Yamaha Classic Rosewood Acoustic Guitar

Last updated: June 1, 2023

Yamaha Classic Rosewood Acoustic Guitar
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We looked at the top Acoustic Guitars and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Acoustic Guitar you should buy.

Overall Take

This acoustic guitar is sure to be a winner among guitar players of every level. Its built-in tuner will make it easy for newer musicians to make great-sounding music. Its smooth frets also make a more comfortable playing experience than you'll find with competitors.

In our analysis of 73 expert reviews, the Yamaha Classic Rosewood Acoustic Guitar placed 11th when we looked at the top 20 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

Rich overtones and improved sustain thanks to the rosewood back and sides deliver improved sound through greater depth. The appearance, with abalone inlay around the sound hole, is more luxurious and an obvious step-up.

Expert Reviews


What experts liked

The best sound quality of all the top-selling acoustic guitars on our shortlist.
The sound is well-balanced, and mellow at the same time.
We’ll happily say that the FG800 offers one of the best sounds you can find on a budget acoustic. It’s very loud and very resonant, which is the benefit of a dreadnought shaped body and scalloped bracing.
There are strong sounds that come from this guitar in the mid and low-ranges for quality audio. Bracing technology keeps the top board of the FG800 guitar strong and durable. 2 different body types give you choice in what guitar you pick. Sounds are crisp and professional, as if you are playing a more expensive guitar. With a thin guitar neck, it makes it a lot easier to play for beginners. A fantastic, built-in tuner keeps your guitar in-tune, on the off chance that it goes out. Smooth frets make this an easy guitar to maneuver. This guitar makes for a fun time playing up and down the frets. There are warranties available, depending on where you buy the Yamaha FG800.
To be perfectly honest, I was surprised by the quality of the FG800's sound. It's surprisingly loud, and it's warm without being overly bright.
This guitar is suited to anyone who likes the sound of a sitka spruce top dreadnought and enjoy that size for playing. And of course anyone looking for great tone but don’t want to pay too much for it.
FG800 proves that a great acoustic guitar doesn’t necessarily have to cost an arm and a leg. Moreover, it delivers powerful and clean sound in the low to mid-ranges, on par with models that are thrice the price.

What experts didn't like

Reports of loose strap button on a few models
While being lightweight, nato is not much of a good tone wood.
On closer inspection you may find it shows a few flaws in the fit and finish – it is a mass-produced factory model after all
The electric/acoustic technology can have some bugs or issues over time. Being a large guitar, it can be too much for some musicians to play. Buzzing frets may be a problem for some guitars. A guitar case is not included with your guitar purchase in most cases.
Upon first taking this guitar out of the box, I found that the action was a little high. No cutaway, so lower fretboard access may be harder
The other thing I would change is that I would change the nut and saddle to something else like bone, Nubone, Graphtech, Corian or the likes. So again a little bit of extra cost but not too much and would turn this into a guitar that’s way above its price-tag. This guitar would be difficult to play physically and technically for a beginner.
The Yamaha steel strings (.012-.052) sit a wee bit too high on the upper frets, though they’re not too high, not even to give beginners much trouble.

Our Expert Consultant

Lewis McGehee  
Professional guitarist, songwriter and private guitar teacher

Lewis McGehee is a professional guitarist, songwriter and private guitar teacher. He began playing guitar at the age of 7, playing in bands at 11 and was signed to Lifesong Records as a singer-songwriter in his early 20s. On the strength of his live shows, he went on to perform with many national acts such as John Prine, Robert Palmer, Talking Heads, Christopher Cross, Bob Dylan and Christine McVie. He also completed a multi-city tour as an opening act for Bruce Hornsby and has been teaching private acoustic guitar lessons for over 40 years.

View our Acoustic Guitar buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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