Best Strings For Acoustic Electric Guitar (2024 Updated)

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As a guitarist, finding the best strings for your acoustic electric guitar is essential to achieving the perfect sound. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. However, there are several key points to consider when looking for the best strings for your guitar.

Firstly, you need to consider the material of the strings. There are various materials such as bronze, phosphor bronze, and nickel that will all produce different tones. Secondly, you should think about the gauge or thickness of the strings. This will affect the playability and tone of your guitar. Thirdly, you need to consider the coating on the strings, as this can affect the longevity of the strings. Fourthly, you should take into account the brand of the strings, as certain brands have a reputation for producing high-quality strings. Lastly, you should consider your playing style and the type of music you play, as this will affect the type of strings you need.

In summary, when looking for the best strings for your acoustic electric guitar, consider the material, gauge, coating, brand, and your playing style. By taking these factors into account, you can find the perfect strings for your guitar, which will enhance your playing experience and produce the best sound possible.

10 Best Strings For Acoustic Electric Guitar

1. Ibanez Aeg 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar (Dark Violin Sunburst)

The Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Dark Violin Sunburst is a versatile and ergonomic instrument that boasts a natural acoustic sound and easy-to-use tone control. Designed for players who want to achieve low, fat and powerful tones, this guitar is perfect for live performances and studio recordings alike.

One of the standout features of this guitar is its small and simple preamp, which has only two control knobs: volume and shape. This minimalist design allows players to easily adjust their tone on the fly without getting bogged down in complex settings or menus. Moreover, the at-a-glance tone control system offers a natural acoustic sound that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.

In terms of versatility, the Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar delivers on all fronts. Its easy-to-read onboard tuner with LCD display ensures clear readibility, so players can quickly tune their instrument and get back to playing. Additionally, the guitar's purpleheart wood produces a rich mid-range with a crisp high end that is ideal for both strumming and fingerpicking.

Overall, the Ibanez AEG 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Dark Violin Sunburst is a high-quality instrument that is perfect for musicians of all skill levels. Its ergonomic design, natural acoustic sound, and versatile tone control make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to take their playing to the next level. Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, this guitar is sure to impress.

2. Takamine Gj72ce-12nat Jumbo Cutaway 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar

The Takamine GJ72CE-12NAT Jumbo Cutaway 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a high-quality instrument that delivers the lush and robust sound that players expect from a jumbo 12-string guitar. This guitar is designed to provide great feel and playability, thanks to its solid spruce top, flame maple back and sides, slim mahogany neck, and 12"-radius bound rosewood fingerboard.

The Takamine GJ72CE-12NAT features a Taka mine TK-40D preamp system that provides built-in tuner, three-band EQ and gain controls, mid contour switch, notch filter, and EQ bypass switch for the ultimate in versatility and sound quality. This preamp system allows players to achieve a wide range of tones, from warm and mellow to bright and crisp, making it an ideal instrument for a variety of musical styles.

The guitar has an elegant Natural gloss finish that adds to its visual appeal. The jumbo cutaway body style provides a bold and powerful tone, while the 12-string configuration adds depth and richness to the sound. The guitar also features a cutaway design that allows for easy access to the upper frets, making it a great choice for players who like to play lead lines or solos.

The solid spruce top of the Takamine GJ72CE-12NAT helps to produce a bright and articulate tone, while the flame maple back and sides provide a warm and resonant sound. The slim mahogany neck and 12"-radius bound rosewood fingerboard provide a smooth and comfortable playing experience, allowing players to play for long periods without fatigue.

Overall, the Takamine GJ72CE-12NAT Jumbo Cutaway 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is an exceptional instrument that is designed to deliver top-notch performance and sound quality. Whether you are a professional musician or a beginner, this guitar is sure to exceed your expectations and provide you with years of enjoyment and satisfaction.

3. Acoustic Guitar Strings Electric Guitar Accessories Gifts T-Shirt

The Acoustic Guitar Strings Electric Guitar Accessories Gifts T-Shirt is a must-have for any guitar enthusiast. This shirt features a clever guitar graphic with the phrase, "I Might Look Like I'm Listening To You But In My Head I'm Playing My Guitar." The design is perfect for guitar lovers who can't help but be distracted by their beloved instruments.

This guitar t-shirt is a great gift for guitar players who enjoy strumming both electric and acoustic guitar strings. The design is perfect for instrumentalists who love to rock and roll and are guitar addicts. It's an ideal present for musicians looking to add guitar accessories to their guitar kits.

The shirt is made from high-quality materials and features a lightweight, classic fit. The double-needle sleeve and bottom hem ensure that the shirt will last for a long time. It's available in multiple sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for any guitar lover.

This guitar t-shirt is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual day out or a concert. It's a great way to show off your love for playing the guitar and to connect with other guitar enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Acoustic Guitar Strings Electric Guitar Accessories Gifts T-Shirt is a fantastic addition to any guitar player's wardrobe. It's a great gift for guitar lovers and a perfect way to show off your passion for playing the guitar. With its high-quality materials and classic fit, this guitar t-shirt will quickly become a favorite among guitar enthusiasts.

4. Godin Multiac Nylon Encore Acoustic Electric Classical Guitar, Natural

The Godin Multiac Nylon Encore Acoustic Electric Classical Guitar, in natural finish, is a high-quality instrument designed for professional musicians and enthusiasts alike. With its solid cedar top and two-chambered silver leaf body, this guitar produces a warm and rich sound that is perfect for classical and flamenco styles of music.

One of the standout features of the Multiac Nylon Encore is its custom Godin Dual Source System, which combines a magnetic pickup and a microphone to capture the subtle nuances of the guitar's sound. This system provides a wide range of tonal options, allowing players to achieve a variety of sounds, from crisp and bright to warm and mellow.

The guitar's mahogany neck is smooth and comfortable to play, and its 25.5-inch scale length and 1.9-inch nut make it easy to fingerpick and play complex chords. The Multiac Nylon Encore also features a rosewood fingerboard and bridge, which add to its overall aesthetic appeal and enhance its tonal qualities.

In addition to its impressive sound, the Godin Multiac Nylon Encore is also highly versatile, thanks to its ability to be played both acoustically and electrically. This makes it a great choice for musicians who need a guitar that can adapt to different performance settings, from small acoustic gigs to larger amplified shows.

Overall, the Godin Multiac Nylon Encore Acoustic Electric Classical Guitar is a top-of-the-line instrument that offers exceptional sound quality, versatility, and playability. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner looking for a high-quality classical guitar, the Multiac Nylon Encore is sure to impress.

5. Takamine G Series Gd30ce-12 Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar Black

The Takamine G Series GD30CE-12 Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar Black is a high-quality guitar that provides a rich and full sound. This guitar is designed for players who are looking for a versatile instrument that can be used for both acoustic and electric performances.

The guitar features a gloss finish that gives it a sleek and professional look. The body shape is a Dreadnought Cutaway, which is a popular design among guitarists. The cutaway allows for easier access to the higher frets, making it ideal for players who like to play solos and lead lines.

The bracing is quartersawn "X", which is a traditional design that provides a strong and balanced tone. The body back and sides are made from mahogany, which is a popular tonewood known for its warm and rich sound. This tonewood is also durable, making it ideal for a guitar that will be used regularly.

One of the standout features of this guitar is its 12-string design. This allows for a fuller and more complex sound that is perfect for playing a wide range of musical styles. The guitar also features an acoustic-electric setup, which means that it can be plugged into an amplifier or PA system for larger performances.

The Takamine G Series GD30CE-12 Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar Black is a versatile and high-quality instrument that is ideal for players of all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, this guitar provides a rich and full sound that is perfect for any musical style.

6. Yamaha L-Series Ll16 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar With Gig Bag – Natural

The Yamaha L-Series LL16 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Gig Bag in Natural is an exceptional instrument that stands out for its quality and exceptional sound. This guitar is the 12-string version of the Ll16 a.R.E.

One of the most remarkable features of this guitar is its solid Engelmann Spruce top treated with a.R.E. This treatment is an innovative process that mimics the aging process of wood, improving the guitar's sound quality and increasing its resonance. The result is a guitar that produces a rich, warm, and balanced tone, with excellent projection and sustain.

The Yamaha L-Series LL16 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar has an original jumbo body with solid rosewood back and sides, which contributes to its exceptional sound. The jumbo body provides a rich and full sound, with deep bass and clear highs, making it an ideal guitar for both strumming and fingerpicking. The solid rosewood back and sides add warmth and resonance to the guitar's sound, creating a rich and harmonious tone.

The neck of the Yamaha L-Series LL16 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is made of five-ply, which enhances its stability and durability. The neck has a high comfort traditional neck profile, making it easy to play and comfortable for extended playing sessions.

The Yamaha L-Series LL16 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is equipped with an SRT Zero impact passive pickup. This pickup system captures the guitar's natural sound and enhances it, providing a clear and pristine sound when amplified. The pickup system is designed to minimize the impact on the guitar's acoustic properties, ensuring that the guitar sounds as natural as possible when amplified.

The Yamaha L-Series LL16 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar comes with a gig bag, making it easy to transport and protect the instrument. The gig bag is made of high-quality materials, providing excellent protection against impacts, scratches, and other potential damages.

In conclusion, the Yamaha L-Series LL16 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar with Gig Bag in Natural is an outstanding instrument that offers exceptional sound quality, playability, and durability. Whether you are a beginner or a professional guitar player, this guitar will meet your expectations and exceed them.

7. Guild Bt-258e 8-String Baritone Acoustic-Electric Jumbo Guitar With Down-Tuned B-E-A-A-D-D-F#-B In Natural Finish, Westerly Collection.

Guild Guitars has introduced the BT-258E Deluxe 8-String Baritone Acoustic-Electric Jumbo Guitar as part of their Westerly Collection. This unique instrument features a deep, full-frequency baritone voice that is complemented by two octave strings for added sparkle. The guitar is designed to be tuned down five steps to B-E-a-A-d-D-F#-B, providing a melodic layering of low-end harmony that creates an enchanting, harp-like sound.

The BT-258E Deluxe is built with Guild's historically large jumbo body shape and pressed back construction, which helps to produce a rich and resonant sound. The arched rosewood back projects whole low-frequencies, while the solid spruce top ensures the high-frequency octave strings blend in gorgeously for a symphonic tone. The low end is great for playing in an ensemble or for playing standalone, making it a versatile instrument for a wide range of musical styles.

The guitar is equipped with a Fishman GT-1 pickup system, which allows for easy amplification of the instrument's unique sound. The pickup system is designed to capture the nuances of the guitar's tone and provide a clear and natural sound when plugged into an amplifier or PA system.

The BT-258E Deluxe also features deluxe appointments, including rosewood back and sides, bound neck and body, and a perfectly glossed polyurethane finish. The natural wood used in the construction of the guitar has a unique spirit and varies greatly in color richness and wood grain, meaning that the guitar shipped to the customer may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown in photographs.

Overall, the Guild Guitars BT-258E Deluxe 8-String Baritone Acoustic-Electric Jumbo Guitar is a unique and versatile instrument that offers a melodic layering of low-end harmony for enchanting, harp-like sound. With its rich, resonant tone and high-quality construction, it is a guitar that is sure to impress musicians and music lovers alike.

8. Yamaha Apx700ii-12 12-String Thinline Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Natural

The Yamaha APX700II-12 12-String Thinline Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Natural finish is a high-quality, versatile instrument that offers a perfect balance of performance, playability, and style. This guitar is designed with a thin, lightweight body that makes it comfortable to play for extended periods, while the cutaway design provides easy access to the higher frets for enhanced playability.

The top of the APX700II-12 is made from solid Spruce, which offers a bright and clear tone, while the Mahogany back and sides provide a warm, rich sound that is perfect for a range of musical styles. The guitar also features a Rosewood fingerboard and bridge, which offer a smooth, comfortable playing surface that enhances the overall playability of the instrument.

One of the standout features of the Yamaha APX700II-12 is the ART 1-way pickup system, which is designed to capture the natural sound of the guitar and deliver it with clarity and precision. This system uses a unique contact pickup that is mounted on the guitar's bridge plate, which ensures that the sound is captured with a high level of accuracy.

In addition to its excellent sound and playability, the Yamaha APX700II-12 is also a stylish instrument that is sure to turn heads. The Natural finish highlights the beautiful wood grain of the guitar, while the sleek, modern design gives it a contemporary look that is perfect for players who want a guitar that looks as good as it sounds.

Overall, the Yamaha APX700II-12 12-String Thinline Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Natural finish is a top-quality instrument that offers a perfect blend of performance, playability, and style. Whether you are a professional musician or a beginner, this guitar is sure to impress with its exceptional sound, comfortable playability, and stylish design.

9. T4a Guitar Tuner

The T4A Guitar Tuner is a versatile and reliable tool for guitar players of all levels. This tuner offers eight popular types of tunings, including Standard, Eb, D, drop-D, drop-C, Open-G, Open-C, and Open-D, making it perfect for a variety of musical styles.

One of the standout features of the T4A Guitar Tuner is its Auto-Tuning mode, which allows for hands-free tuning. This feature is particularly useful for musicians who need to tune quickly and efficiently without having to hold the tuner in place.

The T4A Guitar Tuner boasts an easy-to-use interface and a sleek and accurate display, making it simple to navigate and read. The tuner is also fast and reliable, ensuring that players can quickly and easily tune their guitars without any hassle.

To further enhance the user experience, the T4A Guitar Tuner is designed to prevent screen lock while tuning, ensuring that users can focus on tuning their instruments without any distractions. Additionally, the tuner features a battery-saving mode that automatically shuts down if inactive, helping to conserve battery life and extend the lifespan of the device.

Overall, the T4A Guitar Tuner is an excellent choice for guitar players looking for a reliable and versatile tuning tool. With its eight popular types of tunings, Auto-Tuning mode, easy-to-use interface, sleek and accurate display, fast and reliable tuning, and battery-saving features, the T4A Guitar Tuner is a must-have for any serious musician.

Best Strings For Acoustic Electric Guitar FAQs

Are there specific brands or materials that produce the best strings for acoustic electric guitars?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, some popular brands for acoustic electric guitar strings include Elixir, D'Addario, Martin, and Ernie Ball. These brands offer a variety of materials such as phosphor bronze, 80/20 bronze, and coated strings, each with their own unique tone and longevity. It is important to consider the gauge of the strings as well, as heavier gauges may produce a fuller sound but can be more difficult to play. Ultimately, the best strings for an acoustic electric guitar will depend on the player's playing style, desired tone, and budget. It is recommended to experiment with different brands and materials to find the perfect fit for your guitar.

How do different types of strings affect the sound of an acoustic electric guitar?

The type of strings used on an acoustic electric guitar can significantly impact its sound. For instance, lighter gauge strings tend to produce brighter, clearer tones, whereas heavier gauge strings tend to produce fuller, more robust tones with more sustain. Additionally, the material used to make the strings can also affect the sound. Bronze strings tend to produce more midrange and high-end frequencies, while phosphor bronze strings produce a warmer, more balanced sound. Coated strings can also be used to enhance the guitar's tone by reducing unwanted overtones and extending the life of the strings. Ultimately, the choice of strings depends on personal preference and the desired sound for the specific musical style being played.

How often should I change the strings on my acoustic electric guitar to get the best sound?

As a general guideline, it is recommended to change your acoustic electric guitar strings every 2-3 months, or after 100 hours of playing, whichever comes first. This will ensure that your guitar maintains its best sound and playability. However, the frequency of string changes can vary depending on factors such as the type and quality of strings, the climate and humidity of your location, and how often you play your guitar.

Old strings can become dull, lose their tone, and even break easily. Therefore, changing your strings regularly will not only maintain the sound quality of your guitar but also prevent any potential damage. Additionally, it is essential to clean your guitar strings after each use to prolong their lifespan and maintain their sound quality.

In summary, changing your acoustic electric guitar strings every 2-3 months or after 100 hours of playing is a good practice to maintain the sound quality of your instrument. However, the frequency of string changes can vary based on several factors, and it is crucial to clean your strings regularly to prolong their lifespan.

What are the best strings for an acoustic electric guitar?

The best strings for an acoustic electric guitar largely depend on personal preference and playing style. However, there are some popular options that are widely regarded as high-quality choices. One of the most popular brands is Elixir, which offers coated strings that last longer and produce a brighter sound. Another popular option is D'Addario, which offers a wide range of string gauges and materials to suit individual playing styles. Martin strings are also a favorite among professional musicians, known for their warm tone and long-lasting durability. Ultimately, it's important to experiment with different brands and gauges to find the best strings for your individual playing style and guitar. It's also important to regularly change strings to maintain a clear and bright sound.

What gauge of strings are best suited for acoustic electric guitars?

The gauge of strings best suited for acoustic electric guitars depends on personal preference and playing style. Lighter gauge strings (such as .010-.047) are easier to play and provide a brighter tone, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing and strumming. Medium gauge strings (such as .011-.052) have a fuller tone and are suitable for a variety of playing styles. Heavy gauge strings (such as .012-.054) provide a rich and powerful tone, making them ideal for heavy strumming and flatpicking. Thicker strings also have more tension, which can cause discomfort for some players. It’s important to choose the right gauge of strings that suits your playing style and preferences while also considering the guitar’s construction and setup. Experimenting with different gauges can help you find the perfect strings for your acoustic electric guitar.

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