The Complete Yamaha Guitar Price Guide 2025: From Student Instruments to Japanese Masterpieces

Last updated: January 2025

When Carlos Santana needed a guitar that could sustain his legendary smooth tone, he turned to Yamaha. When millions of beginners pick up their first instrument, they often reach for a Yamaha FG or Pacifica. This duality—serving both legendary artists and first-time players with equal dedication—is what makes Yamaha unique in the guitar world.

From the $200 Pacifica 012 to $5,000+ handcrafted L Series acoustics, understanding Yamaha's vast product range is essential for finding the right guitar at the right price. This guide breaks down Yamaha guitar pricing across their entire lineup.

Yamaha Guitar Market Overview 2025

Yamaha dominates the "quality at every price point" segment of the guitar market. Here's what the current landscape looks like:

Key Market Statistics:

• Average Used Yamaha Price: $520 (up 4% from 2024)
• Active Listings: Approximately 4,500 guitars currently for sale
• Monthly Sales Volume: Around 2,800 guitars sold per month
• Price Range: $100 (entry-level student guitars) to $6,000+ (L Series, Japan-made)

What sets Yamaha apart is consistency. A $300 Yamaha acoustic will be properly set up, stay in tune, and sound good—something that can't be said for many competitors at that price point. This reliability has made Yamaha the world's largest musical instrument manufacturer, with guitar production being just one part of their massive operation.

Understanding Yamaha's Electric Guitar Lineup

Pacifica Series

The Pacifica is Yamaha's most successful electric guitar line, introduced in 1990 and continuously refined since. It's the go-to recommendation for beginner to intermediate players.

Pacifica 012/100 Series (Entry-Level: $200-$300)

Typical Specifications:

• Body: Agathis or alder
• Neck: Bolt-on maple
• Fingerboard: Sonokeling rosewood
• Pickups: Yamaha single-coils and humbucker (HSS)
• Bridge: Vintage-style tremolo

Pricing:

• Pacifica 012: ~$199 (new), $120-$160 (used)
• Pacifica 112V: ~$359 (new), $220-$280 (used)
• Pacifica 112J: ~$299 (new), $180-$240 (used)

Pro Tip: The Pacifica 112V is widely considered one of the best guitars under $400. The vintage-style tremolo and Alnico V pickups punch well above their price class.

Pacifica 200/300/600 Series (Intermediate: $400-$900)

Popular Models & Pricing:

• Pacifica 212VFM: ~$449 (flamed maple top)
• Pacifica 212VQM: ~$449 (quilted maple top)
• Pacifica 311H: ~$499 (P90 + humbucker)
• Pacifica 612VIIFM: ~$849 (Seymour Duncan pickups)
• Pacifica 612VIIX: ~$899 (modern features)

Key Features:

• Upgraded pickups (Seymour Duncan on 612 series)
• Figured maple tops
• Coil-split functionality
• Push-pull controls for tonal variety

Pacifica Professional (Premium: $2,000-$2,500)

The flagship Pacifica, made in Japan with premium components:

Specifications:

• Body: Alder with flamed maple top
• Neck: Maple with rosewood fingerboard
• Pickups: Yamaha Custom Wound or Seymour Duncan
• Hardware: Gotoh locking tuners, Wilkinson tremolo
• Price: ~$2,199 (new), $1,600-$1,900 (used)

Revstar Series

Introduced in 2015 and redesigned in 2022, the Revstar brings café racer motorcycle aesthetics to electric guitar design.

Revstar Element (Entry: $500-$600)

Popular Models & Pricing:

• RSE20: ~$499 (humbucker version)
• RSE20 P90: ~$499 (P90 version)

Key Features:

• Indonesian manufacture
• Chambered mahogany body
• Yamaha VH3 or VP5 pickups
• "Focus" dry switch for midrange emphasis

Revstar Standard (Professional: $800-$1,200)

Popular Models & Pricing:

• RSS20: ~$799
• RSS02T: ~$999 (semi-hollow)

Key Features:

• Set-neck construction
• Yamaha VH5 humbuckers or VP5 P90s
• 5-way switching with Focus function
• Grover locking tuners

Revstar Professional (Premium Japan-Made: $2,000-$2,500)

Popular Models & Pricing:

• RSP20: ~$1,999
• RSP20X: ~$2,199 (extended features)
• RSP02T: ~$2,299 (semi-hollow)

Key Features:

• Made in Japan
• Hand-wound Yamaha pickups
• I.R.A. (Initial Response Acceleration) treatment
• Premium hardware throughout
• Carbon fiber reinforced neck

SG/SBG Series (Vintage & Reissue)

The SG series gained legendary status through Carlos Santana's use of the SG-2000 from 1976-1982.

Current Models:

• SBG models are limited production and special order
• Vintage SG-2000: $1,500-$3,500 (used, depending on year and condition)
• Vintage SG-1000: $1,000-$2,500 (used)
• 2007 SBG reissues: $1,800-$2,800 (used)

Collectible Factors:

• Original 1970s-80s Japanese production commands premium
• Santana association increases desirability
• Neck-through construction with brass sustain plate

Understanding Yamaha's Acoustic Guitar Lineup

FG/FS Series (Dreadnought & Concert)

Yamaha's acoustic foundation since 1966. The FG (Folk Guitar) series is one of the most successful acoustic guitar lines ever produced.

FG/FS 800 Series (Entry: $200-$300)

Popular Models & Pricing:

• FG800: ~$249 (solid spruce top dreadnought)
• FG800J: ~$240 (jumbo body)
• FS800: ~$249 (solid spruce top concert)
• FG820: ~$299 (mahogany back/sides)

Used Pricing: $150-$200 (excellent condition)

Note: The FG800 is consistently rated among the best acoustic guitars under $300. The solid spruce top delivers surprising projection and clarity for the price.

FG/FS 830 Series (Intermediate: $350-$500)

Popular Models & Pricing:

• FG830: ~$429 (rosewood back/sides)
• FS830: ~$429 (concert body)
• FGX830C: ~$499 (with electronics)

Key Upgrades over 800 Series:

• Rosewood back and sides
• Scalloped bracing for enhanced resonance
• Better binding and finish

FG5/FS5 Red Label (Premium: $1,500-$1,800)

Specifications:

• Solid Sitka spruce top with A.R.E. treatment
• Solid mahogany back and sides
• Nitrocellulose lacquer finish
• Vintage-inspired design
• Price: ~$1,699 (new), $1,200-$1,400 (used)

L Series (Japan-Made Premium)

Yamaha's flagship acoustic line, handcrafted in Japan with Acoustic Resonance Enhancement (A.R.E.) technology.

L Series Pricing Overview

LL (Jumbo Body) Models:

• LL16 ARE: ~$1,000 (solid rosewood, passive pickup)
• LL26 ARE: ~$2,500 (upgraded appointments)
• LL36 ARE: ~$4,000 (premium materials)
• LL56 Custom ARE: ~$5,500+ (custom shop level)

LS (Small Body) & LJ (Jumbo) Models:

• Similar pricing tiers to LL series
• Body shape preference drives selection

Key L Series Features:

• A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) treated tops
• Solid Engelmann or Sitka spruce tops
• Solid rosewood back and sides
• 5-ply neck construction
• Nitrocellulose lacquer finish
• Ebony fingerboards and bridges

A Series (Performance Acoustic)

Designed for stage performance with excellent amplified tone:

Popular Models & Pricing:

• A1M: ~$599 (solid Sitka top, mahogany)
• A3M: ~$899 (solid mahogany top)
• A5M ARE: ~$1,299 (A.R.E. treated)
• AC5M ARE: ~$1,399 (cutaway)

Key Features:

• SRT (Studio Response Technology) pickup system
• Designed for optimal amplified performance
• Atmospheric feedback-resistant design

TransAcoustic Series

Yamaha's revolutionary technology that produces reverb, chorus, and effects directly from the guitar body—no amplifier needed.

Current Models & Pricing:

• LL-TA: ~$999 (dreadnought TransAcoustic)
• LS-TA: ~$999 (concert TransAcoustic)
• CSF-TA: ~$699 (parlor TransAcoustic)
• CG-TA: ~$599 (classical TransAcoustic)
• TAG3 C (2024): ~$1,299 (new generation with looper, delay, Bluetooth)

TransAcoustic Features:

• Built-in reverb and chorus effects
• Actuator-driven sound through guitar body
• No external amplification required
• New TAG3 adds looper, delay, and Bluetooth audio

Yamaha Bass Guitar Pricing

BB Series

The BB (Broad Bass) series is Yamaha's flagship bass line, trusted by session professionals worldwide.

BB Series Pricing:

• BB234: ~$349 (entry-level)
• BB434: ~$649 (upgraded hardware)
• BB734A: ~$999 (active electronics)
• BB Pro Series: ~$2,500 (Japan-made)

TRBX Series

Modern active basses with powerful electronics:

TRBX Series Pricing:

• TRBX174: ~$249 (entry-level)
• TRBX304: ~$449 (active EQ)
• TRBX504: ~$549 (upgraded preamp)
• TRBX604: ~$749 (premium features)

Classical & Nylon-String Guitar Pricing

C Series (Student Classical)

Pricing:

• C40: ~$169 (full-size student)
• C40M: ~$149 (matte finish)
• CS40: ~$159 (3/4 size)

CG Series (Intermediate to Professional)

Pricing:

• CG122: ~$299 (solid cedar top)
• CG142: ~$349 (solid spruce)
• CG182: ~$499 (rosewood back/sides)
• CG192: ~$649 (solid rosewood)

GC Series (Handcrafted Concert)

Pricing:

• GC22: ~$1,299
• GC32: ~$2,499
• GC42: ~$3,999+

Where to Buy Yamaha Guitars: Platform Comparison

Online Marketplace Analysis

Reverb (Average Price: $550)

• Largest selection with 2,900+ Yamaha listings
• Good for vintage SG models and discontinued items
• 4.5% average price increase year-over-year
• Best for: Vintage Yamahas, comparison shopping

eBay (Average Price: $480)

• Highest volume of listings (3,800+)
• Good deals but verify seller reputation
• 3.8% price trend
• Best for: Budget finds, international shipping

Guitar Center Used (Average Price: $510)

• Physical inspection at 300+ locations
• 620+ listings nationwide
• 3.2% price appreciation
• Best for: Try-before-buy, trade-ins

Local Dealers (Average Price: $490)

• Often authorized Yamaha dealers
• Warranty support and professional setup
• Limited selection (450+ guitars)
• Best for: New purchases, warranty service

Tips for Buying Used Yamaha Guitars

1. Check the Neck: Yamaha necks are stable but inspect for any twisting or excessive bow
2. Verify Electronics: On TransAcoustic models, test all effects and battery/charging system
3. Serial Number Research: Yamaha serial numbers reveal production country and year
4. Look for Cracks: Acoustic tops can develop cracks—inspect around the soundhole and bridge
5. Test the Tuners: Even budget Yamahas have decent tuners—sticky or slipping tuners indicate wear

Investment Potential: Vintage Yamaha Values

While Yamaha isn't primarily a "vintage" brand, certain models have appreciated significantly:

Models with Investment Potential

SG Series (1970s-1980s):

• Original SG-2000: $2,000-$4,000 (depending on year/condition)
• SG-1000/1500: $1,200-$2,500
• SG-175: $800-$1,500
• Santana association drives premium pricing

Early FG Series:

• FG180 "Red Label" (1966-1972): $400-$800
• FG150 (1960s): $300-$600
• Vintage appeal growing among collectors

Japan-Made Discontinued Models:

• Japanese Pacifica models (1990s): $400-$700
• SA series archtops: $500-$1,200
• Limited editions with documentation

What Appreciates vs. What Doesn't

Appreciates:

• 1970s-80s SG series (Santana connection)
• Japan-made instruments with documentation
• Limited editions and signature models
• Vintage FG "Red Label" acoustics

Stable Value:

• Current L Series and high-end models
• Professional series instruments
• Japan-made production guitars

Depreciates (Standard):

• Indonesian/Chinese production guitars (40-50% year one)
• Entry-level student instruments
• Mass-production current models

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Yamaha

For Beginners ($150-$400)

Electric Guitar:

• Pacifica 112V: Best overall beginner electric ($359)
• Pacifica 012: Budget option that doesn't compromise playability ($199)

Acoustic Guitar:

• FG800: Best value dreadnought ($249)
• FS800: Concert size for smaller players ($249)
• FG830: Upgrade for better projection ($429)

Classical:

• C40: Industry-standard student classical ($169)
• CG122: Step up with solid cedar top ($299)

What to Prioritize:

• Solid top on acoustics (even at entry-level, Yamaha offers this)
• Proper setup (Yamaha factory setups are generally excellent)
• Comfort over features

For Intermediate Players ($500-$1,500)

Electric Guitar:

• Pacifica 612VIIFM: Seymour Duncan pickups, pro features ($849)
• Revstar Standard RSS20: Unique tone, café racer style ($799)
• Revstar RSS02T: Semi-hollow versatility ($999)

Acoustic Guitar:

• FG5 Red Label: Vintage-inspired premium ($1,699)
• A3M ARE: Stage-ready with great electronics ($899)
• LL-TA TransAcoustic: Built-in effects without amp ($999)

What to Prioritize:

• Pickup quality on electrics
• A.R.E. treatment on acoustics for richer tone
• Hardware upgrades (locking tuners, better bridges)

For Professionals ($1,500+)

Electric Guitar:

• Pacifica Professional: Japan-made flagship ($2,199)
• Revstar Professional RSP20: Premium craftsmanship ($1,999)

Acoustic Guitar:

• L Series LL16-LL36: Handcrafted Japanese acoustics ($1,000-$4,000)
• TAG3 C TransAcoustic: Latest technology with looper ($1,299)

What to Prioritize:

• Japan manufacture for electrics
• A.R.E. treatment and solid woods for acoustics
• Professional-grade hardware and electronics

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are Yamaha guitars good quality? A: Yes, Yamaha is renowned for exceptional quality control at every price point. Their entry-level guitars consistently outperform competitors, and their premium instruments rival boutique brands. The company's 130+ years of manufacturing experience shows in their consistency.

Q: Where are Yamaha guitars made? A: Yamaha produces guitars in multiple countries: Japan (L Series, Pacifica/Revstar Professional), Indonesia (most Pacifica and Revstar models), China (entry-level acoustics), and Mexico (some acoustic models). Japan-made instruments command premium prices.

Q: Is Yamaha Pacifica better than Squier? A: Generally yes, especially at equivalent price points. The Pacifica 112V (~$360) typically offers better build quality, hardware, and playability than similarly-priced Squiers. However, the Squier Classic Vibe series competes more closely with mid-range Pacificas.

Q: What's the best Yamaha guitar for beginners? A: For electric, the Pacifica 112V is the universal recommendation—it's versatile, well-built, and affordable. For acoustic, the FG800 offers solid-top quality at entry-level pricing. Both are industry-standard beginner recommendations.

Q: Do Yamaha guitars hold their value? A: Japan-made Yamahas (L Series, Professional models, vintage SG) hold value well. Standard production models depreciate typically 40-50% in the first year, then stabilize. Vintage SG models have appreciated significantly due to the Santana connection.

Q: What is Yamaha's A.R.E. technology? A: Acoustic Resonance Enhancement (A.R.E.) is Yamaha's proprietary wood treatment that simulates the aging process of vintage instruments. It modifies the wood at a molecular level to improve resonance, giving new guitars tonal characteristics of aged instruments.

Conclusion

Yamaha's approach to guitar building is unique in the industry: they refuse to compromise quality at any price point. A $250 FG800 acoustic will be properly set up and playable out of the box. A $2,000 Revstar Professional will rival guitars costing twice as much from competitor brands.

The key to smart Yamaha buying is understanding their tier system. Don't overpay for features you won't use—but recognize that stepping up from a Pacifica 112V to a 612VIIFM delivers meaningful upgrades in pickups and hardware that working musicians will appreciate.

Whether you're picking up your first guitar or adding a handcrafted L Series to your collection, Yamaha's 130+ years of manufacturing excellence ensures you're getting an instrument that will serve you well for years to come.

For the most current pricing and availability, always verify with authorized Yamaha dealers or major online retailers. Prices fluctuate based on market conditions and model availability.

---

Related Guides:

• Taylor Guitar Price Guide
• Martin Guitar Price Guide
• Fender Guitar Price Guide
• Gibson Guitar Price Guide