Yamaha FG830 Acoustic Guitar Review (vs FG800 FG820)

Summary

In this review of the Yamaha FG830, Matt dives into the features that make it a great value for the price. With a solid spruce top, rosewood laminate back and sides, and scalloped bracing, the FG830 offers a balanced tone and good projection. While the plastic bridge pins, nut, and saddle could be upgraded, they don't detract from its overall performance. Ideal for gigging musicians, the guitar provides a quality sound without breaking the bank. Matt also hints at an upcoming comparison video with the Martin D28, inviting viewers to share their thoughts on the FG830 and their own guitar preferences.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Yamaha FG830 is part of the FG series, which stands for Folk Guitar, and is considered one of the higher-end models in this line.
• 🎸 The FG830 features a solid spruce top, providing better resonance and tonal quality compared to cheaper models.
• 🌳 The back and sides of the FG830 are made from rosewood laminate, offering improved durability and tonal warmth over the FG800 and FG820, which use lower-quality woods.
• 🎤 The guitar features scalloped bracing inside the body, which enhances sound projection and tonal clarity by allowing the soundboard to resonate more freely.
• 🔧 The FG830 includes plastic bridge pins, a urea saddle, and a urea nut. Upgrading to bone or ebony components can improve the guitar's sound and longevity.
• 💰 The FG830 is affordably priced at just over $300, making it a budget-friendly option for players who want a solid wood guitar without the hefty price tag.
• 🛠️ With a few upgrades (e.g., bone saddle, ebony bridge pins), the FG830 could become a long-term, professional-grade instrument.
• 🎶 The FG830 is versatile, excelling in various genres, including folk, Americana, and even jazz, making it suitable for different playing styles.
• 🎤 Its balanced tone, with clear highs and a strong low end, makes the FG830 a great choice for live performances or gigging musicians.
• 💡 The FG830 is a great investment for players who need a reliable guitar but don't want to risk losing thousands of dollars, as it's an affordable yet high-quality option.
• 🛒 If you're interested in purchasing the FG830, it's often available for a lower price in the used market, which adds to its value proposition.

Q & A

What is the Yamaha FG830, and how is it positioned in Yamaha's FG series?

The Yamaha FG830 is an acoustic guitar in Yamaha's FG series. 'FG' stands for Folk Guitar, and the FG830 is considered one of the higher-end models in the series, offering more aesthetic features and better quality materials compared to the entry-level FG800 and FG820.

What are the main features that distinguish the FG830 from the FG800 and FG820 models?

The main differences include the FG830's upgraded aesthetic features, such as the binding around the headstock and higher-quality woods. Additionally, the FG830 has a solid spruce top and laminate rosewood back and sides, which distinguishes it from the FG800 and FG820, which use lower-quality woods for the back and sides.

What is the advantage of having a solid spruce top on the FG830?

A solid spruce top is a significant feature because it enhances the guitar's sound quality, providing better resonance and tonal depth. This is a key selling point for the FG830 as it delivers a more dynamic sound compared to guitars with laminate tops.

How does the wood composition affect the sound of the FG830?

The FG830 features laminate rosewood back and sides, which are more affordable than solid wood options. While laminate woods don't resonate as freely as solid woods, they still contribute to a balanced sound. The solid spruce top is the primary contributor to the guitar’s overall tonal quality.

What is scalloped bracing, and how does it affect the sound of the FG830?

Scalloped bracing is a design feature where the internal braces are shaved down in specific areas to allow the soundboard to resonate more freely. This leads to improved sound projection and tonal richness, making the FG830 sound fuller and more vibrant.

What are the plastic components on the FG830, and how can they be upgraded?

The FG830 comes with plastic bridge pins, a urea saddle, and a urea nut. While these are cost-effective components, they can be upgraded to bone or ebony parts for improved tonal quality and longevity. These upgrades are affordable and can make a noticeable difference in the guitar's sound.

How much does the Yamaha FG830 cost, and what are its value advantages?

The Yamaha FG830 typically costs a little over $300 when bought new, but you can often find it for less than $300 in the used market. For this price, you get a solid spruce top and a reputable brand, making it an excellent value for musicians looking for a quality guitar without breaking the bank.

What is the main benefit of using the FG830 for gigging musicians?

The FG830 is an affordable yet high-quality option for gigging musicians. It delivers great sound and performance without the high investment of more expensive guitars. If something happens to it, the financial loss is much smaller, making it a reliable and cost-effective instrument for regular use.

What types of music is the Yamaha FG830 well-suited for?

The Yamaha FG830 is versatile and well-suited for a variety of musical styles, including folk, Americana, and even jazz. Its balanced tone and sustain make it ideal for both strumming and fingerpicking, offering flexibility across genres.

What comparison video is the creator planning to release in the future regarding the FG830?

The creator plans to release a comparison video between the Yamaha FG830 and the Martin D28, two guitars with similar features like a solid spruce top. The comparison will highlight the differences in sound and construction, particularly the FG830's laminate rosewood back versus the D28's solid rosewood back and sides.