Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar Review

The Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar is a popular choice for beginners and intermediate players alike, and it’s no wonder why. Yamaha’s FG series has long been known for producing guitars that offer great sound, solid craftsmanship, and exceptional value. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar, examining its key features, sound quality, playability, and who this guitar is best suited for.

Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar Review

Key Specifications

  • Body Shape: Traditional Western Dreadnought
  • Top Wood: Solid Sitka Spruce
  • Back and Sides: Nato/Okoume
  • Neck: Nato
  • Fretboard: Rosewood
  • Bridge: Rosewood
  • Bracing: Scalloped Bracing
  • Finish: Natural Gloss
  • Scale Length: 25.6 inches
  • Number of Frets: 20
  • Nut Width: 1.69 inches (43 mm)

Build Quality and Design

The Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitaris a traditional Western-style dreadnought guitar, which is ideal for producing a rich, full-bodied sound. The guitar features a solid Sitka spruce top, a material often found in more expensive guitars, and this gives the FG800 an edge in terms of sound projection and resonance. The back and sides are made from Nato and Okoume, durable tonewoods that help to balance sound quality with affordability.

One of the major highlights of the FG800 is its scalloped bracing. This internal design feature enhances the guitar’s resonance, giving it a fuller sound with more depth, particularly in the lower frequencies. Additionally, the gloss finish protects the guitar while also giving it a clean, polished look.

The neck is made from Nato, which is a cost-effective yet durable material, and the rosewood fretboard feels smooth under your fingers, allowing for comfortable playing over extended sessions. The build quality overall is excellent for its price range, and Yamaha’s attention to detail shines through in the FG800’s sturdy construction.


Sound Quality

When it comes to sound, the Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar punches above its weight. Thanks to the solid spruce top and scalloped bracing, the guitar produces a rich, warm tone with plenty of volume and sustain. The sound is well-balanced across the frequency spectrum, with crisp highs, clear mids, and a strong low-end presence. This balance makes the FG800 suitable for various playing styles, whether you’re strumming, fingerpicking, or playing with a pick.

For beginners, having a guitar that produces rich tones is important, as it helps make practice more enjoyable and motivating. Intermediate players will also appreciate the versatility of sound, allowing them to explore different genres with ease, from folk and pop to blues and rock.


Playability

One of the FG800’s best features is its playability. The neck profile is slim, which makes it easier for beginners to learn chord shapes and move up and down the fretboard. The action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) is typically set at a moderate height, making it comfortable to play without causing excessive finger fatigue, while still allowing for clean fretting and accurate intonation.

The dreadnought body provides excellent sound projection but might feel slightly large for smaller players or those with smaller hands. However, for most guitarists, the size and shape provide a good balance between comfort and sound.


Durability and Construction

The Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar is built to last. The laminated Nato/Okoume back and sides offer durability and resistance to environmental changes, while the solid top adds tonal depth and resonance. While many guitars in this price range may skimp on materials, Yamaha maintains a high standard, ensuring that the FG800 will hold up well over time with proper care.

The gloss finish also adds an extra layer of protection against scratches and wear. Despite its affordable price point, the FG800 doesn’t feel cheap in the hand—it feels like a well-crafted instrument designed to provide years of playing enjoyment.

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Who Is the Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar Best Suited For?

  • Beginners: The Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar is a perfect choice for beginners. Its combination of affordability, ease of playability, and high sound quality makes it an ideal guitar to start learning on. The solid top ensures that beginners won’t outgrow the guitar too quickly as they advance.
  • Intermediate Players: Those looking for an upgrade from a starter guitar will find the FG800 provides a noticeable improvement in both tone and build quality. It’s also versatile enough to handle a variety of musical genres.
  • Budget-Conscious Players: The FG800 delivers a lot of value for its price, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to get the most out of their budget.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Solid Sitka Spruce Top: Delivers excellent resonance and tone.
  • Scalloped Bracing: Adds depth and warmth to the sound.
  • Great Value for Money: High-quality materials and sound at an affordable price.
  • Durable Build: Nato back and sides ensure the guitar is sturdy and long-lasting.
  • Comfortable Neck: Ideal for both beginners and intermediate players.

Cons:

  • Laminated Back and Sides: While durable, they don’t provide the same richness in tone as all-solid wood guitars.
  • Dreadnought Size: May feel bulky for smaller players.
  • No Electronics: Lacks built-in pickups or preamps for amplification (though this may not be a con for all players).

Conclusion

The Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar is a standout acoustic guitar in its price range, offering a solid top, scalloped bracing, and impressive tonal quality. For beginners, it provides an excellent entry point into the world of acoustic guitars, while intermediate players will appreciate its versatility and reliable build. Whether you’re strumming in your bedroom or playing for friends and family, the FG800 delivers a rich, resonant sound that belies its affordability.

If you’re in the market for a well-built, great-sounding acoustic guitar that doesn’t break the bank, the Yamaha FG800 acoustic guitar is definitely worth your consideration.

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