Yamaha APXT2 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar Review Compact Design with Great Sound

Description

Compact and Travel-Friendly Design

I’ve had the chance to test the Yamaha APXT2 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar, and its travel-friendly design immediately caught my attention. The 3/4-size body makes it incredibly portable, and for someone like me who’s constantly on the go, it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re heading to a jam session or simply want a guitar that’s easy to tuck into a corner of your car, this one fits the bill. The black spruce top and rosewood back and fretboard give it a sleek and polished appearance that feels premium despite its compact size.

While it’s small, it doesn’t feel like a toy; the meranti body material provides a sturdy build. I tossed it into its gig bag (included, thankfully!) and carried it around without worrying about accidental bumps. The 36.22 x 16.46 x 4.53-inch dimensions ensure it’s not bulky but still feels substantial in hand.

Key Benefits

• Compact and lightweight build; ideal for travel.
• Sleek black finish that stands out.
• Comes with a gig bag for added convenience.

Performance and Sound Quality

Despite its size, this guitar doesn’t skimp on sound. The ART-based pickup system is easily one of its standout features. Plugging it into an amp, I was pleasantly surprised by how clear and vibrant the tones were. The System 68 pickup is responsive, capturing both highs and lows effectively. It’s perfect for casual players like me who occasionally need to amplify their sound but don’t want to invest in a full-sized, high-end acoustic-electric guitar.

The phosphor bronze strings sound warm and resonate beautifully when strummed, though I did notice they’re not as durable as some others I’ve used. The adjustable bridge is another thoughtful touch, allowing me to tweak the action to suit my style. However, the unplugged sound isn’t as loud as standard-sized guitars, which is something to consider if you’re planning to use it acoustically often.

Areas for Improvement

• Unplugged sound is quieter than full-sized guitars.
• The strings may need replacing sooner for frequent players.

Target Audience

This guitar is perfect for beginners, traveling musicians, or even kids who are just starting their musical journey. My nephew, who’s just learning, found the shorter scale length of 25.6 inches easier to handle compared to my full-sized guitar. It’s not intimidating for younger players and works well for adults who want something compact without sacrificing playability.

For seasoned players looking to add a portable option to their collection, this guitar checks many boxes. It’s also a budget-friendly choice for those who need a reliable practice guitar or something to carry around without fear of damaging a pricier instrument.

Positives

• ART pickup system delivers clear and dynamic sound.
• Easy-to-use built-in tuner with great sensitivity.
• Short scale length is ideal for beginners and smaller hands.

Negatives

• The plastic bridge pins feel a bit cheap.
• Requires 2 AA batteries, which adds to maintenance.

Product Alternatives

Comparing it to other acoustic-electric guitars, the Fender FA-15 comes to mind. While the Fender alternative is similarly compact and great for beginners, it lacks the ART pickup system that makes the Yamaha stand out in terms of amplified performance. On the other hand, the Taylor GS Mini offers a richer unplugged sound, but at a noticeably higher price point.

For players who prioritize portability and don’t mind sacrificing a bit of volume when unplugged, the Yamaha is arguably the better choice. It’s also much lighter than many of its competitors, weighing just 3.08 pounds, which I found to be a huge plus during long walks to practice sessions.

Price to Quality Ratio

In terms of affordable quality, this guitar delivers. You’re getting a well-built instrument with solid electronics and a thoughtful design at a fraction of the cost of more premium models. It may not replace a full-sized guitar for advanced gigs, but for its price range, it’s a smart investment.

For anyone considering a cost-efficient acoustic-electric guitar for travel, practice, or casual playing, this model is worth serious consideration. The included gig bag adds extra value, saving you the hassle of buying one separately.

Testing this guitar has been a fun experience overall. It has its quirks, sure, but the Yamaha APXT2 is a solid companion for any guitarist who values portability, tone, and ease of use.

Additional information