continuing theme--first time 12 string buyer here..

after looking online I came up with a list of several 12 string acoustic-electrics in the $400-$500 range. Does anybody have any recommendations or knowledge of the following: Alvarez RD20S12 Dreadnought; Ibanez AEF1812E; Takamine EGC531 Dreadnought; Alvarez Fusion series FD60S12; Ovation Celebrity Standard and an Ovation Elite T contour deeply discounted due to blem. Any info would be appreciated.

Welcome to the TDPRI! As for your question, every guitar is different. Even if someone owns one of the guitars you listed and gives a favourable review, the one you order may play differently. Best to play before you pay, what one person likes another may dislike.

If you can, check out the Godin line of guitars: Seagull, Simon & Patrick, Norman,...

Also, getting an acoustic with pickups will jack up the price a bit just for the electronics. Are you absolutely sure you will need to plug it in? If not, then skip the pickup and put that money to getting a better quality guitar. 12 strings are kinda finicky, you want to stack the odds on your side...

Even if someone owns one of the guitars you listed and gives a favourable review, the one you order may play differently. Best to play before you pay, what one person likes another may dislike.

100% true! I love my Takamine 12-string, but find your guitar! You'll know it when you've found it.


Also, getting an acoustic with pickups will jack up the price a bit just for the electronics. Are you absolutely sure you will need to plug it in? If not, then skip the pickup and put that money to getting a better quality guitar.

Also good advice. I got both of my acoustics without electronics. I was them able to pick and choose what I wanted to use (if and when I wanted to use them). Good luck!

I have an Alvarez AJ60S12N jumbo. I love it. Great sound, great balance, very loud. I use a Fishman soundhole pickup in it, and it's wonderful. I highly recommend it.

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa35/superchicken_VI/Musical%20Instruments/AlvarezAJ60S12N002.jpg

Buying an acoustic...6, 12 string , whatever is sort of like falling in love...the right one comes along youll know it...play lots and youll find one...

Ive got a used Tak 12...from back when they were doing dead on martin copies...I see them on Craigs list and ebay now and then..they are generally great guitars, but again...try before you buy...