Pricing and availability

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

Amazon
4.7 (29)
$1,049.99
Reverb
5.0 (1)
$956.52 New
$892.49 Used
Thomann
4.8 (10)
$1,111.00 $1,099.00 $12.00 · All time low

Average Price: $1,000

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

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Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Yamaha LS16 ARE". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 22, 2026.

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Description

The Yamaha LS16 ARE acoustic guitar is a harmonious blend of craftsmanship, tradition, and modern innovation. Designed for musicians who crave both superior sound and comfort, this guitar is a part of Yamaha's esteemed L Series, renowned for its exceptional build quality. At its core, the LS16 ARE boasts a solid Engelmann spruce top paired with solid rosewood back and sides, delivering a rich, well-rounded tone with remarkable projection. This intricate combination of tonewoods ensures that your sound matures beautifully over time.

What sets the LS16 ARE apart is Yamaha's Acoustic Resonance Enhancement (A.R.E.) technology. This proprietary process molecularly ages the wood, emulating the acoustic properties of guitars that have been played and cherished for years. The result is a guitar that sounds as if it has already lived a lifetime of performances, right out of the box.

The LS16 ARE is fitted with a 5-ply mahogany and rosewood neck, which is designed for stability and smooth playability. The neck's profile has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate modern playing styles, ensuring comfort for both intricate fingerstyle techniques and robust strumming sessions. Complementing this is the passive SRT Zero Impact Pickup system, which captures the true essence of the guitar's acoustic sound without compromising its elegant appearance.

For musicians in search of a guitar that delivers both sonic excellence and aesthetic allure, the Yamaha LS16 ARE is a compelling choice.

Key Features:

  • Solid Engelmann spruce top with solid rosewood back and sides
  • Yamaha's A.R.E. technology for matured tonal quality
  • 5-ply mahogany and rosewood neck for enhanced playability
  • Passive SRT Zero Impact Pickup with individual piezoelectric elements per string
  • Medium jumbo body size ideal for comfortable playing
  • High gloss finish with gold-colored machine heads
  • Polyurethane lacquer for added durability
  • Scale length: 650 mm; Nut width: 44 mm
  • Soft bag included for easy transport

Product specs

Available since April 2014
Model Small
Top Spruce, Solid
Back And Sides Rosewood, Solid
Cutaway No
Fretboard Ebony
Nut width in mm 44,00 mm
Pickup System Yes
Colour Natural
Case No
Incl. Gigbag Yes

FAQs

What type of wood is used for the top of the Yamaha LS16 ARE?

The Yamaha LS16 ARE features a solid Engelmann spruce top, known for its bright and responsive tonal qualities, making it ideal for a variety of playing styles.

Does the Yamaha LS16 ARE come with a pickup system?

Yes, the Yamaha LS16 ARE includes a built-in pickup system, allowing you to easily amplify your sound for live performances or recording.

What is the nut width of the Yamaha LS16 ARE, and how does it affect playability?

The nut width of the Yamaha LS16 ARE is 44mm (1-3/4"), providing a comfortable feel for fingerstyle playing and chord transitions.

Is the Yamaha LS16 ARE suitable for players who prefer a smaller guitar body?

Yes, the Yamaha LS16 ARE features a small body type, offering a comfortable playing experience for those who prefer a more compact guitar.

What kind of bracing does the Yamaha LS16 ARE use?

The Yamaha LS16 ARE uses a non-scalloped bracing design, which enhances the guitar's structural integrity and contributes to its balanced sound projection.

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Yamaha LS16 ARE Handcrafted Acoustic Guitar Demo

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LS16 ARE Handcrafted Acoustic Guitar Demo by Kraft Music

Yamaha LS16 ARE Handcrafted Acoustic Guitar Demo

Kraft Music

Kraft Music

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA LS16 A.R.E Sound test (over 1 year used strings) No Effect! by Tuguldur Ariunbold

YAMAHA LS16 A.R.E Sound test (over 1 year used strings) No Effect!

Tuguldur Ariunbold

Tuguldur Ariunbold

Video thumbnail for No Talking...Just Tones | Yamaha L Series | LS16 ARE - Natural by Peach Guitars

No Talking...Just Tones | Yamaha L Series | LS16 ARE - Natural

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for 2020- NEW YAMAHA LS16 ARE GUITAR REVIEW IN SINGAPORE by The Guitar Spa Singapore

2020- NEW YAMAHA LS16 ARE GUITAR REVIEW IN SINGAPORE

The Guitar Spa Singapore

The Guitar Spa Singapore

Video thumbnail for Yamaha LS16 ARE by WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Yamaha LS16 ARE

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

WM SOUND Guitars 원미사운드

Reviews

PROS

  • Offers excellent sound quality and volume rivaling more expensive models.

  • Easier playability compared to some high-end models like Martin D18.

  • Superb build quality with high-class woods and beautiful aesthetics.

  • Features a passive pickup system that enhances natural sound.

  • Versatile for various playing styles: fingerstyle, strumming, or flatpicking.

  • Comfortable smaller body size enhances playability.

  • Excellent intonation and sustain, even at higher frets.

  • Active harmonics and sub-harmonics impress even seasoned guitarists.

  • Comes with a well-padded soft case for protection.

  • Delivers a rich, balanced sound with impressive projection for its size.

CONS

  • The white nut can be an aesthetic mismatch.

  • Requires adjustment of plastic parts for optimal sound quality.

  • Some minor blemishes and scratches observed on delivery.

  • Soft case may not offer as much protection as a hard case.

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha LS16 ARE.

Comparisons

  • Some players prefer the tonal quality of the LS6 with laminate sides/back over the all-solid LS16, noting potential for the latter to open up over time.

    Source
  • The LS16's 44mm nut width is noted for comfortable fingerpicking, but may require adjustment for players used to narrower nuts.

    Source
  • The LS16 ARE's loudness and finish are compared favorably to the LL16M ARE, though tonal differences are subtle to some owners.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners recommend changing the nut and filing the bridge to improve playability, making the guitar easier to play.

    Source

User experience

  • A user highlights the LS16's inspiration and reliability, comparing it favorably to high-quality, custom acoustic guitars.

    Source
  • After 8 years of ownership, only minor luthier adjustments were needed, indicating long-term durability and minimal required maintenance.

    Source

Build quality

  • The LS16 ARE's fit and finish are reported to be pristine, especially notable for an $800 guitar.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The guitar features a torrified solid Engelmann Spruce top, contributing to its unexpectedly loud volume for a smaller body size.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Successfully negotiated to $800 at a local shop, matching the lowest Reverb price.

    Source
  • An owner purchased the LS16 for $599, including a hard case, highlighting its excellent value compared to its current $1,000 price tag.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The LS16 is noted for its natural amplification, making it suitable for fingerstyle playing without a pick.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Review: Yamaha’s LS16 ARE Packs a Lot of Value Under it’s Torrefied Top | Acoustic Guitar

acousticguitar.com

Yamaha's LS16 ARE guitar hits the sweet spot with its rich tonal balance and impressive projection, thanks to the innovative Acoustic Resonance Enhancement technology. It's a compact powerhouse, delivering a vintage-like sound with modern playability. The high-quality tonewoods and solid build make it a standout in its price range, offering great value under $800. However, the passive pickup system requires an external preamp, which might be a minor inconvenience. Overall, this guitar is a fantastic choice for those seeking a classic sound without breaking the bank.

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