Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 3 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (24)
$1,049.99
Amazon
4.7 (29)
$1,049.99
Thomann
4.8 (23)
$1,222.00 $1,199.00 $23.00 · All time low

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

What is the Yamaha LL16 ARE's top wood and how does it affect the sound?

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.

Is the Yamaha LL16 ARE suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Yamaha LL16 ARE includes an SRT Zero Impact pickup, making it well-suited for live performances without compromising its acoustic tone.

What is the neck profile of the Yamaha LL16 ARE?

The Yamaha LL16 ARE has a traditional neck shape, providing a comfortable playing experience for both strumming and fingerstyle techniques.

How does the Yamaha LL16 ARE's body shape affect its sound?

The original jumbo body shape of the Yamaha LL16 ARE delivers a powerful, full-bodied sound with excellent projection, ideal for various musical styles.

Does the Yamaha LL16 ARE come with a case?

Yes, the Yamaha LL16 ARE comes with a softshell case, providing protection for the guitar during transport and storage.

What type of strings does the Yamaha LL16 ARE use?

The Yamaha LL16 ARE is strung with Elixir Nanoweb 80/20 Bronze Light strings, offering a balanced tone and long-lasting performance.

Is the Yamaha LL16 ARE handcrafted?

Yes, the Yamaha LL16 ARE is handcrafted with solid woods, ensuring high-quality construction and excellent tonal balance.

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Yamaha LL16 ARE Handcrafted Acoustic Guitar Demo

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LL16 ARE Handcrafted Acoustic Guitar Demo by Kraft Music

Yamaha LL16 ARE Handcrafted Acoustic Guitar Demo

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

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Taylor 314ce VS Yamaha LL-16 A.R.E

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WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LL-16 ARE & Martin D-28 Strumming Comparison by WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Yamaha LL-16 ARE & Martin D-28 Strumming Comparison

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WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Video thumbnail for The BEST Acoustic Under $1K | Yamaha LL16 A.R.E. FULL Review by The Acoustic Shoppe

The BEST Acoustic Under $1K | Yamaha LL16 A.R.E. FULL Review

The Acoustic Shoppe

The Acoustic Shoppe

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA LL16 ARE Acoustic Guitar | REVIEW + First Impressions by Phil Sinclair Music

YAMAHA LL16 ARE Acoustic Guitar | REVIEW + First Impressions

Phil Sinclair Music

Phil Sinclair Music

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LL16 ARE Original Jumbo Acoustic-Electric Guitar Quickview - Cosmo Music by Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Yamaha LL16 ARE Original Jumbo Acoustic-Electric Guitar Quickview - Cosmo Music

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

Cosmo Music - The Musical Instrument Superstore!

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

  • The LL16 ARE features a 5-ply neck with rosewood inserts that extend to the ebony fretboard, enhancing both stability and aesthetics.

    Source
  • Some owners report the LL16's thick poly finish can be prone to brittleness.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • 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.

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Features and functionality

  • The proprietary Yamaha SRT pickup system offers battery-less operation and captures a true micro-phoned sound unique to each guitar.

    Source

Comparisons

  • 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

  • The LL16 is described as a "Yamaha Original Jumbo," larger than a standard dreadnaught, with wider lower and upper bout widths.

    Source
  • 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.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The guitar's unique dark tinted finish is said to contribute to its superior sound, as noted in reviews by JP Cormier.

    Source
  • The LL16 is noted for its top-notch tone and intonation, making it highly respected for recording purposes.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Changing the nut and saddle to bone, and replacing pins with Tusq, significantly enhances the guitar's tonal quality.

    Source
  • Owners recommend D'Addario Nickel Bronze strings for enhanced tonal quality when downtuning the Yamaha LL16 ARE.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • 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.

    Source
  • For under $900 USD, the LL16 offers a compelling value with its craftsmanship and solid wood build, outperforming similarly priced alternatives.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha LL16 ARE | Guitar Interactive Magazine

guitarinteractivemagazine.com

The Yamaha LL16 ARE is a standout in its price range, offering a mature, open, and articulate sound thanks to its solid wood construction and Yamaha's ARE process. The comfortable neck and balanced tone make it a joy to play, whether fingerpicking or flatpicking. While it lacks onboard electronics, the SRT Zero-Impact passive pickup is impressive, although a pre-amp is recommended. The guitar's quality build and included lightweight case make it a fantastic bargain. If you're in the market for a versatile acoustic, this one is worth auditioning. No significant cons noted in the review.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
skylinerr

Great

not quite a d28 or j45 but its a great acoustic

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Billy Corgan uses Yamaha LL16 ARE

Billy Corgan

Singer, Guitarist

The Smashing Pumpkins

...
Verified via YouTube

Billy Corgan can be seen using the Yamaha LL16 at the, In Plainsong Tour 2015

See how Åge Sten Nilsen uses Yamaha LL16 ARE

Åge Sten Nilsen

Singer, Guitarist

Wig Wam

...
Verified via Photo

Åge Sten Nilsen used the Yamaha LL16 ARE acoustic guitar during an unplugged performance at the Rockingham Live VIP afterparty, as seen in his Instagram post.

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