Pricing and availability
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Price
Average Price: $1,100
High-end/Boutique
$200
$1001+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 3 merchants for "Yamaha LL16 ARE". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Yamaha LL16 ARE is a testament to Yamaha's commitment to crafting high-quality acoustic guitars that cater to both seasoned professionals and passionate hobbyists. This steel-string acoustic guitar, part of Yamaha's revered L Series, blends traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation to deliver an instrument that's as pleasing to the ear as it is to the eye. The hand-selected solid Engelmann spruce top is treated with Yamaha's A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) process, which accelerates the aging of the wood, resulting in a rich, mature sound that typically takes years to develop.
The LL16's solid rosewood back and sides add depth and warmth to its tone, offering exceptional bass and projection that can fill any room. Whether you're strumming in a cozy cafe or picking in a concert hall, its robust sound impresses. Yamaha has crafted a 5-ply mahogany/rosewood neck, redesigned for enhanced playability and comfort, making long sessions a joy rather than a chore.
A standout feature of the LL16 is the SRT Zero Impact pickup system, which uses individual piezo elements for each string to capture a natural, dynamic sound without compromising the guitar's aesthetics or resonance. While it's a passive system, it ensures that the guitar's acoustic integrity remains intact, needing a simple external preamp for amplification. The Yamaha LL16 ARE is not just a guitar; it's a blend of tradition, technology, and unparalleled artistry.
Key Features:
- Solid Engelmann spruce top with A.R.E. treatment for an aged, resonant tone
- Solid rosewood back and sides for rich bass and projection
- 5-ply mahogany/rosewood neck redesigned for modern playability
- Non-scalloped bracing pattern enhances the low end
- SRT Zero Impact pickup with individual piezo elements for each string
Product specs
| String Type | Steel |
| Number of Strings | 6 |
| 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 | Gloss Polyurethane |
| Body Bracing | Non-scalloped |
| Binding | Maple/Black |
| Neck Wood | 5-ply Mahogany/Rosewood |
| Neck Shape | Traditional |
| Radius | 15.75" |
| Fingerboard Inlay | Dots |
| Number of Frets | 20 |
| Scale Length | 25.5" |
| Nut Width | 1.75" |
| Nut/Saddle Material | Urea |
| Bridge Material | Ebony |
| Tuning Machines | Die-cast Gold tuners |
| Electronics | SRT Zero Impact pickup |
| Strings | Elixir Nanoweb 80/20 Bronze Light, .012-.053 |
| Case/Gig Bag | Softshell Case |
FAQs
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What is the Yamaha LL16 ARE's top wood and how does it affect the sound?
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The Yamaha LL16 ARE features a solid Engelmann spruce top with A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) treatment, which provides a rich, aged tone right out of the box, enhancing resonance and sustain.
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Is the Yamaha LL16 ARE suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Yamaha LL16 ARE includes an SRT Zero Impact pickup, making it well-suited for live performances without compromising its acoustic tone.
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What is the neck profile of the Yamaha LL16 ARE?
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The Yamaha LL16 ARE has a traditional neck shape, providing a comfortable playing experience for both strumming and fingerstyle techniques.
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How does the Yamaha LL16 ARE's body shape affect its sound?
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The original jumbo body shape of the Yamaha LL16 ARE delivers a powerful, full-bodied sound with excellent projection, ideal for various musical styles.
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Does the Yamaha LL16 ARE come with a case?
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Yes, the Yamaha LL16 ARE comes with a softshell case, providing protection for the guitar during transport and storage.
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What type of strings does the Yamaha LL16 ARE use?
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The Yamaha LL16 ARE is strung with Elixir Nanoweb 80/20 Bronze Light strings, offering a balanced tone and long-lasting performance.
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Is the Yamaha LL16 ARE handcrafted?
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Yes, the Yamaha LL16 ARE is handcrafted with solid woods, ensuring high-quality construction and excellent tonal balance.
Videos
Kraft Music
Yamaha LL16 ARE Handcrafted Acoustic Guitar Demo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha LL16 ARE.
Build quality
Setup and maintenance
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Out of the box, the action is low at 1.75 mm/1.5 mm (low E/high E), ideal for fingerstyle players seeking a comfortable setup.
Source
Features and functionality
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The proprietary Yamaha SRT pickup system offers battery-less operation and captures a true micro-phoned sound unique to each guitar.
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Comparisons
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The LL16 is often compared to Yamaha's LL-TA, with the LL16 offering a rare dark tinted finish unavailable on the LL-TA.
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The LL16 is noted to have a similar body shape to a sloped shoulder dreadnought, distinct from Yamaha's true dreadnought FG models.
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Users find the LL16 superior to Martin's X-series, citing the all-solid wood construction and better tone as key advantages.
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User experience
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The LL16 is described as a "Yamaha Original Jumbo," larger than a standard dreadnaught, with wider lower and upper bout widths.
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One user, after purchasing a used LL16 for $500, described it as an "absolute steal," highlighting exceptional value for money.
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One user chose the LL16 over 20 other guitars, including more expensive Martins, due to its superior feel and sound within their budget.
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Use cases and applications
Mods and upgrades
Value and pricing
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The LL16 has been favorably compared to Eastman guitars for providing great value through precise C&C machining and potentially cost-saving measures in areas like bracing.
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For under $900 USD, the LL16 offers a compelling value with its craftsmanship and solid wood build, outperforming similarly priced alternatives.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
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Used With
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Community setups
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