I am surprised that the guitar I waited on to be built was not covered. I had played a few 12 string’s through the years and was intrigued but never dove in and stayed with 6 string cutaways for 30 years. One day, I caught Brian May on the tube solo ,sitting on a stool. In his hand was a Guild F512. As he played, I realized I was hearing the best sounding 12 string I had ever heard. I contacted a friend in the music world and asked “can you find me one of these”? The answer was “NO but we can order one from the factory in Connecticut”. I ordered one and have never looked back. The projection, tone and balance from this jumbo are incredible. The guitar is also beautiful esthetically. I now and have had for 12 years, that piece of my sound puzzle filled superbly. Not another 12 string guitar can sound and play as well as the F512 in my opinion. This is the holy grail of 12 strings.
So … this episode planted a tiny seed. It took a year to sprout. And only recently, I started looking on Reverb and found the 12 string market overflowing with goodness. Most for a reasonable price. I ended up with a ‘93 Taylor 555 (jumbo/spruce/mahogany) for $1250 and, as you say, I’m smitten. Such gorgeous tight grained tonewoods, abalone rosette, classy inlays, a classy tortoiseshell binding, and a rich harmonic voice. A well earned thanks. And listening to this episode again … I’m struck by how much I miss our Tuesday morning cup of coffee together. Cheers.
Hi, I'm glad to see the Yamaha guitar got first place as they are often over looked, but you should check out the Yamaha LL16-12 ARE - the specs are Original Jumbo Type Body Solid Engelmann Spruce Top with A.R.E. Solid Rosewood Back & Side High Comfort Traditional Neck Profile, 5 ply Neck. Passive System + SRT Piezo Pickup, that you plug into the end pin without any controls cut into the side of the guitar giving you a more traditional and aesthetic look. Hard Bag Included, these are good cases as well.These guitars are really great for someone who doesn't want to spend too much on a 12 string as it's not going to be their main guitar but wants a quality instrument. I got mine for $900 AU and I'm very happy with it. And since I bought it I have found a wealth of songs that are played on a 12 string and I add them to my list of acoustic songs to learn. These guitars look and play beautifully. I liked mine so much I bought two other guitars in the series a LL16D ARE with abalone inlay and LS16 ARE.
Martin also makes an affordable alternate to the D-28-12. The DX2e-12. I picked one up last October. Only $600 and it comes with a pickup system installed. Plays and sounds very good. A great value at that price point.
I own 4 12-String guitars. My top two are Alvarez AD60S 12-String and the Takamine GJ72CE 12-String. The Takamine sounds great and looks great and is in the $600-$700 price range.
I asked a few times about featuring 12 string guitars on your show. Thanks Tony! I have a 1978 Taylor 855 12 string. It's the best sounding 12 string I ever played. I also have a Martin Grand J12-16GTE. Solid Sitka top and mahogany back and sides. The Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 pickup sound is absolutely amazing. They also make a rosewood version. A Grand J12-16E with the same pickup. Both have scalloped bracing. Price is $2.199.00. Great values at a decent price. I tune my Taylor to standard. I tune the Martin down a step. Good 12 string guitars are built to stand the extra tension. Even tuned to standard. Thanks again...Jim
The very best 12 string guitars I can absolutely say with years of trying every 12 string I’ve played… is the Takamine guitars😊 ..!!! No other 12 string has ever come close to the stunning sounds that comes out of these guitars…..!!!
You ain't a kiddin' brother. Takamine has always been heralded as not only among the very finest 12 string acoustic guitars, but just like their 6 string cousins, they are true workhorses........built for the long haul. For anyone who doesn't know.....or worse, doesn't believe Takamine's are among the best 12 string acoustics, consider the following fact: the legendary 1976/77 hit song by the Eagles "Hotel California". Don Felder wrote the vast majority of the song and used a Takamine 400-S 12 string to record that iconic main guitar part that also opens the song. However, this was quite some time before Takamine INVENTED the under-saddle palathetic ( piezo ) pick up system, so Felder used a DeArmond pickup as well as mic'd the guitar. The mic'd part was used in the center of the studio mix, as the DeArmond pickup's signal was ran through a Leslie and other effects to get that beautiful sound we all hear in the studio version of Hotel California. ALSO: for those who don't know, of the countless artists who have, or are, using Takamine acoustic guitars on tour, NOT ONE OF THEM HAVE EVER BEEN "SPONSORED" BY TAKAMINE.........EVERY SINGLE ARTIST WHO PLAYED OR PLAYS A TAKAMINE, DID SO BY CHOICE, AND EVERY FAMOUS ARTIST PAID FOR THEIR TAKAMINE. But there's more: Sound engineers who are paid to run the sound system in the biggest venues such as stadiums & auditoriums LOVE working with the Takamine acoustic guitar pickup systems, because of the high volume needed, yet the feedback is very easy to tame & eliminate. Like I stated earlier: Takamine acoustic guitars have long been the choice for true workhorse guitars. I used to own & gig with 3 different Japanese Takamine acoustics all over east/central Florida, for many years. They never let me down.
I’ve compared 12 strings for years owning a few. But finally found the best; the Martin 28-12.,Nothing compares. I now own the 6 string model and 12 string model of the D28.
There are actually 2 more offerings from Martin worth considering, 1st but not the least at $599.00 is the D-x2E 12 string, And 2nd, the other at while not cheap ,but more affordable than the HD-28 is the Grand J-16E 12 string at $2199.00. It solid wood with Sitka Spruce with East Indian Rosewood. Thank you for a wonderful and informative show! Been watching since show # 1
I just bought a used Takamine acoustic electric in a pawnshop (made in china) for $200 ,then had new strings put on it and it sounds BEAUTIFUL ! I can’t put it down.the guy at my little music shop said I got a bargain way worth it and I just started learning guitar recently..
Guild F2512E, Deluxe....Beautiful looking, fantastic sounding jumbo 12-string...$649....Absolutely great guitar! Well beyond its price-point in sound, looks, quality of build.....'nuff said...
I just bought the f2512ce it sounds great right out of the box but i defiantly need to have a setup done on it. got it on sale for 450. was back up to 700 the next day. Highly recommend it though.
My 76 year old friend brought over one of his guitars and now I'm in trouble as now I want one, it's a 1970's lawsuit era Takamine 12 string all Mahogany, it makes the new strings on my six string sound like they're dead, the richness and fullness of the tone is insane, so now I'm on the hunt for something used that I can afford and know is good quality, most likely going to be something from the Godin line, Norman, Art & Lutherie or possibly a Seagull. Just finished investing in a new Squire Metallic Ruby Red 40th Anniversary Gold Edition Stratocaster. Got it for a hundred and ten bucks off and a gig bag for half price so came in just under 700 Canadian.
Rosewood/sitka only for 12's. Martin D 12-28 the benchmark. Grand piano tone, perfect balance, sustain. Sounds like an orchestra, worth every penny. Get one, play it, keep it forever.
WoW can’t believe you didn’t have a Takamine on your list they are an awesome sounding 12 string. Like the Takamine G Series GD30CE-12 budget guitar but huge sound.
I have a Martin HD 12-28. Worth every penny. The first time I ran my fingers across the string was an epiphany. I never, ever heard a sound like that before and I have been playing since 1975. Thanks for featuring 12s great video.
I think this is my next buy whenever I get a better paying job. Bought a regular HD-28 last year and it really is one of the best on the market. Been playing about 20 years, too. It frustrates me how there's not nearly as many reviews on top tier 12 stringers out there. You usually get recommendations for crap epiphones, yamahas, fenders etc.
I don’t think you will ever regret it. I play for residents at a nursing home (we sing hymns and they love it) and the last time I was there, after strumming the last chord, it just kept singing. So very amazing. I waited 40 years for mine. Worth the wait.
Been playing my Takamine F385 daily for over 40 years and still plays like day I bought it! I've played many 12 strings over the years and I wouldn't trade it for any other 12 string out there. Did enjoy your comparison though.
Tony, I have been working away on the TAC daily challenges, and am really loving watching my skills improve little by little, so thanks for that! I read a quote yesterday that was attributed to Kurt Vonnegut telling a story about chatting with someone in his youth, just getting to know each other, and the archeologist said to him "I dont think that being good at things is the point of doing them. I think you've got all these wonderful experiences with different skills, and that all teaches you things and makes you an interesting person, no matter how well you do them". That really made me think of my guitar journey, and a one of the quotes you read today about there always being someone better. This really made me think about why I joined the TAC family, and how playing the guitar, for me, isnt about being able to play on stage with any of the greats, or even to be able to play every song perfectly, but its about connecting with friends and family, and its about having a great time learning something new. Thanks so much for keeping me inspired and connected!
I gigged for quite a few years with a Martin X-Series twelve string. A very full, "jangly" tone, but with plenty of low end and pretty playable. A new one runs about 600 bucks, and it's made in Mexico under relatively decent working conditions. The trouble with so many inexpensive instruments these days is that they're made under far more questionable working conditions in China and Indonesia.
I don't know if you are familiar with the Gallagher guitars, but I found a twelve string a few months ago at my local pawn shop and it is absolutely amazing..it is a solid Indian rose wood back and sides and solid spruce top and I am blessed to own something this beautiful..
I acquired a pristine 1969 Harmony (Sears) S1227 12 string with a hard case from GC for $235, a neck reset/setup from a local luthier, for $165, for a total of $400. Really enjoying the guitar in open G and am exploring some John Fahey/Elizabeth Cotten songs.
I have both Seagulls. I prefer them over my Taylor 355e and my Martin D28-12. Bob Godin knows how to make a quality guitar and at a fantastic price point.
Hey Tony and everyone else! I love the sound of twelve string guitars, but they seem pretty intimidating to play even after two solid years of learning to play guitar under my belt. Six strings are a challenge, but double the strings under each finger seems like asking your fingers to get tangled in a spider’s web! Is it as difficult as I’m imagining? I’d love to know how the experience of playing twelve strings compares with the more familiar six strings. I also have these specific questions: Where does one begin with attempting to play a twelver? What type of songs would you recommend starting with? What type of exercises would you suggest to get used to having so many strings under your fingers and doing skills like hammer ons, pull offs, vibrato, etc.? By the way, for those interested in getting the sound of a twelve string on their six string, I suggest playing “She Talks to Angels” by The Black Crowes. People always assume that the original song was played with a twelve string. In fact, the original song has always been played by Chris Robinson with a six string in Open E tuning (E-B-E-G#-B-E), both in the recording and live performances. “She Talks to Angels” is great for beginner and intermediate level players to experiment with an open tuning because it’s very easy to strum along to, and as your guitar skills advance, you can then incorporate all of the embellishments like the opening riff - plus, there easy to play harmonics too! Using open tunings like Open E is great way to get a taste of that jangly 12-string tone without owning the real deal. Thanks again for another great episode, Tony!
Vibrato, not so much. Hammer on's & pull offs sure thing. It's not like extra strings just wider strings on your finger tips. Getting the best out of it is really about the right hand - jangle those octaves.
I had a Taylor 362ce for a while. It was the first 12 string I owned that was a pleasure to play. I also had a Guild D-15 12 string that was built like a tank and weighed like one. It sounded great, looked cool (with the Cherry finish) and was hell on my aching back.
My first guitar I ever owned, brought new in 1969 is an Eko Ranger 12. I worked three paper rounds to pay my Dad back as he was paying the HP for me! I was too young! I still have this guitar and I still love and use it! What more can I say!
Hey dude , I bought a Guild F2512e few years ago. I dont have your knowledge on guitars but this thing is easy to play ,sounds really good to me, loud . Has arched back solid spruce top says maple sides and back sure its not solid. For the price seems hard to beat . I am bias to Guilds , have owned a D55 for twenty plus years , dont know if u ever played one , puts me in another place .. Started with Takemines which i really love. i am all self taught , i cant play like u or most acoustic players . But I love playing and can play many chords and pick notes play mostly stuff i make up. really like your site , dont have alot of time time to watch but injoy when i can . thank u Kevin
I have the Taylor 362ce and it’s a sonic cannon. So easy to play. The other 12-string I have is the D’Angelico Fulton. I’d put that one at the top of my “best affordable 12-strings” list. It plays every bit as well as the Taylor and stays in tune like no other. At $499 it’s a steal.
I have an older Martin D28-12, it is the sweetest sounding and playing instrument I have. It is as easy to play as my Martin D28 but with sustain forever.
Ive owned a few over the 50+ yrs. From Fender to MARTIN . I recently purchased a brand new Martin, J16E 12 Is a Jumbo but with a comfortable body width .Sitka spruce top Indian rosewood back & sides Ebony fingerboard bridge & sealed machine head tuning stability. I did buy a Taylor 150e that did sound awesome. The 1 day I owned it . I knew that I should have had a Martin in my HANDS... $2099 with case. Thanks & keep up the good work bro !
Please do an item on guitars that have been stolen at airports. Five Watt World has done an excellent series of vids on immortal axemen and their guitars. One thing emerges: Clapton, Page, Gilmore, Hendrix, Lennon and McCartney (to name but a few) have all had guitars stolen at the height of their fame. Guitars are small, light, portable, valuable. Did the guitars ever re-surface or are they all lost forever? How do we protect our treasured GS Minis?
#smallwin #nextstep #neverstoplearning #Tonyhelpme Just finished a 12 week deep dive on the pentatonic minor scale from f to e (first fret to 12th fret) Next up another 12 week deep dive into the Pentatonic Major scale. Finished and caught up on all 236 episodes of acoustic tuesday so I'm fully up to date. Tony, please take the grenade for me on this: My wife wonders why I must have acoustic tuesday podcast playing while doing my scales. She thinks I'm crazy, I say it's just enough to keep me focused. 4 hours of scales wears thin and the podcast helps me to pay attention to what I'm doing.
Yamaha APX700II 12nt is one that's missing from this list. Under $1000 CAd, and great electronics, and a comfortable parlor sized body. Very stage and busking ready.
Thanks, great info. I'm researching for a first 12-string, so it's really good to know there are quality entry level options below $500. Any opinion on the Alvarez AJ80CE-12?
I have a Martin D12-20 (1979). I know, they don't make them anymore but they are unbelievable. 12 frets to the body gives an unbelievable sound and if you want to play some Leadbelly those bass boogie woogie runs are killer on a 12 fretter - big, big sound. They're not so pricey so if you see one 2nd hand jump on it.
You TOTALLY forgot, or did not include my Takamine 12!! It's fantastic!! Love you Tony. LOVE your show man!! New to your site...playing catch-up now! Every episode I've seen so far has been awesome!! Keep up the great work my new friend!
Top 10 lists are fun, and this was a good one. I own a Guild 1512, and a 1212 (all mahogany). Both are amazing. I had to sell my Yamaha. Sounded ok, but the nut is ridiculously narrow for a 12.
Love my Taylors, Guild,and 12-20 Martin,but honorable mention are 60's Fender Villager, Alvarez, and USA Ovation Legend,and Balladeer 12'ers! PS: I agree with you on the Seagulls. I have a 80's ,12'er cedar top, but the SM 12 spruce top really rings out !💍
Okay, so I looked at the list of featured 12 strings and went: "whaat?? the Eastman AC 330 not in this list?" All solid handcrafted jumbo for 1100 dollars... So I was pleasantly surprised to see it actually IS in your review. I received mine 2 days ago, the sound is awesome indeed. I will switch to 011-47 elixir strings though, for better playability and relieving the tension a bit, as the top tends to "bend" upwards over time.(not a native english speaker and not sure what it is called). Not a huge problem because the bridge and saddle have plenty room to adjust for that, but one wants to postpone that moment (a lutiers job) as long as possible.And I feel that the elixir string quality will atone for the loss of 0.01 gauge. I have not tried all the guitars in this list. If I had to go for playability/sound /value ,I would choose a Taylor. I played a 250 BK a while ago, and it was astonishingly easy to play. The Yamaha was my first 12 string ever as well, I pretty much learned to play guitar on that one. Very good choice.
I think I may have the best 12 string. I had a custom Boucher SG63-12 in private stock bigleaf maple b&s. I have been overwhelmed with how good it sounds. I just wanted to throw that out there.
Add: I actually learned to play on a 12-string. I was scared to death of trying to play a SIX string! Lol. When I finally did, gotta be a Martin! Have a 1972 Martin D-28... omg....
Guild F2512CE ELX 12 string Jumbo is the nicest i’ve ever heard or played. Hands down, and only $699 so it’s affordable for a high quality instrument like that.
I was pretty surprised when i played a Taylor dreadnought 12. This one was on sale at the time at Guitar Center. 2019? Anyway it was marked down 100 to 799.99 with a soft sided case, and had a satin finish. I played a couple of expensive jumbo 12 strings that day, and i honestly thought the Taylor sounded best. Maybe i'm biased though.. dreadnoughts have been the guitar i played for many years, and i do like the sound of them.
Thank you so much for the video. I always enjoy acoustic Tuesday. I’ve been playing a Taylor 562CE for about three years now and absolutely love it. The size, the sound and the playability is just perfect. Plus it’s a sweet looking guitar. Keep up the good work
Glad to see Yamaha in there. I’ve had several 12 string guitars, was never happy with them, but came across a used Yamaha CPX 700-12 (Compass series mini-jumbo) for £200. It’s a keeper. Now discontinued, but worth trying to find.
Guild F512 is king. I have two. One is a 1975 Westerly I bought new when I turned 18. The classic shimmery 12-string sound you hear on all those records, John Denver, etc. The second is a 2008 New Hartford I bought a few years ago. It is, hands down, one of the best guitars I have ever played, period. As a poor young adult who couldn't afford multiple axes, I often played my 1975 with only 6 strings, making it in effect an F50R. I bought the 2008 thinking I'd set one up with 6 strings and the other with 12. Well, they both sound amazing but they have somewhat different tonal colorations. The 2008 is more full range; a punchy bass and more note individuation. As a 6-string, it is jaw-droppingly good. But it's also amazing as a 12. The 1975 has more of a midrange focus. Doesn't make it less of a guitar. As a 6, the 1975 is an excellent backing guitar. As a 12, those classic shimmery tones. So, an abundance of riches. Right now, the 75 is strung with 6, the 08 with 12. But I'll mix it up as I feel it.
I’m going to throw a 10-string into the mix. I have a Michael Kelly Koa Forte 10. This is basically a 12 string except the low E & A strings do not have the octave strings. It still has the 12 string sparkle but allows you to do some bass runs with a bit more contrast. Koa top with I’m guessing laminated Koa back & sides. Offset sound hole with a player port in the side. Pickup with built in tuner. The playability is very good & the price is a very reasonable $449 (Sam Ash Music price). The only shortcoming is no case or gig bag comes with it. I had a Martin dreadnought gig bag which fit it acceptably.
12-fret 12 strings has just a little more tension than a 12 string 14-FREt. I have a Taylor 9-string: low and high E and A are singles. It's easier to keep in tune and allows for great bass runs. Martin 12 -string 14:23 can be slab or slotted head here in 2023. It allows me to play some of those songs that used a 6 and 12 strings with 1 guitar if you're playing solo. Thanks, Andy
A couple if years ago I picked up a Guild D1212..... all solid African mahogany... awesome guitar for just under $800 at Sweetwater... has that nice chimey sound, great resonance and sustain... I invested in a hardshell case as it comes with a gig bag.... still, great guitar at a great price!!!
I also own a Guild D1212 purchased from Sweetwater. I was fortunate and bought it at a close out price. I love this 12 string. The playability is very easy and it has a mellow 12 string sound that I attribute to the all mahogany construction. Even at the regular price, I feel that this guitar is well worth the money. The neck on this guitar is incredible, but I tend to like the way a Guild neck feels in my hands.
I have a Taylor 250ce dlx in black. It is spruce top with maple back and sides! I luv this guitar!!!! It has sound that abounds! Everything I wanted and expected!
I own a walnut Seagull 12 string. I love it! It has a cedar top. I used to own a Washburn 12, but I sold it. Action got really high. I had a cheap Vangoa 12 for a while. $200 retail, but you could tell it was a cheapo. Plywood top, and it got really wavy under tension. Sold it for $100.
I bought a broken DX12 Martin. Someone left in the car and it pulled the top off. I built a Sitka/EIR back and sides Martin J style body on it. It is phenomenal! I have built 5 acoustics. I thought about building a nicer neck but the stratabond neck is super strong even though it adds to the weight.
I love my Takamine EF381 sc. sounds fantastic 🤷🏻♂️ Thank you so much for this video. Some great guitars shown here. I appreciate all your videos on this channel.😊
I’m surprised Maton didn’t get a mention. Sure they can be at the slightly higher end of the market but my SRS70c 12 string has an awesome sound. You should check them out
I picked up a 1969 Martin D12-20 for my birthday last year. This guitar has unbelievable tone (sounds like a grand piano). It you don't mind a used guitar, you can really save some cash (my D12-20 was
The seagull is the modt solid demonstration of the difference between a bright top wood and a full top wood. Glad to see a larivee on the list. Sort of sad not to see a breedlove, gibson, Epiphone, or Emerald on your list, bit i understand you cant put them all on your. Great call on the yamaha btw!
I own one.....very responsive guitar....in fact it sounds it's best played gently...and....sounds even better after new strings are somewhat. It's just fantastic. Also ask any guitar tech or Luther how many Yamaha acoustics come through his shop.....few if any, they are just that well made.
I have the Recording King RDS-9-12-TS and for the the money is amazing coming with a solid Sitka Spruce top with laminate back and sides. A great value in every sense and comes in at about 300.00.
I have a Washburn D28-12 that I think was built as a Martin D-28 knock-off. It looks just like the one in the video same darker colored top, and rosette pattern. Solid spruce top and rosewood back/sides and scalloped bracing. Very playable with great sound! I think I paid $600 in the early 1990s.
I had one of those, at the same time. I sold it when I had a six string Takamine. Last year I bought the first used 12 string I saw at the local dealer for a recording. It was an Ovation. I´m satisfied. The Washburn was louder and had a very different sound.
100% spot-on naming the Yamaha! Respect for your non-biased observation. For decades, Yamaha 12-strings have shown up in the hands of iconic artists playing iconic songs. For years, Brett Michaels rocked one playing Every Rose live. Certainly he had his choice of the best. They have reliable balanced tone, ease of play, and the stock electronics are big enough for the big stage. The same goes for Yamaha six-strings with solid spruce tops and rosewood back and sides. A $700 Yamaha has 90% of the heart of a $3000 Gibson, Martin, or Guild. Bravo! To prove my point: ua-cam.com/video/9sONpvegf3Q/v-deo.html
Started out with 12 string guitars back in late 69 or early 70 with an EKO Ranger XII Dread. Was my only acoustic guitar back then, was cheap, built like a tank, had a '0' fret, and I had so much fun with that guitar. Currently have a Taylor 355 spruce over sapele 12 string Jumbo, a Taylor 458e-R spruce over rosewood 12 string Grand Orchestra, and a Guild 2512 spruce over laminated maple archback 12 string Jumbo. Almost got a Taylor 552ce cedar over mahogany Grand Concert 12 fret 12 string, but at the time I couldn't pass up a chance to get the 458 Grand Orchestra. Which was featured in my guitarsenal a couple years ago along with my spruce over rosewood Gibson J-200 six string Jumbo. Always love me some 12 string. If I had to choose a favorite 12 string, it would be the Taylor 458 Grand Orchestra, a Jumboesque size beast with a monster sound to match. But actually I love 'em all.
I have an old 1970 Martin D12-20 small body BIG sound but without a truss rod I have significant bowing. So if I want it to play great again I gotta shell out the bucks to fix the neck. 😞 What do you think of the MacKenzie & Marr's Algonquin 12?
I own four 12-string guitars. Two of them are Taylors, and I agree that they are the most playable 12-strings. Fantastic guitars. I have a Guild F512. I agree with @williamw.osborn2471 in that it is one of the absolute best 12-strings on the market for all of the reasons he mentioned: "The projection, tone and balance from this jumbo are incredible. The guitar is also beautiful esthetically." My fourth 12-string is a sleeper. Think about how in general Ovation gets incredible tones out of a plastic bowl with a great top. Martin makes something similar as a 12-string. Mine is a D12X1AE and the newer version is the D-X2E. They have what Martin calls HPL back and sides. High Pressure Laminate. It is wood sawdust and resin mixed together and molded into shape. Basically plastic. Martin puts a good quality spruce top on these and they sound incredible for the price. Think Martin version of an Ovation. I am writing this in April of 2024 and Sweetwater sells the D-X2E for $649. I think this one sounds better than some of the guitars on Tony's list.
Had an Art and Luthier Canada made 12 string that was nice but didn’t break the bank. However my current 12 string is a custom bear claw (cat claw) Sitka top with Koa back and sides. My Sweet Leo was made by a local luthier (Bittersweet Guitars) that was taken by Covid. The inlays are a lion head on the headstock and paws for fret markers with cat eyes at the 12th. I am a Leo ♌️ hence my Sweet Leo.
Great show Tony. Keep the encouragement of thinking positive coming. I struggled with the lick but then realized that because of the lick today I got better at yesterdays technique lesson. See we can show small wins.
I saw one video that said when plucking a string 12 string guitar that you should always pluck downwards and I know that you were plucking some strings upwards. Of course I don’t mean strumming I mean, plucking.
thinking of another 12 to tune Nashville, Have a 1972 guild 212 and a rick 360 12 but want another sound to stack in the mix. concert or grand concert might just build one with a 24" scale
I’d love to hear your opinion of 2 12s I’ve been looking at the first is a a Matons SRS70C12 from Tasmania and if you can find it a David Benavides 12 it’s pricey but the tone is mind blowing would love to know your thoughts
I am surprised that the guitar I waited on to be built was not covered. I had played a few 12 string’s through the years and was intrigued but never dove in and stayed with 6 string cutaways for 30 years. One day, I caught Brian May on the tube solo ,sitting on a stool. In his hand was a Guild F512. As he played, I realized I was hearing the best sounding 12 string I had ever heard. I contacted a friend in the music world and asked “can you find me one of these”? The answer was “NO but we can order one from the factory in Connecticut”. I ordered one and have never looked back. The projection, tone and balance from this jumbo are incredible. The guitar is also beautiful esthetically. I now and have had for 12 years, that piece of my sound puzzle filled superbly. Not another 12 string guitar can sound and play as well as the F512 in my opinion. This is the holy grail of 12 strings.
So … this episode planted a tiny seed. It took a year to sprout. And only recently, I started looking on Reverb and found the 12 string market overflowing with goodness. Most for a reasonable price. I ended up with a ‘93 Taylor 555 (jumbo/spruce/mahogany) for $1250 and, as you say, I’m smitten. Such gorgeous tight grained tonewoods, abalone rosette, classy inlays, a classy tortoiseshell binding, and a rich harmonic voice. A well earned thanks. And listening to this episode again … I’m struck by how much I miss our Tuesday morning cup of coffee together. Cheers.
Nice find
Hi, I'm glad to see the Yamaha guitar got first place as they are often over looked, but you should check out the Yamaha LL16-12 ARE - the specs are
Original Jumbo Type Body
Solid Engelmann Spruce Top with A.R.E.
Solid Rosewood Back & Side
High Comfort Traditional Neck Profile, 5 ply Neck.
Passive System + SRT Piezo Pickup, that you plug into the end pin without any controls cut into the side of the guitar giving you a more traditional and aesthetic look.
Hard Bag Included, these are good cases as well.These guitars are really great for someone who doesn't want to spend too much on a 12 string as it's not going to be their main guitar but wants a quality instrument. I got mine for $900 AU and I'm very happy with it. And since I bought it I have found a wealth of songs that are played on a 12 string and I add them to my list of acoustic songs to learn. These guitars look and play beautifully. I liked mine so much I bought two other guitars in the series a LL16D ARE with abalone inlay and LS16 ARE.
Martin also makes an affordable alternate to the D-28-12. The DX2e-12. I picked one up last October. Only $600 and it comes with a pickup system installed. Plays and sounds very good. A great value at that price point.
I own 4 12-String guitars. My top two are Alvarez AD60S 12-String and the Takamine GJ72CE 12-String. The Takamine sounds great and looks great and is in the $600-$700 price range.
I asked a few times about featuring 12 string guitars on your show. Thanks Tony! I have a 1978 Taylor 855 12 string. It's the best sounding 12 string I ever played. I also have a Martin Grand J12-16GTE. Solid Sitka top and mahogany back and sides. The Fishman Matrix VT Enhance NT2 pickup sound is absolutely amazing. They also make a rosewood version. A Grand J12-16E with the same pickup. Both have scalloped bracing. Price is $2.199.00. Great values at a decent price. I tune my Taylor to standard. I tune the Martin down a step. Good 12 string guitars are built to stand the extra tension. Even tuned to standard. Thanks again...Jim
The very best 12 string guitars I can absolutely say with years of trying every 12 string I’ve played… is the Takamine guitars😊 ..!!! No other 12 string has ever come close to the stunning sounds that comes out of these guitars…..!!!
Agree. Plugged and unplugged, they are so good and an absolute must for those shopping for a 12.
Have you played a Maton?
@@wyattoutlaw2370 No. Played a Furch 6 and it was amazing quality, as good if not better than Martin.
Have you tried the guilds before?
You ain't a kiddin' brother. Takamine has always been heralded as not only among the very finest 12 string acoustic guitars, but just like their 6 string cousins, they are true workhorses........built for the long haul. For anyone who doesn't know.....or worse, doesn't believe Takamine's are among the best 12 string acoustics, consider the following fact: the legendary 1976/77 hit song by the Eagles "Hotel California". Don Felder wrote the vast majority of the song and used a Takamine 400-S 12 string to record that iconic main guitar part that also opens the song. However, this was quite some time before Takamine INVENTED the under-saddle palathetic ( piezo ) pick up system, so Felder used a DeArmond pickup as well as mic'd the guitar. The mic'd part was used in the center of the studio mix, as the DeArmond pickup's signal was ran through a Leslie and other effects to get that beautiful sound we all hear in the studio version of Hotel California. ALSO: for those who don't know, of the countless artists who have, or are, using Takamine acoustic guitars on tour, NOT ONE OF THEM HAVE EVER BEEN "SPONSORED" BY TAKAMINE.........EVERY SINGLE ARTIST WHO PLAYED OR PLAYS A TAKAMINE, DID SO BY CHOICE, AND EVERY FAMOUS ARTIST PAID FOR THEIR TAKAMINE. But there's more: Sound engineers who are paid to run the sound system in the biggest venues such as stadiums & auditoriums LOVE working with the Takamine acoustic guitar pickup systems, because of the high volume needed, yet the feedback is very easy to tame & eliminate. Like I stated earlier: Takamine acoustic guitars have long been the choice for true workhorse guitars. I used to own & gig with 3 different Japanese Takamine acoustics all over east/central Florida, for many years. They never let me down.
I’ve compared 12 strings for years owning a few. But finally found the best; the Martin 28-12.,Nothing compares. I now own the 6 string model and 12 string model of the D28.
Takamine GJ72CE-12, great playability, sound, look and price. Can't go wrong!
There are actually 2 more offerings from Martin worth considering, 1st but not the least at $599.00 is the D-x2E 12 string, And 2nd, the other at while not cheap ,but more affordable than the HD-28 is the Grand J-16E 12 string at $2199.00. It solid wood with Sitka Spruce with East Indian Rosewood. Thank you for a wonderful and informative show! Been watching since show # 1
I just bought a used Takamine acoustic electric in a pawnshop (made in china) for $200 ,then had new strings put on it and it sounds BEAUTIFUL ! I can’t put it down.the guy at my little music shop said I got a bargain way worth it and I just started learning guitar recently..
Guild F2512E, Deluxe....Beautiful looking, fantastic sounding jumbo 12-string...$649....Absolutely great guitar! Well beyond its price-point in sound, looks, quality of build.....'nuff said...
I agree. Got mine last year. It’s hard to put down.
I just bought the f2512ce it sounds great right out of the box but i defiantly need to have a setup done on it. got it on sale for 450. was back up to 700 the next day. Highly recommend it though.
@@stevenberger1926 I bought that guitar 2 months ago. Can't believe how it enhances my sound so much!
My 76 year old friend brought over one of his guitars and now I'm in trouble as now I want one, it's a 1970's lawsuit era Takamine 12 string all Mahogany, it makes the new strings on my six string sound like they're dead, the richness and fullness of the tone is insane, so now I'm on the hunt for something used that I can afford and know is good quality, most likely going to be something from the Godin line, Norman, Art & Lutherie or possibly a Seagull. Just finished investing in a new Squire Metallic Ruby Red 40th Anniversary Gold Edition Stratocaster. Got it for a hundred and ten bucks off and a gig bag for half price so came in just under 700 Canadian.
Rosewood/sitka only for 12's. Martin D 12-28 the benchmark. Grand piano tone, perfect balance, sustain. Sounds like an orchestra, worth every penny. Get one, play it, keep it forever.
WoW can’t believe you didn’t have a Takamine on your list they are an awesome sounding 12 string. Like the Takamine G Series GD30CE-12 budget guitar but huge sound.
My 2 , 12 strings are Taylors i bought used, but I absolutely agree with you , Takamines are awesome 12vers
I have a Martin HD 12-28. Worth every penny. The first time I ran my fingers across the string was an epiphany. I never, ever heard a sound like that before and I have been playing since 1975. Thanks for featuring 12s great video.
I think this is my next buy whenever I get a better paying job. Bought a regular HD-28 last year and it really is one of the best on the market. Been playing about 20 years, too. It frustrates me how there's not nearly as many reviews on top tier 12 stringers out there. You usually get recommendations for crap epiphones, yamahas, fenders etc.
I don’t think you will ever regret it. I play for residents at a nursing home (we sing hymns and they love it) and the last time I was there, after strumming the last chord, it just kept singing. So very amazing. I waited 40 years for mine. Worth the wait.
Been playing my Takamine F385 daily for over 40 years and still plays like day I bought it! I've played many 12 strings over the years and I wouldn't trade it for any other 12 string out there. Did enjoy your comparison though.
I have an old Takamine EN20-12....sounds awesome, stays in tune, plays like butter, perfect action. It's a keeper!
Tony, I have been working away on the TAC daily challenges, and am really loving watching my skills improve little by little, so thanks for that! I read a quote yesterday that was attributed to Kurt Vonnegut telling a story about chatting with someone in his youth, just getting to know each other, and the archeologist said to him "I dont think that being good at things is the point of doing them. I think you've got all these wonderful experiences with different skills, and that all teaches you things and makes you an interesting person, no matter how well you do them". That really made me think of my guitar journey, and a one of the quotes you read today about there always being someone better. This really made me think about why I joined the TAC family, and how playing the guitar, for me, isnt about being able to play on stage with any of the greats, or even to be able to play every song perfectly, but its about connecting with friends and family, and its about having a great time learning something new. Thanks so much for keeping me inspired and connected!
I gigged for quite a few years with a Martin X-Series twelve string. A very full, "jangly" tone, but with plenty of low end and pretty playable. A new one runs about 600 bucks, and it's made in Mexico under relatively decent working conditions. The trouble with so many inexpensive instruments these days is that they're made under far more questionable working conditions in China and Indonesia.
*Affordability:*
*Yamaha FG-820S-12*
*Mid-range Premium:*
*Yamaha LL6 A.R.E 12-string*
*or*
*Takamine GD30CE-12*
*or*
*Guild f-2512ce 12-string*
*Higher End Affordable:*
*Yamaha LL16 A.R.E 12-string*
*High End:*
*Taylor*
*Larrivee*
*Martin*
*Gibson*
*But you most likely won't feel the price is justified for the (up to) 20% difference in sound quality.*
I don't know if you are familiar with the Gallagher guitars, but I found a twelve string a few months ago at my local pawn shop and it is absolutely amazing..it is a solid Indian rose wood back and sides and solid spruce top and I am blessed to own something this beautiful..
There are many out there, but I can appreciate your list Tony. Guild’s 2512e is another very solid value! Thanks much
I acquired a pristine 1969 Harmony (Sears) S1227 12 string with a hard case from GC for $235, a neck reset/setup from a local luthier, for $165, for a total of $400. Really enjoying the guitar in open G and am exploring some John Fahey/Elizabeth Cotten songs.
I have both Seagulls. I prefer them over my Taylor 355e and my Martin D28-12. Bob Godin knows how to make a quality guitar and at a fantastic price point.
899bucks for Taylor's PLYWOOD back and sides guitar?
Hey Tony and everyone else!
I love the sound of twelve string guitars, but they seem pretty intimidating to play even after two solid years of learning to play guitar under my belt. Six strings are a challenge, but double the strings under each finger seems like asking your fingers to get tangled in a spider’s web! Is it as difficult as I’m imagining? I’d love to know how the experience of playing twelve strings compares with the more familiar six strings.
I also have these specific questions: Where does one begin with attempting to play a twelver? What type of songs would you recommend starting with? What type of exercises would you suggest to get used to having so many strings under your fingers and doing skills like hammer ons, pull offs, vibrato, etc.?
By the way, for those interested in getting the sound of a twelve string on their six string, I suggest playing “She Talks to Angels” by The Black Crowes. People always assume that the original song was played with a twelve string. In fact, the original song has always been played by Chris Robinson with a six string in Open E tuning (E-B-E-G#-B-E), both in the recording and live performances. “She Talks to Angels” is great for beginner and intermediate level players to experiment with an open tuning because it’s very easy to strum along to, and as your guitar skills advance, you can then incorporate all of the embellishments like the opening riff - plus, there easy to play harmonics too! Using open tunings like Open E is great way to get a taste of that jangly 12-string tone without owning the real deal.
Thanks again for another great episode, Tony!
Vibrato, not so much. Hammer on's & pull offs sure thing. It's not like extra strings just wider strings on your finger tips. Getting the best out of it is really about the right hand - jangle those octaves.
I had a Taylor 362ce for a while. It was the first 12 string I owned that was a pleasure to play. I also had a Guild D-15 12 string that was built like a tank and weighed like one. It sounded great, looked cool (with the Cherry finish) and was hell on my aching back.
I bought the Gretsch White Falcon 12-String acoustic. It's a show stopper of a guitar.
My first guitar I ever owned, brought new in 1969 is an Eko Ranger 12. I worked three paper rounds to pay my Dad back as he was paying the HP for me! I was too young! I still have this guitar and I still love and use it! What more can I say!
Fantastic comment, fantastic guitar!
What an awesome story, its great you still have your lifelong friend, and your dads a huge part of the story 😊
Hey dude , I bought a Guild F2512e few years ago. I dont have your knowledge on guitars but this thing is easy to play ,sounds really good to me, loud . Has arched back solid spruce top says maple sides and back sure its not solid. For the price seems hard to beat . I am bias to Guilds , have owned a D55 for twenty plus years , dont know if u ever played one , puts me in another place .. Started with Takemines which i really love. i am all self taught , i cant play like u or most acoustic players . But I love playing and can play many chords and pick notes play mostly stuff i make up. really like your site , dont have alot of time time to watch but injoy when i can . thank u Kevin
I played the F2512 as well and I think it doesnt have to shy away from the more expensive ones, it has great tone and playability.
I have the Taylor 362ce and it’s a sonic cannon. So easy to play. The other 12-string I have is the D’Angelico Fulton. I’d put that one at the top of my “best affordable 12-strings” list. It plays every bit as well as the Taylor and stays in tune like no other. At $499 it’s a steal.
It’s always refreshing to see someone with a lot of influence who’s really digs Larrivee. They really should own more of the acoustic market.
Great sounding 12 string 10/10
Morgan Monroe used to make a nice 12 string mini that they discontinued. Are there any smaller 12 string guitars out there worth getting?
I have an older Martin D28-12, it is the sweetest sounding and playing instrument I have. It is as easy to play as my Martin D28 but with sustain forever.
I have the Martin D28-12 as well. Best sounding 12 string by far!
@@jeffcollins1172 It is very easy to play, and the sustain is unreal.
That would be lovely, except for the fact id have to take on a second mortgage to get one haha
@@theproblemmustbeinyourpant5910 You can find them all over Craigslist, ESP in central Pa.
@@dapoppa2256 Might be a bit trickier for me in the UK. Second hand from a caring owner is indeed the way to go.
Ive owned a few over the 50+ yrs. From Fender to MARTIN . I recently purchased a brand new Martin, J16E 12 Is a Jumbo but with a comfortable body width .Sitka spruce top Indian rosewood back & sides Ebony fingerboard bridge & sealed machine head tuning stability. I did buy a Taylor 150e that did sound awesome. The 1 day I owned it . I knew that I should have had a Martin in my HANDS... $2099 with case. Thanks & keep up the good work bro !
We've got the jingle and the jangle - glad to have made your list, Tony!
A torrified top would ice the cake.
Please do an item on guitars that have been stolen at airports. Five Watt World has done an excellent series of vids on immortal axemen and their guitars. One thing emerges: Clapton, Page, Gilmore, Hendrix, Lennon and McCartney (to name but a few) have all had guitars stolen at the height of their fame. Guitars are small, light, portable, valuable. Did the guitars ever re-surface or are they all lost forever? How do we protect our treasured GS Minis?
T F Morris B60
1980.
If you can find one.
Mind blowing.
😊🎸
Takamine make some really fine 12 strings
Like you, Tony, I started out on a Yamaha 12-string (FG-260) back in 1972. I now play a Taylor 362ce, which sounds fantastic.
For me nothing beats Guild when it comes to 12 string guitars.
#smallwin #nextstep #neverstoplearning #Tonyhelpme Just finished a 12 week deep dive on the pentatonic minor scale from f to e (first fret to 12th fret) Next up another 12 week deep dive into the Pentatonic Major scale. Finished and caught up on all 236 episodes of acoustic tuesday so I'm fully up to date. Tony, please take the grenade for me on this: My wife wonders why I must have acoustic tuesday podcast playing while doing my scales. She thinks I'm crazy, I say it's just enough to keep me focused. 4 hours of scales wears thin and the podcast helps me to pay attention to what I'm doing.
I snagged a used Samick LW-015-12 twelve string acoustic guitar with a decent Alverez hard case for around $80! About a year ago and LOVE IT!
Yamaha APX700II 12nt is one that's missing from this list. Under $1000 CAd, and great electronics, and a comfortable parlor sized body. Very stage and busking ready.
Thanks, great info. I'm researching for a first 12-string, so it's really good to know there are quality entry level options below $500. Any opinion on the Alvarez AJ80CE-12?
I have a Martin D12-20 (1979). I know, they don't make them anymore but they are unbelievable. 12 frets to the body gives an unbelievable sound and if you want to play some Leadbelly those bass boogie woogie runs are killer on a 12 fretter - big, big sound. They're not so pricey so if you see one 2nd hand jump on it.
You TOTALLY forgot, or did not include my Takamine 12!! It's fantastic!! Love you Tony. LOVE your show man!! New to your site...playing catch-up now! Every episode I've seen so far has been awesome!! Keep up the great work my new friend!
I think that's what Don Felder used for the Hotel California intro.
Top 10 lists are fun, and this was a good one. I own a Guild 1512, and a 1212 (all mahogany). Both are amazing. I had to sell my Yamaha. Sounded ok, but the nut is ridiculously narrow for a 12.
Love my Taylors, Guild,and 12-20 Martin,but honorable mention are 60's Fender Villager, Alvarez, and USA Ovation Legend,and Balladeer
12'ers!
PS: I agree with you on the Seagulls.
I have a 80's ,12'er cedar top, but
the SM 12 spruce top really rings out !💍
Okay, so I looked at the list of featured 12 strings and went: "whaat?? the Eastman AC 330 not in this list?" All solid handcrafted jumbo for 1100 dollars...
So I was pleasantly surprised to see it actually IS in your review.
I received mine 2 days ago, the sound is awesome indeed.
I will switch to 011-47 elixir strings though, for better playability and relieving the tension a bit, as the top tends to "bend" upwards over time.(not a native english speaker and not sure what it is called).
Not a huge problem because the bridge and saddle have plenty room to adjust for that, but one wants to postpone that moment (a lutiers job) as long as possible.And I feel that the elixir string quality will atone for the loss of 0.01 gauge.
I have not tried all the guitars in this list. If I had to go for playability/sound /value ,I would choose a Taylor. I played a 250 BK a while ago, and it was astonishingly easy to play.
The Yamaha was my first 12 string ever as well, I pretty much learned to play guitar on that one. Very good choice.
I just ordered a Guild F512e it sure looks beautiful, I hope it sounds and plays well too.
Hey Tony: Watching your list of 12 string Guitars and I own an Epiphone DR-212 and Love the way it plays.
I think I may have the best 12 string. I had a custom Boucher SG63-12 in private stock bigleaf maple b&s. I have been overwhelmed with how good it sounds. I just wanted to throw that out there.
Any experience on the DAgelico premier Fulton iced tea burst????? Interested in it but not sure if it's a decent guitar
How about the Inspired by Gibson Hummingbird 12 string? Looks really nice. Wish I could find one locally to try
Add: I actually learned to play on a 12-string. I was scared to death of trying to play a SIX string! Lol. When I finally did, gotta be a Martin! Have a 1972 Martin D-28... omg....
Guild F2512CE ELX 12 string Jumbo is the nicest i’ve ever heard or played. Hands down, and only $699 so it’s affordable for a high quality instrument like that.
What’s your honest opinion on the guild f2512 ce?
Seagulls are nice to play, very playable even the S6 with the wider neck.
I was pretty surprised when i played a Taylor dreadnought 12. This one was on sale at the time at Guitar Center. 2019? Anyway it was marked down 100 to 799.99 with a soft sided case, and had a satin finish. I played a couple of expensive jumbo 12 strings that day, and i honestly thought the Taylor sounded best. Maybe i'm biased though.. dreadnoughts have been the guitar i played for many years, and i do like the sound of them.
Thank you so much for the video. I always enjoy acoustic Tuesday. I’ve been playing a Taylor 562CE for about three years now and absolutely love it. The size, the sound and the playability is just perfect. Plus it’s a sweet looking guitar. Keep up the good work
Glad to see Yamaha in there. I’ve had several 12 string guitars, was never happy with them, but came across a used Yamaha CPX 700-12 (Compass series mini-jumbo) for £200. It’s a keeper. Now discontinued, but worth trying to find.
Guild F512 is king. I have two. One is a 1975 Westerly I bought new when I turned 18. The classic shimmery 12-string sound you hear on all those records, John Denver, etc. The second is a 2008 New Hartford I bought a few years ago. It is, hands down, one of the best guitars I have ever played, period.
As a poor young adult who couldn't afford multiple axes, I often played my 1975 with only 6 strings, making it in effect an F50R. I bought the 2008 thinking I'd set one up with 6 strings and the other with 12. Well, they both sound amazing but they have somewhat different tonal colorations. The 2008 is more full range; a punchy bass and more note individuation. As a 6-string, it is jaw-droppingly good. But it's also amazing as a 12. The 1975 has more of a midrange focus. Doesn't make it less of a guitar. As a 6, the 1975 is an excellent backing guitar. As a 12, those classic shimmery tones.
So, an abundance of riches. Right now, the 75 is strung with 6, the 08 with 12. But I'll mix it up as I feel it.
Tony - if you haven’t had the joy of playing, you must try the new Guild F512 Maple!
I’m going to throw a 10-string into the mix. I have a Michael Kelly Koa Forte 10. This is basically a 12 string except the low E & A strings do not have the octave strings. It still has the 12 string sparkle but allows you to do some bass runs with a bit more contrast. Koa top with I’m guessing laminated Koa back & sides. Offset sound hole with a player port in the side. Pickup with built in tuner. The playability is very good & the price is a very reasonable $449 (Sam Ash Music price). The only shortcoming is no case or gig bag comes with it. I had a Martin dreadnought gig bag which fit it acceptably.
I have been trying to get Emerald to build me a 10 string, or a 9 string like Taylor does through their custom department. Thanks for the tip!
12-fret 12 strings has just a little more tension than a 12 string 14-FREt. I have a Taylor 9-string: low and high E and A are singles. It's easier to keep in tune and allows for great bass runs. Martin 12 -string 14:23 can be slab or slotted head here in 2023. It allows me to play some of those songs that used a 6 and 12 strings with 1 guitar if you're playing solo. Thanks, Andy
A couple if years ago I picked up a Guild D1212..... all solid African mahogany... awesome guitar for just under $800 at Sweetwater... has that nice chimey sound, great resonance and sustain... I invested in a hardshell case as it comes with a gig bag.... still, great guitar at a great price!!!
Guild is building some amazing guitars that are affordably priced, certainly giving Martin a run for the money!
I also own a Guild D1212 purchased from Sweetwater. I was fortunate and bought it at a close out price. I love this 12 string. The playability is very easy and it has a mellow 12 string sound that I attribute to the all mahogany construction. Even at the regular price, I feel that this guitar is well worth the money. The neck on this guitar is incredible, but I tend to like the way a Guild neck feels in my hands.
Guild 1512 is by far the winner! Or the Epiphone hummingbird “inspired by” series. Both solid wood and under $1000
I have a Taylor 250ce dlx in black. It is spruce top with maple back and sides! I luv this guitar!!!! It has sound that abounds! Everything I wanted and expected!
This is my new favorite channel! Amazing job! I just came here to see a comparison of 12 string options and left with much more.
I own a walnut Seagull 12 string. I love it! It has a cedar top. I used to own a Washburn 12, but I sold it. Action got really high. I had a cheap Vangoa 12 for a while. $200 retail, but you could tell it was a cheapo. Plywood top, and it got really wavy under tension. Sold it for $100.
Yamahas are great values. I have a Transacoustic 6-string which I love! On-board reverb! :)
I bought a broken DX12 Martin. Someone left in the car and it pulled the top off. I built a Sitka/EIR back and sides Martin J style body on it. It is phenomenal! I have built 5 acoustics. I thought about building a nicer neck but the stratabond neck is super strong even though it adds to the weight.
I love my Takamine EF381 sc. sounds fantastic 🤷🏻♂️ Thank you so much for this video. Some great guitars shown here. I appreciate all your videos on this channel.😊
I had a Taylor 562ce, but traded it when the pandemic hit because I wasn't playing it. Thanks, Tony.
I’m surprised Maton didn’t get a mention. Sure they can be at the slightly higher end of the market but my SRS70c 12 string has an awesome sound. You should check them out
I picked up a 1969 Martin D12-20 for my birthday last year. This guitar has unbelievable tone (sounds like a grand piano). It you don't mind a used guitar, you can really save some cash (my D12-20 was
The seagull is the modt solid demonstration of the difference between a bright top wood and a full top wood. Glad to see a larivee on the list. Sort of sad not to see a breedlove, gibson, Epiphone, or Emerald on your list, bit i understand you cant put them all on your. Great call on the yamaha btw!
Would a 12 string be a good addition for someone that does mainly cowboy chords? Just looking to mix things up..
👀 I own a Yamaha 1977 12 string..and its awesome...
it jingles jangles and I got it for free...
🙂
I own one.....very responsive guitar....in fact it sounds it's best played gently...and....sounds even better after new strings are somewhat. It's just fantastic. Also ask any guitar tech or Luther how many Yamaha acoustics come through his shop.....few if any, they are just that well made.
I have the Recording King RDS-9-12-TS and for the the money is amazing coming with a solid Sitka Spruce top with laminate back and sides. A great value in every sense and comes in at about 300.00.
Thank you for posting your comments; I just purchased this guitar and am looking forward to its delivery on Tuesday!
I have a Washburn D28-12 that I think was built as a Martin D-28 knock-off. It looks just like the one in the video same darker colored top, and rosette pattern. Solid spruce top and rosewood back/sides and scalloped bracing. Very playable with great sound! I think I paid $600 in the early 1990s.
I had one of those, at the same time. I sold it when I had a six string Takamine. Last year I bought the first used 12 string I saw at the local dealer for a recording. It was an Ovation. I´m satisfied. The Washburn was louder and had a very different sound.
I have a guitar that's a 12-string that I've had for several years it's probably like your seagull but this one is a Norman I just love it
100% spot-on naming the Yamaha! Respect for your non-biased observation. For decades, Yamaha 12-strings have shown up in the hands of iconic artists playing iconic songs. For years, Brett Michaels rocked one playing Every Rose live. Certainly he had his choice of the best. They have reliable balanced tone, ease of play, and the stock electronics are big enough for the big stage. The same goes for Yamaha six-strings with solid spruce tops and rosewood back and sides. A $700 Yamaha has 90% of the heart of a $3000 Gibson, Martin, or Guild. Bravo! To prove my point: ua-cam.com/video/9sONpvegf3Q/v-deo.html
Started out with 12 string guitars back in late 69 or early 70 with an EKO Ranger XII Dread. Was my only acoustic guitar back then, was cheap, built like a tank, had a '0' fret, and I had so much fun with that guitar. Currently have a Taylor 355 spruce over sapele 12 string Jumbo, a Taylor 458e-R spruce over rosewood 12 string Grand Orchestra, and a Guild 2512 spruce over laminated maple archback 12 string Jumbo. Almost got a Taylor 552ce cedar over mahogany Grand Concert 12 fret 12 string, but at the time I couldn't pass up a chance to get the 458 Grand Orchestra. Which was featured in my guitarsenal a couple years ago along with my spruce over rosewood Gibson J-200 six string Jumbo. Always love me some 12 string. If I had to choose a favorite 12 string, it would be the Taylor 458 Grand Orchestra, a Jumboesque size beast with a monster sound to match. But actually I love 'em all.
I have an old 1970 Martin D12-20 small body BIG sound but without a truss rod I have significant bowing. So if I want it to play great again I gotta shell out the bucks to fix the neck. 😞 What do you think of the MacKenzie & Marr's Algonquin 12?
The Seagull is absolutely beautiful. Not just for the price, but the sound is top notch
I'm a big Ovation fan and recently heard a D'Angelico 12 string that sounded pretty good for small monies.
I own four 12-string guitars. Two of them are Taylors, and I agree that they are the most playable 12-strings. Fantastic guitars. I have a Guild F512. I agree with @williamw.osborn2471 in that it is one of the absolute best 12-strings on the market for all of the reasons he mentioned: "The projection, tone and balance from this jumbo are incredible. The guitar is also beautiful esthetically." My fourth 12-string is a sleeper. Think about how in general Ovation gets incredible tones out of a plastic bowl with a great top. Martin makes something similar as a 12-string. Mine is a D12X1AE and the newer version is the D-X2E. They have what Martin calls HPL back and sides. High Pressure Laminate. It is wood sawdust and resin mixed together and molded into shape. Basically plastic. Martin puts a good quality spruce top on these and they sound incredible for the price. Think Martin version of an Ovation. I am writing this in April of 2024 and Sweetwater sells the D-X2E for $649. I think this one sounds better than some of the guitars on Tony's list.
The Yamaha LL16 12 strings must sound better than the Yamaha FG820 12 strings...I think.
Framus Hootenanny! Good luck finding one though.
Hello. What can you say about Lakewood 12 string guitars?
So looking forward to the Byrds segment, I am a huge David Crosby fan!
Had an Art and Luthier Canada made 12 string that was nice but didn’t break the bank. However my current 12 string is a custom bear claw (cat claw) Sitka top with Koa back and sides. My Sweet Leo was made by a local luthier (Bittersweet Guitars) that was taken by Covid. The inlays are a lion head on the headstock and paws for fret markers with cat eyes at the 12th. I am a Leo ♌️ hence my Sweet Leo.
Great show Tony. Keep the encouragement of thinking positive coming. I struggled with the lick but then realized that because of the lick today I got better at yesterdays technique lesson. See we can show small wins.
Thanks for another great list. It got me to pull my 1968 Gibson B-25-12 down off the wall. I played it through the rest of the episode.
I saw one video that said when plucking a string 12 string guitar that you should always pluck downwards and I know that you were plucking some strings upwards. Of course I don’t mean strumming I mean, plucking.
thinking of another 12 to tune Nashville, Have a 1972 guild 212 and a rick 360 12 but want another sound to stack in the mix. concert or grand concert
might just build one with a 24" scale
I’d love to hear your opinion of 2 12s I’ve been looking at the first is a a Matons SRS70C12 from Tasmania and if you can find it a David Benavides 12 it’s pricey but the tone is mind blowing would love to know your thoughts
Taylor K68e with S2 expression in full KOA wood. Simple deep full range sparkling high end and an amazing mid as well.