The sound of acoustic surely soothes hearts. Picking the triads and strumming the chords are always satisfying to the soul in many ways. But one thing that put a barrier to this joy is dealing with the cables when trying to convert a hollow body into a semi-acoustic. What’s more painful? You need an external device to turn a simple guitar into a semi-acoustic so you can add effects to the tones by connecting it to the amplifier.
However, technology has changed everything for guitarists like you. You can now play acoustic guitars with built-in effects that overcome the hassle of amps and cables. So in this article, you will learn about the 5 best and most popular acoustic guitar models with preloaded effects. You will explore their features, advantages, disadvantages, pricing, and things to consider for choosing the right one.
Table of Contents
Criteria to Choose the Best Acoustic Guitars with Built-In Effects
Since guitars with built-in effects are still a new concept, many new and experienced players are found confused when selecting the right instrument. So here are the 8 factors to consider before choosing a guitar with preloaded FX.
a. Construction
The first thing you need to understand is picking the guitar by analyzing the body construction. In acoustic guitars, you have two options. You can either choose a wooden body or go for the carbon fiber material.
In wooden guitars, there are several wood types used in the manufacturing. For example, some guitars are made from Ebony wood, while others are manufactured using Mahogany or rosewood. At the same time, a few companies also utilize Spruce wood as the main material on the sides and top.
Contrarily, carbon fiber acoustic guitars with built-in effects are less confusing to players. They are made from fiber of different qualities. Most companies use AirSonic or Aramid carbon fiber to build these guitars. But AirSonic material is less expensive than Aramid fiber, which is why most carbon fiber guitars are costly. As most makers choose Aramid carbon fiber over AirSonic.
b. Body Type
The next notable trait to look for is the body type. Acoustic guitars with built-in effects are available in parlor-sized, Spanish, cutaway, and concert bodies. For instance, Yamaha crafts TransAcoustic guitars in cutaway, concert, and parlor-sized shapes. So it is up to you which type suits your playing.
However, it is suggested to choose a cutaway body type if you like playing acoustic solos. Because the ‘cut’ at the intersection of the guitar’s neck and body permits you to play the highest note on the fret with less effort. On the other hand, a parlor-sized or Spanish body type is ideal for you if you are mostly playing around the chords or the upper frets.
c. Size
You have limited sizes in built-effects acoustic guitars. The most common one is the dreadnought which satisfies your need to have a large-size guitar that produces rich sound. However, such sizes are not considered ‘Jumbo.’
The next popular size in these guitars is the parlor or travel-size guitar. As a matter of fact, most guitar manufacturing companies offer instruments of this size. A carbon fiber body guitar and the Yamaha TransAcoustic series are one of prime examples.
d. Number of Effects
Many players are puzzled as they find a huge gap in the number of effects. Similarly, some players prefer a specific guitar brand but cannot find trending effects. Therefore, to make the right choice, you must focus on your needs.
If you are a beginner, acoustic guitars with 2 or 4 built-in effects are good to go. But if you are a professional player, you should select guitars with maximum effects. You can find the number of built-in effects starting from 4 to 8 in most acoustic guitars.
e. Number of Frets
The number of frets plays a big part in giving you the feel of reaching the higher notes. Normally, traditional guitars have a maximum of 24 frets. However, most acoustic guitars with merged effects have a minimum of 18 and a max of 20 frets.
While it solely depends on your decision, it is wise to opt for more frets. But, you should also keep in mind that more frets mean a longer fretboard, which signifies more material consumption on the next. This factor can affect the price of the guitar.
f. Weather Resistance
As you know that there are two types of materials used in manufacturing acoustic guitars with built-in effects. Wooden guitars are more vulnerable to bad and moist weather, and you can’t do much about it except for fixing the action.
But carbon fiber built-in effects guitars can resist high temperatures, humidity, and even chemicals. Moreover, since its a non-porous material, it prevents the guitar from absorbing moisture from the environment.
g. Battery Time
The built-in effects in the acoustic guitar require batteries to operate. You can recharge them through USB Type C ports. What you should seek in a guitar is an extended battery time. Some brands can be played for only 3 to 4 hours when fully charged, while others can last up to 10 hours.
h. Output Connectivity
You don’t need an amplifier and cables to enjoy the effects. Also, there is no requirement for external connections. But you should seek a guitar that gives the output connectivity option. So you can connect it with FX pedals or amps when performing for a large audience.
5 Best Acoustic Guitars with Built-In Effects
Following are the 5 awesome acoustic guitars that offer built-in effects.
1. Lag HyVibe THV30DCE
The Lag HyVibe THV30DCE is an outstanding acoustic guitar that provides you with a blend of traditional acoustic tones and built-in effects. It comes with a HyVibe system loaded with a speedy processor and actuators to produce amplified sound. Moreover, it offers 8 built-in effects, including chorus, reverb, tremolo, delay, distortion, pitch shifter, phaser, and acoustic boost. THV30DCE also has a built-in looper and allows you to connect it to your Bluetooth speakers.
The HyVibe 30 has a beautiful dreadnought shape with figured bactoe sides and front, and a strong spruce top. The fretboard is made of blackwood, which gives real joy when you play it. While the idea of this guitar is to deliver effects without being plugged in, it also has an output source to connect to amplifiers.
Features and Specifications of Lag HyVibe THV30DCE
- Natural color
- Piezo pickups
- Type-C USB charging port
- Dreadnought cutaway shape
- Automatic software updates
- Standard input and output jacks
- The side of the neck includes fret markers
- Bluetooth speaker function with Hi-Fi sound
- 10-hour lithium battery timing for continuous playing
- Connectivity through the HyVibe mobile application to build customized banks of various effects
Pros of Lag HyVibe THV30DCE
- Smart guitar with built-in effects and functionalities
- High-quality construction
- Vibrant and rich tones
- Well-adjusted action and neck to bring ease to playing
Cons of Lag HyVibe THV30DCE
- Expensive guitar
- Players who are not familiar with technology-driven guitars will need some time to understand this system
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 9/10
- Durability: 8/10
- Build quality: 8/10
- Unique features: 8/10
Price
- ₤1499.00 ($1684 approximately)
2. Yamaha CSF-TA
If you are looking for a parlor-size acoustic guitar with built-in effects, CSF-TA by Yamaha is surely one to look upon. This guitar is equipped with TransAcoustic technology, allowing you to enjoy effects without being corded. The technology is a combination of sensors, electronics, and soundhole ports, which creates excellent reverberant tones without the need for any external amplifier.
The Yamaha CSF-TA is made with a Sitka spruce top and a nato neck, which makes this instrument more durable. Plus, it has mahogany sides and back. The guitar has a rosewood bridge and fingerboard that minimizes the playing effort.
And if talking about the effects, the CSF-TA TransAcoustic system offers three built-in effects – chorus, room, reverb, and standard reverb. However, the interesting part is that you can create various sounds using these three effects.
The Yamaha CSF-TA is suitable for players who love strumming, fingerstyle playing, and taking over solo performances.
Features and Specifications of Yamaha CSF-TA
- 600 mm scale length
- 20 frets
- Control buttons for volume and effects
- Matte finish
- High-quality tuners made from die-cast chrome
- Concert body size
- Scalloped bracing
- Line output for external amplifier connectivity
Pros of Yamaha CSF-TA
- Battery-powered solid actuator
- Beautiful and rich sound
- Comfortable playing
- Traditional Spanish design
Cons of Yamaha CSF-TA
- A little pricey instrument
- Limited effects and customization options
- Only available in one body size without a cutaway
- Unable to set tonal characteristics as per players’ preference
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 7/10
- Durability: 8/10
- Build quality: 8/10
- Unique features: 7/10
Price
- $1105.00
3. Yamaha LS-TA
Here’s another kid on the block by Yamaha. The LS-TA is one more addition to acoustic guitars with built-in effects. It has been made on the same TransAcoustic principles but provides more organic acoustic sound with onboard chorus and reverb effects. LS-TA is good for all players, especially the ones who adore strumming in front of the audience.
What makes Yamaha LS-TA different from the CSF is its top and sides. The guitar is built with an Engelman spruce top, while the sides and back are made of solid rosewood. You can enjoy powerful, rich, warm, and clear sound with the help of these tonewoods. LS-TA also comes with a five-ply rosewood and mahogany neck. This craftsmanship gives an extremely responsive action and high comfort during the play.
Yamaha LS-TA is made with a small actuator that is found inside the body. However, the outcome in terms of effects is similar to the CSF model (only chorus and reverb effects). But the good part is that these effects sound more natural compared to other Yamaha TransAcoustic guitar models. Moreover, the Yamaha LS-TA has piezo pickups, allowing you to plug the guitar into a PA system or an external amplifier if required.
Features and Specifications of Yamaha LS-TA
- 650mm scale length
- Concert body type
- 100 – 125mm body depth
- Ebony bridge and fingerboard
Pros of Yamaha LS-TA
- Good quality tonewoods
- Built-in tuner
- Great construction
- Available in two colors (vintage tint and brown sunburst)
Cons of Yamaha LS-TA
- It’s pricey
- No cutaway that makes it difficult to reach high-pitched frets
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 7/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Build quality: 8/10
- Unique features: 7/10
Price
- $1515.00
4. Lava ME 3
While the above three guitars have a traditional appearance, the Lava ME 3 is an ultimate example of modern acoustic guitar with integrated effects. ME 3 is a smart acoustic guitar that provides the natural acoustic sound bypassing through the latest technology. It has a unique carbon fiber body with a built-in touchscreen that comes with numerous effects.
You can use all of them, including reverb, delay, distortion, chorus, octave, boost, Lo-Fi, and equalizer, right from the screen. Or, feel free to create your own effects from the integrated ones. Besides, it is compatible with HILAVA mobile application to control and adjust the built-in effects.
Despite having a distinctive body and overall design, the guitar feels extremely comfortable on the fingers. The neck is made of top-quality maple, but still, the guitar has lightweight. Additionally, it has an Ebony fretboard with well-spaced frets. The guitar also comes with Lava Planet strings to ensure every strum and melody gives a bright sound.
Features and Specifications of Lava ME 3
- Available in 36-inch and 38-inch size
- Available for both right and left-hand guitar players
- 32 GB storage
- 4 GB ram
- 3.5-inch touchscreen
- 8000mAh battery
- USB Type C connectivity
- One-piece body construction
- HPL bridge material
- Matte finish body
Pros of Lava ME 3
- Available in 7 maximum colors
- It is weather-resistant
- Survives humidity levels from 10% to 90%
- Built-in looping, guitar tuner, and tutorials
- The battery lasts up to 9 hours on a single charge
Cons of Lava ME 3
- Some players may find the features difficult to use in the beginning
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 8/10
- Durability: 8/10
- Build quality: 9/10
- Unique features: 9/10
Price
- $1199.00
5. Enya X4 Pro
Enya X4 is a good-quality acoustic guitar with built-in effects. The guitar is entirely made of carbon fiber, giving a number of benefits to players compared to the orthodox wooden guitar design. Such as, this instrument is long-lasting due to weather-resistant characteristics. That makes it a suitable guitar for musicians who travel more often or live under harsh climate conditions.
This equipment stands out from the rest because of its beautiful pattern design with a sound hole just above the sixth E string. Although the engineering is a bit different, the good thing is that it always amazes you by producing natural and complete notes.
Enya X4 Pro has a pre-amp with a built-in tuner, mic, and volume adjustment knobs. Moreover, it comes with built-in FX like chorus, delay, reverb, and EQ. Another killer feature of this guitar is the cutaway shape, allowing players to reach the last fret on the board.
If talking about comfort level, the X4 Pro by Enya offers a great space for fingerpicking due to its wide neck. But not so wide that it becomes difficult playing the chords. Also, it has low action, making the guitar best for both beginners and professionals.
Features and Specifications of Enya X4 Pro
- Elevated neck construction
- AcousticPlus system with a USB charging port
- Full-size body
- Gold die-cast tuning pegs
- 20 frets
- Richlite bridge
Pros of Enya X4 Pro
- Clean and balanced sound
- Attractive appearance
- Durable and lightweight
- Very comfortable for playing chords and solos
Cons of Enya X4 Pro
- Limited built-in effects
- The sound is clean but not warm enough, like wooden guitars
Quantitative Measurement
- Design: 9/10
- Durability: 8/10
- Build quality: 7/10
- Unique features: 8/10
Price
- $899.99
Comparison Table – Popular Acoustic Guitars with Built-In Effects
| Product | Price | No. of Effects | No. of Frets | Material | Battery Life |
| Lag HyVibe THV30DCE | $1684.00 | 8 | 20 | Wood | 10 hours |
| Yamaha CSF-TA | $1105.00 | 4 | 20 | Wood | 10 hours |
| Yamaha LS-TA | $1515.00 | 2 | 20 | Wood | 9 hours |
| Lava ME 3 | $1199.00 | 8 | 18 | Carbon Fiber | Up to 9 hours |
| Enya X4 Pro | $899.99 | 4 | 20 | Carbon Fiber | Up to 10 hours |
Note: All the prices mentioned in this article are taken from the official websites of the products. The manufacturers have the right to change/modify pricing.
Conclusion
The technological advancement has taken the acoustic guitar-playing experience to another level. Now, you can savor listening to studio-like sounds on every chord to strum and every note you pick. Thanks to the acoustic guitars with built-in effects that let you enjoy effects without connecting your instrument to FX pedals or amplifiers.
Some of the greatest integrated effects guitars in a wooden body are Lag HyVibe THV30DCE, Yamaha CSF-TA, and LS-TA. But if you desire a more modern and unique guitar design, you can choose the Carbon fiber acoustic guitars with preloaded effects, like the Lava ME 3 and Enya X4 Pro.
FAQs
Q1. What acoustic guitars have built-in effects?
Lava ME 3 is a renowned acoustic guitar with 8 built-in effects. It is a popular choice for many new and professional guitar players.
Q2. Can I make my acoustic guitar sound like an electric?
You can connect your simple acoustic guitar with effects pedals by adding an external pickup. Or, you can simply use acoustic guitars with built-in effects to escape from the additional equipment, like amps, cables, and pedals.
Q3. Can acoustic guitar have reverb?
Yes, acoustic guitars with integrated effects have many options, including reverb.
Q4. Which famous guitarist plays acoustic guitars with built-in effects?
Jordan Rudess of Dream Theater has recently appreciated Lava ME 3 for its touch-screen system, built-in effects, looper, and cloud storage.
