Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 8 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (6)
$1,249.99 $1,149.99 $100.00 · All time low
Guitar Center
4.5 (10)
$1,249.99 $1,149.99 $100.00 · All time low
Amazon
4.0 (23)
$1,149.99
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$1,129.99 New
$916.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (27)
$1,149.99
zZounds
4.5 (7)
$1,149.99
Thomann
4.9 (9)
$1,188.00
Gear4Music
£1,019.00

Average Price: $1,123

High-end/Boutique

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Yamaha LS-TA". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

Experience the captivating magic of the Yamaha LS-TA, an acoustic-electric guitar that brings the ambiance of a grand concert hall right to your fingertips. Crafted with precision, this guitar combines Yamaha's renowned craftsmanship with innovative technology, making it a true standout in its category. With an actuator system that vibrates in harmony with your strings, the LS-TA generates authentic reverb and chorus effects without needing any external amplification, creating a rich, immersive sound environment wherever you play.

The LS-TA's all-solid construction features a solid Engelmann spruce top treated with Yamaha’s ARE technology, which gives it a seasoned, vintage tone from the very first strum. The solid rosewood back and sides ensure a robust and resonant sound, while the comfortable concert body shape enhances playability, making it ideal for both fingerpicking and strumming. Whether you're practicing, performing, or composing, the LS-TA inspires creativity and elevates your playing experience.

Thoughtfully designed controls allow you to effortlessly adjust effects and volume, ensuring that your sound remains pure and unadulterated. And when you're ready to plug in, the System 70 TransAcoustic preamp with SRT piezo pickup delivers a seamless transition to amplified performances.

Key Features:

  • Concert body shape for enhanced comfort and sound projection
  • Solid Engelmann spruce top with ARE treatment for a vintage tone
  • Solid rosewood back and sides for rich sound
  • Actuator system for onboard reverb and chorus without external amp
  • System 70 TransAcoustic preamp with SRT piezo pickup
  • Ebony fretboard and bridge
  • 5-ply mahogany/rosewood neck for stability
  • Nut width: 44 mm; Scale length: 650 mm
  • Includes a soft case for easy transport

Product specs

Available since November 2016
Design Concert
Top Solid Spruce
Back And Sides Rosewood
Cutaway No
Fretboard Ebony
Nut width in mm 44,00 mm
Frets 20
Pickups Yes
Colour Sunburst
Case Yes
Incl. Gigbag No

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Yamaha LS-TA's TransAcoustic technology?

The Yamaha LS-TA features built-in reverb and chorus effects that can be enjoyed without external amplification, providing a rich acoustic experience that enhances creativity and performance.

Is the Yamaha LS-TA suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Yamaha LS-TA can be plugged into an amp or PA system through its quarter-inch jack, making it suitable for live performances while retaining its built-in effects.

What materials are used in the construction of the Yamaha LS-TA?

The Yamaha LS-TA features a solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and an ebony fretboard, contributing to its rich tonal characteristics and durability.

Does the Yamaha LS-TA come with a case?

The Yamaha LS-TA includes a case, but it does not come with a gigbag. This provides protection for the guitar during storage and transport.

How many frets does the Yamaha LS-TA have?

The Yamaha LS-TA is equipped with 20 frets, offering a comfortable range for both rhythm and lead playing styles.

Paul Davids

Paul Davids

Is this the FUTURE of acoustic guitar? (or just a gimmick?)

Video thumbnail for Is this the FUTURE of acoustic guitar? (or just a gimmick?) by Paul Davids

Is this the FUTURE of acoustic guitar? (or just a gimmick?)

Paul Davids

Paul Davids

Video thumbnail for Yamaha TransAcoustic Guitar -  LL-TA/LS-TA by Yamaha Global

Yamaha TransAcoustic Guitar - LL-TA/LS-TA

Yamaha Global

Yamaha Global

Video thumbnail for Yamaha TransAcoustic LS-TA Guitar Demo & Review by Alamo Music Center

Yamaha TransAcoustic LS-TA Guitar Demo & Review

Alamo Music Center

Alamo Music Center

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LS-TA (TransAcoustic) with Sunburst Finish by Acoustic Letter

Yamaha LS-TA (TransAcoustic) with Sunburst Finish

Acoustic Letter

Acoustic Letter

Video thumbnail for Demo Yamaha LS TA Transacoustic by Cutaway Magazine

Demo Yamaha LS TA Transacoustic

Cutaway Magazine

Cutaway Magazine

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LS-TA Transacoustic - A Stunning Acoustic Guitar With Built In Magical Acoustic Effects! by PMTVUK

Yamaha LS-TA Transacoustic - A Stunning Acoustic Guitar With Built In Magical Acoustic Effects!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LS-TA TransAcoustic - Robbie Calvo Demo by Robbie Calvo

Yamaha LS-TA TransAcoustic - Robbie Calvo Demo

Robbie Calvo

Robbie Calvo

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA LS-TA A.R.E Fingerstyle by WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

YAMAHA LS-TA A.R.E Fingerstyle

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Video thumbnail for Robbie Calvo - Yamaha TransAcoustic LS-TA Brown Sunburst - Hear The Effects Added! by Robbie Calvo

Robbie Calvo - Yamaha TransAcoustic LS-TA Brown Sunburst - Hear The Effects Added!

Robbie Calvo

Robbie Calvo

Reviews

PROS

  • TransAcoustic technology offers reverb and chorus effects without an amp

  • Exceptional sound quality, rivals guitars significantly more expensive

  • Solid wood construction enhances tone and durability

  • Comfortable neck design, ideal for various hand sizes

  • Impeccable fit and finish, aesthetically pleasing

  • Great projection and sustain, fills a room with sound

  • Easy playability, even for those used to electric guitars

  • Clear, balanced tone with noticeable overtones

  • Excellent value for money, high-quality features at a lower price point

  • Beautiful design with thoughtful details like maple binding

CONS

  • Factory action may be higher than some players prefer

  • Built-in effects may not work consistently for all users

  • Lack of a built-in tuner, unlike some competitor models

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha LS-TA.

Build quality

  • The LS-TA's vintage tint and lack of a pickguard appeal to those seeking a classic look with modern features.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Lowering the action at a guitar shop significantly enhances playability for fingerstyle techniques.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Built-in sound effects are appreciated, though users often prefer the reverb feature, enhancing the acoustic experience without an amp.

    Source
  • FG-TA models could be a good alternative for those who appreciate LS-TA's transacoustic system but desire a fuller sound with scalloped bracing.

    Source
  • The LS-TA's transacoustic system provides chorus and reverb effects acoustically, creating an electric-like experience without external amplification.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Suitable for fingerstyle players like those emulating Tommy Emmanuel and Clive Carroll, offering great string spacing and tone.

    Source
  • Martin 00 or 000 models are recommended for fingerstyle players seeking a lighter bracing and fuller sound, as opposed to the LS-TA's compact tone.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Replacing the nut and saddle with bone may not significantly change the sound, but can improve playability with a proper setup.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners note the LS-TA's heavier feel, attributed to its solid rosewood back and sides, offering a denser wood construction.

    Source
  • The LS-TA uses unscalloped bracing, contributing to its tight sound; Martin's lighter bracing could offer a more open tone.

    Source
  • Yamaha FG-5 or FS-5 models offer scalloped bracing and Sitka spruce tops, providing a warmer, more open sound compared to LS-TA's brighter tone.

    Source
  • The LS-TA is noted for its 1 3/4 nut width and rosewood back, offering broader string spacing and a richer tone compared to the FS-TA's 1 11/16 nut width and mahogany back.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Eastman guitars, like the E40-OM, provide a high-quality alternative at a fraction of Martin's price, potentially offering similar quality.

    Source
  • Users highlight finding the LS-TA at a price competitive with the FS-TA, emphasizing its superior craftsmanship and tonal depth as a long-term investment.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners describe the LS-TA as a joy to play, with its built-in effects inspiring creativity and delivering an unexpectedly powerful acoustic sound.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha LS-TA Transacoustic review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Yamaha's LS-TA Transacoustic is a remarkable acoustic guitar that brings fun and practicality together. With built-in reverb and chorus effects that enhance the sound without needing external gear, it offers an innovative playing experience. The quality construction and rich tone, thanks to the ARE treatment, make it appealing for all players. However, some may view the price tag as a costly novelty, raising concerns about long-term value. While the effects may not rival studio standards, they provide a unique ambiance for home performances. Ultimately, the LS-TA is a joyful instrument that sparks creativity, even if its novelty might wear off over time.

positive

Review: Yamaha TransAcoustic LS-TA Guitar | Guitar World

guitarworld.com

Yamaha’s LS-TA guitar combines exquisite craftsmanship with innovative TransAcoustic technology, allowing players to enjoy rich reverb and chorus effects without needing external gear. The guitar exudes quality with its solid Engelmann spruce top and rosewood back, delivering a beautifully complex acoustic tone. However, the lack of a clear indicator for the TransAcoustic feature can lead to confusion, potentially draining batteries prematurely. Despite this minor drawback, the LS-TA offers a seamless blend of traditional acoustic playability and modern sonic enhancements, making it an ideal choice for those seeking versatility in their sound.

positive
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Based on 2 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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W

Magical Fun

Once you play one, it will hard to not smile. Great fun to play because of the built-in reverb and chorus effects that need no amp. There is science behind it, but to me, it's like magic. Would have given 4.5 to 5 stars had the action been just a little lower. It's not painful to play or anything, I've certainly played worse in set-ups of more expensive guitars, it's just I like my action to feel nonexistent. Play one and you won't be able to put it down.

ianbarcelos_

Just Get One!

I went to the store in order to buy a Taylor. I saw this one hanging on the wall... played and there goes the Taylor. I didn't even remember about the Taylor anymore. It is that good! Kudos to Yamaha for bringing this piece of art for this price. Everything about it is perfection. There's no gas for acoustic guitars for a really really long time.

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See how Paul Davids uses Yamaha LS-TA

Paul Davids

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In his YouTube video titled "Is this the FUTURE of acoustic guitar? (or just a gimmick?)," Paul Davids discusses and plays the Yamaha LS-TA, showcasing its features and sound.

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 LS-TA, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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rileydll

rileydll

Gear IQ 61

1 alternative for Yamaha LS-TA, curated by the Equipboard community.

Yamaha FS-TA TransAcoustic Concert - Vintage Tint

$476.09 - $679.99

cheaper alternative

This is a similar item. The back and sides are a little thinner than the LS-TA. The sound is different but still perfect for the price. You can't go wrong with this one.

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