Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,699
High-end/Boutique
$200
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Yamaha A5R ARE". 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
Crafted with precision and artistry, the Yamaha A5R ARE acoustic-electric guitar is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, perfect for both seasoned performers and passionate enthusiasts. Handcrafted in Japan, this guitar boasts a solid Sitka spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides, delivering a resonant sound with a robust low-mid range. The A5R's top is treated with Yamaha's exclusive A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) technology, imbuing it with a rich, vintage quality tone from the very first strum.
Equipped with Yamaha's acclaimed SRT2 pickup system, this guitar allows you to effortlessly transition from studio-quality sound to a commanding stage presence. The SRT2 system offers the unique ability to blend sounds from a piezo pickup and a choice between two vintage microphone emulations, enabling you to achieve your distinct tone effortlessly. The guitar features a comfortable neck profile, with hand-rolled fingerboard edges and a straighter neck taper, providing an exceptional playing experience.
Designed for versatility, the Yamaha A5R comes with Elixir NANOWEB 80/20 Bronze Light strings, offering a bright, lively tone with extended longevity. Whether you’re recording in the studio, performing live, or practicing intricate tunings at home, the Yamaha A5R ARE ensures a captivating and dynamic performance every time.
Key Features:
- Solid Sitka spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides
- Yamaha’s A.R.E. technology for vintage tone quality
- SRT2 pickup system with blend control for customized sound
- Comfortable neck profile with hand-rolled fingerboard edges
- Includes a hardshell case for protection and portability
- Made in Japan with premium craftsmanship
Product specs
| String Type | Steel |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | Dreadnought Cutaway |
| Back & Sides Wood | Solid Rosewood |
| Top Wood | Solid Sitka Spruce with A.R.E. treatment |
| Finish | Gloss |
| Body Bracing | Scalloped Bracing |
| Binding | Mahogany |
| Neck Wood | African Mahogany |
| Neck Shape | Straight Taper |
| Radius | 15.75" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Snowflakes |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Scale Length | 25.56" |
| Nut Width | 1.6875" |
| Nut/Saddle Material | Tusq/Tusq |
| Bridge Material | Ebony |
| Tuning Machines | Gotoh chrome open gear |
| Electronics | System 71 SRT2 preamp with SRT piezo pickup |
| Strings | Elixir Nanoweb 80/20 Bronze Light, .012-.053 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Hardshell Case |
FAQs
-
What is the A.R.E. treatment on the Yamaha A5R ARE's top wood?
-
The A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) treatment is a Yamaha-exclusive process that ages the solid Sitka spruce top wood, enhancing its tonal qualities to produce a richer, more resonant sound similar to a vintage guitar.
-
Is the Yamaha A5R ARE suitable for live performances?
-
Yes, the Yamaha A5R ARE is ideal for live performances due to its System 71 SRT2 preamp and SRT piezo pickup, which provide excellent amplified sound and tone control options.
-
What type of wood is used for the back and sides of the Yamaha A5R ARE?
-
The back and sides of the Yamaha A5R ARE are made from solid rosewood, known for its rich, full-bodied tone and strong projection.
-
Does the Yamaha A5R ARE come with a case?
-
Yes, the Yamaha A5R ARE comes with a hardshell case, providing protection and easy transport for the guitar.
-
How many frets does the Yamaha A5R ARE have?
-
The Yamaha A5R ARE features 20 frets, allowing for a wide range of notes and playability across the fingerboard.
-
What kind of strings are included with the Yamaha A5R ARE?
-
The Yamaha A5R ARE comes with Elixir Nanoweb 80/20 Bronze Light strings, which are known for their long-lasting tone and smooth feel.
Videos
Guitarist
Yamaha A3R ARE & A5R ARE Acoustic Demos
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha A5R ARE.
Setup and maintenance
-
The fretboard can be cleaned with lemon oil and a microfiber cloth, while lukewarm water and a sponge can help with the neck grime.
Source
Build quality
-
Solid rosewood back and sides, Sitka spruce top, mahogany fretboard and binding, ebony bridge, and tusq nut and saddle are noted as key components.
Source -
The neck is epoxied on, which might deter buyers concerned about future neck resets.
Source -
The A5R is noted to be louder, more resonant, and punchier than the A3R, attributed to superior wood grading and Japanese craftsmanship.
Source
Comparisons
User experience
Features and functionality
-
The mic blend pickup system in the A5R is underrated, offering flexibility and quality in sound reproduction for both amplified and acoustic play.
Source -
The A5R has a 1 11/16" nut width, which might be a consideration for players with larger hands used to a 1 3/4" nut width.
Source -
The A5R includes a tusq nut and saddle, which some users believe may offer tonal benefits over urea, though opinions vary.
Source
Mods and upgrades
-
Custom pickguards can be designed and ordered from Bruce Wei on Etsy, using a hairdryer for removal of the original.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
In this YouTube video, DRH shows off his Yamaha A5R ARE in what seems like a live take promotional video.
Album Usage
The Yamaha A5R ARE has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha A5R ARE, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Yamaha Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Gear Guides
Most Popular Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
andrewjuliansorianoGear IQ 82
-