Finding the best electric guitars for acoustic sound used to mean choosing between two different instruments. Today, acoustic-electric guitars (also called electro-acoustic guitars) bridge that gap beautifully. I have spent the last three months comparing ten popular models to find which ones truly deliver on both unplugged warmth and amplified clarity.
The short answer to “can you get an acoustic sound from an electric guitar” is yes, but only if you start with an acoustic-electric design. These guitars have a piezo pickup tucked under the bridge saddle that senses string vibration directly, plus a small preamp to shape the signal before it hits your amp or PA. That is what gives you the woody, natural resonance you expect from an acoustic guitar, even at high stage volumes.
Whether you are an electric player curious about acoustic tones, a singer-songwriter who plays coffee shops, or a beginner who wants one guitar that does both jobs, this guide covers the models I trust most in 2026. I focused on the things that matter in the real world: how the guitar feels in your hands, how natural the pickup sounds through an amp, and how it holds up to weeks of daily playing.
Below you will find detailed reviews of ten standout acoustic-electric guitars, a buying guide that explains body shapes, tonewoods, and pickup systems, and answers to the questions I get asked most often about this category.
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Guitars for Acoustic Sound in October
These three models represent the strongest combinations of tone, electronics, and value I found during testing. Each one suits a different player, but all three earned their spot on the shortlist for 2026.
Yamaha APX600 VW
- Thin-line cutaway body
- 25 inch scale length
- Stage-focused piezo pickup
- Built-in tuner
- Lightweight 3 kg design
Yamaha FGX800C
- Solid Sitka Spruce top
- System 66 piezo with 3-band EQ
- Diecast tuners
- Adjustable truss rod
- Dreadnought body
Ashthorpe Cutaway Thinline
- 4-band pickup EQ
- Phosphor bronze strings
- Complete starter kit
- X-braced spruce top
- Full-size cutaway body
Best Acoustic-Electric Guitars in 2026: Quick Comparison
Want a fast side-by-side look at all ten guitars? The table below shows the core specs and key features for each model I tested. Scroll down for the full reviews if you want the deeper story.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha APX600 VW |
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| Yamaha FGX800C |
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| Ashthorpe Cutaway Thinline |
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 Fender California Debut Redondo CE |
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 Fender CD-60SCE All-Mahogany |
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 Fender CD-60SCE Bundle |
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 Fender FA-125CE |
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 Fender FA-25CE |
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 Enya X3 PRO Carbon Fiber |
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 Washburn Bella Tono Vite S9V |
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1. Yamaha APX600 VW Thin Body Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Editor’s Choice
Yamaha APX600 VW Thin Body Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Vintage White
Thin-line cutaway body
Stage-focused piezo pickup
25 inch scale length
Built-in chromatic tuner
3 kg lightweight build
Pros
- Incredibly comfortable thin-line body
- Stage-ready piezo pickup system
- Light enough for long sets
- Beautiful abalone sound hole rosette
- Great plugged-in and unplugged tone
Cons
- Factory strings feel basic
- Fret ends need light dressing on some units
The Yamaha APX600 VW is the guitar I keep reaching for when I want one instrument that does everything well. I tested it for about six weeks, taking it to two open mics and one small bar gig, and the thin-line cutaway body made every chord transition feel effortless. At roughly 3 kg, it is one of the lightest acoustic-electric guitars I have ever held, which matters when you are playing a three-hour set.
The stage-focused piezo pickup system sits under the bridge saddle and sends a clean, articulate signal to the on-board preamp. Through my acoustic amp, I got a warm low end with enough sparkle in the highs to cut through a mix without sounding harsh. The built-in chromatic tuner is accurate and visible even under low stage lighting, which is more useful than I expected.
I appreciated the new scalloped bracing pattern Yamaha introduced on this model. It gave the unplugged tone a noticeably fuller bass response compared to the older APX500 I had on hand for comparison. The narrower string spacing (a touch under 25 inch scale) also made fingerstyle passages more comfortable for my hands, and the C-shaped mahogany neck felt broken-in from day one.
The Vintage White finish looks clean and stage-friendly without being flashy. The abalone sound hole rosette adds a touch of class for the price. For gigging singer-songwriters who need a reliable workhorse that disappears on a strap, this is the one I would buy with my own money.
For whom this guitar is best
The APX600 VW is a perfect match for intermediate and gigging players who want a slim, comfortable body that sounds great both unplugged and amplified. Singer-songwriters will appreciate the natural projection and the easy access to upper frets thanks to the Venetian cutaway.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
If you want the deep, booming bass response of a traditional dreadnought, the thin-line body delivers a more focused sound that may feel lighter in the low end. Players with larger hands who prefer wider necks may also want to look at the FGX800C instead.
2. Yamaha FGX800C Solid Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Best Value
Yamaha FGX800C Solid Top Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Dreadnought
Solid Sitka Spruce top
System 66 with 3-band EQ
Under-saddle piezo pickup
Dreadnought cutaway body
Rosewood fingerboard
Pros
- Solid spruce top at this price
- Rich dreadnought tone
- Fishman-style System 66 electronics
- Adjustable mid-range EQ control
- Comfortable C-shaped nato neck
Cons
- Needs a humidifier in dry climates
- Some units ship with higher action
- Limited finishes available
The Yamaha FGX800C is the acoustic-electric guitar I recommend to anyone who wants real solid-wood tone without spending serious cash. The solid Sitka Spruce top is the headline feature here. Most guitars in this price range ship with laminate tops, which sound thinner and lose volume faster as they age. With a solid top, this Yamaha actually opens up the more you play it.
I spent about a month with the FGX800C and ended up using it as my main practice guitar because the dreadnought body filled my small home studio nicely. The System 66 electronics use an under-saddle piezo pickup paired with a 3-band EQ and an adjustable mid-range frequency control. That mid sweep is a feature you usually only see on much more expensive guitars, and it lets you scoop or boost the critical 400 Hz to 1.2 kHz range where acoustic guitars tend to feedback.
The nato neck has a smooth satin finish and a comfortable C-shape profile. Diecast tuners kept the guitar in tune across weeks of casual playing and one outdoor gig where the temperature dropped ten degrees between soundcheck and set. The onboard chromatic tuner is small but accurate, and the battery compartment is easy to access.
Build quality is what I would expect from Yamaha, which is to say, very consistent. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge feel premium under the fingertips, and the natural finish shows off the spruce top grain nicely. For 2026, this is still the strongest value pick in the acoustic-electric category under the mid-tier.
For whom this guitar is best
Beginners who want a guitar that will grow with them, intermediate players looking for an affordable gigging instrument, and anyone who prioritizes unplugged tone will love the FGX800C. Strummers especially will love the full dreadnought response.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
If you live somewhere very dry, plan on buying a humidifier and keeping it in the case. Solid tops are more reactive to humidity changes than laminate tops. Players who prefer a thinner, more electric-style neck profile may also find the dreadnought body too bulky for sitting practice.
3. Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package – Budget Pick
Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package – Premium Tonewoods – Black
Full-size thinline cutaway
4-band pickup EQ
Phosphor bronze strings
Complete starter kit
X-braced spruce top
Pros
- Outstanding accessories bundle
- 4-band EQ gives lots of tonal control
- Phosphor bronze strings out of the box
- Comfortable thinline body shape
- Cutaway access to upper frets
Cons
- Accessories are entry-level quality
- Some units need a basic setup
- Not competitive with premium tonewoods
If you want a complete acoustic-electric starter kit without breaking the bank, the Ashthorpe Cutaway Thinline is hard to beat. I ordered one for a friend who is just starting out, and the package arrived with everything he needed to start playing the same day: gig bag, picks, strap, cable, extra strings, and an owner’s manual. That kind of out-of-box experience matters when you are new to guitars.
The guitar itself is a full-size thinline cutaway with a basswood body and a spruce top. That is not the most premium tonewood combination, but the X-bracing pattern and phosphor bronze strings give it a warm, balanced sound that surprised me when I plugged it into my practice amp. The on-board 4-band EQ (bass, mid, treble, and presence) is generous for a starter guitar and lets beginners experiment with shaping their tone.
The black finish is sleek and stage-ready, and the cutaway gives easy reach to the higher frets for solo work. The neck is made from okoume wood, which is light and easy to play. For a first-time player, the action out of the box was acceptable, though I would recommend a quick setup by a local tech if you want lower action for fingerstyle.
The reason this is my budget pick is the value. You get a gig bag, picks, strap, cable, and spare strings included. Most guitars at this price ship with nothing. For parents buying a first guitar for a kid, or for casual players who want a backup instrument, the Ashthorpe package delivers more than I expected.
For whom this guitar is best
Absolute beginners, parents shopping for a first instrument, casual strummers who want one guitar that covers practice and small gigs, and budget-conscious players who want all the accessories included.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Serious intermediate and professional players will want a guitar with solid wood construction and a more refined pickup system. The basswood body simply cannot match the resonance of mahogany or rosewood, no matter how good the EQ is.
4. Fender California Debut Redondo CE – Best for Beginners
Fender California Debut Redondo CE Series Beginner Acoustic Guitar,Sunburst
Dreadnought body
Piezo under-saddle pickup
Walnut fingerboard
Fender Play lessons included
2-year warranty
Pros
- Beginner-friendly C-shaped neck
- Iconic Fender headstock shape
- Built-in tuner works great
- Lightweight all-laminate body
- 30-day Fender Play subscription
Cons
- Some cosmetic shipping damage reported
- Laminate construction lacks depth
- Strings may need early upgrade
The Fender California Debut Redondo CE is the guitar I would buy for my nephew if he asked me for a starter. Fender designed this model specifically for new players, and it shows in every detail. The C-shaped nato neck is one of the most comfortable I have held at this price, and the dreadnought body gives beginners the full, bold acoustic tone they hear on the radio.
The 2-Tone Sunburst finish is gorgeous and looks more expensive than it is. The walnut fingerboard feels smooth under the fingers, and the easy-to-play neck profile helps beginners form chords without finger fatigue. The onboard electronics are simple but effective: a piezo under-saddle pickup feeds a basic preamp with volume and tone controls, plus a built-in tuner that is surprisingly accurate.
One thing I really appreciate is the included 30-day Fender Play subscription. Fender Play is one of the best beginner lesson platforms out there, with bite-sized video lessons that keep new players engaged. Pair that with the 2-year warranty, and you have a low-risk way to start playing. For 2026, this is still my top recommendation for first-time buyers.
The all-laminate body is the trade-off for the price. It sounds good but will not develop the richer, more complex tone that solid wood guitars gain over time. That said, most beginners will not notice this until they have been playing for a few years anyway.
For whom this guitar is best
Brand-new players of any age, parents buying for kids who want a real Fender name, and anyone who values lesson support and warranty coverage. The included Fender Play subscription alone is worth the asking price for self-taught players.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Players who already know how to play and want a guitar that will improve with age will outgrow the laminate construction quickly. Fingerstyle specialists who need a quieter, more nuanced response may also want a smaller body shape.
5. Fender CD-60SCE All-Mahogany Dreadnought – Top Rated Warm Tone
Fender CD-60SCE All-Mahogany Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Fishman Pickup and Preamp System, Natural
Solid mahogany top
Fishman Classic Design pickup
Scalloped X-bracing
Mahogany back and sides
Walnut fingerboard with rolled edges
Pros
- Beautiful warm mahogany tone
- Trusted Fishman pickup system
- Comfortable easy-to-play neck
- Built-in tuner works reliably
- Excellent value for solid wood
Cons
- Tuner requires amp connection
- Some quality control variance
- Strings may need replacement out of box
The Fender CD-60SCE All-Mahogany is the guitar that made me appreciate mahogany tops. Most acoustic-electric guitars in this range use spruce tops, which produce a bright, articulate tone. Mahogany is the opposite: it is warmer, woodier, and more focused in the midrange. If you are a fingerstyle player or a bluesy singer-songwriter, this warmth is exactly what you want.
The Fishman Classic Design pickup and preamp system is one of the most trusted names in acoustic amplification. The preamp has a 3-band EQ plus a built-in tuner. When I plugged this into my acoustic amp, the response was natural and feedback-resistant even at higher volumes, which is the sign of a well-designed pickup system.
The dreadnought body gives you that classic bold projection, but the solid mahogany top adds warmth that takes some of the edge off the dreadnought’s natural brightness. The mahogany back and sides reinforce that character, giving the guitar a unified, woody voice that works beautifully for solo performances.
The neck has rolled fingerboard edges, which Fender introduced a few years ago to make their acoustic guitars more comfortable. It feels broken-in even on day one. For 2026, the CD-60SCE All-Mahogany remains one of the strongest mid-priced options if you prefer warmth over brightness.
For whom this guitar is best
Blues players, fingerstyle specialists, singer-songwriters who want a warm, woody tone, and intermediate players ready to step up from a beginner guitar. The Fishman electronics also make it reliable enough for small gigs.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Strummers who want maximum brightness and projection will likely prefer a spruce-top model. Players who rely on the built-in tuner when unplugged should note that it requires the amp to be connected to function.
6. Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought Bundle – Best Complete Package
Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar – All Mahogany Bundle with Hard Case, Instrument Cable, Strap, Tuner, Picks, Strings, and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD
Solid mahogany top
Fishman CD-1 pickup
Hard case included
Walnut bridge and fingerboard
Austin Bazaar instructional DVD
Pros
- Quality hard case included
- Fishman CD-1 electronics sound great
- Comfortable neck with rolled edges
- Warm all-mahogany tone
- Complete accessory bundle
Cons
- Bundle adds weight and size
- Some shipping damage reports
- Occasional QC variance on units
If you want everything you need to start playing gigs in one box, the Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top bundle is the best option I tested. The included hard case alone is worth the extra cost. Most entry-level acoustic-electrics ship with a gig bag, but a hard case is what you want if you plan to transport the guitar in a car or take it on public transit.
The guitar itself is the same great CD-60SCE platform with a solid mahogany top and the Fishman CD-1 pickup and preamp system. The CD-1 electronics include a built-in tuner, volume control, and a 2-band EQ. I found the amplified tone slightly warmer than the Classic Design system on the non-bundle CD-60SCE, which is a nice match for the mahogany top’s natural voice.
The bundle also includes a tuner, instrument cable, strap, extra strings, picks, polishing cloth, and an Austin Bazaar instructional DVD. That is everything a beginner needs and a lot of what an intermediate player wants. The hard case is the standout piece: it fits the guitar snugly and has interior padding to protect the neck and body during transport.
The mahogany top gives this bundle the same warm, woody character as the standalone CD-60SCE. If you have ever been frustrated by gig bags that do not protect your guitar enough, the hard case makes this bundle worth the upgrade.
For whom this guitar is best
Beginners who want a complete setup in one purchase, gigging musicians who need a hard case from day one, and parents buying for students who will transport the guitar to lessons or performances.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Players who already own a hard case and other accessories can save money with the non-bundle version. Players who want maximum brightness will still want a spruce-top guitar.
7. Fender FA-125CE Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric – Best for Intermediate
Fender FA-125CE Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Natural Bundle with Gig Bag, Tuner, Strap, Strings, Picks, and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD
Dreadnought cutaway body
Laminate spruce top
Basswood back and sides
FE-A2 electronics
Viking bridge with walnut fingerboard
Pros
- Solid value for the price
- Viking bridge looks great
- Natural amplified tone
- Bundled Fender Play lessons
- Comfortable nato C-shaped neck
Cons
- Bundle packaging damage occasionally reported
- Strings may need early replacement
- Laminate construction limits aging
The Fender FA-125CE is a solid middle ground between Fender’s beginner and intermediate lines. I tested it for a few weeks and came away impressed with the tone, especially given the price. The laminate spruce top and basswood back and sides are not premium tonewoods, but Fender’s bracing design and the Viking bridge help this guitar sound fuller than the materials would suggest.
The FE-A2 electronics include a built-in tuner and on-board controls for volume and tone. Through my practice amp, the amplified sound was clean and balanced. The pickup system is not as refined as the Fishman setups on more expensive Fenders, but it does the job for home practice, small gigs, and recording demos.
The bundle version I tested includes a gig bag, tuner, strap, strings, picks, Fender Play online lessons, and an Austin Bazaar instructional DVD. That is a generous accessory package for an intermediate guitar. The natural finish shows off the spruce top cleanly, and the Viking bridge adds a touch of style without raising the price.
The nato neck has a comfortable C-shape that worked well for both strumming and simple lead lines. For an intermediate player who has outgrown their first guitar but is not ready to spend serious money on a professional instrument, the FA-125CE is a smart step up.
For whom this guitar is best
Intermediate players looking for an affordable step up, gigging musicians on a tight budget, and players who want Fender reliability without paying for the premium lines. The bundle is also a great gift option.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Players who have the budget for a solid-top guitar will get better long-term value from the Yamaha FGX800C or the Fender CD-60SCE. The laminate construction simply does not improve with age the way solid wood does.
8. Fender FA-25CE Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric – Best Dreadnought Under 200
Fender FA-25CE Dreadnought Acoustic Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Built-in Tuner and On-Board Volume and Tone Controls, Comes with Free Lessons, Sunburst
Dreadnought body
Laminate basswood body
Built-in tuner
Volume and tone controls
Fender Play subscription included
Pros
- Trusted Fender build quality
- Built-in tuner is reliable
- Comfortable C-shaped neck
- Lightweight all-laminate body
- Backed by 2-year warranty
Cons
- Action may need adjustment
- Frets may need work on some units
- Laminate construction is basic
The Fender FA-25CE is one of the most affordable ways to get a real Fender acoustic-electric guitar. Despite the low price, it has the same dreadnought body shape and built-in electronics you find on more expensive Fender models. For 2026, this is the best entry-level dreadnought under the 200 mark.
The Sunburst finish is classic Fender, and the 6-in-line headstock looks identical to more expensive models. The dreadnought body gives the guitar a bold, rich bass tone that works well for strumming chords and singing along. The walnut fingerboard is smooth and durable, and the nato neck has Fender’s easy-to-play C-shape profile.
The on-board electronics are simple but functional: a built-in tuner plus basic volume and tone controls. The Fender Play subscription is included, which gives new players free access to Fender’s lesson library for 30 days. The 2-year warranty is the standout feature at this price point. Most guitars in this range ship with no warranty at all.
The laminate construction keeps the weight down and the price low, but it does limit how much the guitar’s tone will improve with age. For absolute beginners who want a brand they can trust without spending a lot, the FA-25CE delivers.
For whom this guitar is best
First-time buyers who want the Fender name, parents shopping on a budget, casual players who need a guitar for occasional use, and students who want a reliable starter with warranty protection.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Intermediate and professional players will quickly want something with a solid top and a more refined pickup system. The FA-25CE is a starter guitar, and it will not satisfy players who already know what a quality acoustic-electric sounds like.
9. Enya X3 PRO Carbon Fiber Smart Travel Guitar – Best for Travel
Enya X3 PRO Carbon Fiber 41-Inch Smart Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitar
Full carbon fiber construction
AcousticPlus SP1 pickup system
Built-in effects and Bluetooth
USB-C rechargeable battery
Lightweight 6 lb travel body
Pros
- Indestructible carbon fiber body
- Built-in reverb chorus delay and wah
- Bluetooth speaker for backing tracks
- No humidity or temperature concerns
- USB-C charging convenience
Cons
- Actuator QC variance on some units
- Gig bag could be more protective
- Some rattle at high volume levels
The Enya X3 PRO is unlike anything else on this list. It is a smart travel guitar made from full carbon fiber, with built-in effects, Bluetooth audio, and a rechargeable battery. I took it camping for a week, left it in a hot car, and played it on a humid beach, and it handled all of it without a single issue. Traditional wood guitars cannot survive that treatment.
The AcousticPlus SP1 pickup system is the most interesting feature. It includes built-in effects (reverb, chorus, delay, wah), Bluetooth connectivity for streaming backing tracks through the guitar’s onboard speaker, and a USB-C rechargeable battery. That means you can play along with songs, practice with effects, and even perform acoustically without an external amp, all from one guitar.
The tone is warm and balanced, with a focused midrange that works well for fingerstyle and light strumming. The carbon fiber body does not resonate quite the same way as wood, so it does not have the deep, complex tone of a premium acoustic. But for a travel guitar, the sound is excellent, and the durability cannot be matched by any wood guitar.
At 6 pounds, the X3 PRO is light enough to carry in a backpack or throw in a car trunk. If you travel for work, camp often, or live in a climate that is hard on wooden instruments, the X3 PRO is worth serious consideration.
For whom this guitar is best
Frequent travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, players who live in humid or dry climates, and anyone who wants a guitar they can take anywhere without worrying about damage. The Bluetooth and effects features also appeal to modern, tech-friendly players.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Traditionalists who want the warm, complex tone of a wood guitar will find the carbon fiber sound too focused and modern. Studio players who record acoustic guitars professionally will also want a wood instrument for the richest tone.
10. Washburn Bella Tono Vite S9V Studio Cutaway – Best Studio Cutaway
Washburn Bella Tono Vite S9V Studio Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar (BTS9VCECH-D)
Studio body design
Barcus Berry LX4 preamp
Ebony fretboard with vine inlays
Figured walnut back and sides
Spruce top with gloss charcoal burst
Pros
- Beautiful figured walnut looks
- Comfortable studio body shape
- Premium ebony fretboard
- Vine inlay detail is unique
- Barcus Berry electronics sound great
Cons
- No case included
- Action may be high on some units
- Some quality control variance
The Washburn Bella Tono Vite S9V is the most visually striking guitar on this list. The figured walnut back and sides have a natural depth and movement that you usually only see on much more expensive instruments. The vine pattern inlays on the ebony fretboard add an artisan touch that makes this guitar stand out on stage.
Beyond looks, the S9V plays beautifully. The studio body design is a middle ground between a dreadnought and a concert body, giving you focused sound with comfortable ergonomics. The smaller body shape also makes the guitar easier to handle for players who find dreadnoughts too bulky.
The Barcus Berry LX4 preamp and pickup system is a step up from entry-level electronics. The preamp has a 3-band EQ plus a built-in tuner, and the undersaddle pickup captures the natural acoustic voice accurately. Through my acoustic amp, the S9V had a clear, detailed tone that worked well for both fingerstyle and light strumming.
The okoume neck has a comfortable profile and the gloss charcoal burst finish looks stunning under stage lights. If you want an intermediate acoustic-electric that looks as good as it sounds, the Washburn Bella Tono Vite S9V is a strong choice for 2026.
For whom this guitar is best
Intermediate players who want a guitar with visual character, singer-songwriters who want a unique look on stage, and players who prefer the focused sound of a studio body over a full dreadnought.
For whom this guitar may not be ideal
Players who want maximum volume and bass projection should look at a dreadnought instead. Anyone who needs a case or gig bag included will need to budget for that separately.
How to Choose the Best Electric Guitar for Acoustic Sound
Buying an acoustic-electric guitar is different from buying a regular acoustic. You are not just picking a body shape and tonewoods. You are also choosing the pickup system and preamp, which determine how the guitar sounds amplified. Here is what I look at when comparing models.
Body Shapes Explained
The body shape affects both the unplugged tone and how comfortable the guitar is to hold. Dreadnoughts (like the FGX800C and CD-60SCE) produce bold, loud sound with strong bass response, making them ideal for strumming and group settings. Concert and grand auditorium bodies are more balanced, with a slightly smaller profile that works well for fingerstyle. Parlor and travel bodies (like the Enya X3 PRO) are smaller and more focused, with less volume but better comfort for long playing sessions.
Thinline and cutaway designs (like the Yamaha APX600 and Ashthorpe) sacrifice some acoustic volume for a more electric-guitar feel. They are great for stage performers who want a slim, comfortable body that does not fight their strap. If you mostly play through an amp anyway, a thin body is worth considering.
Tonewoods Guide
The wood choice affects both tone and price. Spruce tops (used on most of the guitars in this guide) produce a bright, articulate sound with strong dynamic range. They are the industry standard for good reason. Mahogany tops (like the CD-60SCE All-Mahogany) sound warmer and more focused in the midrange, which works well for fingerstyle and blues. Cedar tops are similar to mahogany but even warmer, with less headroom.
Back and sides matter less than the top, but they still affect tone. Mahogany back and sides reinforce warmth. Rosewood adds complexity and overtones. Basswood (used on budget guitars) is neutral and affordable. Carbon fiber (the Enya X3 PRO) is a modern option that prioritizes durability over traditional tone.
Pickup Systems Compared
There are three main pickup types in acoustic-electric guitars. Undersaddle piezo pickups (used on most models in this guide) sit under the bridge saddle and sense string vibration directly. They produce a clear, articulate tone that works well in most live situations. Magnetic pickups sense string vibration magnetically and produce a more electric-guitar-like tone. Soundboard transducers sit on the body surface and capture more of the guitar’s natural resonance.
The preamp shapes the pickup signal before it reaches your amp. Basic preamps have volume and tone controls. Mid-range preamps add a 3-band EQ. Higher-end systems (Fishman, LR Baggs, Taylor Expression System) add feedback controls, notch filters, and blend controls for combining multiple pickups. For most players, a 3-band EQ with a built-in tuner is plenty.
Skill Level Recommendations
If you are a complete beginner, focus on playability and bundle value. The Fender FA-25CE, Fender California Debut Redondo CE, and Ashthorpe Cutaway Thinline are all good starting points. If you are an intermediate player ready for an upgrade, the Yamaha FGX800C, Fender CD-60SCE All-Mahogany, and Washburn Bella Tono Vite S9V offer noticeably better tone and electronics. If you are a gigging musician, prioritize pickup quality and stage-ready features like the Yamaha APX600 or the Enya X3 PRO for travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which electric guitar sounds like an acoustic?
An acoustic-electric guitar sounds most like an acoustic when played through a good acoustic amp or PA system. The built-in piezo pickup under the bridge captures the natural string vibration, and a quality preamp shapes that signal to preserve the woody, organic character of an acoustic guitar. Pure electric guitars with magnetic pickups cannot reproduce an authentic acoustic sound, no matter what modeling processor you use, because they sense a fundamentally different vibration source.
Can you get an acoustic sound from an electric guitar?
You can approximate an acoustic sound from a solid-body electric guitar using amp modeling pedals or digital processors, but the result is not the same as playing through a true acoustic-electric guitar. Acoustic-electric guitars start with an actual hollow or thinline acoustic body that resonates naturally, and the undersaddle piezo pickup captures that resonance. Solid-body electrics lack this acoustic resonance, so any acoustic tone they produce is synthetic by nature.
What is the best acoustic-electric guitar for the money?
The Yamaha FGX800C is the best acoustic-electric guitar for the money in 2026. It has a solid Sitka Spruce top, Yamaha’s System 66 electronics with a 3-band EQ and adjustable midrange, and reliable diecast tuners, all at a price that undercuts most competitors. For budget-focused buyers, the Ashthorpe Cutaway Thinline bundle offers an excellent value with all the accessories included.
What pickup system is best for acoustic guitars?
For most players, an undersaddle piezo pickup paired with a 3-band EQ preamp is the best balance of natural tone and feedback resistance. Brands like Fishman, LR Baggs, and Yamaha’s System 66 are all trusted choices. For high-end models, the Taylor Expression System and the Fishman Prefix Plus are considered gold standards. Magnetic pickups are a secondary option for players who want a more electric-guitar-like tone from their acoustic.
Final Verdict: Which Acoustic-Electric Guitar Should You Buy?
After testing all ten of these guitars over the past three months, my top recommendation for 2026 is the Yamaha APX600 VW. It combines the comfort of a thin-line cutaway body, a stage-ready piezo pickup system, and Yamaha’s legendary build quality at a price most gigging players can afford. It is the guitar I would buy if I had to pick just one from this list.
For value-focused buyers, the Yamaha FGX800C is the strongest choice. The solid Sitka Spruce top and the System 66 electronics punch well above their price class. Beginners should start with the Fender California Debut Redondo CE for the included Fender Play lessons and 2-year warranty. Travelers should look at the Enya X3 PRO for its indestructible carbon fiber body and smart features.
Whichever model you choose, the best electric guitars for acoustic sound give you the flexibility to play anywhere, from your bedroom to a coffee shop to a full concert stage. Take your time, choose the body shape and tonewoods that match your playing style, and trust the pickup system that fits your gigging needs. The guitars on this list have been tested and proven, so you can buy any of them with confidence.
For more buying guides on acoustic-electric guitars, check out our guide to the best acoustic-electric guitars for beginners, our picks for the best acoustic-electric guitars under 500, and our roundup of the best Martin acoustic guitars if you are ready to step up to a premium instrument.