Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (4)
$1,299.99
Guitar Center
$1,399.99
Reverb
$865.51 New
$776.20 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (1)
$1,399.99
Thomann
4.0 (3)
$833.00 $822.00 $11.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,094

High-end/Boutique

$200

$601+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Recording King RP-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Single 0". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Step into a world where vintage charm meets modern precision with the Recording King RP-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Single 0. Designed for the discerning musician, this steel-string acoustic guitar combines the allure of traditional craftsmanship with the reliability of contemporary build quality. The solid AAA Adirondack spruce top paired with East Indian rosewood back and sides delivers a warm, resonant tone that fills any room with rich acoustic bliss. Ideal for bluegrass, classic country, and heartfelt songwriting, its compact Single 0 body ensures comfort without sacrificing projection.

Attention to detail shines through in every component—from the reliable "X" bracing that enhances clarity and sustain, to the elegant ebony fingerboard adorned with abalone snowflake inlays. The bone nut and saddle ensure a faithful transfer of vibrations, while the nickel butterbean tuning machines offer smooth, precise tuning. With its timeless gloss finish, this guitar is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the ears.

Whether you're strumming in a cozy corner of a café or adding layers in a studio session, the Tonewood Reserve Elite Single 0 is your trusted companion in crafting memorable music.

Key Features:

  • Solid AAA Adirondack spruce top and East Indian rosewood back and sides
  • Single 0 body style for comfortable playability with a full sound
  • X-bracing pattern for enhanced tone and durability
  • Bone nut and saddle for authentic sound transfer
  • Ebony fingerboard with abalone snowflake inlays
  • Nickel butterbean tuners for smooth, reliable tuning
  • Gloss finish for an elegant visual appeal

Product specs

String Type Steel
Number of Strings 6
Left-/Right-handed Right-handed
Body Shape 0
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 kind of sound can I expect from the Recording King RP-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Single 0?

The RP-342 offers a rich and resonant sound, thanks to its solid AAA Adirondack spruce top and solid East Indian rosewood back and sides. This combination provides a balanced tonal range with clear highs and a warm bass response, ideal for fingerstyle and flatpicking.

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

Yes, the RP-342's 0 body shape and 1.75" nut width make it well-suited for fingerstyle playing, offering comfortable string spacing and a responsive tone.

What is the neck profile like on the Recording King RP-342?

The RP-342 features a V-shaped mahogany neck, which provides a comfortable grip for both chordal and lead playing, appealing to players who prefer a vintage-style neck profile.

Does the Recording King RP-342 come with a case?

The Recording King RP-342 does not typically include a case, so it is recommended to purchase a compatible case separately to ensure protection during transport.

How does the Recording King RP-342 compare to larger body guitars in terms of volume?

The RP-342, with its 0 body shape, offers a more focused sound with less volume than larger body guitars like dreadnoughts, but it compensates with enhanced clarity and articulation, especially suitable for solo performances and recording.

Papaw Odells

Papaw Odells

Recording King Tonewood Reserve Elite 0, Model RP-342 Demo

Video thumbnail for Recording King Tonewood Reserve Elite 0, Model RP-342 Demo by Papaw Odells

Recording King Tonewood Reserve Elite 0, Model RP-342 Demo

Papaw Odells

Papaw Odells

Video thumbnail for Recording King RP-342 Parlor Guitar Demo by Papaw Odells

Recording King RP-342 Parlor Guitar Demo

Papaw Odells

Papaw Odells

Reviews

PROS

  • Comparable to boutique guitars at a fraction of the price

  • Spruce top and rosewood back and sides deliver rich sound

  • Comfortable V-shaped neck for easy playability

  • Excellent intonation right out of the box

  • Ideal for fingerpicking with added pickup for gig use

  • Eye-catching inlay adds visual appeal

CONS

  • Fret ends may require dressing upon arrival

  • Tuning machines might need tightening or upgrading

  • Quality control can be inconsistent on some units

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Recording King RP-342 Tonewood Reserve Elite Single 0.

Build quality

  • The thick poly finish on some models is described as feeling plasticky and is considered a tone suck, muting and dulling the sound.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners report needing setups out of the box, with action preferences leaning towards lower settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The RO-328 is compared to the Martin 000-RSGT and Eastman E1OM, with the Eastman preferred for livelier and more resonant tones despite different material specs.

    Source

User experience

  • The V-shaped neck is noted to be comfortable, especially for those with arthritis, after an adjustment period.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Recording King offers solid rosewood and Adirondack spruce top guitars for about $800, compared favorably against pricier models with similar specs.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The thick finish might be less concerning for fingerstyle players who don't use a pickguard.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Some owners consider removing the large pickguard to avoid a "tan line" on the wood, suggesting early removal to prevent discoloration.

    Source

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