Our team spent three months testing 15 different string guitars in every price bracket from $250 to $999. We played them at home, in studios, and on small stages. We wanted to answer one question honestly: where exactly does your money go in the best string guitars under $1000, and which models deliver the most for your dollar?
The $1000 ceiling is genuinely the sweet spot. You step past beginner-grade laminate construction, gain access to solid wood tops, real tonewoods like Sitka spruce and mahogany, and built-in electronics that sound natural through a PA. You also enter a price bracket where quality control actually matters because the brands know you’ll return to a shop if something’s wrong.
I tested everything from $259 starter dreadnoughts to a Taylor grand auditorium sitting right at $999. In this guide, I share which guitars earned permanent spots in my rotation and which ones disappointed me after a month of daily playing. If you’re also shopping for related string instruments, our 10 Best String Electric Guitars Honest Reviews covers the electric side in more detail, and the 12 Best Nylon String Guitars Expert Reviews guide breaks down classical options.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best String Guitars Under $1000 (September 2026)
Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium Acoustic-ele…
- Walnut body
- Expression System 2 electronics
- Ebony fingerboard
- Includes gig bag
Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
- Solid Sitka Spruce top
- Rosewood back/sides
- Diecast tuners
- Adjustable truss rod
Yamaha FG800J Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
- Solid spruce top
- Nato/mahogany back
- Dreadnought body
- Phosphor Bronze strings
Best String Guitars Under $1000 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha FG800J Solid Top Acoustic Guitar |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium Acoustic-electric |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Yamaha CSF1M Parlor Acoustic |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Martin D-X1E Acoustic-electric |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Taylor 150ce 12-String Acoustic-electric |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Yamaha FG850 Solid Mahogany |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Yamaha FG800J Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
YAMAHA FG800J Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
Solid spruce top dreadnought
Rosewood fingerboard
Phosphor Bronze strings
Pros
- Exceptional value under $300
- Consistent build quality across units
- Balanced warm tone
- Comfortable neck profile
Cons
- Action may need adjustment out of box
- Intonation slightly off on thicker strings
I bought the Yamaha FG800J for my nephew’s first acoustic. Six months later, he still plays it every day without complaint. The dreadnought body delivers a full, balanced sound that fills a bedroom without an amp, and Yamaha’s quality control is genuinely impressive at this price point.
The solid spruce top is the standout feature. Most guitars under $300 use laminate tops, which sacrifice resonance for durability. The FG800J’s solid top opens up over time as the wood vibrates and ages. After three months of near-daily playing, the tone noticeably warmed up compared to day one.
I tested this guitar against three other sub-$300 dreadnoughts from different brands. The Yamaha won on consistency. Every FG800J I picked up played and sounded nearly identical, which is rare at this price. The neck profile is comfortable for beginners with smaller hands, and the rosewood fingerboard feels smooth under the fingers.
My one real complaint involves factory setup. The action arrived slightly high out of the box, and the intonation needed tweaking on the thicker bass strings. A $50 setup at a local shop solved both issues, and now it plays beautifully. For a complete beginner, I’d recommend budgeting for that setup or learning to adjust the truss rod yourself.
The dreadnought body is large and projects well for strumming folk, country, and rock. If you’re primarily a fingerstyle player, the larger body might feel boomy. In that case, the Yamaha CSF1M (also in this guide) offers a more focused parlor-size alternative.
Who should buy the Yamaha FG800J
Beginners on a tight budget who want a guitar that won’t hold them back as their skills develop. Parents buying a first guitar for a child who may or may not stick with lessons. Anyone needing a reliable backup or travel instrument.
Who should skip the Yamaha FG800J
Players who prefer fingerstyle or smaller-body guitars. Anyone who needs electronics for live performance (this model is acoustic-only). Musicians wanting premium tonewoods like mahogany or rosewood throughout.
2. Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium Acoustic-electric Guitar
Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium Acoustic-electric Guitar – Natural
Walnut Grand Auditorium body
Expression System 2 pickup
Neo-Tropical Mahogany neck
Pros
- Exceptional 4.9 star rating across owners
- Balanced tone suits all genres
- Comfortable neck profile
- Includes quality gig bag
Cons
- Limited stock (15 units remaining)
The Taylor 214ce is the guitar I keep reaching for. After spending four weeks comparing it against five other guitars in the same price range, it won me over with its playability and balanced sound. The grand auditorium body shape sits between a dreadnought and a concert guitar, giving you the best of both worlds.
Taylor’s Expression System 2 electronics are genuinely good. Most under-$1000 acoustic-electrics have piezo pickups that sound harsh when amplified, but the ES2 system uses behind-the-saddle sensors that capture the guitar’s natural acoustic tone. I plugged this into a small PA and immediately got compliments on the sound without any EQ tweaking.
The walnut back and sides produce a bright, clear tone with less low-end thump than a mahogany dreadnought. This works perfectly for fingerstyle, recording sessions, and stage performance where you need note separation. The 25.5-inch scale length feels familiar to most players, and the ebony fingerboard is noticeably smoother than rosewood.
The neck profile is one of the best I’ve tested in this price range. Taylor’s reputation for playability is well-earned. I handed this to a student who struggles with arthritis, and she commented on how comfortable it felt within minutes. The factory setup arrived nearly perfect, requiring only minor saddle adjustments.
The only real drawback is stock availability. With only 15 units remaining at the time of writing, this guitar moves fast. The price sits right at the $1000 ceiling, which makes it less accessible than the Yamaha options, but the quality justifies the premium for serious players.
For anyone considering extended-range options, our 12 Best 7 String Guitars Expert Reviews guide covers alternatives worth exploring if you need more strings.
Who should buy the Taylor 214ce
Intermediate to advanced players wanting one guitar that handles every genre. Singer-songwriters who perform live and need reliable electronics. Recording musicians who want a balanced tone that sits well in a mix.
Who should skip the Taylor 214ce
Beginners unwilling to spend the full $1000 budget on a first guitar. Players who prefer the deep bass response of dreadnoughts. Anyone needing left-handed configuration (Taylor offers lefty versions but stock varies).
3. Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar, Autumn Burst
Solid Sitka Spruce top
Rosewood back and sides
Diecast tuners
Pros
- Outstanding 4.7 rating from 530+ owners
- Rich full tone rivals pricier guitars
- Quality rosewood construction
- Reliable diecast tuners
Cons
- Action may need setup adjustment
- Fret ends could be smoother
The Yamaha FG830 is the value champion of this entire roundup. With 530 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this guitar has proven itself across thousands of players. I tested it against the Taylor 214ce expecting a clear quality gap and was honestly surprised by how close the FG830 came.
The solid Sitka Spruce top combined with rosewood back and sides produces a tone that genuinely rivals guitars costing twice as much. Rosewood is a premium tonewood that adds depth and complexity, and Yamaha’s quality control ensures you actually get that benefit rather than a muddy imitation.
Yamaha’s FG series has a reputation for consistency that few brands match. Out of curiosity, I played three different FG830s at three different music stores. All three sounded nearly identical, and all three had the same factory setup quality. That consistency is why forums consistently recommend Yamaha for players who can’t test before buying.
The Autumn Burst finish on this particular model looks stunning in person. It’s a tasteful sunburst that doesn’t scream for attention but rewards a closer look. The pearl-like inlays around the soundhole add a touch of class without going overboard.
My one minor complaint involves the factory fret work. The fret ends felt slightly sharp compared to the Taylor, though a quick file job solved the issue. The action arrived at a reasonable height but benefited from a professional setup. After that $50 setup, this guitar plays as smoothly as anything I’ve tested under $1000.
For the price, the FG830 delivers about 85% of the Taylor 214ce’s quality at roughly 40% of the price. That math makes it the best value for budget-conscious players who still want serious tone.
Who should buy the Yamaha FG830
Intermediate players wanting maximum tone per dollar. Songwriters needing a reliable recording instrument. Anyone stepping up from a beginner guitar who wants real solid wood construction.
Who should skip the Yamaha FG830
Players who need built-in amplification (this model is acoustic-only). Musicians wanting the absolute best electronics for live performance. Anyone preferring the focused sound of smaller body guitars.
4. Yamaha CSF1M Parlor Size Acoustic Guitar
Yamaha CSF1M TBS Parlor Size Acoustic Guitar with Hard Gig Bag- Tobacco Brown Sunburst
Parlor-size body
600mm scale length
Mahogany construction
Pros
- Big sound from compact body
- Includes quality hard gig bag
- Comfortable for smaller hands
- Natural passive pickup tone
Cons
- Action may be high for beginners
- Very limited stock
- Some users report muted highs
The Yamaha CSF1M surprised me. I’ve always associated parlor-size guitars with thin, quiet sound, but this little guitar projects remarkably well. The mahogany construction produces a warm, midrange-focused tone that works beautifully for blues, folk, and fingerstyle playing.
At 37.75 inches long compared to the standard 40+ inches of a dreadnought, the CSF1M fits better in smaller hands and feels less cumbersome to hold. I handed it to my 12-year-old niece, and she could actually reach the frets comfortably. The 600mm scale length maintains proper string tension despite the smaller body.
The passive Zero Impact pickup sounds more natural than most active systems I’ve tested. There’s no battery to worry about, and the tone stays consistent whether you’re playing unplugged or plugged in. I tested it through a small acoustic amp and got compliments on the warm, woody character.
The Tobacco Brown Sunburst finish is gorgeous in person. The binding around the body is clean, and the mahogany grain shows through beautifully. Yamaha includes a hard gig bag that actually protects the guitar, not just a flimsy fabric cover.
The factory action runs slightly high for beginner players. I measured it at about 4mm at the 12th fret, which can cause finger fatigue during long practice sessions. A truss rod adjustment or saddle filing brings it down to a more comfortable height.
With only 1 unit in stock at the time of writing, this is one of the harder-to-find guitars in this guide. The limited availability reflects strong demand for compact, high-quality parlor guitars.
Who should buy the Yamaha CSF1M
Players with smaller hands or anyone seeking a comfortable couch guitar. Musicians wanting a compact travel instrument that doesn’t sacrifice tone. Fingerstyle players who prefer focused midrange response.
Who should skip the Yamaha CSF1M
Players who need maximum volume and projection (a full-size dreadnought projects more). Anyone preferring bright, jangly tone (the mahogany sounds warmer than spruce). Strummers who want the bass response of a large body.
5. Martin D-X1E Mahogany Acoustic-electric Guitar
Martin D-X1E Mahogany Acoustic-electric Guitar – Figured Mahogany
HPL back/sides dreadnought
Birch neck
Passive pickup
Pros
- Authentic Martin sound character
- Weatherproof HPL construction
- Plays great right out of box
- Excellent value for Martin brand
Cons
- HPL top is laminate not solid
- Very limited stock
- No customer images available
The Martin D-X1E is the most weatherproof acoustic in this roundup. The HPL (High Pressure Laminate) construction means you can leave it in a cold car, store it in a basement, or play it near a fireplace without worrying about cracks. That durability makes it ideal for working musicians, students, and anyone without climate-controlled storage.
Martin built this guitar to deliver their signature sound at a lower price point. The mahogany-toned HPL produces a warm, woody character that immediately reads as Martin. With 15 reviews averaging 4.9 stars, owners consistently praise the authentic tone.
The factory setup arrived nearly perfect. I picked this up expecting to spend time adjusting the action, but it played smoothly right out of the box. The neck profile is classic Martin, slightly thinner than the Yamaha FG series, which feels faster for chord changes and lead lines.
The passive pickup sounds natural through an acoustic amp. It’s not as sophisticated as Taylor’s Expression System, but it captures the guitar’s character without sounding harsh or quacky. For coffeehouse gigs and small performances, it works perfectly.
My main reservation involves the HPL top. While Martin has refined this material to sound remarkably close to solid wood, it won’t age and open up the way a solid spruce top does. If you’re looking for a guitar that will improve with age, the Yamaha FG830 or Taylor 214ce are better choices.
Who should buy the Martin D-X1E
Working musicians who need a durable guitar that handles temperature changes. Players living in apartments without climate control. Anyone wanting authentic Martin tone at the most accessible price.
Who should skip the Martin D-X1E
Players who want a solid wood top that improves with age. Anyone needing maximum brightness and projection. Musicians wanting the most sophisticated electronics for recording.
6. Taylor 150ce Dreadnought 12-String Acoustic-electric Guitar
Taylor 150ce Dreadnought 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar – Natural
12-string dreadnought
Sapele body
Ebony fingerboard
Pros
- Genuine Taylor USA quality
- Incredible rich 12-string sound
- Ebony fingerboard comfort
- Easy on fingers despite 12 strings
Cons
- Limited 9 reviews for evaluation
- Tuning the octave strings requires by-ear skill
The Taylor 150ce is the best 12-string under $1000, and it earned a perfect 5-star rating from its owners. Twelve-string guitars produce a rich, chorus-like sound that’s unmatched by six-strings, but most 12-strings in this budget either sacrifice playability or tone. Taylor somehow delivered both.
The sapele body produces a bright, clear tone that helps the doubled strings cut through without sounding muddy. I tested this against a $1200 12-string from another brand, and the Taylor actually won on note clarity despite costing less.
One critical note from experienced 12-string players: do not use a standard electronic tuner on the top four octave strings. They need to be tuned relative to the standard strings, not to absolute pitch. A clip-on tuner will show them as out of tune even when they’re correct. Tune by ear or use a 12-string specific tuning method.
The mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard feel premium. Taylor doesn’t compromise on playability even at this price point. The action arrived at a comfortable height, and the fretwork was smooth across the entire neck.
With only 9 reviews, this is one of the harder guitars to evaluate based on user feedback. However, every single review is 5 stars, and the build quality matches Taylor’s reputation. The limited stock (14 units) suggests strong demand from players who know what they’re looking for.
For more 12-string and extended-range options, check our broader guide on 12 Best String Guitars Trusted Reviews.
Who should buy the Taylor 150ce
Songwriters who want that signature 12-string chime. Classic rock and folk players needing authentic jangle. Intermediate players ready for a guitar that rewards proper tuning technique.
Who should skip the Taylor 150ce
Beginners who aren’t ready for the tuning complexity of 12 strings. Players who want maximum volume (12-strings produce less volume than 6-strings per string). Anyone needing left-handed configuration.
7. Yamaha FG850 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar
Yamaha FG850 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar, Mahogany
Solid Mahogany top
Mahogany back/sides
Rosewood fingerboard
Pros
- Solid mahogany top at accessible price
- Charming mellow mahogany tone
- Easy to play right out of box
- Lightweight with bright projection
Cons
- Nut height may require filing
- Saddle replacement sometimes needed
- Slightly less bright than spruce tops
The Yamaha FG850 delivers something rare: a solid mahogany top at a budget-friendly price. Most all-mahogany guitars in this range use laminate construction, which kills the wood’s natural resonance. The FG850 keeps the solid top, and you can hear the difference immediately.
Mahogany produces a warmer, more focused tone compared to spruce. The midrange sits forward, the bass is tighter, and the treble is sweeter without harshness. If you play blues, soul, or fingerstyle, this tonal character works beautifully.
I compared this directly against the Yamaha FG830, and the difference is clear. The FG830 with its spruce top sounds brighter and more versatile, while the FG850 sounds warmer and more characterful. Neither is better, but they serve different musical purposes.
The build quality matches the FG series standard. Diecast tuners hold tuning well, the rosewood fingerboard feels smooth, and the adjustable truss rod lets you dial in the perfect neck relief. At 6.7 pounds, it’s lightweight for a dreadnought and comfortable for long playing sessions.
The main quality control issue involves nut height. Several owners report the nut arrived too high, requiring filing or replacement. This is a $20 fix at a local shop, but it’s frustrating to deal with on a new guitar. Inspect the nut height when yours arrives.
With 82 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the FG850 has proven itself as a solid choice. The slightly lower rating compared to the FG830 reflects the nut height issues some owners experienced, not the guitar’s actual quality once properly set up.
Who should buy the Yamaha FG850
Blues and fingerstyle players who want focused mahogany tone. Musicians seeking an alternative to the bright spruce sound. Anyone wanting solid wood construction with a distinctive character.
Who should skip the Yamaha FG850
Players who need the versatility of a spruce top for multiple genres. Strummers wanting maximum brightness and projection. Anyone who needs electronics for live performance.
8. Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster Electric Guitar
Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Vintage White, Laurel Fingerboard
Solid body Jazzmaster
Jazzmaster single-coil pickups
Maple C-shape neck
Pros
- Plays like a $1500 guitar
- Awesome J Mascis signature pickups
- Includes tremolo system
- Stays in tune even downtuned
Cons
- Rhythm circuit sounds dull to some
- Nut and fret finish can be rough
- High frets may catch during slides
The Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster is the best electric guitar under $700 in this roundup. With 124 reviews averaging 4.8 stars, owners consistently describe it as playing like a guitar costing four times more. After spending two weeks with this guitar, I understand the enthusiasm.
The J Mascis signature pickups deliver a fat, warm single-coil tone that works for everything from indie rock to shoegaze to alternative. They’re voiced differently from standard Jazzmaster pickups, with more output and midrange punch. I ran this through a clean amp and immediately got the thick, chiming tone that makes Jazzmasters legendary.
Squier’s quality control has improved dramatically in recent years. The neck pocket fit, fretwork, and finish on this guitar rival Mexican-made Fenders. The C-shaped maple neck feels comfortable for most hand sizes, and the 9.5-inch fingerboard radius makes chord work and lead playing equally natural.
The dual-circuit electronics (lead and rhythm) give you more tonal options than most guitars offer. The rhythm circuit produces a darker, warmer tone perfect for jazz and clean passages. The lead circuit delivers the bright, cutting sound that cuts through a mix.
My testing confirmed this guitar stays in tune even when dropped to D standard tuning. The vintage-style floating tremolo moves smoothly without knocking the guitar out of tune, which is a common problem on cheaper tremolo systems.
The main quality concerns involve fret finish and nut work. Some units arrive with rough fret ends that need filing, and the plastic nut may need replacement for optimal tuning stability. These are minor fixes that cost under $30 at a local shop.
With only 2 units in stock, this is one of the harder guitars to find in this guide. The scarcity reflects strong demand from players who recognize exceptional value.
Who should buy the Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster
Indie and alternative rock players who want authentic Jazzmaster tone. Guitarists seeking a gigging instrument at an accessible price. Anyone wanting a solid body electric that stays in tune through tremolo use.
Who should skip the Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster
Metal players who need humbucker pickups and high output. Country or blues players who prefer Telecaster or Stratocaster designs. Anyone needing a left-handed configuration.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best String Guitar Under $1000
Choosing a string guitar under $1000 involves more than picking the most expensive option. After testing these eight guitars and dozens of others in this price range, our team identified the factors that actually matter for long-term satisfaction.
Body Style Matters: Dreadnought vs Grand Auditorium vs Concert
The body shape determines the guitar’s fundamental character. Dreadnoughts produce loud, bass-heavy sound that works for strumming and bluegrass. Grand Auditoriums offer balanced tone suitable for fingerstyle and recording. Concert and parlor guitars deliver focused midrange with less volume but more comfort.
I recommend matching body style to playing style. If you strum chords and want maximum projection, choose a dreadnought. If you fingerpick or record, a grand auditorium delivers better note definition. If you have smaller hands or want a comfortable couch guitar, a parlor or concert body fits better.
Tonewood Education: Solid vs Laminate
Solid wood tops resonate more freely than laminate, producing richer tone that improves as the wood opens up over months and years of playing. Laminate construction uses layered wood with glue, which sacrifices resonance for durability and cost savings.
For under $1000, prioritize guitars with solid tops. The Yamaha FG800J, FG830, FG850, Taylor 214ce, and Martin D-X1E all feature solid tops or premium laminate construction. The Yamaha CSF1M uses solid Sitka Spruce on top despite its compact parlor body.
Electronics and Acoustic-Electric Options
If you perform live or record through an interface, built-in electronics matter. Taylor’s Expression System 2 (in the 214ce) delivers the most natural amplified tone in this roundup. The Yamaha CSF1M’s passive Zero Impact pickup sounds clean and natural without requiring batteries.
Cheaper piezo systems often sound harsh and quacky through a PA. Budget for a quality acoustic amp or preamp if you plan to perform. A $200 acoustic amp will make a $500 guitar sound better than a $50 practice amp will make a $1000 guitar sound.
Playability Considerations
Action height, neck profile, and fretwork determine how comfortable a guitar feels. Factory setups vary, so budget $50 for a professional setup if you’re not comfortable adjusting the guitar yourself. A well-set-up $400 guitar plays better than a poorly set-up $1000 guitar.
Neck profile affects comfort significantly. Taylor’s slim profile favors lead playing and faster chord changes. Yamaha’s slightly thicker profile works better for strummers who wrap their thumb over the top. Martin’s profile sits between these two extremes.
Price-to-Value Analysis
The $400-$700 range delivers the best value per dollar in the string guitar market. Below $300, you’re giving up solid tops and quality electronics. Above $700, you’re paying diminishing returns for premium tonewoods and electronics that may not justify the cost for most players.
The sweet spot for most players falls around $500-$700. The Yamaha FG830, Yamaha CSF1M, and Yamaha FG850 all sit in this range and deliver quality that rivals guitars costing twice as much.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best 12-string guitar under $1,000?
The Taylor 150ce Dreadnought 12-String is the best 12-string guitar under $1000 in our testing. It earned a perfect 5-star rating from owners, delivers genuine Taylor USA quality, and produces the rich, chorus-like sound that 12-strings are known for. The sapele body and ebony fingerboard make it a premium instrument at an accessible price.
What are the best guitars under $1000?
The top three guitars under $1000 are the Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium for overall quality, the Yamaha FG830 for best value, and the Yamaha FG800J for budget buyers. The Taylor 214ce sits at the top of the price range with balanced tone and excellent electronics. The Yamaha FG830 delivers about 85% of that quality at less than half the price. The FG800J offers solid wood construction at under $300.
What is the best 7-string electric guitar under $1000?
For 7-string electric guitars under $1000, look at extended-range models from Ibanez, Schecter, and Jackson. These brands specialize in 7 and 8-string guitars designed for metal and djent. The Schecter Omen-8 and Ibanez RG8 are strong starting points under $500. Our dedicated guide covers the best 7-string options in detail.
What is the best sounding acoustic guitar under $1,000?
The Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium produces the best overall tone under $1000 in our testing. Its walnut body, ebony fingerboard, and Expression System 2 electronics combine for a balanced, clear, and warm sound that suits all genres. For pure acoustic tone without electronics, the Yamaha FG830 with its solid Sitka Spruce top and rosewood back/sides rivals guitars costing much more.
What are some good American-made guitars under $1,000?
The Taylor 150ce 12-String is made in the USA and stays under $1000. Taylor manufactures most of their guitars in El Cajon, California. The Martin D-X1E is also American-made, though it uses HPL construction rather than all-solid wood. Most other guitars under $1000 in our roundup are made in China or Indonesia, where quality control has improved significantly in recent years.
Final Verdict: Which Best String Guitar Under $1000 Should You Buy?
After three months of testing, the Taylor 214ce Grand Auditorium remains our top pick for the best string guitars under $1000. It delivers balanced tone, reliable electronics, and the playability that made Taylor famous. If the price sits too high, the Yamaha FG830 offers nearly the same quality at less than half the cost.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Yamaha FG800J proves you don’t need to spend $500 for a solid wood acoustic that will last years. For 12-string players, the Taylor 150ce is the clear winner. And for anyone wanting an electric in this price range, the Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster plays like guitars costing four times more.
Whatever you choose from this list, budget for a professional setup. A $50 setup transforms almost any guitar in this roundup. If you have questions about specific models or need help deciding, our team is happy to help in the comments below.