What is the best acoustic guitar for recording? (our top pick)
Taylor 224ce-K DLX
Finding an acoustic guitar for recording and/or studio work is going to be pretty subjective based on the sound you want to achieve. While the Taylor guitars and the 224ce are on the brighter side, we'll include more recommendations if you're after a warmer, strumming acoustic. But overall, we'd recommend the Taylor 224ce-K DLX. It's fantastic in the studio, and in a lot of other scenarios as well.
If you're looking for the best acoustic guitar for recording, you have a lot of options. And the choice you make should depend highly on your situation. What style of acoustic player are you? What style of music do you play? Are you being paid to record tracks? Because there isn't really a de facto recording acoustic guitar. However: There are some that sound way better than others.
And when it comes to recording, we need to assume this is in somewhat of a professional or business sense. This means we're targeting higher-priced guitars, outside of the beginner, perhaps in the upper intermediate price range.
If you want to look at acoustics in specific price ranges or skill levels, I've addressed those in other posts:
- Read more: Best acoustic guitars for beginners
- Read more: Best acoustic guitars for intermediates
For studio work we're making an overall recommendation of the Taylor 224ce-K DLX, but will cover some other good options as well. We'll go through those options in a compare table then get into some more details about the features we like in the Taylor 224ce.
Compare Other Good Recording Acoustics
To paint in broad strokes, Taylor acoustics tend to be brighter while Martins tend to be warmer. For any type of acoustic recording, you'll need to decide which end of that spectrum you want to be on.
Taylor | mODEL | Rate | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taylor 224ce-K DLX | 89.0 | |
 | Martin D-28E (modern deluxe) | 96.5 | |
 | Taylor 814ce | 92.3 | |
 | Takamine Legacy EF341SC | 87.5 |
The Taylor 224ce gets you a lot of the features we look for in a recording acoustic.
Can I record an acoustic guitar without a preamp?
It is possible to record an acoustic guitar without a preamp, simply by using an acoustic guitar microphone. However, I always like to have the option of using a preamp, even if the microphone sound is preferable. It just depends on the guitar and the type of track you're trying to record. In my experience, it's vastly easier to work with a directly connected preamp as opposed to a microphone.
The Preamp Approach
A preamp is installed in your acoustic guitar with a pickup that can transmit sound through an instrument cable, just like an electric guitar. It usually provides some basic EQ to give you some control over shaping your sound.
Pedal preamps can then be used to further tweak the sound that you want to record. This gives you a lot more flexibility, though some guitars/preamps are not great at re-creating the appeal of natural acoustic resonance.
Read more: Best pedals for acoustic guitar
The Mic Approach
In my experience, recording an acoustic guitar with a microphone is trickier and less consistent. As I said in the above paragraph, some acoustics are designed to be recorded with microphones and sound better with that setup.
Of course this is dependent on the guitar and microphone being used. The Taylor 224ce can handle a microphone or direct connection via preamp. If you're looking for a more natural tone from your acoustic, the microphone is a better option.
But again, I'd be fine with either one.
Should I spend a lot on an acoustic guitar that I intend to record with?
Should you spend a lot on this guitar if you want to record? It depends on some additional variables that need to be considered. Here's what you need to think about before you set a budget:
- Am I recording in a studio or at home?
- What else am I going to be doing with this acoustic guitar?
- What is my skill level?
If you're just buying a guitar to tinker around with and record at home, you could consider spending less. However, if you're going to take it to a recording studio, especially to record for someone else who might be paying you, you should have a solid, high-end instrument.
Can you record with cheaper acoustic guitars?
However, it is possible to record with cheaper acoustic guitars. If you're trying to save some money, aim for something in the $600 to $1000 range. These guitars will get you a decent recording result, even if they're not as nice as the Taylor 224ce and similar models.
What acoustic guitar brands are best for recording?
The best acoustic brands for recording are the same as the best brands overall. Taylor and Martin rule the market, while Godin/Seagull would get an honorable mention. So for recording, we'd recommend any of those three brands.
Conclusion
Don't overcomplicate the process. You can fall back on the simple reasoning that any acoustic guitar widely thought to be a good value and of high quality will also be a great option for recording.
Look at Taylor and Martin and, if possible, try to go into the higher price ranges around $2000. I would also give some thought to how you feel about using a microphone to record your acoustic.
It's advisable to at least have the option of a preamp and pickup.
If you have questions about our roundup or the guitars we've mentioned, feel free to reach out via the comments section below.
I'll do my best to help out.
More Acoustic Guitar Content
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Acoustics & Reviews
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Acoustics & Roundups
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02xDdHnWhjI
Check out Liz Jones playing the Taylor 224ce K DLX, Live at the Matrix in Rotterdam
So also great for live performances.
Thanks, Andre. Great video.
Glad you enjoyed it.