Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $160
Budget/Beginner
$200
$601+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 5 merchants for "Yamaha JR1". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Introducing the Yamaha JR1 Mini Folk Guitar, a smaller, more accessible version of Yamaha's beloved FG series. Its compact design doesn't compromise on the rich, full-bodied tone that Yamaha guitars are known for. Crafted with a spruce top and Meranti back and sides, this guitar is perfect for beginners, children, or anyone who needs a handy practice instrument. Its stellar features make it a standout choice for those seeking a guitar that's easy to play without sacrificing quality.
Key Features:
- Compact design for easy handling and portability
- Full, resonant tone similar to Yamaha's FG series
- Spruce top with Meranti back and sides
- Ideal for beginners, children, or as a practice guitar
- Quality construction and materials from renowned guitar maker Yamaha
Product specs
| String Type | Steel |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | Dreadnought |
| Body Style | No Cutaway |
| Back & Sides Wood | Meranti |
| Top Wood | Spruce |
| Finish | Gloss |
| Neck Wood | Nato |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dot |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Scale Length | 21.25" |
| Bridge Material | Rosewood |
| Tuning Machines | Open Chrome |
| Strings | .012-.053 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Gig Bag |
FAQs
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Is the Yamaha JR1 suitable for beginners?
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Yes, the Yamaha JR1 is ideal for beginners due to its 3/4-size, which makes it easier to handle and play, especially for younger or smaller players.
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What kind of wood is used in the Yamaha JR1's construction?
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The Yamaha JR1 features a spruce top with meranti back and sides, providing a balanced tone that is both warm and clear.
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Does the Yamaha JR1 come with a gig bag?
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Yes, the Yamaha JR1 includes a gig bag, making it convenient to transport and protect the guitar.
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What is the scale length of the Yamaha JR1?
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The Yamaha JR1 has a scale length of 21.25 inches, contributing to its compact size and playability.
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Can the Yamaha JR1 be adjusted for optimal playability?
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Yes, the Yamaha JR1 is equipped with a truss rod, allowing for neck adjustments to improve string action and playability.
Videos
JaPanHouseGuiTarVintage
Yamaha JR1 Japanhouse
Yamaha JR1 Japanhouse
JaPanHouseGuiTarVintage
YAMAHA JR1 ACOUSTIC GUITAR OVERVIEW - RESONATE MUSIC
Resonate Music School & Studio
Yamaha JR1
Muzyczny_pl
Reviews
PROS
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Keeps tune better than most beginner guitars
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Very loud for its size
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Natural-finish woods provide a range from steely crisp trebles to mellow bass
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Pitch perfect intonation across octaves
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Slim, tapered neck for easier playability
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Lightweight yet solid construction
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Suitable for both juniors and adults with smaller hands
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Attractive design with glossy Spruce top and matte back and sides
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Great for travel; fits in a regular backpack
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Good value for the price
CONS
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Tone may not be inspiring for more experienced players
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Some users find the yellow color of the top unattractive
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Fret edges may feel rough despite new strings
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Tuning can be slightly troublesome
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha JR1.
Build quality
Setup and maintenance
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Owners recommend replacing the stock strings to improve clarity and resonance, significantly enhancing sound quality.
Source
Use cases and applications
Comparisons
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While the Yamaha JR1 is budget-friendly, models like the Martin LX1 and Taylor GS Mini offer greater tonal depth at a higher cost.
Source -
While the Martin 5-18 shares dimensions with the JR, it has a 12-fret design compared to the JR's 14-fret setup.
Source -
Owners mention that while the JR1 is a good budget option, models like the Breedlove Discovery offer a bigger sound due to their cedar tops and mahogany laminate sides.
Source -
The JR2, while similar in sound to the JR1, is favored for its aesthetic upgrades and improved padded case, making it more appealing for travel.
Source
Mods and upgrades
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Some suggest upgrading the nut, saddle, bridge pins, and tuners, although the impact on this guitar's size and scale may be minimal.
Source
Features and functionality
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The JR2 offers aesthetic upgrades like a burst finish and a padded gig bag, but the sound remains similar to the JR1.
Source
User experience
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 2 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Phoebe Bridgers used the Yamaha JR1 during her "Tiny Desk (Home) concert" in 2020. Can be seen throughout the video, but first (in full) at 0:43.
Jack can be seen using the Yamaha JR1 in this vhs test video as well as others, such as his live cover of Dead Flowers by the Rolling Stones.
In the lyric video for "Brown Eyes Baby" by Alexander 23, he can be seen using a Yamaha JR1 acoustic guitar.
At 0:12 in this video, we can see Janick playing his main acoustic guitar, a Yamaha JR1
you can see the yamaha jr1 in this video. it has also been rigged up with an external pickup
Album Usage
The Yamaha JR1 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 JR1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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