Best 5 Steel-String Acoustic Guitars – Buying Guide by Zager Guitar
The ancient saying – “You get what you pay for” – is especially relevant in the acoustic guitar industry.
Not only are high-end acoustic guitars honed to produce outstanding tones, but they also have first-rate hardware and an exquisitely crafted aesthetic. If you’re in the market for a new high-end acoustic guitar, there are plenty of fantastic options for players of all skill levels.
Of course, guitar strings are made with different materials, winding, and coatings.
Steel-string guitars have been always popular. A massive number of guitarists will choose steel strings over other options. Truth be told, the choice of the right steel-string acoustic guitar can profoundly impact your playing experience.
Today, we have put together a list of 5 steel-string acoustic guitars, which are currently among the best in the market.
However, check the difference between nylon strings and steel strings for acoustic guitars first. This chart will help you understand what kind of string you will prefer more for your journey with acoustic guitar. Let’s dive in to know more.
Difference Between Nylon Strings and Steel Strings
Understanding the differences between nylon and steel strings is crucial for selecting the right acoustic guitar.
Below is a detailed table highlighting the differences:
| Feature | Nylon Strings | Steel Strings |
| Material Composition | Typically made of nylon or gut | Made of steel or a steel core wrapped in various alloys |
| Sound Characteristics | Warm, mellow tone | Bright, crisp, and more sustain |
| Playability | Softer on fingers, ideal for classical and fingerstyle | Harder on fingers, suitable for various playing styles |
| Durability | Less durable, prone to wear and breakage | More durable, withstands vigorous playing |
Also, don’t forget the different tension points of the guitar strings. Understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision between nylon and steel strings.
5 Best Steel Strings Acoustic Guitars
Let’s explore the guitars on our list in greater detail. Check out how each of them can be an amazing choice for you if you’re in the market looking for an acoustic guitar with steel strings.
Here are the guitars, along with their different features –
1. ZAD900CE Solid Spruce/Rosewood Acoustic Electric AURA Smaller “OM” Size Tobacco Sunburst
Specifications
- Body Material: Solid Spruce/Rosewood
- Type: Acoustic Electric
- Size: AURA Smaller “OM”
- Finish: Tobacco Sunburst
- Adjustable truss rod allows you to increase or reduce the action to suit your playing style.
- Zager soft touch fret design reduces string bite and finger fatigue.
- The special extremely thin high gloss coating allows for more movement of the body, resulting in a richer sound.
- Hand-laid abalone inlay rosette with pearl fret marks.
- Ivory binding detail and zipper stripe on the back
- Hand-carved bone nuts and saddles
- Original Grover tuning machines
- Lifetime warranty.
- 100% money-back guarantee.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptional tonal balance is suitable for various genres. | Could feel different to players used to traditional frets. |
| Versatile for fingerstyle and folk music. | The exceptional balance might not suit players seeking a heavily bass-focused or extremely bright sound. |
| An elegant Tobacco Sunburst finish enhances aesthetics. | |
| Smaller “OM” size; ideal for intimate settings. | |
| Reliable Fishman Presys+ electronics for amplified performance. |
The ZAD900CE is the perfect acoustic-electric guitar for getting right into the music. With a smaller “OM” size, it was carefully made for people who like fingerstyle and folk music. A solid birch top and a rosewood body work together to create an intricate sound balance that is warm and clear across all frequencies.
The beautiful Tobacco Sunburst finish not only makes it look better, but it also goes well with the rich, full sound. It works better because it has Fishman Presys+ electronics, which provide solid amplification and onboard controls for shaping the tone.
It sounds great on stage and in the studio, and the ZAD900CE stands as a testament to craftsmanship and sonic excellence.
2. ZAD900 Solid Spruce/Rosewood Acoustic Pro Series
Specifications
- Body Material: Solid Spruce/Rosewood
- Type: Acoustic
- Series: Pro Series
- Zager soft touch fret design reduces string bite and finger fatigue
- Adjustable truss rod allows you to increase or reduce the action to suit your playing style
- The unique, very thin, high-gloss finish lets the body move around more, making the sound richer
- Back zip stripe with ivory binding detail
- Hand-laid abalone inlay rosette with pearl fret marks
- Hand-carved bone nuts and saddles
- Original Grover tuning machines
- Lifetime warranty
- 100% money-back guarantee
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Versatile for various genres with a well-balanced tone | The tone will fully develop over time. |
| Exceptional build quality and craftsmanship | |
| Part of the Pro Series, offering enhanced features | |
| Quality tonewoods with solid spruce top and rosewood body |
The ZAD900, which is the top of the Pro Series of Zager Guitar, is a superb example of the best artistry and tonal variety. The solid spruce top and rosewood body work together to make a tone that is well-balanced and lively, good for a wide range of musical styles.
Both the mahogany neck and the ebony fingerboard make playing the guitar simple and enjoyable. Durability and longevity are ensured by paying close attention to every detail during construction.
The ZAD900 lives up to its promise of professional-level performance and great sound quality, whether you’re playing intricate fingerstyle pieces or engaging in vigorous strumming.
3. ZAD50 Solid Spruce/Mahogany Acoustic
Specifications
- Body Material: Solid Spruce/Mahogany
- Type: Acoustic
- The adjustable truss rod allows you to enhance or decrease the motion to fit your playing style
- Zager’s soft touch fret design minimizes string bite and finger fatigue
- The distinctive extremely thin high gloss coating allows for greater movement of the body, resulting in a fuller sound
- Abalone rosette inlay with pearl fret markings, meticulously hand-crafted
- Back zip detail and ivory binding detail
- Bone saddles and nuts crafted by hand
- Original Grover tuning machines
- Lifetime warranty
- 100% money-back guarantee
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Warm and resonant sound suitable for folk, country, and light strumming | May excel in folk, blues, and singer-songwriter styles, but is less suitable for genres demanding heavy gain or scooped tones. |
| Good balance between warmth and brightness | |
| An affordable option for those seeking quality tonewoods | |
| Mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard contribute to playability |
It’s hard to find a better mix between price and quality than the ZAD50. With a solid spruce top and a mahogany body, it makes a warm, resonant sound. Folk, country, and light-playing fans will dig this for sure.
Both the mahogany neck and the rosewood fingerboard make playing the guitar easy and fun. The ZAD50 is an excellent choice for new and experienced players because it is well-made, affordable, and has a unique sound.
However, it might not be the best choice for heavy playing.
4. ZAD80CE Solid Cedar/Rosewood Acoustic Electric Pro Series
Specifications
- Body Material: Solid Cedar/Rosewood
- Type: Acoustic Electric
- Series: Pro Series
- Adjustable truss rod allows you to increase or reduce the action to suit your playing style
- Zager soft touch fret design reduces string bite and finger fatigue
- The special extremely thin high gloss coating allows for more movement of the body, resulting in a richer sound
- Hand-laid abalone inlay rosette with pearl fret marks
- Ivory binding detail and zipper stripe on the back
- Hand-carved bone nuts and saddles
- Original Grover tuning machines
- Lifetime warranty
- 100% money-back guarantee
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Warm and responsive tone with a solid cedar top | Excels at nuanced techniques, but may not be the top choice for extremely heavy strumming or aggressive playing. |
| Versatile electronics suitable for various playing styles | |
| Part of the Pro Series, offering enhanced features and craftsmanship | |
| Reliable Fishman Presys+ electronics for amplified performances |
As the most versatile and professional-grade device in the Pro Series of Zager Guitar, the ZAD80CE is the best of the best. The rich and delicate tone of the solid cedar top and rosewood body makes it a terrific choice for a wide range of playing styles. With Fishman Presys+ electronics, it provides solid amplification in live events and can be used in both studio and stage settings.
Even though it’s on the more expensive side, the ZAD80CE is worth it because it has more features, is well-made, and is dedicated to providing a high-end acoustic-electric experience that meets the needs of demanding artists.
5. Martin D-15E-MX Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar w/ Electronics, Mah Top/b/s
Specifications
- Body Material: Indian Plantation Mahogany
- Type: Dreadnought Acoustic Electric
- Top: Mahogany
- Body Size: D-14 Fret
- Bracing Pattern: X-Brace
- Brace Shape: Non-Scalloped
- Back and Side Material: Sapele
- Neck Taper: High-Performance Taper
- Neck Material: Select Hardwood
- Fingerboard Material: Katalox
- Fingerboard Inlay Style: Diamond & Squares Short
- Finish Top and Neck: Satin
- Back and Side Finish: Satin
- Bridge Material: Katalox
- Electronics: Martin E1
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Classic dreadnought shape delivers a powerful and resonant tone | Heavier compared to some other models |
| A rich and warm tone with solid mahogany top | Higher price point compared to entry-level alternatives |
| Quality Fishman MX-T electronics for accurate amplification | |
| Durable build with a mahogany neck and East Indian Rosewood fingerboard |
You won’t be disappointed with the D-15E if you’ve been eyeing a Martin 15 Series guitar. You can expect to hear crisp, clear trebles and a robust midrange from this 14-fret Dreadnought since it is constructed with sapele sides and back and a mahogany top with non-scalloped bracing.
This baby can handle any musical circumstance you can imagine because of its massive Dreadnought body. As icing on the cake, this model has a softshell cover and Martin E1 electronics, so it’s portable.
This guitar is a traditional dreadnought that works well in today’s world. The top, back, and sides are all made of wood, which gives it a strong and warm sound. This makes it a great choice for people who like resonance and projection.
When you play, the mahogany neck and East Indian Rosewood fretboard will make you feel good. This guitar’s Fishman MX-T electronics make it easy to switch between acoustic and boosted modes, making it a useful tool for a wide range of styles.
The Martin D-15E-MX is still a good choice for serious players because it is well-made, lasts long, and looks appealing for a long time.
Best Acoustic Guitar Body Shape For You
The design of an acoustic guitar’s body influences both its tone and how pleasant it is to play. If you have a smaller stature, you may find it simpler to play something with a smaller body; nevertheless, there are no established criteria for this – it is all subjective.
The tone and volume of the body are also affected by its shape. Consider the top of an acoustic guitar to be similar to a speaker cone: a larger top may move more, making it louder when played vigorously.
A guitar with a smaller top has less surface area to move, so it won’t project as far; even if you hit it with the same strength, you’ll reach its maximum headroom faster. That’s not to imply that bigger is always better; if you play with a lighter touch, a smaller-bodied acoustic will likely respond better to your playing.
Guitars with larger bodies, such as dreadnoughts and jumbos, typically have a louder bass response and a tighter top end. This type of guitar allows for vocals to sit smoothly in a mix.
Smaller-bodied guitars, such as the concert, are typically brighter and more mid-focused, although grand concerts, which have the same design but are slightly larger, can give an excellent balance.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a musical instrument with the highest level of craftsmanship, one of the high-end acoustic guitars on our list is an excellent choice. These instruments combine rigorous attention to detail, high-quality tonewoods and hardware, and time-tested design to provide an unparalleled playing experience.
The world of steel-string acoustic guitars is diverse, offering options for every player’s preferences and styles. Whether you’re drawn to the balanced versatility of the ZAD900 or the powerful resonance of the Martin D-15E-MX, there’s a perfect match for every musician. So, rest assured that you will manage to find an amazing partner in crime for yourself regarding music if you decide to choose any of the steel string acoustic guitars mentioned above.
Also, check out how you can restring your acoustic guitar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans. While it’s physically possible, it is not recommended, as steel-string guitars are built to handle the tension of steel strings. Putting nylon strings on them may result in poor tone and playability.
Ans. Absolutely. Steel strings are widely used for acoustic guitars, providing a bright and crisp tone that suits various genres, from folk to rock.
Ans. The best string for guitars depends on personal preference and playing style. Phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze are popular choices for steel-string acoustic guitars, each offering a unique tone and feel.
Ans. It’s recommended to change your steel guitar strings every 3-6 months or sooner if you notice a decline in tone, intonation issues, or visible wear. Regularly cleaning your strings after playing helps extend their lifespan.
Ans. Yes, you can use coated strings. They have a protective layer preventing corrosion, extending their lifespan. Coated strings are beneficial for those who sweat a lot during performances or live in humid environments, maintaining a bright tone for a longer period.
