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10 Best Acoustic Guitars of 2021 Under $500

Updated: Mar 26, 2021

I am Josh Levine & if you know me, you know, I LOVE GUITARS! I've played since the age of 4, owned and operated a music store for over a decade and gave guitar lessons for even more. So, in this post I am going offer my updated 2021 opinion of the 10 Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500. Plus all the links to find them with more detailed reviews from hundreds of players.

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Ibanez Acoustic Jam Pack


Coming in at #10 is The Ibanez Acoustic Jam Pack. It's really a deal you just can't beat. A setup like this for the money is ridiculous. It's about $149 delivered and it has everything. Tuner, case, strap, etc.....plus it plays and sounds nice. Can't go wrong with this setup if you are just starting out.


PLEASE NOTE: I do recommend with the lower end starter guitars, have a teacher or player take a look at the action and check for "dead frets." It just happens sometimes with the quality control on some of the instruments in the super low price points.


Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Okay #9 is the Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Set up....its Another example that comes as a kit. I was impressed with the volume of the dreadnought sized body and the one I played was setup quite well. If you’re looking for an excellent starter and value, then the Fender CD-60S is definitely worth checking out. I remember these being under $200 as well.


Takamine GD20-NS

#8 is the Takamine GD20-NS. This Guitar is a great example of the classic acoustic, but has few features not found on all of the others on the list. To me, the Extra Wide Frets, make chord transitions so much easier. Takamine is not a house hold name but should be. I think you'll be very impressed.


Washburn HD20S

#7 is the Washburn HD20S. Washburn always offers a vast array of models. Truly something for everyone. I really liked the solid spruce top this model offered. This model Washburn features a slim neck with great action too. It just felt great to play and gets high marks on my list.


Guild D-240E

#6 The Guild D-240E model features a rich sound, projection and impressive sustain, not found on many guitars in this price point. Guild has been around a long time and they know how to make a great guitar. I'd recommend this model to anyone.


And just to note, a few of the models, like the Guild and this next one, have a built in pickups but was not what I based my rankings on. I am judging their playability, sound and price point as acoustics. Back to the reviews...


Ovation CE44-1

#5 is the Ovation CE44-1. Ovation has made these for over 50 years and you can tell. This one features their patented Comfort curved back, has a great neck and excellent action. For those that might have learned on an electric and moving to an acoustic, ovations have always been a favorite.

Seagull S6 Original

#4 is the Seagull S6 Original. If you haven't heard of Seagulls, you must try one. Seagulls just do not feel or play like lower priced acoustic guitars. This model has amazing tone. And every time I play one, I want one. These guys just don't cut corners.


Yamaha FS840

Okay, next is #3 and that's the Yamaha FS840. I was impressed with the volume and tone. This model has a beautiful, solid top and flamed maple back and sides. For decades, Yamaha has made great guitars, kind of under the radar, but players know it.


Ibanez Artwood AVD9

Alright #2 was introduced to me by you, the viewers... it's the Ibanez Artwood AVD9 Guitar. I was told I had to try one and you were right. The action was excellent, a great neck but it was the sound of that top that really impressed me. They call it a Thermo Aged top, but what ever it is, I loved it.


Taylor Academy 12

And it was close to over taking my number #1 but I still have to go with the Taylor Academy 12 Acoustic Guitar. If I had $500 to just drop on an acoustic I'd grab one of these. However if guitar is new to you, you just cannot go wrong with any of the models on my list today.


So, I hope this all helps and remember, if you are thinking of buying soon, click any of the links to any of these GUITARS. You will find their player and previous buyer reviews so you can do your research.


All right? So, as I promised, I gave you my 10 Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500. Subscribe, like and place your comments below. Let me know what you think. I know you Guitarists and future pickers have opinions, as you'll see from the comments on my latest posts and videos. And remember, if you are thinking about taking up the guitar, and want so more advice, just shoot me an email. I'd love to help if I can. Feel free to hit me up. Because, I am a guitarist, and there for have opinions!


Until next time....


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LINKS TO THE GUITARS IN THE VIDEO -

10 Ibanez Jam Pack $149.00 https://amzn.to/38vd7DP

9 Fender CD-60S $199.00 https://amzn.to/3q9KnGF

8 Takamine GD20-NS $329.00 https://amzn.to/2K7xk9u

7 Washburn HD20S $299.00 https://amzn.to/39k95NO

6 Guild D-240E $399.00 https://amzn.to/2Le4xRi

4 Seagull S6 $499.00 https://amzn.to/2XxiGeA

3 Yamaha FS840 $429.00 https://amzn.to/2XxKFLb

2 Ibanez Artwood AVD9$449.00 https://amzn.to/2LGILoO

1 Taylor Academy 12 $499.00 https://amzn.to/2K3dyvF

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All my best !

Josh


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