic with no electronics, which appeals to purists.
Pros
- Martin D-28 heritage design (per model name)
- Pure acoustic for unplugged playing
- Dreadnought body for projection and bass
Cons
- No onboard electronics
- No wood specifics in the listing
Good fit if
- Players who prioritize unplugged acoustic sound and are willing to invest
- Fingerpickers and strummers who want a legendary dreadnought feel
Skip if
- You need a pickup for stage or recording
- You prefer a cutaway or a smaller body for comfort
Verdict: The Martin HD12-28 is an heirloom-quality acoustic 12-string that stays true to traditional construction, minus any modern electronics.
14 Best vintage-style electric
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 is the most iconic electric 12-string, famous for its jangly sound in pop and rock. The listing includes a hard case, a practical addition for protecting a premium instrument.
Pros
- Semi-hollow body with Rickenbacker's distinctive look
- Includes a case per the listing
- A historically significant electric 12-string design
Cons
- Premium pricing
- No pickup specifications or hardware details in the listing
Good fit if
- Collectors and players who want the signature electric 12-string sound
- Musicians who gig and need a protective case included
Skip if
- You want a budget electric 12-string
- You prefer a modern, lighter-weight guitar with more pickup variety
Verdict: The Rickenbacker 360 is the definitive electric 12-string, pairing a legendary sound with a case-ready package.
15 Best modern dreadnought acoustic
Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe
- Type
- Acoustic
- Strings
- 12
$3,399.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:56 PDT - Details)
Breedlove's Roots series uses sustainable tonewoods and a modern approach to acoustic construction. This dreadnought 12-string is labeled as a Roots model, which implies an all-solid or solid-top build (though the listing does not confirm it). It offers a contemporary alternative to Martin's traditional dreadnought.
Pros
- Breedlove Roots series with sustainable wood sourcing
- Dreadnought body for volume and bass
- Acoustic-only design keeps the instrument simple
Cons
- No solid-top confirmation in the listing
- No electronics for stage use
Good fit if
- Environmentally conscious players who want a new, modern acoustic
- Acoustic players who appreciate Breedlove's innovative bracing
Skip if
- You need an acoustic-electric or cutaway
- You want a traditional rosewood dreadnought with a long heritage
Verdict: The Breedlove Roots Dreadnought brings a modern, eco-conscious take on the 12-string acoustic, without electronics or excess.
Specs compared
| # | Guitar | Type | Strings | Size | Left-handed | Kit or bundle | Amp included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Martin Grand J-16E 12-String 16 Series Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Takamine GJ72CE-12BSB Gloss Brown Sunburst Jumbo 12 String Acoustic | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Vangoa 12 String Guitar Solid Wood | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 5 | Ibanez AEG5012 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Takamine GD30CE-12NAT Dreadnought 12-String Cutaway Acoustic-Electric | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | Ovation Standard Balladeer 2751AX 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | Gretsch G5422G-12 Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Double-Cut 12-string | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | Danelectro 59X12 12-string Electric Guitar | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Ibanez Artcore AS7312 Semi-Hollow 12-String | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | Takamine GD-37CE PW 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | Taylor 855e Legacy 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | Martin HD12-28 12-String Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Rickenbacker 360 12 String Jetglo Semi Hollow Electric Guitar & Case | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 15 | Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe | Acoustic | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How we chose these
The pool contained 20 12-string guitars, which were reduced to 15 after removing near-duplicate listings. The selection includes acoustic, acoustic-electric, and electric designs, balancing body shapes, electronics, and solid-top options. Listings with duplicate models were excluded, and preference was given to instruments from long-standing manufacturers. Prices and availability are pulled live from the store listing at the time of reading and may change. No guitar was tested or handled, and all specifications are drawn from the listings and cited maker sources.
What to look for
Acoustic, electric, or acoustic-electric: pick your primary use
12-string guitars come in three main families. Acoustic models are the most traditional, producing sound solely from the body's resonance and requiring a microphone or a separate pickup for amplification. Acoustic-electric models add a built-in pickup and preamp, making them convenient for stage and studio work; these are the most common in this list. Electric 12-strings are used mainly in rock, pop, and indie music, where the jangly doubled strings cut through with a distinctive chime. Decide where you will play most often: an electric or acoustic-electric will save you setup hassles, while a pure acoustic keeps the instrument simpler and lighter.
Body shape and size: dreadnought, jumbo, and beyond
The body shape affects volume, tone, and comfort. Dreadnought guitars are the most common, with a large body that produces strong bass and projection, suitable for strumming and playing with others. Jumbo guitars take that even further, adding more low-end and volume at the cost of a larger, more physically imposing body, as Martin's guide to acoustic guitar types explains. Smaller shapes like concert or auditorium are rare in the 12-string world but can be more comfortable for fingerstyle players. In this list, the Takamine GJ72CE is the only jumbo, while most others are dreadnoughts. If you play while seated for long periods, try to compare the body depth and waist width, though these specs are not always listed.
Solid top vs. laminated top: what the wood means
The top (or soundboard) is the single most important component for an acoustic guitar's tone, according to Martin's wood guide. A solid wood top responds to string vibration with more nuance and improves with age, while a laminated top is more resistant to humidity changes and is cheaper to produce. In this list, only the Martin Grand J-16E, the Yamaha FG820, and the Vangoa solid-wood kit explicitly state a solid top. If you plan to record or perform frequently, a solid top is often worth the higher cost. Rosewood, mahogany, and maple back and sides affect warmth and projection, but these details are not listed for every model, so you may need to check the maker's specifications.
Electronics: preamps, tuners, and feedback
For acoustic-electric models, the quality and features of the onboard preamp matter as much as the pickup itself. Common controls include volume, tone, and a phase switch to reduce feedback, as described in Martin's electronics guide. Some preamps include a built-in chromatic tuner, which is especially useful on a 12-string because tuning the doubled strings can be tedious. Higher-end systems like LR Baggs Anthem or Fishman Aura VT offer blend controls to shape the sound between pickup and microphone emulation. However, the exact electronics are not fully specified in the listings for most picks here, so check the manufacturer's documentation before buying if you need a specific feature like a tuner or phase switch.
12-string tuning and string tension
A 12-string guitar uses six pairs of strings: the lowest four pairs are an octave apart, and the highest two pairs are tuned in unison. This creates the characteristic shimmering sound but also increases string tension and the force on the neck. Many players tune down a half step or whole step to reduce tension and make chording easier. String gauges and materials affect feel and tone: phosphor bronze strings give a warm, balanced voice, while 80/20 bronze are brighter, as Martin's string guide explains. If you are new to 12-string, lighter gauges and silk-and-steel strings can be more comfortable. The listings here do not specify the factory string gauge, so plan to change strings based on your preference.
Questions
Is a 12-string guitar harder to play than a 6-string?
Yes, primarily because of the increased string tension. The neck must support 12 strings, and the extra tension makes fretting and bending more physically demanding. Many players tune down a half step to ease the tension. Finger strength develops over time, so a lighter string gauge or a shorter scale length can help beginners. The Vangoa starter kit is one option, but you should also consider adjusting the truss rod or having a professional setup done.
Can you play a 12-string guitar through an amplifier?
That depends on the guitar's design. An acoustic-electric or electric 12-string has a built-in pickup and can be amplified directly. A purely acoustic 12-string requires an external microphone or a soundhole pickup. In this list, the Martin Grand J-16E, Takamine, Ibanez, Ovation, and Gretsch models are acoustic-electric or electric and can be plugged in. Electric models like the Rickenbacker and Danelectro also require an amplifier to be heard at typical performance volumes.
How do you tune a 12-string guitar?
The standard tuning is E-A-D-G-B-E, with the lowest four strings doubled an octave higher and the highest two doubled in unison. You tune each pair to match. Because of the doubled strings, tuning can double the time it takes, and a chromatic tuner is strongly recommended. Tuners with a clip-on microphone or a built-in preamp tuner, like those on some acoustic-electric models, simplify the process. Consider tuning down a half step (E-flat) to reduce string tension and make tuning easier.
Do I need a special case for a 12-string guitar?
A 12-string guitar has a wider neck and often a deeper body, so it may not fit in a standard 6-string hard case. Most acoustic-electric and electric models come with a generic gig bag, but hard cases are often sold separately. The Rickenbacker 360 in this list includes a case, while other picks do not state one. Always check the dimensions of the guitar against a case's interior measurements before buying. A humidified case is especially important for solid-top guitars in dry climates.
Are 12-string guitars good for beginners?
They can be, but beginners should expect a steeper learning curve due to tension and the need to press two strings at once. A 12-string is excellent for developing finger strength and producing a full sound from simple chords. If you are a first-time player, consider starting with a 6-string for one or two years, then moving to 12 strings. If you choose to start directly, a lighter string gauge, a lower tuning, and a comfortable body shape are important. The Vangoa starter kit is designed for beginners, though it still requires patience.
What is the difference between a 12-string acoustic and a 12-string electric?
An acoustic 12-string produces sound entirely through the body's vibration, giving a natural, resonant tone that is well suited for folk, rock, and solo playing. An electric 12-string uses magnetic pickups to convert string vibrations into an electrical signal, which is then amplified through a guitar amp. Electric models have a brighter, more cutting tone with less acoustic sustain, and are popular in pop and indie rock. Acoustic-electric models combine a microphone or pickup in an acoustic body, allowing you to use them both unplugged and through a PA or amplifier.
Update history
- : First published.