Review: Yamaha FG820 & FS820 Acoustic Guitars
Yamaha has long been known for producing high-quality acoustic guitars that offer excellent sound, durability, and value for money. The Yamaha FG820 (dreadnought) and FS820 (concert body) models continue this tradition, making them fantastic choices for beginners and intermediate players alike.
Build & Design
Both guitars feature a solid spruce top and laminated mahogany back and sides, which contribute to a well-balanced tone. The scalloped bracing enhances resonance and sustain, a noticeable upgrade from earlier FG models.
The FG820 has a dreadnought body, which produces a fuller, louder sound, ideal for strumming and players who want more bass response. On the other hand, the FS820 has a concert body, which is more compact and produces a slightly more focused tone, making it great for fingerpicking and players who prefer a more comfortable fit.
Both models have a slim nato neck with a rosewood fingerboard, providing smooth playability. The die-cast tuners hold tuning well, and the guitars feel sturdy and well-constructed overall.
Sound Quality
- FG820 (Dreadnought): Loud, warm, and resonant with strong bass. Perfect for strumming and full-bodied chords.
- FS820 (Concert): More balanced with a focus on midrange and clarity. Ideal for fingerstyle players and those who prefer a lighter touch.
The mahogany back and sides add warmth to the tone, while the solid spruce top ensures brightness and articulation.
Playability
Both models are comfortable to play, but the FS820’s smaller body and slightly shorter scale length make it more appealing for younger players or those with smaller hands. The action (string height) is well set up from the factory, and the neck profile is friendly for most hand sizes.
Value for Money
At around $300-$350, both the FG820 and FS820 deliver outstanding value. The solid top alone makes them superior to many all-laminate guitars in this price range. Whether you're a beginner looking for a quality first guitar or an intermediate player seeking an affordable upgrade, these guitars are hard to beat.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros:
✔ Solid spruce top for improved tone and resonance
✔ Mahogany back and sides add warmth
✔ Excellent build quality for the price
✔ Great tuning stability
✔ Comfortable neck and smooth playability
❌ Cons:
✖ No built-in electronics (requires external pickup if playing live)
✖ Laminate back/sides (though expected at this price point)
✖ Slightly high action out of the box for some players (can be adjusted)
Final Verdict
The Yamaha FG820 and FS820 are both fantastic acoustic guitars for the price. The FG820 is perfect for those who want a bigger, bolder sound, while the FS820 is great for a more comfortable playing experience with a balanced tone. Whether you’re a beginner or a casual player looking for a solid, reliable instrument, these are excellent choices.
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