Best Acoustic Guitar Under 1000
Looking for the best acoustic guitar under £1000 can feel like stepping into a different world compared to entry-level instruments. At this point, you’re not just chasing affordability - you’re after a guitar that sounds professional, holds up on stage or in the studio, and gives you the confidence to keep playing for years.
This budget matters because it’s where you start seeing serious upgrades: solid wood construction, better hardware, and improved playability. According to Andertons Music Co., solid tops and higher-grade bracing designs in this range allow guitars to project more volume and develop richer tone over time - something you rarely find in cheaper models. In other words, the guitar grows with you.
In this collection, we’ve rounded up the standout options under £1000 and paired them with practical buying tips - including the guitar accessories (strings, straps, stands, and amps) that make your investment go further.
If you’re just starting out and want a deeper breakdown of what makes an acoustic worth your money, check out our guide on things to consider when buying your first acoustic guitar
Top Acoustic Guitars Under £1000
1. Martin 000-10 Road Series Acoustic Guitar
Brand: Martin
Price: £999
Key Features:
- All-mahogany construction for warm, balanced tone
- 000 body size for comfortable seated playing
- Rich midrange ideal for vocals and fingerstyle
- Part of Martin’s respected Road Series
The Martin 000-10 delivers the classic Martin sound at an accessible price. Mahogany’s tonal profile gives warmth and a focused midrange, making it popular among singer-songwriters who want their vocals to cut through. The smaller body sits comfortably for long practice or studio sessions, while still projecting enough for live use. Acoustic Guitar Magazine notes that mahogany-topped guitars often mature tonally with playing, making this a smart long-term choice. Pair it with acoustic strings and a reliable guitar stand to keep it gig-ready.
2. Tanglewood TW40-12 SDANE 12-String Dreadnought
Brand: Tanglewood
Price: £899 (includes hard case)
Key Features:
- Slope-shoulder dreadnought body for rich projection
- 12-string design for shimmering, chorus-like tone
- Solid top with vintage-style aesthetics
- Includes hard case for added value
The Tanglewood TW40-12 gives players that iconic 12-string sparkle at a price point well below boutique brands. Its slope-shoulder body balances the deep bass of a dreadnought with clearer highs, ensuring the doubled strings don’t sound muddy. A Guitar World review highlighted slope-shoulder acoustics as being stage-friendly due to their tonal balance. Perfect for rhythm players who want a big, shimmering sound. Add a strap lock if you’re planning on gigging regularly - 12-strings are heavier and safer with extra security.
3. Tanglewood TWX6CEK Autumn Burst Gloss
Brand: Tanglewood
Price: £849
Key Features:
- Solid top with striking Autumn Burst gloss finish
- Grand Auditorium cutaway body for playability
- Onboard pickup/preamp for stage or studio use
- Sleek design with accessible higher frets
The TanglewoodTWX6CEK is built for players who want performance and style. The cutaway Grand Auditorium body shape makes it versatile - equally suited for fingerpicking and strumming - while the electronics allow easy connection to an acoustic amp or PA. Sweetwater notes that guitars in this price tier often include premium pickup systems that preserve natural acoustic tone when amplified. With its sleek finish and stage-ready build, this guitar works as both a performer’s tool and a visual statement.
4. Yamaha FG3II Acoustic Guitar
Brand: Yamaha
Price: £799
Key Features:
- Solid spruce top for clarity and projection
- Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
- Traditional dreadnought body with strong bass response
- Continuation of Yamaha’s historic FG series
The Yamaha FG3II carries forward Yamaha’s reputation for dependable, great-sounding guitars. Since the 1960s, the FG series has been known for powerful projection and durability. The spruce top ensures a bright, clear sound, while the dreadnought body adds punchy lows - making it a versatile option for both strummers and fingerstyle players. MusicRadar praised Yamaha’s FG line for reliability and consistent tone, making it a trusted choice for working musicians. Keep the top in top shape with guitar care products like humidifiers, as spruce is sensitive to humidity.
5. Martin DX1E Koa Acoustic Guitar
Brand: Martin
Price: £929
Key Features:
- Solid spruce top with koa-pattern HPL back and sides
- Eco-conscious, climate-resistant materials
- Rich Martin tone at a more affordable level
- Includes advanced Fishman electronics
The Martin DX1E Koa blends tradition with modern durability. Its solid spruce top ensures tonal depth, while the high-pressure laminate koa back and sides add strength and resistance to environmental changes. Premier Guitar notes that HPL makes guitars more travel-friendly, reducing the risk of warping or cracking compared to all-wood builds. This makes it ideal for gigging musicians or those who live in varying climates. Add a guitar strap and capo for performance flexibility.
Accessories You’ll Likely Need
Buying the best acoustic guitar under £1000 is only half the story - the right accessories help you protect your investment, keep it sounding fresh, and make playing easier. Many players actually discover after purchase that they need a few extras, so it’s smart to factor them in early.
1. Acoustic Strings
Strings are the first thing most players upgrade. Factory-installed strings are fine for a start, but they lose tone quickly. A D’Addario report shows that strings naturally corrode from oils and moisture in your hands, dulling brightness within weeks of regular play. Fresh acoustic strings not only restore tone but also improve tuning stability. If you’re gigging, keeping a spare set is non-negotiable.
2. Guitar Straps & Strap Locks
If you plan to play standing, a good guitar strap is essential for comfort. Adding a guitar strap button makes attaching the strap simple, while a guitar strap lock prevents embarrassing drops mid-gig. Fender’s accessory division highlights that straps are not just about style - they help maintain correct playing posture, which reduces shoulder fatigue over long sessions.
3. Guitar Stands & Cases
Even the toughest guitar can be damaged if left lying around. A reliable guitar stand or padded case protects against accidental knocks and helps maintain humidity control. According to Acoustic Guitar Magazine, storing a guitar upright reduces the chance of neck warping - especially in climates with seasonal temperature changes. It’s a small accessory that can add years to your instrument’s life.
4. Acoustic Amp (For Electro-Acoustics)
If you’ve chosen an electro-acoustic (like the Martin D-10E or Tanglewood TRGT4CE), an acoustic amp is worth considering. Unlike standard guitar amps, acoustic amps are voiced to reproduce the natural tone of your instrument without colouring it. This is particularly important for live gigs or studio work, where clarity and authenticity matter.
5. Capos, Cables & Care Kits
- Capos let you change key instantly - handy for singers who need different vocal ranges.
- Guitar cables ensure a clean signal transfer when plugging into amps or interfaces.
- A guitar care kit (cleaners, cloths, humidifiers) keeps your instrument looking fresh and prevents cracks or fretboard drying.
These small items may seem optional, but they make daily playing smoother and your guitar last longer.
Tips for Buying: New vs Used Guitars
When shopping for the best acoustic guitar under £1000, it’s common to wonder whether to buy a brand-new or go for a second-hand guitar. Both have their advantages, and at Music Street, we see players making this decision every day.
Buying New
A new acoustic guitar gives you peace of mind:
- Warranty & reliability → You’re covered for defects, which is reassuring when investing close to £1000.
- Latest features → Many modern builds include better bracing, electronics, and sustainable tonewoods.
- No hidden wear → You know exactly how it’s been treated from day one.
For players upgrading from a starter instrument, that confidence is worth the spend. At MusicStreet, we stock a range of new models from brands like Yamaha, Martin, and Maton, so you can try them in person before leaping.
Buying Second Hand
A used guitar can stretch your budget further:
- Higher spec for less → You might find a guitar that originally retailed at £1500–£2000, now under £1000.
- Tone maturity → Woods like spruce and mahogany open up over time. Acoustic Guitar Magazine notes that seasoned guitars often sound warmer and more resonant.
- Character & history → Many players enjoy the unique, “played-in” feel of a second-hand guitar.
The catch? You’ll want to check for fret wear, cracks, and electronics. That’s why buying from a trusted guitar shop like MusicStreet is safer than a random marketplace. Every used instrument we stock is inspected and professionally set up by our team - so you get reliability without surprises.
Conclusion
Choosing the best acoustic guitar under £1000 gives you the perfect balance of quality, playability, and long-term value. From Martin’s rich tones to Yamaha’s trusted reliability and Tanglewood’s stage-ready designs, this range delivers guitars built for both practice and performance without overspending.
At MusicStreet, we help players at every level find the right fit - online or in our Cambridgeshire guitar shop. And if you’re working with a smaller budget, don’t miss our guide to the best acoustic guitar under 500, where you’ll find equally inspiring choices to start your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does an acoustic guitar usually last?
A good acoustic guitar can last decades if properly maintained. Regular string changes, cleaning, and storing it in a stable humidity environment extend its life. Many guitars in this range are built with solid tops, which actually improve in tone as they age.
2. Do I need an amplifier for an acoustic guitar?
Not always. A pure acoustic doesn’t need one, but if you choose an electro-acoustic (with built-in pickups), an acoustic amp helps amplify your natural tone for gigs or recording. For home use, most players enjoy it unplugged.
3. Can I use regular electric guitar strings on an acoustic?
No - acoustic guitars need acoustic strings, which are wound differently and built for higher tension. Using electric strings can result in dull tone, lower volume, and potential neck strain. Always choose strings designed for your guitar type.
4. What’s the difference between a dreadnought and a concert/000 body?
Dreadnoughts are larger and louder, making them great for strumming and live settings. Concert or 000 bodies are smaller, more comfortable to hold, and produce a balanced tone - often preferred by fingerstyle players or singer-songwriters.
5. Is buying a second-hand acoustic guitar a good idea?
Yes, if you know what to look for. A well-cared-for second-hand acoustic can be excellent value. Check for cracks, neck warping, and fret wear. Buying from a trusted guitar shop usually means the guitar has been inspected and set up correctly before resale.