Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Average Price: $1,195

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnought". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation with the Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnought. This acoustic guitar is a testament to the timeless allure of vintage craftsmanship paired with modern precision. Constructed with a solid AAA Adirondack spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides, this instrument delivers a rich, resonant tone that commands attention whether you're strumming in a cozy setting or performing on stage.

The RD-342 is designed not just for sound, but for feel. Its mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience, while the bone nut and saddle ensure exceptional vibration transfer for an authentic, full-bodied sound. The dreadnought body style provides a robust bass response and clear high-end shimmer, making it ideal for a variety of genres from bluegrass to classic country. Nickel butterbean tuning machines add both aesthetic appeal and functional reliability, allowing for precise tuning adjustments.

Beyond its sonic capabilities, the RD-342 is a visual masterpiece. Abalone snowflake inlays and a tortoise pickguard complement its natural gloss finish, making it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the ear. Whether you're a seasoned performer or a passionate hobbyist, this guitar stands as a worthy companion on your musical journey.

Key Features:

  • Solid AAA Adirondack spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides
  • Dreadnought body shape for enhanced bass and treble projection
  • Mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and abalone snowflake inlays
  • Bone nut and saddle for superior sound transfer
  • Nickel butterbean tuning machines for smooth and stable tuning
  • Natural gloss finish with a tortoise pickguard

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape Dreadnought
Back & Sides Wood Solid East Indian Rosewood
Top Wood Solid AAA Adirondack Spruce
Body Bracing X-bracing
Binding Ivory
Neck Wood Mahogany
Neck Shape V
Fingerboard Material Ebony
Fingerboard Inlay Abalone Snowflakes
Number of Frets 20
Scale Length 25.4"
Nut Width 1.75"
Nut/Saddle Material Bone/Bone
Bridge Material Ebony
Tuning Machines Nickel Butterbean

FAQs

What are the tonal characteristics of the Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnought?

The RD-342 offers a rich, full-bodied tone with strong projection, thanks to its solid AAA Adirondack Spruce top and solid East Indian Rosewood back and sides. This combination provides a balanced sound with deep bass, clear mids, and sparkling highs.

Is the Recording King RD-342 suitable for fingerstyle playing?

Yes, the RD-342's V-shaped neck and 1.75" nut width provide ample space for fingerstyle playing, making it comfortable for intricate fingerpicking patterns.

How does the X-bracing affect the sound of the RD-342 Dreadnought?

The X-bracing enhances the guitar's resonance and sustain, allowing for a dynamic range that supports both light fingerpicking and aggressive strumming.

What type of players would benefit most from the Recording King RD-342?

The RD-342 is ideal for intermediate to advanced players seeking a high-quality dreadnought with a robust and versatile sound, suitable for both solo performances and ensemble settings.

Does the Recording King RD-342 come with a case or gig bag?

The product specifications do not list a case or gig bag, so it's advisable to check with the retailer for any included accessories or consider purchasing one separately for protection.

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnought | elderly.com

Video thumbnail for Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnought | elderly.com by Elderly Instruments

Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnought | elderly.com

Elderly Instruments

Elderly Instruments

Video thumbnail for Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnaught Demo and Review by Lincoln Hensley

Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnaught Demo and Review

Lincoln Hensley

Lincoln Hensley

Video thumbnail for David Anderson demos the Recording King RD-342 by Music To My Ears

David Anderson demos the Recording King RD-342

Music To My Ears

Music To My Ears

Reviews

PROS

  • Rivals expensive Martins in sound quality for a fraction of the price

  • Excellent value with high-quality features like AAA Adirondack top and ebony fretboard

  • Great out-of-the-box setup, requiring no initial adjustments

  • Vintage 1936 Gibson dreadnought-like sound with long sustain and rich overtones

  • Features such as bone nut and saddle, exquisite abalone trims enhance the aesthetic

  • V-neck style enhances playability, especially for barre chords

  • Natural clear finish appreciated for its authenticity

  • Continues to improve in sound quality over time with play

  • High build quality with a low, smooth action for effortless playing

CONS

  • Excessive toner on back and sides obscures rosewood grain indoors

  • Pickguard covers abalone around the sound hole, altering appearance

  • Original plastic bridge pins can affect tone; bone pins recommended

  • Some issues with tuner responsiveness and occasional buzz on low E string

  • Finish on the back may exhibit sloppy divider craftsmanship

  • Sound may be too bright for some, especially compared to vintage models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Recording King RD-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Dreadnought.

Build quality

  • The thick poly finish on the Recording King RD-342 is described as plasticy and detrimental to tone, making it feel muted compared to other guitars.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report the need for a setup to achieve low action, with some guitars arriving with inconsistent quality control, suggesting playing before purchasing.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Recording King RD-342 offers a solid rosewood back and sides with an Adirondack spruce top, providing a value alternative to vintage Martin D-28 specs at a lower price.

    Source

User experience

  • The V neck is considered comfortable by owners, especially for those with arthritis, despite initial adjustment challenges.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Recording King guitars are praised for affordability, allowing exploration of different shapes and woods without a significant financial commitment.

    Source

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