June 7th, 2009 | 
Author: Ashley asked:
I have around 800 dollars to spend on an acoustic guitar. Right now I'm leaning towards a Taylor 214 but I'm open to suggestions. I've also looked a some Martin and Takamine guitars. Based on my budget, what would you recommend?
I have around 800 dollars to spend on an acoustic guitar. Right now I'm leaning towards a Taylor 214 but I'm open to suggestions. I've also looked a some Martin and Takamine guitars. Based on my budget, what would you recommend?
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I’ve played a lot of ‘good’ guitars, and the brands that you mention are all quality acoustic guitars and are a joy to play. However, when I played them side by side at the music store I settled on the Taylor.
Those are some really solid choices if you’re looking for an acoustic guitar. And although you can get some lower end models from that lineup, you’ll still be paying a lot of money. My favorite quality acoustic guitars are from Seagull and Ovation though, and it might be worth your while to take a look at them. Shopping around for some quality used acoustic guitars is also a great way to save some dough.
Each of the guitars that you mention are very good guitars. Taylors have a nice sound and are quality guitars. However, I bought a Martin because I preferred the clean sound that it has. My best advice would be to have you go to the music stores and play the different brands to find the one that is your favorite. I was going to get a Takamine until I played the Martin.
You definitely can’t go wrong with Martin Guitars. They are priced on the high side, much like Taylors, but they have outstanding quality and great tone. They really are built to last a lifetime and they put a lot of care into every guitar that they make. I have my dad’s Marting that is about thirty years old now, and it still plays and sounds amazing.
Although you have not put them on your list, I really like the Washburn line of acoustic guitars. I also like the Ovations of the late seventies. You can find some real bargains on used guitars on eBay for these models. Good luck!
I agree with you and the others that have recommended Taylor guitars. They are very high quality and they have a really nice sound. You can either look for a new one or look for some used Taylors in your stated budget.