If you’re looking to expand your musical horizons in 2025, a 12-string acoustic electric guitar might be just what you need. These instruments offer a rich, resonant sound that’s perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking. In this guide, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 models that cater to various skill levels and budgets. Each guitar promises unique features and exceptional quality. But which one will truly enhance your playing experience? Let’s explore the options.
Fesley 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Bundle
If you’re a beginner or an adult looking to plunge into the world of music, the Fesley 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Bundle is an excellent choice for you. This full-size guitar features a solid AAA spruce top and mahogany back and sides, providing a rich, balanced sound. Weighing just 5.1 pounds, it’s comfortable to handle, thanks to its C-shaped neck and smooth fret ends. The bundle includes essential accessories like a gig bag, capo, and picks, ensuring you’re ready to play right away. With a 1-year warranty and positive user feedback, it’s a fantastic option for any aspiring musician.
Best For: Beginners and adults looking for a versatile and affordable acoustic electric guitar to start their musical journey.
Pros:
- High-quality solid AAA spruce top for rich and balanced sound.
- Comprehensive bundle includes essential accessories for immediate playability.
- Positive user reviews highlight good construction and overall value.
Cons:
- Some users reported issues with string quality and tuners requiring adjustment.
- Lack of bass noted by a few users, potentially improved with different strings.
- May not be suitable for advanced players seeking professional-grade features.
Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Bundle
The Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Bundle stands out as an exceptional choice for beginners and intermediate players seeking an affordable yet high-quality instrument. With its AAA spruce top and sapele back, you’ll enjoy a loud, full sound enhanced by the dreadnought body design. The slim C-shaped neck guarantees comfortable playability, while the low action setup makes it easy for you to play. Included accessories like a tuner and padded bag add great value. Plus, with a customer rating of 4.4 stars, many users rave about its sound quality, making it a fantastic option for your musical journey.
Best For: The Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Bundle is best for beginners and intermediate players looking for a high-quality and affordable instrument.
Pros:
- Excellent sound quality with a loud, full tone due to its dreadnought design and 12-string setup.
- Comfortable playability with a slender C-shaped neck and low action setup, ideal for new players.
- Comes with valuable accessories including a tuner, padded bag, and backup strings, enhancing overall value.
Cons:
- Packaging may be inadequate, leading to potential shipping damage.
- Some users report needing minor setup adjustments upon arrival.
- Matte finish can show scratches and smudges easily, affecting aesthetics.
12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar with Built-In EQ
For musicians seeking versatility and rich sound, a 12-string acoustic electric guitar with a built-in EQ is an excellent choice. This dreadnought model features a spruce top and mahogany back, delivering a bold tone and powerful projection. The built-in 4-band EQ lets you fine-tune your sound easily. With an ergonomic C-shaped neck and smooth fingerboard, you’ll enjoy comfortable playability, whether you’re tackling complex chords or performing long sets. Plus, it comes as a complete beginner kit, making it perfect for newcomers. With reliable craftsmanship and 24/7 customer support, you’ll be well-equipped for your musical journey.
Best For: This 12-string acoustic electric guitar is best for beginners, hobbyists, and traveling musicians seeking versatility and rich sound.
Pros:
- Built-in 4-band EQ for customizable tone adjustments.
- Comfortable playability with an ergonomic C-shaped neck and smooth fingerboard.
- Complete beginner kit includes essential accessories for starting out.
Cons:
- The dreadnought shape may be less comfortable for smaller players.
- 12-string guitars can be more challenging to tune and play compared to 6-string models.
- Higher price point compared to standard acoustic guitars without built-in EQ.
DAngelico Electro 12 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Crafted for players seeking a rich, resonant tone without breaking the bank, the DAngelico Electro 12 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar stands out in the 2025 lineup. With a grand auditorium body made of all-mahogany, you’ll enjoy robust bass and bright highs. Its comfortable neck and torrefied merbau fingerboard enhance playability, while the DAngelico MG-30 preamp guarantees a rich amplified sound. Weighing just 7.7 pounds, it’s perfect for practice or casual play. Users rave about its sound quality and value, making it a solid choice, whether you’re a beginner or looking for a reliable outdoor guitar.
Best For: The DAngelico Electro 12 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is best for beginner to intermediate players seeking a quality instrument for practice, casual play, and outdoor use.
Pros:
- Rich acoustic sound with robust bass and bright highs, ideal for a classic 12-string tone.
- Comfortable neck and torrefied merbau fingerboard enhance playability.
- Affordable price point offers great value for money, making it suitable for various skill levels.
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with the fretboard and strings.
- May require adjustments for optimal playability depending on personal preferences.
- Heavier weight at 7.7 pounds may not be ideal for all players, especially for long performances.
ALLSET 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar (Black)
With its premium materials and exceptional sound quality, the ALLSET 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar (Black) stands out as an ideal choice for both seasoned musicians and beginners. The solid Adirondack Spruce top and Honduran mahogany body deliver clarity and rich harmonics. Its cutaway design guarantees seamless access to upper frets, while the slim C-shaped neck minimizes finger fatigue. Equipped with a preamp and 4-band EQ, you can easily control your tone. Plus, it comes with essential accessories, making it performance-ready right out of the box. With a 1-year warranty and 24/7 support, you’re set for any musical journey.
Best For: The ALLSET 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar (Black) is best for both touring professionals and first-time 12-string players seeking a versatile and high-quality instrument.
Pros:
- Premium materials ensure exceptional sound quality with rich harmonics and clarity.
- User-friendly design with a cutaway for easy access to upper frets and a slim neck to reduce finger fatigue.
- Comes with essential accessories, making it ready to perform right out of the box.
Cons:
- The 12-string configuration may require some adjustment for beginners accustomed to 6-string guitars.
- The glossy finish, while beautiful, could be prone to scratches with regular use.
- Some users may find the price point higher compared to basic acoustic guitars.
Vangoa Advanced 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar
The Vangoa Advanced 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar stands out as an ideal choice for both beginners and casual players seeking a rich, versatile sound. With its full-size design and solid wood construction, you’ll enjoy crystal-clear highs and deep bass tones. The ergonomic C-shaped neck and cutaway body enhance playability, reducing finger pressure on upper frets. Its studio-grade electronics, featuring a 4-band EQ and built-in tuner, provide excellent control over your sound. Weighing just 11.13 pounds, this guitar comes complete with a hard case and accessories, making it perfect for performances, whether unplugged or amplified. Enjoy great value for your money!
Best For: The Vangoa Advanced 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar is best for beginners and casual players looking for a versatile and rich sound experience.
Pros:
- Good sound quality with crystal-clear highs and deep bass tones.
- Ergonomic design enhances playability, reducing finger pressure on upper frets.
- Comes with a hard case and accessories, making it ideal for performances.
Cons:
- Some users report concerns with tuning stability.
- Issues with bridge attachment have been noted by a few customers.
- Variable tuner quality may affect tuning accuracy for some players.
12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar (42 Inch, Gloss Black)
Looking for a versatile guitar that suits both beginners and seasoned players? The 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar (42 Inch, Gloss Black) is your perfect match. With a spruce top for bold sound and mahogany back and sides for warmth, it delivers a balanced tone. Its cutaway dreadnought design guarantees easy access to higher frets. The built-in 4-band EQ allows you to customize your sound, while the comfortable C-shaped neck makes playability a breeze. Weighing just 5 pounds, it’s easy to handle. Plus, the thorough beginner kit includes everything you need to start your musical journey. Get ready to strum!
Best For: Those looking for a versatile guitar that caters to both beginners and experienced players.
Pros:
- Built-in 4-band EQ allows for sound customization to suit personal preferences.
- Lightweight design (5 pounds) makes it easy to handle for extended play.
- Complete beginner kit includes essential accessories, making it ideal for new musicians.
Cons:
- The 12-string setup may require a learning curve for beginners used to standard 6-string guitars.
- Gloss black finish may show fingerprints and smudges more easily than matte finishes.
- Limited availability since the product was first introduced in August 2025, which may affect stock levels.
Ibanez AEG5012 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar – Dark Violin Sunburst
For musicians seeking a versatile and budget-friendly option, the Ibanez AEG5012 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar in Dark Violin Sunburst stands out as an excellent choice. Its slender, single-cutaway design enhances acoustic sound, while the spruce top and sapele back provide durability and resonance. With high-quality under-saddle pickups and onboard tuners, you’ll enjoy versatile sound whether plugged in or played acoustically. Weighing just 5.84 pounds, it’s comfortable for long sessions. While many users praise its playability and aesthetics, be aware of potential tuning stability issues. Overall, this guitar is a great value for aspiring and experienced players alike.
Best For: Musicians looking for a budget-friendly 12-string acoustic-electric guitar that offers versatility and comfort for both beginners and experienced players.
Pros:
- Beautiful aesthetics with a Dark Violin Sunburst finish.
- Great sound quality both acoustically and when plugged in.
- Comfortable playability with a slender neck design.
Cons:
- Some users report tuning stability issues upon arrival.
- Occasional fret buzz noted by certain customers.
- Lower quality strings may not meet the expectations of all players.
Fender CD-60SCE 12-string Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, Natural
Fender’s CD-60SCE 12-string Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar stands out with its solid spruce top and scalloped X bracing, delivering bold, rich bass tones perfect for players seeking depth in their sound. The mahogany back and sides complement the solid top, while the walnut fingerboard enhances playability and produces a satisfying sound. You’ll appreciate the built-in Fishman Classic Design pickup/preamp tuner, offering enhanced sound control for various playing styles. This guitar is ideal for country, folk, and bluegrass genres. Plus, with a 2-year limited warranty, you can play confidently, knowing it’s backed by Fender’s commitment to quality.
Best For: Players seeking a versatile acoustic guitar with rich sound quality, ideal for country, folk, and bluegrass music.
Pros:
- Solid spruce top with scalloped X bracing provides exceptional sound depth.
- Built-in Fishman Classic Design pickup/preamp tuner enhances versatility for different playing styles.
- 2-Year Limited Warranty ensures peace of mind regarding craftsmanship and materials.
Cons:
- The dreadnought body shape may be less comfortable for players with smaller frames.
- As a 12-string guitar, it can have a steeper learning curve for beginners compared to 6-string models.
- Slightly higher price point compared to entry-level acoustic guitars.
Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Kit
The Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Kit stands out as an excellent choice for both professional musicians and serious hobbyists seeking superior sound quality and playability. With its solid spruce top and mahogany body, you’ll enjoy enhanced resonance and durability. The rounded fret ends and C-shaped neck make it comfortable for your fingers, allowing for precise control during performances. Plus, the upgraded EQ lets you customize your sound for any genre. Its elegant brown finish and mother-of-pearl inlay add a sophisticated touch, making it perfect for stage or studio. This complete kit is ready to use right out of the box.
Best For: The Vangoa 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Kit is best for professional musicians and serious hobbyists who seek superior sound quality and playability.
Pros:
- Superior sound quality with a solid spruce top and mahogany body for enhanced resonance.
- Comfortable playability features, including rounded fret ends and a C-shaped neck for improved control.
- Customizable sound with an upgraded EQ, suitable for various playing styles and genres.
Cons:
- The 12-string setup may require a learning curve for beginners accustomed to 6-string guitars.
- Higher price point compared to basic acoustic guitars, which may not suit everyone’s budget.
- May require regular maintenance to keep the sound quality optimal due to the complexity of 12 strings.
Factors to Consider When Choosing 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitars
When choosing a 12-string acoustic electric guitar, you need to contemplate several key factors. Sound quality and tone are essential, but don’t overlook playability and comfort for those long jam sessions. Additionally, think about the build materials, electronics, and overall design to find a guitar that suits your style and needs.
Sound Quality and Tone
While choosing a 12-string acoustic electric guitar, sound quality and tone are essential factors that can greatly influence your playing experience. The additional strings create a rich, chorus-like resonance, resulting in a fuller sound compared to a 6-string. Look for solid wood tops, like AAA spruce or Adirondack spruce, as they enhance tonal clarity and projection. Built-in EQ systems let you customize bass, mid, treble, and volume for varied performance settings. The dreadnought body shape is popular for its bold, resonant sound and strong low-end tones, suitable for various styles. Finally, higher quality components, such as bone nuts and saddles, improve sound quality by facilitating efficient vibration transfer, leading to enhanced sustain and tonal balance.
Playability and Comfort
After considering sound quality and tone, playability and comfort become essential in selecting a 12-string acoustic electric guitar. A C-shaped neck design is often preferred, as it comfortably fits various hand sizes and helps reduce finger fatigue during long sessions. Look for adjustable action height, which allows you to play with ease without straining your fingers. A cutaway body design enhances access to upper frets, giving you more versatility in your playing style. Rounded fret ends and a smooth fingerboard enable precise finger placement and effortless movement. Finally, a lightweight body can greatly improve your comfort, making it easier to hold and maneuver while performing. Prioritize these features for an enjoyable playing experience.
Build Materials and Durability
Choosing the right build materials for your 12-string acoustic electric guitar is vital, as they directly affect both sound quality and durability. Solid wood tops, like AAA spruce, provide a richer tonal response compared to laminated options. For the back and sides, mahogany adds warmth and depth, enhancing the guitar’s resonance. When it comes to the fretboard, high-density woods like purpleheart or walnut improve playability and sustain, ensuring better tuning stability. A well-constructed neck with a built-in truss rod allows for adjustments in string tension, preventing warping over time. Additionally, durable features such as sealed tuning machines and quality bridge systems contribute to your instrument’s longevity and consistent performance, making these factors vital in your selection process.
Electronics and Amplification
When you’re picking a 12-string acoustic electric guitar, the electronics and amplification setup plays an essential role in how your instrument will perform on stage or in the studio. Start by considering the pickup configuration—piezo or magnetic—as it directly impacts your guitar’s amplified sound quality. Look for models with built-in equalizers (EQ) featuring 4-band controls, letting you tailor the sound to different environments. The quality of the onboard preamp is significant; high-resolution options enhance clarity and response during performances. An integrated tuner is also a must-have for quick adjustments on stage. Finally, check for feedback resistance capabilities, as anti-feedback circuits can help maintain sound integrity in louder settings, ensuring you play your best.
Design and Aesthetics
Design and aesthetics play an essential role in your selection of a 12-string acoustic electric guitar, as they can greatly impact both sound and personal expression. The body shape is critical; dreadnought designs deliver bold bass tones, while grand auditorium shapes balance highs and lows. Consider the aesthetic finish—glossy looks stunning but might scratch easily, whereas matte offers durability. The choice of wood is important too; solid spruce tops paired with mahogany backs enhance resonance and richness. A cutaway design not only looks elegant but also provides easier access to higher frets. Finally, unique inlays and personalized headstock designs add a special touch, making your guitar visually appealing for performances while reflecting your style.
Accessories Included in Bundle
The right accessories can greatly enhance your experience with a 12-string acoustic electric guitar. Many bundles come with essential items like gig bags, straps, capos, picks, and cleaning cloths, making playability and maintenance effortless. Some even throw in extras like string winders, additional strings, and audio cables, so you’re ready to play right away. If you’re a beginner, look for kits that include a tuner for accurate tuning, which can be a game changer. Padded gig bags offer protection during transport, ensuring your instrument stays safe while you travel. These bundles cater to all skill levels, providing tools that support both new players and seasoned musicians seeking convenience and value.
Price and Value Comparison
Finding the right 12-string acoustic electric guitar involves balancing price and value to guarantee you get the most for your investment. Budget-friendly options typically range from $200 to $500, while higher-end models can exceed $1,000, reflecting differences in materials and craftsmanship. Consider beginner-friendly bundles that include essential accessories like gig bags and tuners; these often provide better value without significant additional costs. Pay attention to customer ratings, as many models score between 4.1 and 4.4 out of 5 stars, indicating a solid balance of quality and price satisfaction. Finally, advanced features like built-in EQ systems and solid wood tops can justify higher price points, enhancing sound quality and performance for dedicated players.
Warranty and Support Options
When investing in a 12-string acoustic electric guitar, warranty and support options play an essential role in guaranteeing your purchase remains protected. Many guitars come with a one-year warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. However, some brands, like Fender, offer extended warranties of up to two years, giving you extra peace of mind.
Customer support can also vary greatly; some manufacturers provide 24/7 assistance for any inquiries you may have. Plus, many brands encourage customer feedback, allowing you to report issues and potentially seek pricing adjustments. A solid warranty not only enhances the value of your purchase but also guarantees your satisfaction and protection against any quality concerns that may arise.