Introduction
Hello, guys! Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the 7 best action acoustic guitars available in the market today. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned guitarist, having the right instrument with optimal action is crucial to your playing experience. In this article, we will explore the top options, discussing their advantages, disadvantages, and answering some common questions to help you make an informed decision. So without further ado, let’s dive in!
1. Yamaha FG800
🎸 The Yamaha FG800 is a fantastic entry-level acoustic guitar that offers exceptional action at an affordable price. With a solid spruce top and nato/okume back and sides, it delivers a warm and resonant tone.
🎯 The low action on this guitar makes it perfect for beginners, allowing for comfortable chord transitions and faster playing. It also features a slim neck profile, enhancing playability and reducing hand fatigue.
⚠️ On the downside, the FG800’s factory setup might require some adjustments to achieve optimal action. However, once properly set up, it becomes a reliable instrument that will accompany you on your musical journey for years to come.
2. Martin D-28
🎸 The Martin D-28 is a legendary acoustic guitar renowned for its rich tone and impeccable craftsmanship. With a solid Sitka spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides, it produces a powerful and balanced sound.
🎯 This guitar excels in action, as its low action setup ensures effortless playability and fast fingerpicking. The neck’s Modified Low Oval shape provides a comfortable grip, making it suitable for long hours of practice or performance.
⚠️ However, the Martin D-28’s high price tag might pose a challenge for budget-conscious musicians. Additionally, its larger body size may not be as suitable for players with smaller physiques.
3. Taylor 214ce
🎸 The Taylor 214ce is a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that offers exceptional playability and a balanced tone. With a solid Sitka spruce top and layered rosewood back and sides, it delivers a clear and resonant sound.
🎯 This guitar’s action is set low, providing a comfortable playing experience for both beginners and experienced players. The Grand Auditorium body shape offers excellent versatility, making it suitable for various genres and playing styles.
⚠️ Some users have reported occasional issues with the electronic components of the 214ce, but Taylor’s excellent customer service ensures that any problems are promptly resolved.
4. Gibson J-45
🎸 The Gibson J-45 is an iconic acoustic guitar known for its warm and mellow tone. With a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, it offers a balanced sound with excellent projection.
🎯 The action on the J-45 is set moderately low, allowing for comfortable playing and smooth chord changes. Its round shoulder body shape provides enhanced comfort, making it a favorite among singer-songwriters.
⚠️ However, the J-45’s high price and limited availability might be a drawback for some. Additionally, its larger body size may not be as suitable for players looking for a more compact instrument.
5. Seagull S6 Original
🎸 The Seagull S6 Original is a Canadian-made acoustic guitar that offers exceptional value for its price. With a solid cedar top and wild cherry back and sides, it produces a warm and vibrant sound.
🎯 This guitar features a comfortable neck profile and a slightly wider nut width, allowing for easy fretting and fingerstyle playing. The low action setup ensures minimal effort for fretting, making it suitable for players of all levels.
⚠️ Some users have reported minor cosmetic imperfections on the Seagull S6 Original, but they do not affect the playability or sound of the instrument.
6. Fender CD-60S
🎸 The Fender CD-60S is a popular choice for beginners and budget-conscious guitarists. With a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, it produces a bright and well-balanced tone.
🎯 The action on the CD-60S is set comfortably low, enabling smooth chord changes and easy fretting. Its slim-tapered neck profile ensures a comfortable playing experience, especially for those with smaller hands.
⚠️ Some users have experienced minor intonation issues with the CD-60S, but these can be easily resolved through minor adjustments or a professional setup.
7. Epiphone Hummingbird Pro
🎸 The Epiphone Hummingbird Pro is a tribute to the iconic Gibson Hummingbird, offering similar aesthetics and a rich, well-rounded sound. With a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, it delivers a bright and balanced tone.
🎯 This guitar features a comfortable “SlimTaper D” neck profile, providing excellent playability for both beginners and experienced players. The action is set low, allowing for smooth fretting and comfortable fingerpicking.
⚠️ Some users have reported occasional tuning stability issues with the Hummingbird Pro, but these can be easily addressed through regular maintenance and proper string winding techniques.
Best Action Acoustic Guitars – Comparison Table
| Guitar Model | Top Wood | Back & Sides Wood | Tone | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha FG800 | Solid Spruce | Nato/Okume | Warm & Resonant | Low |
| Martin D-28 | Solid Sitka Spruce | East Indian Rosewood | Powerful & Balanced | Low |
| Taylor 214ce | Solid Sitka Spruce | Layered Rosewood | Clear & Resonant | Low |
| Gibson J-45 | Solid Sitka Spruce | Mahogany | Warm & Mellow | Moderate |
| Seagull S6 Original | Solid Cedar | Wild Cherry | Warm & Vibrant | Low |
| Fender CD-60S | Solid Spruce | Mahogany | Bright & Balanced | Low |
| Epiphone Hummingbird Pro | Solid Spruce | Mahogany | Bright & Balanced | Low |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which acoustic guitar has the best action for beginners?
For beginners, the Yamaha FG800 is an excellent choice with its low action setup and affordable price range.
2. Are low action guitars suitable for fingerstyle playing?
Absolutely! Low action guitars like the Taylor 214ce and Seagull S6 Original are well-suited for fingerstyle playing.
3. What is the advantage of a higher action on an acoustic guitar?
Higher action can provide more volume and resonance, but it might require more finger strength and effort to play.
4. Can the action be adjusted on acoustic guitars?
Yes, the action can be adjusted by adjusting the truss rod, saddle height, or nut height. It is recommended to have a professional luthier do these adjustments.
5. What is the difference between low action and high action on a guitar?
Low action refers to the strings being closer to the fretboard, allowing for easier and faster playing. High action means the strings are further away, providing more volume and resonance but requiring more finger strength.
6. Which acoustic guitar has the best action for advanced players?
The Martin D-28 is highly regarded among advanced players for its impeccable action and superior craftsmanship.
7. Can I modify the action of my acoustic guitar myself?
While some minor adjustments can be made by yourself, it is best to consult a professional luthier to avoid any potential damage to your instrument.
8. Are there any acoustic guitars with adjustable action?
Yes, some acoustic guitars feature adjustable truss rods that allow for slight action adjustments.
9. How long does it take to get used to playing a low action guitar?
It varies from person to person, but with regular practice and dedication, most players can adapt to the low action within a few weeks or months.
10. Can a higher action cause intonation issues?
Yes, a high action can affect the intonation of an acoustic guitar, resulting in notes being sharp or flat when played at different positions on the fretboard.
11. What type of strings are best for low action guitars?
Light or extra-light gauge strings are generally recommended for low action guitars as they require less tension to achieve proper intonation.
12. Does the type of wood affect the action of an acoustic guitar?
The type of wood used in the construction of an acoustic guitar can have a subtle impact on its overall tone but does not directly affect the action.
13. Are there any disadvantages to having a low action on an acoustic guitar?
While low action enhances playability, it can sometimes result in more fret buzz or require more frequent adjustments to maintain optimal playability.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best action acoustic guitar is essential for enhancing your playing experience. Whether you choose the Yamaha FG800 for its affordability, the Martin D-28 for its legendary tone, or any other guitar on our list, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and playing style. Remember to consider your budget, skill level, and desired tone before making a decision.
Investing in a high-quality acoustic guitar with optimal action will not only inspire you to practice more but also elevate your musical journey. So, take your time, try out different guitars, and select the one that resonates with you both in terms of sound and playability. Happy strumming!
Closing Statement
Thank you for joining us on this journey to explore the best action acoustic guitars available. It’s important to note that while we strive for accuracy in our information, individual experiences may vary. We always recommend trying out guitars in person before making a purchase.
Remember, the perfect acoustic guitar is the one that feels right in your hands and sparks your creativity. Whichever guitar you choose, practice diligently, and let your musical expression soar. Happy playing!