Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $1,149
High-end/Boutique
$200
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Yamaha LL16-12". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Experience the harmonious blend of craftsmanship and innovation with the Yamaha LL16-12, an acoustic guitar that resonates with vibrant tones and stellar playability. Perfect for musicians seeking that unmistakable 12-string shimmer, this guitar combines traditional craftsmanship with modern enhancements. The hand-selected solid Engelmann spruce top is just the beginning of the LL16-12's sonic excellence. This top is treated with Yamaha's A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) process, which mimics the tonal characteristics of a well-aged guitar, delivering a mature sound right out of the box.
The solid rosewood back and sides contribute to the guitar's rich tonal palette, offering a full-bodied sound with exceptional projection. The 5-ply mahogany and rosewood neck, paired with an ebony fretboard, ensures smooth playability and durability, making it a reliable companion for both studio sessions and live performances. Yamaha's SRT Zero Impact pickup system, featuring individual piezo elements for each string, provides a seamless transition from acoustic to amplified sound, capturing the guitar's natural resonance without compromising its aesthetic.
Key Features:
- Original Jumbo body design
- Solid Engelmann spruce top with A.R.E. treatment
- Solid rosewood back and sides
- 5-piece mahogany/rosewood neck with an ebony fretboard
- 20 frets, scale length: 634 mm, nut width: 46 mm
- Passive SRT Zero Impact pickup system
- Golden Yamaha machine heads
- Polyurethane finish
- Includes a soft bag for easy transport
This impressive combination of features makes the Yamaha LL16-12 a versatile choice for musicians who demand quality and performance from their instrument.
Product specs
| String Type | Steel |
| Number of Strings | 12 |
| Left-/Right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Shape | Original Jumbo |
| Back & Sides Wood | Solid Rosewood |
| Top Wood | Solid Engelmann Spruce with A.R.E. treatment |
| Finish | Urethane Gloss |
| Body Bracing | Non-scalloped |
| Neck Wood | 5-ply Mahogany/Rosewood |
| Neck Shape | Traditional |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Scale Length | 25" |
| Nut Width | 1.81" |
| Bridge Material | Ebony |
| Tuning Machines | Die-cast gold tuners |
| Electronics | SRT Zero Impact pickup |
| Case/Gig Bag | Softshell Case |
FAQs
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Yamaha LL16-12 12-string acoustic guitar?
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The Yamaha LL16-12 offers a rich and full-bodied sound, thanks to its solid Engelmann spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides. The 12-string configuration provides a lush, shimmering tone ideal for folk, rock, and other genres that benefit from a harmonic-rich sound.
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Is the Yamaha LL16-12 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Yamaha LL16-12 is equipped with an SRT Zero Impact pickup system, making it ready for amplified performances while maintaining its acoustic integrity. This feature is excellent for gigging musicians who need a reliable and great-sounding guitar on stage.
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What is the neck profile like on the Yamaha LL16-12, and is it comfortable for extended playing?
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The Yamaha LL16-12 features a traditional neck profile that balances comfort and playability. The 5-ply mahogany/rosewood neck provides stability and a smooth playing experience, suitable for both strumming and fingerstyle playing.
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Does the Yamaha LL16-12 come with a case?
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Yes, the Yamaha LL16-12 comes with a softshell case, providing protection and easy transport for your guitar.
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What is the A.R.E. treatment on the Yamaha LL16-12, and how does it affect the sound?
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The A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) treatment is a wood-aging process that enhances the tonal characteristics, giving the guitar a more mature sound with improved resonance and sustain, similar to vintage instruments.
Videos
Mathieu Houeix
Yamaha LL16-12 Acoustic audio test
Reviews
PROS
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Exceptional build quality with flawless finish and detail
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Solid Engelmann spruce top and rosewood back & sides provide rich sound
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Outstanding value for money, competes with more expensive models
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Highly praised for its loud, direct, and percussive sound
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Low action makes it easy to play, even for a 12-string
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Beautiful aesthetics, including abalone rosette and gold tuners
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Versatile sound suitable for various music styles
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Comes with a well-padded gig bag, almost negating the need for a hard case
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A.R.E. process enhances tonal quality and projection
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Exceptional resonance and tone, comparable to high-end brands
CONS
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Some users find the finish too thick, potentially affecting tone
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Heavy guitar, which may not suit all players
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Requires minor adjustments for optimal playability out of the box
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Lack of a built-in pickup in some models can be disappointing
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha LL16-12.
Comparisons
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The Yamaha LL16-12 has a narrow nut and string spacing, making it better for players with smaller hands compared to the Martin HD12-28.
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The Yamaha LL16-12 is described as having a slightly larger shape compared to a typical dreadnought, with some users likening it to a sloped shoulder dreadnought.
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While the Yamaha LL16-12 has a 1.75" nut width, the Sigma DR12-42 offers a wider 1-7/8" nut, catering better to players with larger hands.
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The Yamaha LL16-12 is frequently compared to the Martin HD12-28, with users noting similar tonal qualities but differing in nut and string spacing.
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User experience
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Owners of the Yamaha LL16-12 report it as a reliable choice for those transitioning into 12-strings without significant tuning issues.
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An owner mentioned purchasing the guitar used for $500 USD, emphasizing the value given its high-quality sound and build.
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Owners praise the Yamaha for its short scale length, which some find more comfortable for playability compared to other 12-string models.
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After testing, a user preferred the Yamaha LL16-12 over other brands for its rich, full-bodied sound at its price point, especially highlighting its solid wood construction.
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Use cases and applications
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The Yamaha LL16-12 is recommended for players who frequently switch between 6 and 12 strings due to its manageable tuning and maintenance needs.
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One user, who previously owned an LJX6C, notes that the LL-TA and LL-16 models provide an "all-around" guitar experience, suitable for varied musical applications.
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Value and pricing
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It’s noted that the Yamaha offers quality and functionality as a cost-effective alternative to more expensive brands like Gibson, especially for occasional 12-string players.
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A user noted getting the guitar for $877 shipped due to a restock deal, pointing out its increasing price on Yamaha and Sweetwater to $1049.
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Build quality
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Owners report that changing the nut and saddle to bone and replacing the pins with Tusq elevates the guitar's performance significantly.
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The Yamaha LL16-12 features a laminate neck designed to withstand the tension of 12 strings, paired with solid Engelmann Spruce and rosewood for enhanced tone.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings
204
very good guitar
my friend said that yamaha do the best acoustics and he was right, its a very well made 12 string and there is nothing wrong with it, great warm dark sound
Artist usage
Add artist
"This amazing @yamaha_guitars LL16-12 Acoustic 12 string showed up at my house the other day and i can’t stop doing Wish you were here/Free Fallin’ medleys around the house. Thank you @scott_marceau and sorry family, but it’s my first 12 string!!! which reminds me... @timdovestuff i’m gonna need some 12 string acoustic @ernieball soon 😬 pps @xasthur_official1 i’m coming for your doom grass!"
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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