Pricing and availability

Average Price: $600

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

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Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Guild 120-ME Acoustic is a finely crafted instrument designed for both acoustic and amplified performances, perfect for musicians who need versatility without sacrificing tone. This acoustic-electric guitar is part of Guild's Westerly Collection, which pays homage to the company’s storied history of producing high-quality instruments. The Guild 120-ME features a solid mahogany top that delivers a warm, rich sound, while the arched mahogany back enhances projection and resonance.

The slim, C-shaped neck is crafted from mahogany with a rosewood fingerboard, offering a smooth playing experience with excellent responsiveness. Fishman Sonitone electronics are seamlessly integrated, allowing you to plug in and play with full control over your sound, ensuring your performances are as compelling as your unplugged sessions. With its classic design and modern features, this guitar is well-suited for a wide range of musical styles, from folk to blues and beyond.

Whether you're a seasoned performer or a budding artist, the Guild 120-ME Acoustic offers the tonal richness and playability you need to inspire your next musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany top for warm, rich tones
  • Arched mahogany back for enhanced projection
  • Slim, C-shaped mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard
  • Fishman Sonitone electronics for dynamic sound control
  • Part of Guild's Westerly Collection
  • Ideal for both acoustic and amplified performances

Product specs

Brand Guild
Model Westerly Collection M-120E, Westerly Collection M-120E with Pau Ferro Fretboard, Westerly Collection M-120E with Rosewood Fretboard
Finish Cherry Red, Natural
Year 2015 - 2020
Made In China
Categories Acoustic-Electric Guitars, Concert Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp Yes
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Concert
Color Family Brown, Red
Finish Style Gloss
Fretboard Material Pau Ferro, Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 6-String
Pickup Undersaddle Piezo Pickup
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Mahogany
Wood Top Style Plain

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the Guild 120-ME Acoustic's body, and how does it affect the sound?

The Guild 120-ME Acoustic features a mahogany body, which provides a warm, balanced tone with a strong midrange presence, making it suitable for various styles of music.

Is the Guild 120-ME Acoustic suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Guild 120-ME Acoustic is equipped with an active preamp and an undersaddle piezo pickup, making it well-suited for live performances with amplified sound.

How does the concert body shape of the Guild 120-ME Acoustic affect its playability?

The concert body shape of the Guild 120-ME Acoustic offers a comfortable playing experience with a balanced tone, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing and smaller-framed musicians.

What are the differences between the Pau Ferro and Rosewood fretboards on the Guild 120-ME Acoustic?

The Pau Ferro fretboard offers a slightly brighter tone with a smooth feel, while the Rosewood fretboard provides a warmer sound with a more traditional look and feel.

Does the Guild 120-ME Acoustic have a gloss finish, and how does it impact the guitar's appearance?

Yes, the Guild 120-ME Acoustic has a gloss finish, enhancing its visual appeal by highlighting the natural wood grain and providing a sleek, polished look.

Reviews

PROS

  • Compact size ideal for fingerpicking and alternate tunings

  • Inspires creativity with unique tone and resonance

  • Strong projection with surprisingly good bass response

  • Balanced sound, not boxy despite small body

  • Woody midrange and roots-y resonance

  • High clarity across tonal ranges after setup

  • Perfect for recording in mixes without overwhelming other instruments

  • Versatile, suitable for both casual play and professional use

  • Great value, holds its own against higher-end guitars

CONS

  • Heavy finish may affect soul and volume

  • Initial high action requires setup for optimal playability

  • Electronics might not meet expectations for some users

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Guild 120-ME Acoustic.

Build quality

  • The thick poly finish on the Guild 120-ME is noted for being sturdy but can also be brittle and less responsive.

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  • The glossy finish on the Guild M-120 can be modified to satin using green Scotch Brite pads, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and tactile comfort.

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  • Some owners report significant variations in tone and playability among Chinese-made Guild models, indicating potential quality control issues.

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Setup and maintenance

  • A professional setup is recommended to ensure consistent string volume and overall playability.

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Mods and upgrades

  • D'Addario 11s Silk and Steel strings significantly enhance clarity and bass response, making the guitar ideal for fingerstyle playing.

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  • Removing the brass bridge saver plate can improve top vibration, potentially enhancing sound quality.

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Comparisons

  • The tone is characterized by its midrange focus due to mahogany construction, differing from the deeper tones of classical guitars.

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  • Compared to the Martin 00-15m, the Guild M-120 offers similar satisfaction at a lower price, valued 3x less by some users but delivering comparable performance.

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  • The Guild M-20 is often compared to the Martin 15 series, with the latter offering better resale value and warranty benefits.

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Use cases and applications

  • The guitar works well for delicate fingerstyle playing and is suitable for quieter practice sessions without disturbing others.

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  • The Guild M-120 is praised for its suitability as a travel guitar due to its compact size and comfortable playability.

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User experience

  • Owners note that sanding the finish may lead to darker areas over time where the arm rests due to oil absorption, but this is generally considered a minor issue.

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  • One owner noted the Guild M-20 improves tonally with age, enhancing its appeal over time.

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Value and pricing

  • The resale value of Guild guitars is perceived as lower compared to similar models from brands like Martin.

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Genre Usage

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