The shimmering, chorus-like tone of a 12-string guitar adds depth and emotion that a 6-string just can’t match. Whether you’re strumming an acoustic anthem, adding sparkle to a recording, or exploring new textures, a 12-string is an inspiring tool. But do you need to spend thousands to get that lush sound?
Not at all. In this guide, we’re breaking down the best affordable 12-string guitars that deliver tone, quality, and playability without the high price tag.
Why Choose a 12-String Guitar?
A 12-string guitar doubles each string (except the high E and B), creating a fuller, more vibrant tone. It’s widely used in folk, worship, rock, and even ambient music for its natural, built-in shimmer.
Benefits of a 12-String:
-
Naturally chorused tone
-
Great for rhythm and layering
-
Ideal for worship, acoustic rock, and recording
-
Inspires new playing approaches
That said, playing a 12-string can be more physically demanding, so comfort and setup matter more than ever—especially on a budget.
Best Affordable 12-String Guitars in 2024
We’ve selected top-quality 12-string acoustics under $600–$800 that provide excellent value, tone, and durability.
1. Yamaha FG820-12
Best Overall Affordable 12-String Guitar
Yamaha consistently nails the balance of quality and affordability, and the FG820-12 is no exception. It delivers warm, balanced tone and dependable playability.
Key Features:
-
Solid spruce top
-
Mahogany back and sides
-
Traditional dreadnought body
-
Scalloped bracing for improved projection
Why It Stands Out:
-
Clean, full tone with plenty of low-end
-
Strong midrange makes it perfect for vocal backing
-
Well-built and comfortable for its price range
Best For: Beginners and intermediate players who want a reliable workhorse for stage or home
2. Fender CD-60SCE-12
Best Acoustic-Electric 12-String Under $500
If you’re planning to perform live, the Fender CD-60SCE-12 offers built-in electronics and excellent acoustic tone for under $500.
Key Features:
-
Solid spruce top with mahogany body
-
Fishman pickup and preamp
-
Venetian cutaway for upper fret access
-
Easy-to-play neck profile
Why It Stands Out:
-
Plug-in-and-play ready
-
Comfortable action for a 12-string
-
Bright tone with great string separation
Best For: Players who need live or worship-ready tone on a tight budget
3. Ibanez AEG5012
Best Slim-Body 12-String for Smaller Players
The AEG5012 offers a sleek, thin-body design that’s ideal for players who find traditional dreadnoughts too bulky.
Key Features:
-
Spruce top with sapele back/sides
-
Ibanez AEQ-TTS preamp with tuner
-
Slim neck and thin body depth
-
Cutaway design for full fretboard access
Why It Stands Out:
-
Lightweight and easier to handle than most 12-strings
-
Bright, focused tone for fingerstyle and light strumming
-
Built-in tuner is a great bonus
Best For: Smaller-framed players, students, or anyone seeking a more comfortable 12-string
4. Epiphone DR-212
Best Budget 12-String for Rich Dreadnought Sound
Epiphone’s DR-212 is a classic dreadnought that delivers serious low-end punch and sparkling highs.
Key Features:
-
Select spruce top
-
Mahogany body
-
Rosewood fingerboard
-
Vintage dreadnought look and feel
Why It Stands Out:
-
Excellent projection and warmth
-
Great as a backup or studio 12-string
-
Strong build for under $300
Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists who want traditional tone and big presence
5. Takamine GJ72CE-12
Best High-End Affordable Option (Gig-Ready)
This jumbo-bodied 12-string brings bold tone, high-end looks, and stage-ready electronics—all under $700.
Key Features:
-
Solid spruce top, flame maple back and sides
-
Takamine TP-100 preamp with built-in tuner
-
Jumbo body for huge projection
-
Gloss finish with abalone inlays
Why It Stands Out:
-
Loud and lush tone for large worship settings or full bands
-
Stunning aesthetics
-
Great plugged-in tone with EQ control
Best For: Performing musicians and players who want a full-featured 12-string under $1000
What to Look for in an Affordable 12-String Guitar
When shopping on a budget, here’s how to choose the right one:
1. Solid Top
Solid tops (like spruce or cedar) resonate better and improve with age. Avoid all-laminate builds if tone is a priority.
2. Comfortable Neck Profile
12 strings require more tension, so a playable neck and low action are essential to avoid fatigue.
3. Built-In Electronics
If you’ll play live or record direct, look for a guitar with a reliable pickup system.
4. Good Setup or Easy Adjustability
A slightly high action is common on 12-strings, but make sure the truss rod and saddle can be adjusted if needed.
Maintenance Tips for 12-String Guitars
12-string guitars need a bit more care due to added tension and tuning complexity.
-
Tune down a half step when not in use to reduce neck stress
-
Use light gauge strings to protect your fingers and the neck
-
Humidity control is vital—use a case humidifier if needed
-
Keep a string winder handy—tuning 12 strings manually gets old fast
Best Uses for a 12-String Guitar
If you’re unsure whether a 12-string fits your music style, here’s where it shines:
-
Worship music: Adds fullness to strumming patterns
-
Folk & Americana: Iconic sound for intros and progressions
-
Pop ballads: Lush background textures
-
Recording layers: Natural chorusing effect saves time in mixing
-
Live solo sets: Fills sonic space with one instrument
Final Thoughts
A great 12-string guitar doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The affordable options listed above prove you can achieve shimmering tone, reliable performance, and inspiring playability without overspending.
Here’s the bottom line: Start with your playing needs—whether that’s live performance, home worship, or studio layering—and choose a 12-string that feels and sounds right for you. From Yamaha’s classic craftsmanship to Takamine’s gig-ready jumbo, your next favorite guitar could be just 12 strings away.
Ready to double your tone? Pick your perfect match and bring a whole new dimension to your music.