Yamaha
Since 1887
Yamaha Corporation, founded in 1887 by Torakusu Yamaha in Hamamatsu, Japan, is one of the world's largest and most diverse musical instrument manufacturers. The company began guitar production in 1941 with classical guitars, later introducing the iconic FG series acoustics in 1966 and the SG electric guitars the same year. Today, Yamaha offers an unparalleled range from budget-friendly beginner instruments to handcrafted Japanese masterpieces, including the innovative TransAcoustic technology and the café racer-inspired Revstar series.
139
Years in Business
25M+
Guitars Sold
$4B+
Annual Revenue
Complete Yamaha Guitar Guide
Comprehensive buying guide, price analysis, model comparisons, and expert insights to help you understand everything about Yamaha guitars.
Yamaha Price Overview
Yamaha covers a wide range of instruments from entry-level to professional models. Typical used prices vary by condition, series and year. Higher-end USA models and limited editions retain value better than mass-market lines, while rare or vintage pieces often command significant premiums.
When evaluating value, consider originality (pickups, hardware), structural condition (neck, frets, finish) and documentation (serials, receipts, setup reports). Price dispersion across platforms is common; local stores offer service and inspection, whereas online marketplaces provide broader selection and price transparency.
For detailed buying advice, model comparisons and condition-based pricing, read the full guide linked above.
Market Overview
Average Price
$520
+4% vs last year
eBay Listings
4,500
Active listings
Sold This Month
2,800
+6% vs last month
Price Range
$100-$6,000
Current market range
Data sourced from eBay, Reverb, and Guitar Center used listings
Yamaha Timeline
Company Founded
Torakusu Yamaha founded Yamaha Corporation in Hamamatsu, Japan, initially manufacturing reed organs.
Guitar Production Begins
Yamaha began manufacturing classical guitars, marking the company's entry into the guitar market.
FG & SG Series Launch
Yamaha introduced the FG180 folk guitar and SG-2/SG-3 electric guitars, establishing their presence in both acoustic and electric markets.
SG-175 Introduction
The SG-175 caught Carlos Santana's attention, leading to a legendary collaboration.
SG-2000 with Santana
Collaboration with Carlos Santana produced the iconic SG-2000, featuring neck-through construction and brass sustain plate.
BB Bass Series
Introduced the BB bass series, which would become one of the most respected bass lines in the industry.
Pacifica Series Launch
The Pacifica series debuted, becoming one of the most successful and versatile electric guitar lines ever produced.
SG Reissue
Yamaha reissued the classic SG-2000 and SG-1000 as part of the SBG series, handcrafted in Japan.
Revstar Series Debut
Yamaha unveiled the Revstar series, inspired by café racer motorcycles, marking the first new electric guitar series in over a decade.
TransAcoustic Technology
Revolutionary TransAcoustic guitars introduced with built-in effects that work without amplification.
Revstar II Generation
Complete redesign of the Revstar line with Element, Standard, and Professional tiers.
TransAcoustic TAG3
Second generation TransAcoustic with looper, delay, and Bluetooth connectivity.
Complete Yamaha Product Lineup
Yamaha delivers exceptional quality at every price point, from student instruments to handcrafted Japanese masterpieces
Electric Guitars
From beginner-friendly to professional instruments
Versatile workhorses from $200 Pacifica 012 to $2,200 Professional
Café racer-inspired with Element, Standard, and Professional tiers
Classic double-cutaway design, Santana's choice
Semi-hollow archtop guitars for jazz and blues
Premium archtop guitars for timeless tone
Acoustic Guitars
Industry-leading acoustics for all levels
Legendary dreadnought and concert shapes from $200-$1,700
Handcrafted in Japan with A.R.E. technology
Performance-focused with dynamic amplified tone
Stylish guitars designed for lifestyle integration
Revolutionary built-in effects without amplification
Premium FG5/FS5 with vintage-inspired craftsmanship
Classical & Nylon
From student to concert-level instruments
Affordable student classical guitars
Professional nylon-string guitars
Handcrafted concert classical guitars
Modern nylon with Atmosfeel pickup system
Crossover nylon-string for diverse styles
Bass Guitars
Professional bass instruments
Legendary bass line from $350 BB234 to $2,500 BB Pro
Modern active bass from entry-level to professional
Ultra-quiet practice bass with headphone capability
"Yamaha delivers exceptional quality at every price point, from student instruments to handcrafted Japanese masterpieces"
Model-Specific Buying Guide
Each model has unique characteristics that affect both tone and value. Here's what to look for when buying specific models.
Pacifica Series Buying Guide
Tier Selection
012/112 for beginners ($200-$400); 212/312/612 for intermediate ($400-$900); Professional for advanced ($2,200)
Pickup Configurations
HSS most versatile for all genres; HH for heavier styles; SSS for vintage Strat tones on select models
Tremolo vs. Hardtail
Tremolo models offer dive bombs and vibrato; hardtail provides better tuning stability for beginners
Revstar Series Buying Guide
Series Tiers
Element ($500): Indonesian-made essentials; Standard ($800-$1,000): Professional features; Professional ($2,000): Japan-made premium
Focus Switch
Yamaha's unique dry switch cuts lows and highs for focused midrange—great for cutting through a mix
P90 vs. Humbuckers
P90 models offer vintage bite and clarity; humbucker models provide modern versatility and noise rejection
FG/FS Acoustic Buying Guide
Body Shape
FG (dreadnought): Bigger sound, more projection; FS (concert): More comfortable, balanced tone
Top Wood Selection
Spruce top: Bright, versatile; Mahogany top: Warm, focused; Solid top models offer better resonance than laminate
A.R.E. Technology
Acoustic Resonance Enhancement on higher-end models simulates aged wood characteristics for richer tone