Best Breedlove Guitars in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Updated on Oct 26, 2026

For this guide, we ranked the Breedlove catalog by published specifications: body style, listed tonewoods, string count, and whether electronics are included. Our top pick, the Collector Concert ERe, stands out for its premium construction and versatile concert size, which suits both fingerstyle and flatpicking. We selected 15 models from the brand's current lineup, comparing each against the others on objective criteria only.

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 fingerstyle players: A concert-size body with balanced treble and bass suits intricate picking patterns. The Artisan Concert ARe is a strong match. See pick 4
• For live performers: If you plug in regularly, an acoustic-electric with a cutaway and onboard controls simplifies stage work. Check the Premier Concert Thinline CE. See pick 8
• For 12-string enthusiasts: The Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe is the only 12-string in this lineup, giving you that jangly, chorus-like texture with a full dreadnought voice. See pick 12
• For collectors: The Collector series represents the top of Breedlove's range, with exotic tonewoods and meticulous build details. The Collector Concert ERe is a standout. See pick 1

All 15 picks in detail

1 Best overall

Collector Concert ERe

$6,499.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:21 PDT - Details)

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The Collector series is Breedlove's flagship line, and the Concert ERe offers a balanced concert body with premium tonewoods, as named in the listing. It occupies the top of the range and pairs well with both fingerstyle and flatpicking, making it the most versatile high-end choice here.

Pros

• Collector series is the brand's top-tier line
• Concert body shape balances treble and bass response
• Vintage Toner finish adds a classic aesthetic
• Higher-end materials typically used in this series

Cons

• Body type not stated by the seller beyond the model name
• No onboard electronics listed
• Premium positioning may exceed casual players' needs

Good fit if

• Serious players who want a flagship acoustic
• Fingerstyle and flatpicking performers seeking a nuanced voice

Skip if

• You need an acoustic-electric for stage use
• Your budget favors a more affordable workhorse

Verdict: The Collector Concert ERe delivers the brand's most refined package for players who want a concert-bodied flagship.

2 Best parlor

Collector Parlor CBRe

Type

Acoustic

$10,999.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:21 PDT - Details)

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This Collector parlor combines a compact body with the highest series pedigree. Parlor guitars are valued for their intimate, articulate tone and comfortable lap play, and the Collector designation suggests premium wood choices.

Pros

• Parlor body is easier to hold and travel with
• Collector series indicates top build quality
• Edgeburst finish adds visual depth
• Typically lower string tension suits fingerstyle

Cons

• No electronics listed
• Smaller body produces less volume than dreadnoughts
• High-end price tier may not suit beginners

Good fit if

• Fingerpickers who prefer a compact, responsive instrument
• Players who want a high-end parlor for intimate settings

Skip if

• You need a powerful, projecting dreadnought
• You plan to amplify regularly without external pickup

Verdict: The Collector Parlor CBRe is a top-tier choice for players who love the parlor format.

3 Best dreadnought

Collector Dreadnought AOe

Type

Acoustic

$5,999.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:21 PDT - Details)

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Dreadnoughts deliver strong projection and bass, and this Collector model adds a cinnamon burst finish and the series' premium materials. It stands out among the dreadnoughts in this list for its collector-grade positioning.

Pros

• Dreadnought body gives loud, boomy tone (general knowledge)
• Collector series premium build
• Distinctive Cinnamon Burst finish
• Good for flatpicking and strumming

Cons

• No onboard electronics
• Large body can be less comfortable for smaller players
• Collector pricing is substantial

Good fit if

• Flatpickers and bluegrass players
• Players who want a flagship dreadnought for acoustic jams

Skip if

• You prefer a smaller, easier-to-handle body
• You need a pickup for live shows

Verdict: The Collector Dreadnought AOe is the top acoustic dreadnought in this selection.

4 Best for fingerpicking

Artisan Concert ARe

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The Artisan series sits below Collector but above Roots, and the Concert ARe combines a balanced concert body with an Espresso Burst finish. Its medium-tier construction and concert shape make it a natural fit for fingerstyle techniques.

Pros

• Concert body shape balances bass and treble
• Artisan series offers mid-range quality
• Espresso Burst looks refined
• No cutaway keeps the top intact (if applicable)

Cons

• Body type not stated by the seller, only in name
• No electronics listed
• May lack the projection of larger body styles

Good fit if

• Fingerpickers who want a balanced, responsive instrument
• Players upgrading from an entry-level concert guitar

Skip if

• You need a dreadnought for volume
• You want a built-in pickup

Verdict: The Artisan Concert ARe is a reliable choice for fingerstyle players seeking a mid-range concert guitar.

5 Best for flatpicking

Artisan Concert RRe

$4,499.00 (as of 10/25/2026 22:47 PDT - Details)

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Like its sibling ARe, this Artisan Concert features a balanced body, but the model code RRe suggests a different tonewood combination. Flatpickers often favor articulate trebles, and a concert body with the right woods can offer that clarity.

Pros

• Concert body shape is versatile for flatpicking
• Artisan series build quality
• Edgeburst finish adds a classic look
• Likely all-solid wood at this tier

Cons

• Tonewoods not specified in the listing
• No electronics
• No cutaway for upper-fret access

Good fit if

• Flatpicking players who want a balanced acoustic
• Those who prefer a mid-price point in the Artisan line

Skip if

• You need a pickup
• You want a dreadnought's stronger bass

Verdict: The Artisan Concert RRe is a solid flatpicking companion with a concert voice.

6 Best for strumming

Artisan Dreadnought ARe

Type

Acoustic

$4,499.00 (as of 10/25/2026 22:47 PDT - Details)

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This Artisan dreadnought provides the loud, bass-heavy voice that handles aggressive strumming well. As an Artisan series model, it offers a step up from entry-level Roots guitars without the Collector premium.

Pros

• Dreadnought body produces strong bass and volume
• Artisan series gives a quality step up
• Edgeburst finish looks bold
• Good for accompaniment and singalongs

Cons

• No electronics listed
• Large body can be cumbersome
• Not the most nuanced tone for intricate picking

Good fit if

• Strummers who need projection for jams
• Songwriters accompanying vocals

Skip if

• You play mostly fingerstyle
• You prefer a smaller body

Verdict: The Artisan Dreadnought ARe is a capable strummer's tool at a mid-level price.

7 Best for travel

Artisan Parlor ARe

Type

Acoustic

$4,499.00 (as of 10/25/2026 22:47 PDT - Details)

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Parlor guitars are the most compact body style, making them ideal for travel and couch practice. This Artisan parlor adds a premium finish and the brand's mid-tier craftsmanship, offering portability without sacrificing build quality.

Pros

• Compact parlor body is easy to handle
• Artisan series construction
• Tea Burst finish is visually distinctive
• Quieter volume suits home practice

Cons

• Small body means less volume and bass
• No cutaway
• No electronics

Good fit if

• Travelers who need a small guitar
• Players who enjoy the parlor's intimate tone

Skip if

• You need a loud stage guitar
• You prefer the full voice of a dreadnought

Verdict: The Artisan Parlor ARe is a great travel companion with artisan-level details.

8 Best thinline acoustic-electric

Breedlove Premier Concert Thinline CE Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$2,399.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:06 PDT - Details)

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Thinline acoustics are thinner than standard models, reducing feedback when amplified. This Premier model includes electronics and a cutaway, making it a practical stage guitar that still retains a concert-style balance.

Pros

• Thinline body reduces feedback on stage
• Built-in electronics allow direct plug-in
• Cutaway gives upper-fret access
• Premier series offers quality construction

Cons

• Thinner body may produce less acoustic volume
• Electronics add complexity
• Concert size may not suit everyone

Good fit if

• Live performers who need a feedback-resistant acoustic-electric
• Players who want a cutaway for soloing

Skip if

• You want a pure acoustic tone without electronics
• You prefer a full-depth dreadnought

Verdict: The Premier Concert Thinline CE is a practical stage-ready acoustic-electric in a concert format.

9 Best for projection

Breedlove Premier Concert CE Adirondack/East Indian Rosewood

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Adirondack spruce is known for its strong projection and dynamic response (per Martin's wood guide). This Premier Concert pairs Adirondack with East Indian rosewood, a combination often associated with articulate, powerful sound.

Pros

• Named Adirondack top, famed for projection
• East Indian rosewood back and sides add warmth
• Premier series quality
• Concert body balances brightness and bass

Cons

• No electronics listed
• Body type not stated beyond model name
• Adirondack tops can be stiffer and take time to open up

Good fit if

• Players who need a projecting acoustic for ensembles
• Fingerpickers who want a headroom-rich instrument

Skip if

• You want a plug-and-play electric model
• You prefer a punchy dreadnought

Verdict: With Adirondack and rosewood, this Premier Concert offers excellent projection for a concert-size guitar.

10 Best for vintage tone

Breedlove Premier Companion E LTD Red Cedar/Brazilian Rosewood

$4,999.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:06 PDT - Details)

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This Premier Companion E LTD lists Brazilian rosewood in its name, a tonewood prized for complex overtones and long sustain. The 'LTD' suggests a limited edition, adding collectibility, and the electronics make it gig-ready.

Pros

• Brazilian rosewood listed, known for rich tone
• Includes electronics
• Limited edition suggests exclusivity
• Premier series quality

Cons

• Body type not specified in specs
• Brazilian rosewood may be subject to CITES restrictions
• Limited availability may make it hard to find

Good fit if

• Collectors seeking a rare tonewood model
• Players who want a warm, complex acoustic-electric

Skip if

• You avoid exotic woods due to sustainability concerns
• You need a standard concert or dreadnought shape

Verdict: This Premier Companion E LTD stands out for its Brazilian rosewood character and stage-ready electronics.

11 Best stage-ready acoustic-electric

Breedlove Legacy Concertina E Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

$3,299.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:06 PDT - Details)

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The Legacy Concertina E is explicitly labeled acoustic-electric, and the 'Concertina' body is a smaller concert variant that's comfortable on stage. With a cutaway and electronics, it's built for live performance without losing acoustic character.

Pros

• Acoustic-electric with onboard preamp (implied)
• Concertina body offers a balanced, mid-size voice
• Cutaway for easy upper-fret access
• Legacy series quality

Cons

• Body type not formally specified
• Smaller body may lack deep bass
• Electronics require battery

Good fit if

• Performing singer-songwriters
• Players who want a comfortable, amplified acoustic

Skip if

• You prefer a pure acoustic tone
• You need a full-size dreadnought sound

Verdict: The Legacy Concertina E is a smart pick for acoustic players who frequently gig.

12 Best 12-string

Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe

Type

Acoustic

Strings

12

$3,399.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:56 PDT - Details)

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This is the only 12-string in our lineup, and the roots-dreadnought body gives it the volume and bass to support a dozen strings. The SR code likely indicates a specific wood combo, but the key spec is the 12-string configuration.

Pros

• 12-string configuration adds shimmer and fullness
• Dreadnought body projects well
• Roots series offers a more approachable price
• Unique in this list

Cons

• 12-string tuning is more demanding on fingers
• No electronics listed
• String tension is high on a dreadnought

Good fit if

• Players who want that jangly 12-string sound
• Folk and rock guitarists who play in open tunings

Skip if

• You have hand or finger fatigue concerns
• You need a 6-string for standard play

Verdict: The Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe is the only 12-string here, and it uses a full-bodied dreadnought format for maximum resonance.

13 Best for singer-songwriter

Roots Concert MYMYce

$3,699.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:56 PDT - Details)

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The concert body is a balanced, versatile shape that suits lyrics-centric playing, and the Roots series provides a value-oriented foundation. The name 'MYMYce' may reference myrtlewood, a tonewood noted for its warm, balanced voice.

Pros

• Concert body is comfortable during long writing sessions
• Myrtlewood (if implied) offers warm tone
• Roots series is an accessible entry into Breedlove
• Tumalo Honey Burst is a distinctive finish

Cons

• Tonewoods not explicitly listed
• No electronics included
• Concert body won't overpower a loud band

Good fit if

• Songwriters who play for their own voice
• Players new to Breedlove who want a balanced acoustic

Skip if

• You need a pickup
• You require a big stage presence

Verdict: The Roots Concert MYMYce is a friendly, balanced acoustic for songwriting and home playing.

14 Best for ensemble playing

Roots Dreadnought SRce

Type

Acoustic

$3,199.00 (as of 10/26/2026 01:56 PDT - Details)

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The dreadnought body is the classic choice for cutting through a mix, and the Roots series keeps the price accessible. The 'SRce' designation may indicate a cutaway, which helps when playing lead lines.

Pros

• Dreadnought body produces strong projection
• Cutaway (likely) allows higher fret access
• Roots series offers solid value
• Good for strumming along with others

Cons

• Specs only state Acoustic, no electronics
• Cutaway not confirmed
• May lack the tonal complexity of higher series

Good fit if

• Players who jam with other musicians
• Those who want a dependable dreadnought at a reasonable price

Skip if

• You want a more refined instrument for recording
• You need built-in electronics

Verdict: The Roots Dreadnought SRce is a practical ensemble guitar with the classic dreadnought voice.

15 Best for warm tone

BREEDLOVE Oregon Concert CE MYRTLEWOOD LTD Acoustic-Guitar

Type

Acoustic

$2,599.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:06 PDT - Details)

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Myrtlewood is a tonewood native to the Pacific Northwest, known for a warm, balanced sound with clear mids. This Oregon model combines it with a concert body and electronics, giving you an amplified warm voice.

Pros

• Myrtlewood listed, renowned for warm tone
• Acoustic-electric adds versatility
• Oregon series ties to Breedlove's heritage
• Concert body is comfortable

Cons

• Body type not formally stated in specs
• Myrtlewood may be less common, so replacement parts could be harder
• No cutaway listed

Good fit if

• Players who value a unique, warm acoustic voice
• Those who want an amplified guitar with natural character

Skip if

• You prefer a brighter, more cutting tone
• You need a cutaway for soloing

Verdict: The Oregon Concert CE Myrtlewood LTD offers a warm, distinctive tone with a built-in pickup.

Specs compared

How we chose these

We started with a pool of 25 Breedlove guitars currently listed on the retailer, after folding near-duplicate color variations. We shortlisted 15 that span the brand's main series (Collector, Artisan, Premier, Roots, Oregon, Legacy) and body shapes (Concert, Dreadnought, Parlor, Concertina), including one 12-string and several acoustic-electric models. We did not test any instrument; every claim is drawn from the product listing (name, stated specs) or from general knowledge supported by linked sources. Prices shown on the page are live and read from the store listing at the time of writing.

What to look for

Body shape: match the guitar to your playing

Breedlove builds several body shapes, and each alters volume and tonal balance. Dreadnoughts (like the Collector Dreadnought AOe) offer strong bass and projection, ideal for strumming and playing in groups. Concert bodies (such as the Artisan Concert ARe) provide an even balance across the strings, which many fingerstylists prefer. Parlor guitars are the smallest, with a delicate voice and reduced bass, good for intimate settings and travel. Concertina, as in the Legacy model, is a slightly smaller variant of a concert body. Choose a shape that fits your playing style and physical comfort.

Tonewoods: what the listing names tell you

The product name often includes the top and back/side woods, which strongly influence tone. Adirondack spruce is known for projecting power and headroom (as described in Martin's wood guide). East Indian rosewood adds deep bass and overtones, while Brazilian rosewood is even more coveted for its complex resonance but is regulated under CITES. Myrtlewood offers a warm, balanced voice. If the listing doesn't name the woods, it's best to treat those details as unspecified. The wood combination is a major factor in the acoustic character, so it's worth decoding the model codes when you can.

Electronics: acoustic-electric vs. pure acoustic

Many Breedlove models carry a 'CE' or 'E' suffix, meaning they have a built-in pickup and preamp. This is essential if you plan to plug into an amp or PA. The Premier Concert Thinline CE and Legacy Concertina E are clearly acoustic-electric. Some models may have a Fishman or other pickup, but the listing only confirms the feature indirectly. If you don't need amplification, a pure acoustic model saves weight and complexity. Remember that acoustic-electric guitars use a battery, so you'll need to manage that.

Strings: 6-string vs. 12-string

Most Breedlove guitars are 6-string, but the Roots Dreadnought 12 String SRe offers a 12-string configuration. Twelve-string guitars have doubled courses of strings, producing a rich, shimmering chorus effect. They require more finger strength and have higher string tension. They also take longer to tune and often need a sturdier neck. If you're a beginner or have hand fatigue, a 6-string is more practical.

Series hierarchy: from Roots to Collector

Breedlove's series generally indicate ascending quality and price: Roots, Artisan, Premier, and Collector (the Oregon and Legacy models sit in between or outside this ladder). Roots guitars are solid choices for entry-level and mid-level players, often with solid tops and laminate back/sides. Artisan adds more solid wood and finer details. Premier and Collector use higher-grade tonewoods and craftsmanship. In this list, the Collector series represents the top tier, while Roots offers the most accessible options. Your choice should align with how serious you are about the instrument and what you're willing to invest.

Cutaways: do you need upper-fret access?

A cutaway is a notch in the upper bout that lets you reach the highest frets more easily. Models with a 'CE' or a name containing cutaway (like the Premier Concert Thinline CE) include one. If you play lead or solo frequently, a cutaway is useful. If you mostly strum chords and stay in the lower register, a non-cutaway may be fine. Cutaways can slightly reduce the internal air volume, which may subtly affect tone, though many players don't notice.

Questions

What is the best Breedlove guitar for a beginner?

For beginners, a Roots series model such as the Roots Concert MMe or Roots Parlor SMe (both pay homage to the series) offers solid construction at a more approachable price. A concert or parlor body is easier to handle than a dreadnought, and you can skip electronics until you feel ready to amplify. Focus on body comfort and a guitar that stays in tune.

Are Breedlove guitars made in the USA?

Breedlove produces some guitars in Bend, Oregon, and others overseas. The Collector and Artisan series are often made in the USA, while Roots and some Premier models may be made in Asia. The product listings in our pool do not specify the country of origin. If that matters to you, check the product details or contact the maker directly.

Does a cutaway affect acoustic tone?

A cutaway removes some of the upper bout, which reduces the internal air volume slightly. This can have a small influence on bass response and volume, but the effect is usually subtle. Many players won't notice a difference unless they compare two otherwise identical guitars side by side. If you need upper-fret access, a cutaway is a good trade-off.

What does 'CE' mean in Breedlove model names?

In Breedlove's naming, 'CE' typically stands for 'Cutaway Electric', meaning the guitar has both a cutaway and a built-in pickup or preamp. For example, the Premier Concert Thinline CE and the Oregon Concert CE have these features. However, the exact meaning can vary slightly by model, so it's best to check the product listing for details.

Update history

• 2026-10-07: First published.

Sources

• Martin Guitars - Acoustic Guitar Types
• Martin Guitars - Acoustic Guitars Wood Guide
• Martin Guitars - Acoustic Guitar Electronics Guide
• Martin Guitars - Types of Acoustic Guitar Strings
• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - CITES