Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $669

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Blueridge Contemporary Series BR-40". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Blueridge Contemporary Series BR-40 is where timeless craftsmanship meets modern musicality. An ideal choice for musicians seeking both quality and value, this acoustic guitar combines premium tonewoods with a design that's built for players of all levels. The solid Sitka spruce top ensures bright, articulate sound and is expertly paired with mahogany back and sides to deliver rich resonance and sustain. The scalloped bracing beneath the spruce enhances the guitar's ability to produce a full-bodied tone, making it a versatile companion for both stage and studio.

Designed with playability in mind, the BR-40 features a slim mahogany neck that promotes smooth transitions across the fretboard. The East Indian rosewood fingerboard feels silky under the fingers, allowing for effortless movement whether you're strumming chords or picking intricate melodies. This attention to detail ensures that your practice sessions and performances are always comfortable and enjoyable.

Visually, the BR-40 stands out with its multi-ply body binding and mother-of-pearl inlays, offering a touch of elegance to this robust instrument. Equipped with nickel-plated Kluson-style tuners, you'll find that adjusting your tuning is both precise and reliable, thanks to the 14:1 gear ratio. The enclosed design of the tuners adds durability, ensuring that your guitar stays in tune longer, even with frequent play. With a gig bag included, the BR-40 is ready to accompany you wherever your music takes you.

Key Features:

  • Solid Sitka spruce top with scalloped bracing
  • Mahogany back and sides
  • Slim mahogany neck with 1.6875" nut width
  • East Indian rosewood fingerboard
  • Nickel-plated Kluson-style tuners with 14:1 gear ratio
  • Multi-ply body binding and mother-of-pearl inlays
  • Includes gig bag for easy transport

Product specs

Brand Blueridge
Model Contemporary Series BR-40
Year 2020s
Categories Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.6875"
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What kind of sound can I expect from the Blueridge Contemporary Series BR-40?

The Blueridge BR-40 offers a rich, warm tone with a strong midrange, thanks to its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides. This combination provides a balanced sound that is well-suited for various playing styles, including strumming and fingerpicking.

Is the Blueridge BR-40 suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Blueridge BR-40 is suitable for beginners due to its comfortable slim mahogany neck and manageable dreadnought body shape. Its quality construction and playability make it a great choice for new players looking to invest in a reliable acoustic guitar.

What is the neck profile of the Blueridge BR-40?

The Blueridge BR-40 features a slim mahogany neck, which is designed for comfortable playability. This neck profile makes it easier for both beginners and experienced players to navigate the fretboard with ease.

Does the Blueridge BR-40 come with a pickup system?

No, the Blueridge BR-40 does not come with a pickup system. It is a purely acoustic guitar, which means it does not have electronics for amplification.

What materials are used for the fretboard and bridge on the Blueridge BR-40?

The Blueridge BR-40 features an East Indian rosewood fretboard and bridge, providing a smooth playing surface and contributing to the guitar's overall tone and sustain.

How does the Blueridge BR-40 compare to other dreadnought guitars in terms of size and playability?

The Blueridge BR-40, with its traditional dreadnought body shape, offers a full-bodied sound and is comparable in size to other dreadnought guitars. Its slim neck and quality craftsmanship enhance its playability, making it accessible to a wide range of players.

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

The Blueridge BR-40 at Maury's Music

Video thumbnail for The Blueridge BR-40 at Maury's Music by Maury's Music

The Blueridge BR-40 at Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Maury's Music

Video thumbnail for Blueridge BR40 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars by Flowforth Instruments

Blueridge BR40 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars

Flowforth Instruments

Flowforth Instruments

Video thumbnail for Louis playing a Blueridge BR-40 Acoustic Guitar @ Hobgoblin Music Birmingham by HobgoblinBirmingham

Louis playing a Blueridge BR-40 Acoustic Guitar @ Hobgoblin Music Birmingham

HobgoblinBirmingham

HobgoblinBirmingham

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers excellent tone, volume, and balance for its price range

  • Good bass and midrange sound, close to higher-end models

  • Solid construction with mahogany back and sides

  • Suitable for both beginners and experienced players

  • Arrives well-packaged and typically in good condition

  • Lightweight and durable, ideal for travel or outdoor use

  • Features a spruce top that enhances sound production

  • Affordable alternative to more expensive brands

  • Neck width is ideal for players with smaller fingers

CONS

  • Inconsistent quality control, potentially misaligned necks

  • Some models may be mislabeled, lacking advertised features

  • Gig bag lacks a front pocket for storage

  • Neck width may not suit players with larger fingers

  • Laminate back and sides may not satisfy purists seeking all-solid wood

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Blueridge Contemporary Series BR-40.

Setup and maintenance

  • Ensure the truss rod functions properly to avoid future neck issues.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The BR-40's neck is likened to vintage Gibson J series for comfort.

    Source
  • The Blueridge BR-40 is recommended as an affordable alternative to the Martin D-18 for bluegrass, offering a similar tonal quality at about 40% of the cost.

    Source
  • The Blueridge BR-40 and BR-60 models are suggested for dreadnought enthusiasts, while BR-43 and BR-63 cater to those preferring the 000 body style.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners note the BR-40's sweet sound and comfortable playability, ideal for beginners.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • $250 is considered a good deal if the guitar is in good condition.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • A satin finish, especially on the neck, is highly praised by some users for enhancing playability and comfort.

    Source
  • Despite the common belief that a cutaway reduces acoustic volume, some players emphasize its importance for accessing higher frets, especially for styles involving solos or complex fingerings.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Blueridge BR-40 review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Blueridge's BR-40 is an affordable, vintage-inspired dreadnought that earns its keep with solid tones and good build quality. While the laminate mahogany body might disappoint some purists, the guitar's balanced, harmonious sound makes it a winner for budget-conscious players. The fretwork could use some polishing, as scratchiness can be felt during vibrato and bends, yet this is a common issue in this price range. The BR-40's clear, snappy low-end and sparkling highs make it a versatile choice for singers and ensemble playing. Despite its generic appearance, the BR-40’s authentic pre-war bracing pattern and simple aesthetics are both pleasing and functional. A worthy contender for those seeking a dependable acoustic on a budget.

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