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Average Price: $225

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$200

$601+

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Description

Discover the harmonious blend of craftsmanship and tonal richness with the Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic Guitar. This iconic instrument is perfect for musicians seeking the lush, full-bodied sound that only a 12-string can produce. Known for its durability and exceptional playability, the FG-230 delivers a balanced sound with its quality spruce top and mahogany back and sides. This combination ensures a resonant tone that suits various musical styles, from folk to rock.

The guitar's neck is designed with a comfortable profile, making it easier for players to navigate the fretboard, even with the additional strings. The rosewood fingerboard adds a touch of elegance and contributes to the warm tonal quality of the guitar. Whether you're strumming chords or picking melodies, the Yamaha FG-230 offers a dynamic range that captures every nuance of your playing.

With Yamaha's commitment to quality, this guitar is built to withstand the rigors of regular performance, making it a reliable choice for both stage and studio. Its timeless design and robust construction have earned it a rightful place in the hearts of musicians worldwide.

Key Features:

  • 12-string configuration for a rich, full-bodied sound
  • Spruce top and mahogany back and sides for excellent resonance
  • Comfortable neck profile for easy playability
  • Rosewood fingerboard for added warmth and elegance
  • Durable construction ideal for live performances and studio recording
  • Trusted Yamaha build quality and craftsmanship

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model FG-230 12-String Jumbo Dreadnought
Finish Natural
Year 1968 - 1972
Made In Japan
Categories 12-String Acoustic Guitars, Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars
Active Preamp No
Back Material Mahogany
Body Shape Dreadnought
Color Family Natural, Tan
Fretboard Material Rosewood
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 20
Number of Strings 12-String
Pickup None
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Sides Material Mahogany
String Type Steel
Top Material Spruce

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic?

The Yamaha FG-230 features a comfortable neck profile that facilitates easier playability, especially for a 12-string guitar. This design helps reduce hand fatigue, making it suitable for extended playing sessions.

Is the Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic suitable for beginners?

While the Yamaha FG-230 offers rich sound quality, its 12-string setup may be challenging for absolute beginners. However, with some experience or guidance, it can be a rewarding instrument for those looking to explore the fuller sound of a 12-string guitar.

What kind of music genres is the Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic best suited for?

The Yamaha FG-230 is ideal for genres that benefit from a rich, full-bodied sound, such as folk, rock, and country. Its 12-string configuration provides a lush harmonic resonance that enhances these styles.

How does the Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic differ from a standard 6-string guitar?

The Yamaha FG-230 features 12 strings, offering a fuller, more resonant sound compared to a 6-string guitar. This configuration provides a natural chorus effect and is particularly suited for strumming and open chord playing.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic?

The Yamaha FG-230 is constructed with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, providing a balanced tonal quality with warmth and clarity. The rosewood fretboard adds to its smooth playability and aesthetic appeal.

Guitars United

Guitars United

Yamaha Red Label FG-230 12 String Acoustic Guitar

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Red Label FG-230 12 String Acoustic Guitar by Guitars United

Yamaha Red Label FG-230 12 String Acoustic Guitar

Guitars United

Guitars United

Video thumbnail for Yamaha FG-230 12 string - Red Label 1970 by Paul's JV gear outlet channel

Yamaha FG-230 12 string - Red Label 1970

Paul's JV gear outlet channel

Paul's JV gear outlet channel

Video thumbnail for Yamaha FG-230 Nippon Gakki Red Label 12 String Acoustic by Michael Signal

Yamaha FG-230 Nippon Gakki Red Label 12 String Acoustic

Michael Signal

Michael Signal

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA FG 230 by Surin Vintage

YAMAHA FG 230

Surin Vintage

Surin Vintage

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA FG 230 by Surin Vintage

YAMAHA FG 230

Surin Vintage

Surin Vintage

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic.

Build quality

  • The Yamaha FG-230 Nippon Gakki models are known for their robust build, with owners reporting longevity over decades, even with minimal maintenance.

    Source
  • The FG-230 features a laminated spruce top with mahogany back and sides, which some owners believe may not justify high resale prices due to potential structural issues over time.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Prices for this model in good condition range from $250 to $500, depending on factors like cosmetic wear and historical significance.

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  • Notable price discrepancies exist, with some sellers pricing as high as $1800, though many consider this excessive for a laminated model with potential structural concerns.

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  • A neck reset for this model is priced around $300, but some luthiers may charge more due to the intricate nature of the repair.

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Other

  • The Nippon Gakki label signifies a high-quality era for Yamaha, with many owners expressing satisfaction with the durability and sound quality over long periods.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners frequently mention neck and top issues in older models, suggesting the need for potential repairs like neck resets, especially for guitars over 50 years old.

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  • Some owners report a significant forward bow in the neck, requiring more than truss rod adjustments and suggesting the need for a comprehensive neck reset.

    Source
  • Yamaha FG-230 models from the 60s and 70s used uncommon glues and construction techniques, making neck resets complex and requiring specialized luthiers.

    Source

User experience

  • It's been observed that condition and playability significantly influence price; well-maintained guitars command higher values, while those needing repairs are priced lower.

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  • Owners mention that most luthiers avoid working on these models due to the time-consuming nature of repairs, indicating the need for specialists in vintage Yamaha 12-strings.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Mike Campbell uses Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic

Mike Campbell

Guitarist

Fleetwood Mac

...
Verified via reverb.com

Listed for sale on Reverb.com on July 21, 2021.

This Yamaha FG-230 is owned by Mike Campbell

Serial: T0060322 This guitar has dirt and grime all over and would benefit from a good cleaning. A pretty significant amount of buckle rash. There is a bit of tape residue on the back of the headstock. The action is a bit high currently and could use a proper setup. There is 1 screw missing from the truss rod cover. No major cracks or damage.

All items in The Official Mike Campbell Reverb Shop ship fully insured with delivery confirmation and a signed and embossed Certificate Of Authenticity from Mike.

See how Alex Chilton uses Yamaha FG-230 12-String Acoustic

Alex Chilton

Guitarist, Singer

Big Star

...
Verified via Photo

Alex Chilton is pictured here with a Yamaha FG-230 12-string acoustic guitar, circa 1970.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

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