Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 4 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (29)
$1,199.99
Amazon
4.4 (9)
$1,199.99 New
$797.99 Used (Like New)
Reverb
4.0 (5)
$1,023.56 1 available Used
Thomann
4.6 (14)
$1,179.00 $1,169.00 $10.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,148

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

What kind of sound can I expect from the Yamaha LL16-12 12-string acoustic guitar?

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.

Is the Yamaha LL16-12 suitable for live performances?

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.

What is the neck profile like on the Yamaha LL16-12, and is it comfortable for extended playing?

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.

Does the Yamaha LL16-12 come with a case?

Yes, the Yamaha LL16-12 comes with a softshell case, providing protection and easy transport for your guitar.

What is the A.R.E. treatment on the Yamaha LL16-12, and how does it affect the sound?

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.

Mathieu Houeix

Mathieu Houeix

Yamaha LL16-12 Acoustic audio test

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LL16-12 Acoustic audio test by Mathieu Houeix

Yamaha LL16-12 Acoustic audio test

Mathieu Houeix

Mathieu Houeix

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LL-16 12-String by Guitar Gallery

Yamaha LL-16 12-String

Guitar Gallery

Guitar Gallery

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional build quality with flawless finish and detail

  • Solid Engelmann spruce top and rosewood back & sides provide rich sound

  • Outstanding value for money, competes with more expensive models

  • Highly praised for its loud, direct, and percussive sound

  • Low action makes it easy to play, even for a 12-string

  • Beautiful aesthetics, including abalone rosette and gold tuners

  • Versatile sound suitable for various music styles

  • Comes with a well-padded gig bag, almost negating the need for a hard case

  • A.R.E. process enhances tonal quality and projection

  • Exceptional resonance and tone, comparable to high-end brands

CONS

  • Some users find the finish too thick, potentially affecting tone

  • Heavy guitar, which may not suit all players

  • Requires minor adjustments for optimal playability out of the box

  • 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

  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the Yamaha LL16-12 report it as a reliable choice for those transitioning into 12-strings without significant tuning issues.

    Source
  • An owner mentioned purchasing the guitar used for $500 USD, emphasizing the value given its high-quality sound and build.

    Source
  • Owners praise the Yamaha for its short scale length, which some find more comfortable for playability compared to other 12-string models.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Yamaha LL16-12 is recommended for players who frequently switch between 6 and 12 strings due to its manageable tuning and maintenance needs.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • 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.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

Build quality

  • Owners report that changing the nut and saddle to bone and replacing the pins with Tusq elevates the guitar's performance significantly.

    Source
  • 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

Mods and upgrades

  • It's suggested to change the nut and saddle to bone for improved sound quality, with some users also recommending a full setup for optimal playability.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 6 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
joe_wright4920

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
See how Frank Iero uses Yamaha LL16-12

Frank Iero

Guitarist, Bassist

My Chemical Romance

...
Verified via Photo

"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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