Yamaha’s FG series is well-known for providing high-quality, affordable guitars that cater to both beginners and intermediate players. Two models in this lineup, the Yamaha FG800 and Yamaha FG800M, share a lot of similarities but also have a few important differences that may affect your choice depending on your preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these two guitars to help you decide which one suits you better.
Overview of Yamaha FG800
The Yamaha FG800 is one of Yamaha’s most popular acoustic guitars, known for its solid top, excellent tone, and great build quality at an affordable price. This model is ideal for players of all levels, especially beginners who want to invest in a guitar that will grow with them as they advance.
Key Features of the FG800:
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back and sides: Nato or Okoume wood
- Neck: Nato wood
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Body shape: Dreadnought
- Finish: Gloss
- Sound: Warm, resonant tone with a balanced low end and good projection
- Price: Affordable for the level of quality offered
The FG800 is known for its durability, rich sound, and versatility. Whether you’re strumming chords or playing fingerstyle, this guitar delivers a balanced, full-bodied tone that is perfect for various styles of music.
Overview of Yamaha FG800M
The Yamaha FG800M is very similar to the FG800, but with one noticeable difference—the finish. This model is a variation of the FG800, designed to offer a more natural, stripped-back aesthetic. The “M” in FG800M stands for Matte, referring to the guitar’s matte finish.
Key Features of the FG800M:
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back and sides: Nato or Okoume wood
- Neck: Nato wood
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Body shape: Dreadnought
- Finish: Matte (natural, non-glossy)
- Sound: Similar warm, resonant tone to the FG800, with slight variations in projection due to the matte finish
- Price: Similar to the FG800, with slight variations depending on the retailer
While the matte finish may seem like a purely cosmetic difference, it can affect the feel of the guitar and the way it interacts with your playing environment. The matte finish gives the FG800M a more natural, raw look and feel, which can appeal to players who prefer a more understated aesthetic or who want to avoid the reflections and fingerprints often seen on gloss finishes.
Key Differences Between FG800 and FG800M
- Finish:
- FG800: The FG800 has a gloss finish, which gives the guitar a shiny, polished look. Gloss finishes are popular for their protective qualities and sleek appearance.
- FG800M: The FG800M has a matte finish, which gives it a more natural, less-reflective look. Matte finishes tend to show fewer fingerprints and may offer a different tactile experience when playing.
- Feel:
- The FG800’s gloss finish can give the guitar a smoother, more traditional feel, but some players may find that it can feel a bit slick, especially in humid conditions.
- The matte finish on the FG800M provides a different feel, often described as more “organic” or “raw,” which some players prefer for its tactile response.
- Sound:
- In terms of sound, both the FG800 and FG800M are nearly identical. They share the same solid Sitka spruce top, Nato/Okoume back and sides, and overall build quality. However, some players believe that the matte finish can allow for slightly better resonance and a more open sound, as the guitar isn’t “sealed” as much as it would be with a thicker gloss finish.
- The differences in sound are subtle, and for most players, the change in tone between the two models will be barely noticeable.
- Aesthetic:
- If you’re looking for a shiny, polished look, the FG800 with its gloss finish is the way to go. It offers a classic acoustic guitar appearance that many players prefer.
- For those who prefer a natural, understated look, the FG800M’s matte finish might be more appealing. It has a raw, earthy quality that makes it stand out from traditional glossy guitars.
- Price:
- Both models are priced similarly, although depending on where you purchase, there may be a slight difference in cost. The FG800M may sometimes be priced slightly lower than the FG800, but this varies by retailer.
Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the Yamaha FG800 if: You prefer a glossy, polished finish and want a more traditional-looking acoustic guitar. If you like the feel of a smooth, slick body and appreciate the shine of a gloss finish, the FG800 is the perfect option.
- Choose the Yamaha FG800M if: You like a more natural, matte look and want a guitar that feels a bit more organic. If you’re concerned about fingerprints or want a guitar with a more understated aesthetic, the FG800M will suit you better.
Conclusion
The Yamaha FG800 and FG800M are essentially the same guitar in terms of build quality, sound, and playability. The major difference lies in their finish: the FG800 has a gloss finish, while the FG800M comes with a matte finish. Your choice between the two should be based on your personal preferences for aesthetics, feel, and budget. Whichever model you choose, both guitars offer excellent value for money and are great options for players of all skill levels.