3/4 Guitar Vs a Full-Size Guitar – A Buying Guide
Are you ready to rock out on your guitar? Before you start shredding those strings, let’s talk about a significant decision you’ll have to make as a beginner guitar player: choosing between a 3-4 guitar and a full-size guitar. You may have noticed that guitars come in different sizes, and the options can be overwhelming. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!
In this comparison, we’ll dive deep into the differences between these two guitar types and help you determine which will suit your playing style and needs.
Whether you’re a professional or just starting, finding a comfortable guitar is essential for your growth as a musician. So, let’s strap on our guitars and get ready to explore the world of 3-4 guitars vs full-size guitars!
What’s the Difference?
The differences between a full-size and a 3/4 guitar are significant and somewhat very essential. A 3/4 guitar typically measures around 36 x 13 inches, while a full-size guitar is about 40 x 15 inches. Additionally, the scale length of a full-size guitar is longer than 24 inches, while a 3/4 guitar has a scale length between 20 and 24 inches.
One of the key distinctions is the string tension. While a full-size guitar has high string tension that helps to maintain the instrument’s tune, a 3/4 guitar of shorter scale length does not have the same tension. As a result, it may require more frequent tuning.
When it comes to cost, a full-size guitar can cost several thousand dollars, while a 3/4 guitar can be bought for less than a hundred dollars. However, it’s important to note that a higher price tag doesn’t always equate to better quality.
One of the most significant differences is the sound each guitar type produces. A full-size guitar is renowned for creating a rich and full-bodied tone, while a 3/4 guitar may not have the same capacity to replicate that same, rich sound or tone well.
Since we’re covered in summary, what sets the full-size guitar from the best 3 4 acoustic three/4-sized acoustic, and electric guitars? So let’s dive into the best 3/4 guitars your money can get you.
Best 3/4 Acoustic Guitars
Zager 3/4 Acoustic Travel Guitar
cc: Zager Guitar
Are you looking for a smaller guitar, perfect for travel or smaller players? Look no further than the Zager 3/4 Travel Series! Don’t let the smaller size fool you; these guitars pack a powerful punch. Made with the same high-quality woods and professional hardware as their full-sized counterparts, these guitars will sound sweeter and more potent with age.
Master luthier Denny Zager has over 60 years of experience playing, performing, and teaching guitar, giving him an edge in crafting guitars that meet the demands of professional players. The Zager 3/4 Travel Series incorporates critical elements that make a great guitar, such as solid wood construction, a custom neck design that feels natural in your hand, and string spacing, allowing for faster and more accurate playing.
Plus, with a unique bracing system and hand-carved bone nut and saddle, you’ll experience a more prosperous, deeper sound.
But don’t just take my word for it. Magazine reviews and customer testimonials rave about the excellent value of the Zager 3/4 Travel Series, with many claiming it outperforms guitars from top makers at twice the price.
And with a 100% money-back guarantee, including shipping fees, you can try it out risk-free. So why settle for a generic, mass-produced guitar when you can have a custom, handmade Zager for under $700?
US $795
Taylor GS Mini-e Mahogany 3/4 Acoustic Guitar
cc: Taylor
Get ready to fall in love with the Taylor GS Mini-e Mahogany, the guitar that packs full-size Taylor tone into a conveniently sized package. It’s the perfect choice for beginners taking their first steps in music or seasoned pros looking for a high-quality instrument.
Don’t be fooled by its smaller scale – this acoustic guitar still boasts the same string spacing as its full-sized siblings, so even experienced Taylor players will feel right at home. And let’s talk about that Ebony fretboard – it’s smoother than silk and features a wood grain that’s as unique as your fingerprints!
But what sets this guitar apart is its rich, warm tone. Thanks to the Mahogany top, it delivers an unexpected depth for such a small instrument. And when you’re ready to plug in and rock out, the onboard electronics let you sculpt your sound with treble and bass controls.
If we look closer at its Sapele Laminate back and sides, Sapele neck, 23½” (622mm) scale, and 20 frets. Plus, those die-cast chrome tuners look just as good as they sound. And let’s not forget – this beauty is also available in a left-handed version!
Ready to add the Taylor GS Mini-e Mahogany to your collection? Its natural finish is sure to turn heads and make your fellow guitarists green with envy.
US $799
Yamaha JR1 FG 3/4 Acoustic Guitar
cc: Yamaha
Are you ready to start your guitar journey but don’t want to break the bank? The Yamaha JR1 FG has got you covered! This little guy is the perfect choice for beginners or anyone looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.
With a slim neck and short scale, the JR1 FG is straightforward to play, even for younger musicians. The rosewood fretboard provides a smooth surface for your fretting hand to glide, making chord changes a breeze.
Although it may lack a bit in the low end, this little guitar still packs a punch in the mid and upper ranges. You’ll have no trouble projecting your tunes with this bad boy. Plus, it has all the necessary accessories to start your musical journey!
This 3/4 size guitar features a solid Sitka spruce top and high-pressure laminate back and sides, giving it durability and a quality sound. The tuners are chrome-enclosed gear, keeping your strings in tune and sounding sweet. And, if you’re a lefty, you’ll be happy to know that the JR1 FG has got you covered with a left-handed option.
So, are you ready to rock and roll with the Yamaha JR1 FG? Don’t let a tight budget keep you from pursuing your passion for music!
US $200
Gretsch G9520E ‘Gin Rickey’ 3/4 Acoustic Guitar
cc: Gretsch
If you’re in the market for a guitar with equal parts style and substance, feast your eyes on the Gretsch G9520E Gin Rickey. With its unique look and exceptional Gretsch Deltoluxe soundhole pickup, it’s no wonder this guitar has gained a cult following amongst guitarists of all levels.
And let’s not forget its unplugged tone, which is seriously impressive given its price point. This guitar offers a fantastic low-end response and even note definition across the lush Walnut fretboard, making open chords sound especially sweet.
When you plug it in, this guitar truly comes alive. The Gretsch Deltoluxe pickup delivers a sound reminiscent of an electric guitar, perfect for bluesy playing and slide work. And don’t be fooled by its affordable price tag – this guitar is the real deal.
So if you’re looking for a guitar that’s as unique as you are and delivers exceptional tone and playability, look no further than the Gretsch G9520E Gin Rickey.
US $389
Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Classical Acoustic Guitar
cc: Cordoba
Next on our list is the Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Classical guitar, which is brilliant for those prepared to dive into this timeless art form. With soft nylon strings, beginners can jam for hours without getting bogged down, while more experienced players will appreciate the feature set.
The Mahogany neck is so comfortable you’ll never want to put it down! It’s perfect for fingerstyle playing, and the flat-radius Rosewood fretboard invites you to explore classical-style techniques. But don’t be fooled; this guitar is versatile enough for any genre you throw its way.
The solid Cedar top is a rare gem at this price point, delivering exceptional sound quality that rivals full-size classical acoustics. It resonates beautifully, offering a natural sound and delightful tonality no matter what kind of playing style you prefer. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your new musical prowess!
US $389
But wait. How do we know the difference between them and a full-size guitar? Let’s buckle up and read ahead.
Full-Sized Acoustic Guitars
We’re not kidding when we say there has never been a more exciting time to purchase an acoustic guitar. The current market is saturated with many instruments, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with each new release.
Of course, with so many options at your disposal, it’s understandable if you feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices – what we like to call “option paralysis.” But don’t sweat it because we’re here to assist you in navigating this sea of possibilities.
Zager 900CE Acoustic Guitar
cc :Zager Guitars
Are you ready to rock and roll? Then you need the Zager Pro Series 900 acoustic guitar! It’s the cream of the crop, the bee’s knees, and the cat’s meow of all electric guitars around. When you’ve got five grand to spend on an acoustic, you want quality and sound without sacrificing ease of play. And that’s where the 900 comes in.
This baby’s unique bracing system makes a face move half a millimeter more, giving it more projection and power. It’s like hitting a string and feeling the sound resonate right through your gut. Trust us, not many guitars can do that, especially new ones. But with the 900, you get all that power and resonance for less than half the price of other high-end guitars.
But wait, there’s more! The Zager Pro Series guitars are aged longer and finished thinner for even more sound depth and clarity. And each piece of abalone and pearl is laid by hand, so you know it’s an actual work of art.
With Fishman’s Aura Digital Sound Imaging System, you can download thousands of sound images from their online library and dial in the perfect sound for your guitar. It’s like having your multi-million dollar recording studio in your hands!
But don’t just take our word for it. The 900 consistently rates in the top 5% of acoustics made worldwide and have rave reviews from touring artists and veteran musicians alike. And with a lifetime warranty and 100% money-back guarantee (including shipping fees!), you can rest easy knowing you’ve made a sound investment.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your Zager Pro Series 900 acoustic guitar today, and rock out like never!
US $2395
Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar
cc: Yamaha
Get ready to rock on a budget with the ultimate beginner acoustic guitar – the Yamaha FG800! It’s like the superhero of affordable acoustic guitars, with its solid Sitka Spruce top, giving you unbeatable sound quality that most guitars in this price range can only dream of.
But wait, there’s more! With a maple fretboard and sleek design, this guitar is accessible on the wallet and eyes. It’s like the James Bond acoustic guitars – looks good and sounds even better.
Plus, Sitka Spruce isn’t just any wood; it’s the superstar of guitar tops. With its tight highs, heavy bottom, and emphasis on the lower chords, you’ll be shredding like a pro in no time. The Yamaha FG800 is perfect for beginners, but its durable construction and incredible sound quality will stick with you for years to come. So get ready to rock your way to the top without breaking the bank!
US $229
Seagull S6 Original Acoustic
cc: Seagull
Ready to get your strum on without breaking the bank? Look no further than the Seagull S6 Original. It may not have a preamp like the pricier QI version, but this solid option is a steal for those who prefer to keep things unplugged.
One thing that makes the S6 Original stand out is its unique combination of tonewoods – a solid Cedar top and Cherry back and sides. This pairing produces a bright, crisp sound that shines when you’re picking with your right hand. But don’t worry – this baby can handle a variety of playing styles and musical genres.
As intermediate acoustic guitars go, we have no qualms about recommending the Seagull S6. It’s been one of our all-time faves since we started reviewing acoustics. So why not join the S6 fan club and start strumming away?
IS $799
Martin LXK2 Little Martin 3/4 Acoustic Guitars
cc: Martin
Get ready for the LXK2 Little Martin – a travel-friendly acoustic guitar that’s well-built and designed for players with smaller hands, beginners, or anyone who is playing guitar who’s always on the go. Even though it doesn’t have any solid wood, the Spruce bracing and Martin’s patented neck mortise make this little guy a force to be reckoned with.
The top of the guitar is made of some HPL mixture, which we’re not too thrilled about, but it still manages to produce a great sound despite all the laminate involved. Martin is known for providing highly functional guitars that sound amazing, and the LXK2 Little Martin is no exception.
We wish they used a different top material, but this is worth considering if you’re in the market for a good travel guitar or a first acoustic for your little one. The purchase price includes a padded gig bag, so you can take it wherever you go!
$399
Takamine GN93CE Acoustic Guitar
cc: Tekamine
Are you looking for an acoustic guitar that you can plug in? The Takamine GN93CE might be right up your alley! With a solid Spruce top, Rosewood sides, and a three-piece quilted Maple back; this guitar has a unique tonewood profile that produces plenty of mids and treble. Plus, it comes with a TK-40D preamp that includes a tuner, three-band EQ, a gain knob, and more.
While the hybrid dreadnought/concert body type may not be for everyone, it does give the GN93CE a lot of flexibility in terms of playing style. Whether you’re a performer or just looking for a great value buy, this guitar is worth considering. Remember that it’s best suited for melodic playing styles and live performances due to the preamp.
So I hope this clears up any confusion about the difference between a full-size and a parlor-sized guitar.
US $799
3/4 Classical Nylon, Acoustic Steel String, Or Electric Guitar?
With the abundance of 3/4 size guitars on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the guitar pedal and purchase the right one. The first decision is whether you want a classical guitar with nylon strings, an acoustic guitar with steel strings, or an electric guitar.
For young beginners, a classical guitar with nylon strings is recommended. Nylon strings are gentler on the fingers, making pressing down and playing comfortably more accessible.
However, a steel-string acoustic or electric guitar may be more suitable for older children or youth who already have some guitar-playing experience. With more substantial hand and finger muscles, they can handle the lower string tension more than steel strings and appreciate the louder and fuller sound of an acoustic guitar, commonly found in pop and rock music.
About Zager
Zager Guitars is a family-owned third-generation guitar builder that has been building guitars in Lincoln, Nebraska, since 1902. Zager is rated in the top 5% of all guitar brands and has been featured in Time Magazine, Newsweek, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Rolling Stone, The New Yorker, ABC, NBC, CBS, CNN, FOX, and a multitude of national and international news media. Zager also donates over $1M in guitars to children and public schools nationally, more than any other acoustic guitar maker.
To achieve the levels of playability that Zager guitars deliver, it requires a “precision build.” This means computer-controlled milling, laser-guided cutting, and robotic sanding and finish application. Bob Taylor of Taylor Guitars uses the automated building on their most expensive models because a computer build is always more precise than a hand build.
Zager does one thing differently, though. Where Taylor keeps their machines in Mexico and the US, we keep ours in Indonesia, where wood and materials for guitar building are 50% lower in price. This way, you receive a great guitar made with the most cutting-edge technology available today for $3000 instead of $6000-$10,000.
FAQs
What is a 3/4 Guitar For?
A 3/4-inch guitar can be used by kids ages six to 10. The guitar is half the size of a typical guitar. This guitar size also allows children to enjoy the best playability full sized instrument because they feel more confident holding the instrument’s grip or slicing their strings. There can never be a problem with sizing a guitar incorrectly.
Is a 3/4 Size Guitar For Adults?
What size guitar do kids use? Adults can use 3/4-sized instruments. For this reason, smaller adults, especially those with smaller arms and small hands, may benefit more ergonomically from an older guitar.
Do Any Professionals Play 3/4 Guitar?
Even many professional guitarists have 3/4 guitar. The best-known example for it ishim was Ed Sheeran, who plays the 3/4 guitar most of the time. It seems to suit a song better than a guitar tone.
Is It Okay to Use a 3/4 Guitar?
Even when guitars of 3/4 sizes are recommended to kids aged 8-12, it does not mean they’re not appropriate. Adults and even experienced players opt to play 1/4-size guitars because of their convenient size and punchy sounds.
