Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,021
High-end/Boutique
$200
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Yamaha AC3M". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Discover the harmony of craftsmanship and innovation with the Yamaha AC3M Acoustic-Electric Guitar. A testament to Yamaha's dedication to quality, the AC3M blends traditional guitar building with modern technology to offer a playing experience that's as versatile as it is captivating. Whether you're recording in the studio, performing on stage, or just enjoying the pure sound at home, this guitar will inspire and elevate your musical journey.
The heart of the AC3M lies in its solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, a timeless combination that delivers a rich, full-bodied tone. Yamaha's original A.R.E. wood-torrefaction technology enhances this natural sound, bringing an added depth and maturity to the guitar's voice. The concert body cutaway design not only looks sleek but provides comfortable access to the upper frets, ensuring no note is out of reach.
What truly sets the AC3M apart is its SRT2 pickup system, a marvel of Yamaha's advanced sound engineering. Designed to reproduce the most natural acoustic tones, this system captures the guitar's dynamic presence with stunning clarity and warmth. Whether plugged in or played acoustically, the AC3M delivers sound that is both authentic and expressive.
A new scalloped bracing pattern further enriches the acoustic sound, offering louder, more resonant tones. Paired with a high comfort neck profile, extended playing sessions become a pleasure, not a chore. Simple yet distinctive looks round out this guitar, making it a standout instrument that reflects the quality and innovation at the heart of Yamaha's craftsmanship.
Key Features:
- Solid Sitka Spruce Top with A.R.E.
- SRT2 Pickup System for natural, dynamic plugged-in sound
- Solid mahogany back and sides for rich, full-bodied tone
- Concert body cutaway for comfortable upper fret access
- New scalloped bracing for louder, richer acoustic sound
- High comfort neck profile for ease of playability
- Elixir strings for long-lasting tone
- Includes a hard bag for protection and portability
Product specs
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Model | AC3M Concert Acoustic/Electric Guitar |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Mahogany |
| Body Shape | Concert |
| Color Family | Natural, Tan |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | Undersaddle Piezo Pickup |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Sides Material | Mahogany |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Spruce |
FAQs
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What type of wood is used for the Yamaha AC3M's back and sides?
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The Yamaha AC3M features mahogany for both its back and sides, which contributes to its warm and resonant tone.
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Does the Yamaha AC3M come with a built-in preamp?
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Yes, the Yamaha AC3M includes an active preamp, allowing for easy amplification and tonal adjustments when plugged in.
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Is the Yamaha AC3M suitable for live performances?
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The Yamaha AC3M is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its concert body shape and built-in electronics that provide excellent amplified sound.
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What kind of pickup does the Yamaha AC3M use?
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The Yamaha AC3M is equipped with an undersaddle piezo pickup, which captures the guitar's natural acoustic sound for amplification.
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How does the Yamaha AC3M's concert body shape affect its sound?
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The concert body shape of the Yamaha AC3M offers a balanced tone with clear midrange and articulate highs, making it versatile for various playing styles.
Videos
Gord Olson
Gord Olson - Sol and the Drear (Yamaha AC3M demo)
Gord Olson - Sol and the Drear (Yamaha AC3M demo)
Gord Olson
Yamaha AC3M compared to Taylor 310CE acoustic electric guitar spruce mahogany
Guy Capuano
Sound Comparison Yamaha A5R A5M AC5R AC3M A1M A Series Acoustic Guitars
The Nightly Melody -Peng Chen
Yamaha AC3M A.R.E Concert Electro-Acoustic - Review & Demo
PMTVUK
Yamaha AC3M ARE Vintage Natural Concert Cutaway Guitar - Quickview
Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!
Review Yamaha AC3M A.R.E | By Guitars Loft
Guitars Loft
Yamaha AC3M ARE Vintage Natural Concert Cutaway Guitar - Quickview
Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!
Reviews
PROS
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All solid wood construction offers rich and balanced sound
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High-quality electronics with versatile sound manipulation options
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Comes with a sturdy, stylish gig bag for easy transport
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Excellent value for money for a guitar under $1000
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Built-in tuner and soundhole cover enhance playability and feedback control
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Beautiful finish with wood edging gives a premium feel
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Neck offers comfortable playability with smooth, low action
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Good projection and volume for its size; suitable for gigs and studio use
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Easily competes with guitars priced 2-3 times higher
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Reliable, consistent performance with no fret buzz or intonation issues
CONS
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Some models arrive with high action, requiring setup adjustment
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Occasional aesthetic imperfections and sharp fret edges noted
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Made in China quality might not rival high-end Japanese or American models
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Thinner neck may not suit all fingerstyle players
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Some electronics issues reported, requiring manufacturer attention
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha AC3M.
Comparisons
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The Yamaha AC3M is preferred over the AC3R for its balance and clarity, especially for fingerpicking, while the AC3R can sometimes be overpowering with overtones.
Source -
The Taylor 214ce is noted for lower, more consistent action compared to the Yamaha AC3M, particularly above the 10th fret, enhancing playability.
Source -
Yamaha's AC3M is likened to Taylor's FGX800C, suggesting a higher value proposition compared to Taylor's 214ce, which is priced for its brand reputation and resale value.
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The AC3M has a longer scale length and narrower neck compared to the FS3, which may influence playability preferences.
Source
Features and functionality
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The AC3R's electronic system, which combines a piezo with an internal microphone, is praised for capturing acoustic sound better than standard piezo systems.
Source -
The AC3M includes an on-board impulse response system with automatic feedback control, allowing for a clearer band presence and natural sound emulation.
Source -
The AC3M's SRT pickup system includes on-board impulse response technology, enhancing its acoustic replication and providing a more natural amplified sound.
Source
User experience
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Owners report the AC3M's mahogany build provides a tighter, more articulate sound, whereas the AC3R's rosewood construction delivers a fuller, overtone-rich sound that may not suit all players.
Source -
Some users find the Yamaha AC3M's tone slightly muddied compared to the clearer tone of the Taylor 214ce, particularly in higher action play.
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Some players note the AC3M lacks the typical boxy sound associated with Yamaha acoustics, providing a richer acoustic experience.
Source
Value and pricing
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A used AC3M in mint condition with a case was acquired for $625 plus tax, which is considered a better deal than a new AC3R at nearly $1,000.
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Yamaha AC3M is all solid wood, offering a competitive price point compared to partially laminate models like the Taylor 214ce.
Source -
While praised for its sound, some owners are hesitant due to poor resale value, impacting long-term investment considerations.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
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Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha AC3M, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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