It’s not that easy to find a new guitar these days – the market is REALLY saturated! Things get a bit easier when you know what kind of guitar shape you want.
Today’s guide is designed for all of you that are looking specifically for Grand Auditorium guitars. I created a list of 10 Best Grand Auditorium Guitars for all budgets.
So whether you’re trying to find a high-end model or something a bit more affordable, there’s a high chance that you’ll find it on that list. Let’s go!
My Top Picks: 10 Best Grand Auditorium Guitars
| Guitar Model | Thomann | Amazon |
|---|---|---|
| Taylor 212CE | See on Thomann | See on Amazon |
| Furch Red Deluxe GC-SR | See on Thomann | – |
| Taylor AD24CE | See on Thomann | See on Amazon |
| Furch Blue Deluxe GC-CM | See on Thomann | – |
| Fender FA-345CE | See on Thomann | See on Amazon |
| Taylor 214CE-K Deluxe | See on Thomann | See on Amazon |
| Taylor 724CE | See on Thomann | See on Amazon |
| Harley Benton Baritone CLG-414BCE | See on Thomann | – |
| Baton Rouge AR11CE/ACE-W | See on Thomann | – |
| Cort GAPF-BV | See on Thomann | – |
Taylor 212CE
The Taylor 212CE Grand Auditorium with Cutaway is a testament to Taylor’s craftsmanship, offering a solid Sitka Spruce top and rosewood back and sides for a rich, full-bodied sound.
The mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard ensure smooth playability, while the ES2 Expression System pickup provides clear, high-fidelity amplified sound. The natural matte finish and faux tortoiseshell pickguard add a touch of elegance. With a scale of 632 mm and nut width of 42.8 mm, it’s designed for comfort and ease of play.
Who Should Get It: This guitar is perfect for intermediate to advanced players who demand versatility and quality in both acoustic and amplified settings. Whether you’re performing live or recording in a studio, the 212CE delivers exceptional sound.
Looking for other guitars with other body shapes? Check out my list of 10 Best Mid Range Acoustic Guitars Under $1000!
Furch Red Deluxe GC-SR
The Furch Red Deluxe GC-SR sets a high bar for grand auditorium guitars. Featuring a “Master Grade” solid sitka spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides, this instrument offers unparalleled sound quality.
The “Bevel Duo” ergonomic design enhances comfort during play. The ziricote fretboard and koa with white line binding not only provide a stunning look but also contribute to the guitar’s excellent sound projection. Unique Roman numeral inlays and Gotoh 510 machine heads with ebony buttons signify Furch’s attention to detail.
Who Should Get It: Designed for professional musicians and serious enthusiasts, the Furch Red Deluxe is an ideal choice for those seeking superior playability, comfort, and exquisite tone.
Taylor AD24CE
The Taylor AD24CE is a grand auditorium beauty, boasting a solid mahogany top and solid sapele back and sides. Its V-Class bracing promises superior sound clarity and volume. The eucalyptus fingerboard is a sustainable touch that doesn’t compromise on quality or playability.
With a shaded edge burst finish, it’s as visually stunning as it is sonically. The Taylor Expression System 2 pickup ensures that its amplified sound matches its acoustic brilliance.
Who Should Get It: This guitar is an excellent choice for environmentally conscious players and those who prefer a warm, rich tone with excellent projection. It’s well-suited for both performing artists and recording professionals.
Furch Blue Deluxe GC-CM
The Furch Blue Deluxe GC-CM combines the warmth of a solid cedar top with the resonance of solid mahogany back and sides. Its ergonomic Duo Bevel makes it one of the most comfortable guitars to play in its category.
The ebony fingerboard and black pickguard set against the natural finish create a classic look. This model’s open pore finish not only enhances its natural beauty but also contributes to its vibrant sound.
Who Should Get It: Ideal for fingerstyle players and those who value comfort and a mellow, rich tone. The Blue Deluxe GC-CM is a superb choice for both studio musicians and live performers looking for a guitar that offers both exceptional sound and playability.
Fender FA-345CE
The Fender FA-345CE blends traditional design with modern flair, featuring a laminated maple top and laminated lacewood back and sides. This grand auditorium guitar with a cutaway offers a distinctive look with its 3-Tone Tea Burst high gloss finish and Keystone design rosette.
The Indian laurel fretboard and bridge complement the nato neck for a smooth playing experience. Equipped with a Fishman pickup system, this guitar delivers excellent amplified sound, making it ready for stage performance.
Who Should Get It: This guitar is perfect for players seeking a blend of classic and contemporary. Its unique aesthetic, combined with a robust and versatile sound, makes it suitable for a wide range of musical genres, from folk to rock.
Taylor 214CE-K Deluxe
The Taylor 214CE-K Deluxe features a solid Sitka spruce top and koa plywood back and sides, offering a blend of bright and warm tones. The Grand Auditorium cutaway body ensures versatile playability, while the Expression System 2 pickup system captures the guitar’s natural sound when amplified.
Its ebony fretboard and small diamond inlays add a touch of sophistication to this instrument. The natural finish and tortoise pickguard give it a timeless look.
Who Should Get It: This model is ideal for gigging musicians and recording artists who need a reliable, high-quality guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles. The 214CE-K Deluxe is especially appealing to those who appreciate the beauty and tonal qualities of koa.
Taylor 724CE
The Taylor 724CE is a masterpiece, crafted with selected Hawaiian Koa for the top, back, and sides, delivering a rich and complex tone. The Grand Auditorium cutaway body enhances playability, allowing easy access to higher frets.
Its ebony fingerboard with Mother-of-Pearl Fountain inlays and rosewood binding are indicative of Taylor’s commitment to quality and detail. The ES2 Expression System pickup ensures that its amplified sound is as natural and vibrant as its acoustic tone.
Who Should Get It: Designed for the discerning musician who values both aesthetic beauty and exceptional sound quality. The 724CE is perfect for professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering unparalleled playability and tone.
Harley Benton Baritone CLG-414BCE
The Harley Benton Baritone CLG-414BCE is a unique grand auditorium guitar with a selected solid spruce top and walnut body, offering deep, resonant tones ideal for baritone tuning.
Its okoume neck and pau ferro fretboard provide smooth playability, while the Fishman Sonicore pickup and Presys-II preamp system deliver versatile amplified sound. The natural high gloss finish and black bindings create a sleek, contemporary look.
Who Should Get It: This guitar is perfect for guitarists looking to explore lower tunings without sacrificing playability or sound quality. It’s an excellent choice for players of all levels seeking to add depth and range to their music.
Baton Rouge AR11CE/ACE-W
The Baton Rouge AR11CE/ACE-W stands out with its solid Canadian cedar top and mahogany back and sides, offering a warm, rich tone that’s perfect for a wide range of musical styles. The wide-neck design, featuring a 48 mm nut width, provides extra comfort for fingerstyle players or those with larger hands.
The Ovangkol fretboard and bridge enhance the guitar’s vibrant sound, while the matte open-pore finish emphasizes its natural beauty. Equipped with the Baton Rouge BR2.1P pickup system by Shadow, it delivers excellent amplified sound.
Who Should Get It: This guitar is ideal for fingerstyle guitarists and players who prefer a wider neck for comfortable playability. Its combination of warm tone and easy playability makes it a great choice for both live performances and studio recording.
Cort GAPF-BV
The Cort GAPF-BV is a beautifully crafted grand auditorium guitar with a solid Sitka spruce top and Pau Ferro back and sides, known for its detailed tone and excellent projection. The beveled armrest adds an extra level of playing comfort, while the Ovangkol fretboard and bridge contribute to its smooth playability.
The L.R. Baggs EAS VTC preamp ensures that the guitar’s natural sound is accurately amplified. The abalone soundhole inlay and body purfling add a touch of elegance to its appearance, complemented by gold machine heads with black buttons.
Who Should Get It: This guitar is perfect for advanced players seeking a combination of comfort, aesthetics, and superior sound quality. The GAPF-BV is well-suited for those who perform regularly and require a reliable, high-performing instrument.
Which One Would I Choose?
Picking the right guitar from this cool lineup really depends on what you’re looking for and how much cash you’ve got to spend. If you’re saving your pennies or just starting out, the Fender FA-345CE is a solid pick. It’s not too pricey, looks awesome, and sounds great, making it perfect for beginners or anyone who needs a decent guitar without spending a ton.
But if you’re all about getting the best sound and quality, and you’re okay with spending more, then you’ve got to check out Furch guitars and the high-end Taylors. These guitars are top-notch, giving you some of the best tones and playability you can find. They’re the kind of guitars you buy when you’re ready to take your music to the next level.
No matter which guitar you’re leaning towards, remember it’s all about finding the one that feels right for you and your music. And hey, if you want to dive deeper into these guitars or get some more tips, come hang out on Best Guitars Now on YouTube. We’ve got all the reviews and advice you need to pick your perfect guitar.
Why I Love Grand Auditorium Guitars
Grand Auditorium guitars hold a special place in my heart, and for good reasons. Their unique blend of size, shape, and sound makes them a favorite among players of all styles. Here’s why I think they’re awesome:
- Versatile Sound: Grand Auditorium guitars strike the perfect balance between bass and treble. Whether you’re strumming chords or picking out a melody, these guitars deliver a sound that’s just right.
- Comfortable Shape: The body shape of a Grand Auditorium guitar is super comfortable to hold, whether you’re sitting down for a long practice session or standing up on stage.
- Great for Recording: Their balanced sound makes Grand Auditorium guitars a top choice for recording. They fit into mixes beautifully without needing a ton of adjustments.
- Wide Appeal: Whether you play folk, rock, blues, or almost any other genre, a Grand Auditorium guitar will serve you well. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of guitars.
Why I Love Them:
- Balanced Tone: They offer a perfect mix of bass and treble.
- Playability: Ideal for both fingerpicking and strumming, making them super versatile.
- Aesthetic Appeal: They look as good as they sound, with sleek lines and beautiful curves.
Grand Auditorium guitars are the go-to for many musicians for these reasons. Whether you’re jamming at home, recording in a studio, or playing live, they’ve got you covered.
FAQ: Grand Auditorium Guitars
1. What makes Grand Auditorium guitars different from Dreadnoughts?
- Grand Auditorium guitars have a more tapered waist, offering a balanced tone suitable for both strumming and fingerpicking. Dreadnoughts, with their larger bodies, tend to produce a louder, bass-heavy sound.
2. Can Grand Auditorium guitars handle different music genres?
- Absolutely! Their versatile design makes them ideal for a variety of genres, from folk and country to rock and pop.
3. Are Grand Auditorium guitars good for beginners?
- Yes, their comfortable shape and balanced sound make them great for beginners learning various playing styles.
4. What strings should I use on a Grand Auditorium guitar?
- While personal preference plays a big role, light to medium gauge strings work well, balancing playability and tonal richness.
5. Do Grand Auditorium guitars come with electronics?
- Many models are equipped with built-in pickups and preamps, making them ready for live performance or recording straight out of the box.
6. How do I care for my Grand Auditorium guitar?
- Keep it in a case or gig bag when not in use, maintain proper humidity levels, and clean it regularly with appropriate guitar care products.
7. Is a cutaway model better than a non-cutaway?
- Cutaways offer easier access to higher frets, which can be beneficial for lead playing. It’s a matter of personal preference and playing style.
8. How does wood choice affect the sound of a Grand Auditorium guitar?
- Different woods can dramatically affect the tone; for example, spruce tops offer brightness, while mahogany provides warmth.
9. Can I customize my Grand Auditorium guitar?
- Many manufacturers offer customization options, from wood selections to inlays, allowing you to personalize your instrument.
10. What budget should I expect for a good quality Grand Auditorium guitar?
- Prices vary widely, but for a quality instrument, expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $3000+, depending on the brand and features.
Final Thoughts
Grand Auditorium guitars are like the Swiss Army knives of the guitar world – versatile, comfortable, and capable of delivering fantastic sound across a variety of genres.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, there’s a Grand Auditorium out there that’s perfect for you. Ready to find your next musical companion and see where it takes your playing?
What songs are you most excited to play on your Grand Auditorium guitar?