Introduction to Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Acoustic-electric guitars are a fantastic option for musicians who want the best of both worlds: the rich, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the added versatility of electric amplification. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, finding a high-quality instrument within a budget can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. These guitars offer excellent value for money without compromising on sound or playability.
What is an Acoustic-Electric Guitar?
An acoustic-electric guitar is essentially an acoustic guitar with built-in electronics that allow you to amplify its sound. This makes it ideal for live performances and recording, as you can plug it into an amplifier or a PA system. The best acoustic electric guitars under 300 are equipped with reliable pickups and preamps, ensuring you get a clear and powerful sound without breaking the bank.
Why Choose an Acoustic-Electric Guitar?
Choosing an acoustic-electric guitar gives you the flexibility to play acoustically or plugged in, offering more versatility than a standard acoustic guitar. This is particularly useful for gigging musicians who need to project their sound to larger audiences or for those who want to experiment with effects and amplification. The best acoustic electric guitars under 300 provide this versatility at an affordable price, making them accessible to a wide range of players.
Best Acoustic Electric Guitars Under 300
Quick Overview of the Best Picks
- Ibanez TCY10E Talman
- Yamaha FGX800C
- Fender FA-125CE
- Ibanez AW54CE
- Takamine GD30CE-NAT
- Martin LX1E Little Martin
- Taylor GS Mini-e
- PRS SE A50E
- Alvarez AG70WCEAR
- Seagull S6 Original QIT
- Gretsch G5024E Rancher
- Washburn WCG66SCE
- Cort MR710F
- Tanglewood TWBB SFCE Blackbird
- Guild D-240E
- Epiphone Hummingbird Pro
- Fender CD-60SCE
- Yamaha A1M
- Ovation Applause Balladeer
- Epiphone J-200 EC Studio
Why Invest in an Acoustic Electric Guitar?
Acoustic electric guitars offer the versatility of being played acoustically or amplified, making them a great choice for performers and recording artists. These guitars come equipped with built-in pickups and preamps, allowing you to plug into an amplifier or PA system. This makes them ideal for live performances, studio recordings, and even casual jamming with friends.
Key Factors to Consider Before Purchasing
1. Pickup System
The pickup system is crucial in an acoustic electric guitar as it captures the sound and translates it into an electric signal. Look for guitars with high-quality pickups that provide a natural and balanced sound. Common types include piezo pickups, which are known for their bright and clear tone, and magnetic pickups, which offer a warmer sound.
2. Body Type and Wood
The body type and wood used in an acoustic electric guitar significantly impact its sound and playability. Dreadnought bodies are known for their loud and bold sound, while concert and parlor bodies offer a more balanced and intimate tone. Woods like spruce, mahogany, and rosewood are popular choices, each contributing unique tonal qualities.
3. String Quality
String quality affects the sound and feel of the guitar. Consider guitars with high-quality strings that are easy to play and offer good tone and durability. Some guitars come pre-strung with well-known brands, while others may benefit from a string upgrade.
4. Fretboard Material
The fretboard material influences the playability and comfort of the guitar. Common materials include rosewood, ebony, and maple. Rosewood is smooth and provides a warm tone, while ebony is harder and offers a brighter sound. Maple fretboards are known for their clarity and
Top 20 Acoustic-Electric Guitars Under $300
The Ibanez TCY10E Talman is a versatile and stylish guitar, making it one of the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. It’s known for its comfortable playability and good sound quality.
Specifications
- Body: Talman Double Cutaway
- Top: Spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Purpleheart
- Electronics: Ibanez AEQ-2T preamp with tuner
Reasons to Buy
- Comfortable Playability: The double cutaway body shape is very comfortable.
- Good Sound: The spruce top and mahogany body provide a bright, clear tone.
- Reliable Electronics: The Ibanez AEQ-2T system ensures good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Design: The design might not appeal to traditionalists.
- Neck Shape: The neck profile may not suit all players.
Pros
- Comfortable body shape
- Bright, clear tone
- Good electronics
Cons
- Modern design
- Neck profile
The Yamaha FGX800C is another excellent option when looking for the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Known for its solid build and reliable performance, this guitar is perfect for both beginners and experienced players.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Nato/Okume
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Electronics: System 66 preamp with under-saddle piezo pickup
Reasons to Buy
- Solid Top: The solid spruce top provides a bright, clear tone that improves with age.
- Durable Build: Yamaha is known for its quality construction, ensuring longevity.
- Versatile Electronics: The System 66 preamp offers excellent tonal control.
Reasons to Avoid
- Basic Aesthetics: The design is simple and might not appeal to those looking for a flashier guitar.
- Neck Width: The neck is a bit wider, which might be uncomfortable for players with smaller hands.
Pros
- Bright, clear tone
- Durable construction
- Good electronic control
Cons
- Plain design
- Wider neck
The Fender FA-125CE is a favorite among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300 due to its affordability and dependable performance. It features a concert body shape, making it comfortable to play for extended periods.
Specifications
- Body: Concert
- Top: Laminated spruce
- Back and Sides: Laminated basswood
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Walnut
- Electronics: Fishman electronics
Reasons to Buy
- Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly options with good quality.
- Comfortable: The concert body is smaller and easier to handle.
- Decent Electronics: Fishman electronics provide good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Laminated Woods: The sound quality is not as rich as guitars with solid wood tops.
- Basic Features: Lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive models.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Comfortable size
- Reliable electronics
Cons
- Laminated wood construction
- Basic features
The Ibanez AW54CE is a well-regarded guitar in the best acoustic electric guitars under 300 category, known for its warm tones and excellent craftsmanship.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought
- Top: Solid mahogany
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Nyatoh
- Fingerboard: Ovangkol
- Electronics: Fishman Sonicore pickup and Ibanez AEQ-SP2 preamp
Reasons to Buy
- Warm Sound: The all-mahogany body produces a rich, warm tone.
- Solid Construction: High-quality build that feels sturdy and reliable.
- Good Electronics: Fishman and Ibanez electronics provide excellent sound quality.
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavy: The solid mahogany construction makes it a bit heavier.
- Neck Shape: The neck might be too thick for some players.
Pros
- Warm, rich tone
- Solid build quality
- High-quality electronics
Cons
- Heavier weight
- Thick neck
The Takamine GD30CE-NAT is a versatile and reliable option for those seeking the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Known for its balanced sound and comfortable playability, it’s a great choice for various musical styles.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ovangkol
- Electronics: Takamine TP-4TD preamp with built-in tuner
Reasons to Buy
- Balanced Sound: Offers a good mix of brightness and warmth.
- Built-In Tuner: The built-in tuner is very convenient for quick tuning adjustments.
- Comfortable Neck: The neck is smooth and easy to play.
Reasons to Avoid
- Design: The design is somewhat plain compared to other models.
- Preamp Features: The preamp lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models.
Pros
- Balanced sound
- Convenient built-in tuner
- Smooth neck
Cons
- Plain design
- Basic preamp features
The Martin LX1E Little is a compact guitar that doesn’t compromise on sound, making it one of the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. It’s perfect for travel and small-handed players. Martin have done a great job on this one and is certainly one of our favourites.
Specifications
- Body: Modified 0-14 Fret
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back and Sides: High-pressure laminate (HPL) mahogany
- Neck: Rust Birch Laminate
- Fingerboard: Richlite
- Electronics: Fishman Sonitone
Reasons to Buy
- Compact Size: Ideal for travel and small-handed players.
- Quality Sound: Despite its size, it produces a rich and full sound.
- Reliable Electronics: Fishman Sonitone pickup ensures good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Size: May not be suitable for those looking for a full-sized guitar.
- HPL Back and Sides: Some players might prefer solid wood over laminate.
Pros
- Portable size
- Rich sound for its size
- Good electronics
Cons
- Small body size
- Laminate back and sides
The Taylor GS Mini-e is another top contender in the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Known for its superb build quality and impressive sound, it’s a favorite among many players.
Specifications
- Body: Mini Grand Symphony
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back and Sides: Layered Sapele
- Neck: Sapele
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Electronics: ES-B system
Reasons to Buy
- Great Sound: Delivers a big sound despite its smaller size.
- High-Quality Build: Taylor’s craftsmanship ensures durability and playability.
- Excellent Electronics: The ES-B system provides clear and natural amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Price: It’s on the higher end of the budget range.
- Size: Some players may prefer a full-sized guitar for certain styles.
Pros
- Impressive sound
- Durable build
- High-quality electronics
Cons
- Higher price
- Smaller size
8. PRS SE A50E
The PRS SE A50E is a beautifully crafted guitar that stands out among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Its quality construction and stunning design make it a joy to play.
Specifications
- Body: Angelus Cutaway
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Figured maple
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Electronics: Fishman GT1
Reasons to Buy
- Beautiful Design: The figured maple back and sides are visually stunning.
- Clear Sound: The combination of spruce and maple produces a bright, articulate tone.
- Quality Electronics: The Fishman GT1 system ensures excellent amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Price: It’s at the top end of the budget.
- Weight: Slightly heavier due to the maple construction.
Pros
- Stunning design
- Bright, clear sound
- High-quality electronics
Cons
- Higher price
- Slightly heavier
The Alvarez AG70WCEAR is a versatile and well-rounded option in the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Known for its balanced sound and comfortable feel, it’s suitable for a variety of playing styles.
Specifications
- Body: Grand Auditorium
- Top: Solid A+ Sitka spruce
- Back and Sides: Walnut
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
- Electronics: LR Baggs StagePro EQ and Element Pick Up
Reasons to Buy
- Balanced Tone: The combination of spruce and walnut offers a balanced, rich sound.
- Comfortable to Play: The Grand Auditorium body shape is very comfortable.
- High-Quality Electronics: The LR Baggs system provides excellent sound control.
Reasons to Avoid
- Finish: The finish may wear over time with heavy use.
- Preamp Complexity: The preamp system might be a bit complex for beginners.
Pros
- Balanced, rich tone
- Comfortable body shape
- Excellent electronics
Cons
- Finish durability
- Complex preamp for beginners
10. Seagull S6 Original QIT
The Seagull S6 Original QIT is renowned for its high-quality construction and excellent sound, making it a top pick among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought
- Top: Solid cedar
- Back and Sides: Wild cherry
- Neck: Silver leaf maple
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Electronics: Seagull QIT
Reasons to Buy
- Rich Sound: The cedar top and cherry back and sides produce a warm, rich tone.
- Durable Build: High-quality construction ensures longevity.
- Reliable Electronics: The Seagull QIT system provides good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Body Size: The dreadnought body might be too large for some players.
- Neck Shape: The neck profile may not suit all players.
Pros
- Warm, rich tone
- Durable construction
- Good electronics
Cons
- Large body size
- Neck profile
The Gretsch G5024E Rancher is a unique and stylish option among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Its distinctive design and reliable performance make it a great choice for players looking for something different.
Specifications
- Body: Jumbo
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Laminated mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Laurel
- Electronics: Fishman Isys III System
Reasons to Buy
- Unique Design: The triangular soundhole and pickguard design stand out.
- Good Sound: The jumbo body produces a big, resonant sound.
- Reliable Electronics: The Fishman Isys III system ensures good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Size: The jumbo body can be cumbersome for smaller players.
- Laminated Back and Sides: Not as resonant as solid wood.
Pros
- Distinctive design
- Big, resonant sound
- Reliable electronics
Cons
- Large body size
- Laminated construction
The Washburn WCG66SCE is a versatile and stylish guitar, making it a strong contender in the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. It offers great sound and excellent playability.
Specifications
- Body: Grand Auditorium
- Top: Solid cedar
- Back and Sides: Spalted maple
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Electronics: Fishman Presys+ 501T with tuner
Reasons to Buy
- Stylish Design: The spalted maple back and sides are eye-catching.
- Warm Tone: The cedar top provides a warm, inviting sound.
- High-Quality Electronics: The Fishman Presys+ system ensures excellent sound control.
Reasons to Avoid
- Weight: Slightly heavier due to the maple construction.
- Complex Preamp: The preamp system might be complex for beginners.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Warm, inviting tone
- Excellent electronics
Cons
- Heavier weight
- Complex preamp
The Cort MR710F is a reliable and well-rounded guitar, making it one of the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. It offers good sound quality and solid construction.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought Cutaway
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ovangkol
- Electronics: Fishman Presys II
Reasons to Buy
- Good Sound: The solid spruce top provides a bright, clear tone.
- Durable Build: The construction feels solid and reliable.
- Reliable Electronics: The Fishman Presys II system ensures good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Basic Design: The design is somewhat plain.
- Neck Width: The neck might be a bit wide for some players.
Pros
- Bright, clear tone
- Solid construction
- Reliable electronics
Cons
- Plain design
- Wide neck
The Tanglewood TWBB SFCE Blackbird is a versatile and stylish guitar that stands out among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Its unique design and reliable performance make it a great choice for various playing styles.
Specifications
- Body: Super Folk Cutaway
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Techwood
- Electronics: Tanglewood TEQ-3BT
Reasons to Buy
- Unique Design: The black finish and Super Folk body shape are visually appealing.
- Good Sound: The combination of spruce and mahogany provides a balanced tone.
- Reliable Electronics: The Tanglewood TEQ-3BT system offers good sound control.
Reasons to Avoid
- Finish Durability: The black finish may show scratches and wear more easily.
- Neck Profile: The neck shape might not suit all players.
Pros
- Stylish design
- Balanced tone
- Good electronics
Cons
- Finish durability
- Neck profile
The Guild D-240E is a classic and reliable option among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Known for its rich sound and solid construction, it’s a great choice for various playing styles.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- Electronics: Guild AP-1
Reasons to Buy
- Rich Sound: The solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides produce a rich, full tone.
- Durable Build: High-quality construction ensures longevity.
- Reliable Electronics: The Guild AP-1 system provides good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Body Size: The dreadnought body might be too large for some players.
- Basic Features: Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models.
Pros
- Rich, full tone
- Durable construction
- Good electronics
Cons
- Large body size
- Basic features
The Epiphone Hummingbird Pro is a beautifully designed guitar with a classic look and modern features, making it a standout among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300.
Specifications
- Body: Square Shoulder Dreadnought
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Select mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- Electronics: Fishman Sonitone
Reasons to Buy
- Classic Design: The Hummingbird design is iconic and visually stunning.
- Good Sound: The combination of spruce and mahogany provides a balanced, rich tone.
- Reliable Electronics: The Fishman Sonitone system ensures good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Finish: The glossy finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
- Neck Shape: The neck profile may not suit all players.
Pros
- Iconic design
- Balanced, rich tone
- Good electronics
Cons
- Fingerprint-prone finish
- Neck profile
The Fender CD-60SCE is a versatile and well-built guitar, making it one of the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. It’s known for its reliable performance and good sound quality.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought Cutaway
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Walnut
- Electronics: Fishman CD preamp
Reasons to Buy
- Good Sound: The solid spruce top provides a bright, clear tone.
- Durable Build: The construction feels solid and reliable.
- Reliable Electronics: The Fishman CD preamp system ensures good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Basic Design: The design is somewhat plain.
- Neck Width: The neck might be a bit wide for some players.
Pros
- Bright, clear tone
- Solid construction
- Reliable electronics
Cons
- Plain design
- Wide neck
18. Yamaha A1M
The Yamaha A1M is a high-quality guitar known for its excellent sound and solid build, making it a strong contender among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300.
Specifications
- Body: Dreadnought Cutaway
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back and Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Electronics: SRT System66
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent Sound: The solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany body produce a rich, dynamic tone.
- Durable Build: Yamaha’s reputation for quality construction is evident.
- High-Quality Electronics: The SRT System66 provides excellent sound control.
Reasons to Avoid
- Price: It’s at the top end of the budget.
- Body Size: The dreadnought body might be too large for some players.
Pros
- Rich, dynamic tone
- Durable construction
- High-quality electronics
Cons
- Higher price
- Large body size
19. Ovation Applause Balladeer
The Ovation Applause Balladeer is a unique guitar known for its distinctive design and reliable performance, making it a standout among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300.
Specifications
- Body: Mid-depth Cutaway
- Top: Laminated spruce
- Back and Sides: Lyrachord
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ovangkol
- Electronics: OP-4BT with tuner
Reasons to Buy
- Unique Design: The Lyrachord body is lightweight and durable.
- Good Sound: The combination of spruce and Lyrachord produces a balanced tone.
- Reliable Electronics: The OP-4BT system ensures good amplified sound.
Reasons to Avoid
- Laminated Top: The sound quality is not as rich as solid wood tops.
- Body Shape: The unique body shape might not appeal to everyone.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable
- Balanced tone
- Good electronics
Cons
- Laminated construction
- Unique body shape
The Epiphone J-200 EC Studio is a standout among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. Known for its jumbo body and stunning design, this guitar offers a big, warm sound that is perfect for strumming and fingerpicking alike.
Specifications
- Body: Jumbo
- Top: Select spruce
- Back and Sides: Maple
- Neck: Maple
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- Electronics: Fishman Sonitone
Reasons to Buy
- Rich Sound: The jumbo body produces a full, resonant sound that is great for various styles.
- Quality Electronics: The Fishman Sonitone pickup system ensures excellent amplified sound.
- Great Playability: The neck is comfortable, and the action is set up well out of the box.
Reasons to Avoid
- Size: The jumbo body might be too large for some players.
- Finish: The glossy finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
Pros
- Big, warm sound
- Reliable electronics
- Comfortable neck
Cons
- Large body size
- Fingerprint-prone finish
Ever wondered what goes into making an electric guitar? Check out our step-by-step guitar-building post.
Acoustic-Electric Guitars Buying Guide
How to Choose the Best Acoustic-Electric Guitar for Your Needs
When choosing the best acoustic electric guitar under 300, consider factors such as body shape, wood type, and electronics. These elements will significantly impact the sound and playability of the instrument.
What to Look for in an Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Key Features of Acoustic-Electric Guitars
- Body Shape and Size: The shape and size of the guitar body affect the tone and comfort. Dreadnoughts offer a full sound, while concert and auditorium shapes are more comfortable for smaller players.
- Wood Type and Quality: Solid tops generally provide better sound quality than laminated tops. Common woods include spruce, mahogany, and cedar.
- Electronics and Pickups: Look for reliable electronics that offer good sound control and minimal feedback.
Brand Reputation
Consider reputable brands known for their quality and reliability. Brands like Yamaha, Fender, and Ibanez have consistently produced high-quality acoustic-electric guitars.
Conclusion: Best Acoustic Electric Guitars Under 300
Choosing the best acoustic electric guitar under 300 can be a rewarding experience. Whether you’re a beginner looking for your first guitar or an experienced player seeking a budget-friendly option, the guitars listed above offer a range of features and styles to suit your needs. From the rich tones of the Yamaha FGX800C to the stylish design of the Gretsch G5024E Rancher, there’s something for everyone. Happy playing!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Should I Spend on an Acoustic-Electric Guitar?
You can find excellent options among the best acoustic electric guitars under 300. This price range offers a good balance of quality and affordability, making it accessible for beginners and intermediate players.
Is an Acoustic-Electric Guitar Suitable for Beginners?
Yes, acoustic-electric guitars are suitable for beginners. They offer the versatility to play both acoustically and amplified, which can be useful for practice and performance.
Can I Play an Acoustic-Electric Guitar Without an Amplifier?
Yes, you can play an acoustic-electric guitar without an amplifier. It functions just like a regular acoustic guitar when unplugged.
How Do I Maintain My Acoustic-Electric Guitar?
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the body and strings, keeping the guitar in a stable environment to avoid humidity damage, and checking the electronics periodically.
