When it comes to entry-level acoustic guitars, Yamaha is a brand that consistently delivers quality and value. Two popular models that often get compared are the Yamaha F310 and the Yamaha F370. Both guitars are well-regarded for their craftsmanship and sound, but they do have some differences that might make one a better choice for your needs. In this article, we’ll break down the key features of each guitar and help you decide which one is right for you.
1. Build Quality and Materials
Yamaha F310:
The Yamaha F310 is a widely popular guitar for beginners due to its reliable build and affordability. It has a spruce top, which gives it a bright, clear sound, and meranti back and sides, which help to balance the overall tone. The neck is made from nato wood, a less expensive alternative to mahogany, and it has a smooth rosewood fingerboard.
- Top: Spruce
- Back & Sides: Meranti
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
Yamaha F370:
The Yamaha F370 shares many similarities with the F310 but features some slight upgrades in materials. The F370 also has a spruce top, but the back and sides are made from nato wood, giving it a slightly different tonal character, with a richer midrange. It also boasts a rosewood fingerboard, making it a comfortable instrument for beginners and experienced players alike.
- Top: Spruce
- Back & Sides: Nato
- Neck: Nato
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
Verdict: Both guitars use quality materials for their price range, but the F370 has slightly upgraded tonewoods, particularly with the nato back and sides, offering a more refined sound compared to the F310.
2. Sound and Tone
Yamaha F310:
The F310 has a well-balanced sound, making it suitable for different music styles. Its spruce top provides brightness and clarity, making it ideal for strumming chords or fingerpicking. The meranti back and sides add warmth but may not resonate as deeply as higher-end models.
Yamaha F370:
The F370 also has a bright tone thanks to the spruce top, but its nato back and sides contribute to a richer, more resonant midrange. This guitar has a fuller sound compared to the F310, which could be important for players looking for a slightly louder and more dynamic instrument.
Verdict: While both guitars sound great for their price, the F370 edges out the F310 in terms of depth and richness of tone, making it more versatile for a wider range of music styles.
3. Playability and Comfort
Yamaha F310:
One of the standout features of the F310 is its comfortability, especially for beginners. The action (distance between the strings and fretboard) is low enough for easy playability, meaning your fingers won’t get as fatigued. The body is dreadnought-sized, which might be slightly bulky for younger players but offers good projection.
Yamaha F370:
The F370 has similar playability to the F310, with its dreadnought body providing good volume and projection. It also has a smooth neck and low action, making it comfortable for extended playing sessions. However, players with smaller hands might find both models a bit challenging due to the large body size.
Verdict: Both models offer a comfortable playing experience, but those with smaller frames or hands might prefer a smaller body guitar. Otherwise, they are comparable in terms of ease of play.
4. Price Comparison
When comparing the F310 and F370, price is another factor to consider.
- The Yamaha F310 is generally cheaper, making it an ideal choice for complete beginners or those on a tight budget.
- The Yamaha F370 is slightly more expensive due to the better materials and fuller sound.
Verdict: If budget is your primary concern, the F310 is the more affordable option. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more for enhanced sound quality, the F370 offers excellent value for the price.
5. Aesthetics and Finish
Yamaha F310:
The F310 has a simple, classic look, with a natural finish that showcases the grain of the spruce top. It has a traditional acoustic guitar appearance, which is great for players looking for a no-frills design.
Yamaha F370:
The F370 offers a slightly more polished appearance with its high-gloss finish, giving it a more premium look. It also comes in various colors, such as natural, tobacco sunburst, and black, offering more variety than the F310.
Verdict: For players who care about aesthetics, the F370’s finish and color options might be more appealing. However, if you’re looking for a simple, classic look, the F310 won’t disappoint.
6. Which Guitar is Right for You?
- If you’re a beginner who is just getting started and wants an affordable, reliable guitar, the Yamaha F310 is a great option. It offers excellent playability, a balanced tone, and a comfortable feel at a budget-friendly price.
- If you’re looking for a guitar with a richer sound, slightly better materials, and are willing to spend a bit more, the Yamaha F370 is worth the investment. It’s perfect for those who want a fuller, more resonant tone and an upgraded aesthetic.
Conclusion
Both the Yamaha F310 and Yamaha F370 are fantastic entry-level guitars that offer great value for their price points. While the F310 is an ideal choice for beginners on a budget, the F370 provides slightly better tone quality and build materials, making it a better long-term investment. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your budget, the sound you’re looking for, and personal preferences in terms of aesthetics and playability.