Here are our picks on some of the best acoustic guitars under RM1,500.
Playing the acoustic guitar is tons of fun! You get to learn a new skill and better yet, you’ll also be able to keep yourself entertained covering your favourite tunes. You hear it on countless songs across different genres. Also, if you didn’t already know performing on the acoustic guitar – whether it be around the campfire or on a stage – is a great way of bringing people together with song and music! It’s an undeniable fact – the sound of the acoustic guitar is truly timeless.
Maybe you’re a beginner looking to buy your first acoustic. Or a seasoned electric guitarist who wants to add an acoustic guitar to your collection of instruments. Whatever your reason for wanting to own an acoustic guitar, you’ll need to find one that suits your needs best, and, of course, be a bang for your buck.
If you’ve got reservations about splashing a large amount of cash for your first instrument, that’s totally normal! You won’t find yourself stuck with a poorly-made, uninspiring acoustic guitar. Take a modest budget of RM1,500 – these days you could even find yourself a hell of an instrument! Want proof? Come along with us as we list out our picks for the best budget acoustic guitars under RM1,500, with amazing value options from Taylor, Fender, Cort, and Ibanez!
8(ish) of the best acoustic guitars under RM1,500
Fender FA-125 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar – RM790
The typical dreadnought’s substantial square-shouldered frame lends itself to a deeper and richer tone. With a spruce top and basswood back and sides, the Fender’s FA-125 Dreadnought lives up to its pedigree. In addition to simple yet glossy good looks, this laminated guitar’s ease-of-play comes courtesy of a modern 3:3 headstock and Viking bridge. If you’re a gigging musician or someone who hates being parted from their instrument, the FA-125 is also lightweight enough to save you a ton of backaches.
Takamine D4D Acoustic Guitar Natural – RM950
Sometimes all you’re searching for is a no-fuss starter instrument. Enter the Takamine D4D. Charming in its simplicity, this unassuming guitar holds its own against pricier models when it comes to quality. As befits a dreadnought, the D4D’s rich and robust tone is particularly suited to bright folk tunes, but rest assured you can pull off any genre with it. With its 12” rosewood fingerboard and slim neck, even beginners should find this guitar easy to handle.
Fender CD-60SCE Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar – RM1520
This pick is a smidgen over our price point at RM1520, but hear us out!
Another solid reimagining from Fender’s Classic Design Series, the CD-60SCE is particularly great for both novices and intermediate players in all acoustic settings. A Venetian cutaway gives this dreadnought effortless access to the upper register, perfect for virtuosos wanting a full run of their fretboard. And it’s a real all-rounder too, boasting goodies like the Fishman pickup/preamp and a built-in tuner, while an updated neck and rolled fingerboard edges promise a smoother experience for even the most intricate of tunes.
Takamine ED5NC Acoustic Guitar Natural TP-4T Preamp – RM1,397
Traditionalists, look away. The ED5NC’s NEX body is a sweet marriage of the jumbo’s classic shape and the dreadnought’s size and manoeuvrability. As a result, you’ll find it tons more comfortable to play while seated, thanks to its slimmer waist, without having to compromise on intensity and timbre either. A Venetian cutaway makes it so you can access the upper register, ideal for the player who loves having the run of their fretboard.
Fender FA-15 3/4 Size Steel String Acoustic Guitar – RM760
A ¾ sized acoustic guitar? There are plenty of reasons why a smaller can sometimes mean better. For starters, its shorter scale length makes it easier for smaller hands and beginners. They’re also easier to travel around with, and best of all, it’s a lot of fun! The Fender FA-15 makes up for its smaller size with a laminated Agathis top with laminated sapele back and sides for a nice, warm resonant tone. At this price point, it’s an acoustic guitar perfect for the beginner, or for anyone who wants a fun guitar to bring along the ride.
Takamine GN15CE Acoustic Guitar Natural TP-4T Preamp – RM1,348
If minimalism isn’t one of your strong suits, why not give the GN15CE a whirl? It’s got the basics down pat — solid spruce top construction, NEX body, and even a nifty cutaway detail. But what sets this guitar apart from your typical acoustic is its onboard electric setup. And don’t worry, it’s fairly straightforward to use. The TP-4TD preamp system boasts a 3-band equalizer for precise tonal and volume adjustment, which means you’ll have total control over how you want your performance to sound. There’s even a built-in digital tuner so your strings are always pitch-perfect.
Fender CP-60S Parlor Acoustic Guitar – RM1,010
Parlor-sized acoustic guitars are another great option for players wanting a smaller guitar. They usually come with full-sized scale lengths, but they get real comfortable to play because of the reduced package size. But the most likely reason why parlor guitars have a cult-like following is their sound – it’s got a boxy tone that fits right at home in bluesy and folk tunes. This affordable Fender CP-60S is a great entry into the world of parlor acoustic guitars. It features a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and it’s even got rolled fingerboard edges for superb fretting comfort!
Read more: Guitarology 101: Acoustic Guitar Body Shapes
Taylor Baby Taylor Acoustic Guitar – RM1,260
The Baby Taylor was born out of the desire to translate the best features of a high-end Taylors into an affordable package. And boy have they done it! Featuring a 3/4-size dreadnought body and 22 3/4″ scale length, the Baby Taylor is an effortless instrument that almost plays itself.
This acoustic is made with high-quality materials – think solid spruce top, layered walnut back ‘n’ sides, and West African ebony fretboard. Secondly, if you’re looking to get better at the acoustic, having your guitar with you for practice is a good place to start. A guitar with immense portability will allow you to set up your rehearsal space anywhere you go. Toss it in the trunk or on the overhead plane compartment, you can rest assured that your trusty Baby Taylor can stay by your side.
There’s also a Baby Taylor version with a built-in preamp if that’s what you fancy.
And that’s a wrap! We’ve done the heavy lifting and have given you insight into some of the best acoustic guitars under RM1,500. Trust us, the journey you’ll take with the acoustic guitar is a road full of fun and gratification. While it might be challenging at some points, it will be thoroughly rewarding.
As always, Swee Lee stocks a huge selection of acoustic guitars for all types of players. Head down to our stores to give these acoustic guitars a try. That’s the best way to find out if the acoustic guitar is right for you.
You can also head over to our online store to check out our collection of acoustic guitars. If you need any more advice on choosing your perfect acoustic guitar, feel free to contact us.
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- 5 Great Guitar Amps Under RM3,500: Set aside a good budget for an amp too!
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