Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 6 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (28)
$1,779.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (15)
$1,779.99
Amazon
5.0 (9)
$1,779.99
Reverb
5.0 (6)
$1,690.40 New
$1,299.99 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (14)
$1,779.99
zZounds
5.0 (6)
$1,779.99

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.

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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.

Guitarist

Guitarist

Yamaha A3R ARE & A5R ARE Acoustic Demos

Video thumbnail for Yamaha A3R ARE & A5R ARE Acoustic Demos by Guitarist

Yamaha A3R ARE & A5R ARE Acoustic Demos

Guitarist

Guitarist

Video thumbnail for Yamaha A5R (ARE) Review by Guitar Gallery

Yamaha A5R (ARE) Review

Guitar Gallery

Guitar Gallery

Video thumbnail for Yamaha A3R ARE vs Yamaha A5R ARE by Guitar Gallery

Yamaha A3R ARE vs Yamaha A5R ARE

Guitar Gallery

Guitar Gallery

Video thumbnail for Yamaha A5R ARE Demo - Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar - Miced & Piezo Pickup Tones by Chris Holland Guitar

Yamaha A5R ARE Demo - Dreadnought Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar - Miced & Piezo Pickup Tones

Chris Holland Guitar

Chris Holland Guitar

Video thumbnail for Yamaha A5R ARE by Guitar Gallery

Yamaha A5R ARE

Guitar Gallery

Guitar Gallery

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

  • An owner compared the Yamaha A5R ARE to Taylor's 100 series, suggesting the Yamaha holds its own against these well-regarded models.

    Source
  • The A5R's sound quality has been compared favorably to a Taylor 414ce-R, suggesting it holds its own against higher-priced models.

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User experience

  • The A5R typically comes well set up out of the box, with excellent intonation, requiring no immediate adjustments.

    Source
  • Handmade Japanese models like the A5R are praised for their durability, often described as "built like tanks."

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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.

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  • 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

Value and pricing

  • Some owners equate the $1995 price to that of a 2k Martin, suggesting premium value.

    Source
  • The A5R, even when bought used at $1200, is considered a worthy upgrade from the A3R, valued for its superior sound and construction.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha A5R ARE review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Yamaha's A5R ARE stands out with its vintage warmth and impressive SRT2 pickup system, offering a natural acoustic tone that translates well on stage. The craftsmanship is top-notch, featuring beautiful aesthetics and a comfortable playability that even electric guitarists will appreciate. However, the lack of a non-cutaway version may disappoint some players who prefer traditional designs. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice for those looking to bridge the gap between unplugged charm and plugged-in performance.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Yvette Young uses Yamaha A5R ARE

Yvette Young

Singer, Guitarist

Covet

...
Verified via YouTube

In this Yoiutube video Yvette is playing the Yamaha A5R ARE.

See how David Ryan Harris uses Yamaha A5R ARE

David Ryan Harris

Guitarist

Brand New Immortals

...
Verified via YouTube

In this YouTube video, DRH shows off his Yamaha A5R ARE in what seems like a live take promotional video.

See how Katie Cole uses Yamaha A5R ARE

Katie Cole

Singer, Guitarist

The Smashing Pumpkins

...
Verified via YouTube

In a video from NAMM 2021, Katie Cole is seen playing a Yamaha A5R ARE acoustic guitar.

See how Erika Ikuta uses Yamaha A5R ARE

Erika Ikuta

Singer, Keyboardist

乃木坂46

...
Verified via Dailymotion

In Nogizaka46 Hour TV, they gave Erika an opportunity to learn new instruments such a like violin and guitar, she use a Yamaha A5R ARE to learn until she can and make a show for her own

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.

Violin
Violin Violins
1

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