Gear Of The Year 2017: Best Acoustic Guitar under £1,000
2017’s affordable acoustic guitars can excel at home and on stage with high-quality build, well-chosen materials and a healthy dose of old-school vibe, too…
Winner
Taylor Academy 10e
• Price £659
• Reviewed May 2017
• Contact Big Fish Studios 01206 382224 www.taylorguitars.com
Taylor has a well-earned reputation as one of the most forward-thinking acoustic brands out there, and so when the Californian company launched its offensive into the budget end of the market, it was no surprise to see Andy Powers’ innovative fingerprints all over the Academy guitars.
With a braceless arched laminate back and player-friendly armrest, the 10e has been designed to remove as many obstacles to playing enjoyment as possible for the novice guitarist – and it’s equally inviting for us non-newbies, too! Also check out the Academy Series 12e Grand Concert model.
We said “An easy-playing and fine-sounding dreadnought that sounds equally good plugged in and unplugged”.
Highly Commended
Auden Julia
• Price £999
• Reviewed October 2017
• Contact Auden Guitars 01933 391234 www.audenguitars.com
We said “Auden describes this as a ‘Bench Guitar’, and we can see why. High build standards, quality materials and tonewoods – all beautifully presented”.
Faith Blood Moon Venus
• Price £929
• Reviewed March 2017
• Contact Barnes & Mullins Ltd 01691 652449 www.faithguitars.com
We said “Good looks, easy playability, a cutaway and a decent-sounding pickup system make this a pro-grade all-round electro-acoustic at a competitive price”.
Art & Lutherie Roadhouse
• Price £399
• Reviewed November 2017
• Contact 440 Distribution 0113 4433145 www.godinguitars.com
We said “The Roadhouse is a well-built, great sounding parlour that’s as easy on the fingers as it is on the wallet”.
