If you’re on the lookout for a Grand Auditorium guitar in 2024, you’ve come to the right place!
Whether you’re a newbie finding your groove or a seasoned player looking to add another beauty to your collection, these guitars blend sound, playability, and craftsmanship in a way that’s hard to beat.
10 Best Grand Auditorium Guitars (100% Subjective List)
1. Taylor C24 CE
The Taylor C24 CE is the crown jewel of Taylor’s NAMM Customs 2024 lineup.
Imagine this: you’re at a small, intimate gig, the kind where every note matters. You strum your first chord on the C24 CE, and the room fills with a warm, rich tone that seems to hug the walls. That’s the solid mahogany top, back, and sides at work.
The V-Class Bracing? It’s like having an extra amplifier built right into the guitar, boosting your sound with more sustain and volume. And when you plug in the Expression System 2 pickup, it’s like the guitar whispers every detail of your performance straight into the audience’s ears.
Yes, it’s a bit heavy, and yes, it’s not cheap. But for those magical moments on stage or in the studio, it’s worth every penny.
Pros:
- Rich, warm tone
- Excellent build quality
- Great for both live and studio settings
Cons:
- High price point
- Heavy due to solid mahogany construction
2. Taylor 214ce Koa
Now, picture this: it’s a laid-back afternoon, and you’re sitting outside with a cup of coffee, strumming your guitar under the sun. The Taylor 214ce Koa is in your hands, and it’s a perfect match for the moment. The Koa wood glows in the sunlight, and as you start playing, the sound is bright and clear, thanks to the solid torrefied spruce top.
The C-Class Bracing kicks in, giving you a nice, full bass that balances out your chords. Whether you’re strumming or picking, this guitar handles it all.
And here’s the kicker—it’s made in Mexico, so you’re getting that signature Taylor quality without having to empty your savings account.
Pros:
- Beautiful Koa wood design
- Versatile tone
- Affordable for a Taylor guitar
Cons:
- Koa plywood back and sides may not appeal to purists
- Slightly narrower nut width
3. Furch Blue Deluxe Gc-CM
The Furch Blue Deluxe Gc-CM is like that comfortable chair you keep going back to—it just feels right. Imagine playing a three-hour gig with no breaks, your fingers flying across the fretboard.
Normally, your back might start to ache, but with the ergonomic Duo Bevels on this guitar, you’re still going strong. The solid cedar top and solid mahogany back and sides aren’t just for show—they give you a warm, resonant tone that’s perfect for fingerstyle playing.
And with the CNR truss rod system, you don’t have to worry about this guitar warping over time. It’s built to last, just like your favorite pair of worn-in jeans.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design
- Warm, resonant tone
- High-quality craftsmanship
Cons:
- Open Pore finish might not appeal to everyone
- Less bright than spruce-topped guitars
4. Cort Gold Passion
The Cort Gold Passion is a bit like a classic car. It’s the kind of guitar that turns heads the moment you pull it out of its case. With a solid Engelmann spruce top and AAA flamed maple back and sides, it doesn’t just look good—it sounds incredible too.
Picture yourself at a fancy event, where the guitar’s high-gloss finish gleams under the stage lights. You start playing, and the sound is pure, clear, and powerful, thanks to the L.R. Baggs Anthem System. It’s the kind of guitar that makes you want to keep playing, just to see what else it can do.
Yes, it might need a little extra care to keep that finish looking perfect, and yes, it’s a bit heavier than some. But for the kind of impact it makes? Worth it.
Pros:
- Stunning aesthetics with flamed maple
- Exceptional amplified sound quality
- Vintage tuners add a classic touch
Cons:
- High gloss finish may require more maintenance
- Heavier than some other models
5. Richwood SWG-150W-CE
If you’re looking for something that’s affordable but still packs a punch, the Richwood SWG-150W-CE might be your go-to.
Picture a young guitarist, just starting out, eager to find their sound. They grab this guitar, and the first strum reveals a bright, balanced tone that surprises them. It’s got a solid spruce top and rosewood back and sides—materials that are usually reserved for higher-end guitars.
The Fishman Presys+ pickup system gives them control over their sound when they’re ready to take the stage. Sure, it’s not as resonant as the pricier models, and the design is pretty straightforward. But for someone starting out, or for anyone who needs a reliable backup guitar, it’s a solid choice.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Bright, balanced tone
- Includes tuner with pickup system
Cons:
- Not as resonant as higher-end models
- Pretty Basic design
6. Baton Rouge AR81C/ACE
The Baton Rouge AR81C/ACE is all about simplicity and solid performance. Imagine you’re sitting around a campfire with friends, the flames crackling as you start to play. The warmth of the solid Canadian cedar top and solid mahogany back and sides matches the mood perfectly.
The guitar’s tone is rich and inviting, ideal for those laid-back, intimate settings. The Baton Rouge BR-2.1P pickup system ensures that even when you’re plugged in, your sound stays true to its natural character. It’s not flashy, but that’s part of its charm. And while the matte open-pore finish might not appeal to everyone, for those who love a natural, understated look, it’s just right.
Pros:
- Warm tone from cedar and mahogany
- Simple, elegant design
- Comfortable to play
Cons:
- Matte finish may not appeal to everyone
- Less projection than spruce-topped models
7. Larry Carlton A4-G VS
The Larry Carlton A4-G VS is like a versatile tool in your guitar arsenal. Whether you’re playing a small gig or recording in the studio, it’s got you covered.
Picture this: you’re working on a new track, layering different sounds. The solid roasted spruce top and mahogany back and sides give you a warm, balanced tone that blends perfectly with other instruments. The Sire SIB Acoustic EQ System lets you tweak your sound until it’s just right.
And with its vintage sunburst finish, this guitar doesn’t just sound good—it looks great too. It’s not perfect for every player, though. The Piezo pickup might not give you the exact tone you’re after, especially if you’re into more traditional acoustic sounds. But for those who like to experiment, it’s a fantastic choice.
Pros:
- Flexible EQ system
- Stylish vintage sunburst finish
- Warm and balanced tone
Cons:
- Limited to 20 frets
- Piezo pickup may not suit all players
8. Lakewood M-32 Custom
The Lakewood M-32 Custom is for the serious player who knows exactly what they want. Imagine you’ve been playing for years, and you’ve developed a discerning ear. You know the difference between good and great, and you won’t settle for less.
That’s where the M-32 Custom comes in. With a solid European AAA spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides, it delivers a sound that’s both rich and resonant. The L.R. Baggs Anthem System ensures that every nuance of your playing is captured, whether you’re performing live or recording.
It’s not just a guitar; it’s a tool that lets you express exactly what you want to say with your music. Sure, it’s pricey, and the matte finish might need some extra care, but for those who demand the best, it’s a top contender.
Pros:
- Premium materials and craftsmanship
- Excellent amplified sound
- Comfortable to play
Cons:
- High price point
- Matte finish may require careful maintenance
9. Schecter Synyster Gates
The Schecter Synyster Gates is not your typical acoustic guitar. It’s for those who want to make a statement, both visually and sonically.
Imagine a player who’s into rock, but wants to try something different. They pick up the Synyster Gates and immediately feel at home with its solid spruce top and rosewood back and sides. The gothic-themed pearloid Gothic Crosses and Syn Deathbat inlays catch the eye, while the Fishman Sonicore Piezo pickup ensures that their sound is clear and powerful, even when amplified.
It’s not for everyone, though.
The design might be too bold for some, and it’s heavier than your average acoustic. But for those who want to stand out, it’s an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Unique, eye-catching design
- Powerful amplified sound
- Comfortable to play
Cons:
- Design may not appeal to traditionalists
- Heavier than most acoustics
10. D’Angelico Premier Gramercy
Finally, there’s the D’Angelico Premier Gramercy—a guitar that’s as much about style as it is about performance. Picture yourself on stage, under the lights, with a guitar that doesn’t just sound great but looks fantastic too.
The mahogany top, back, and sides offer a warm, balanced tone that’s perfect for all styles of music. The X-Scalloped bracing gives the sound extra depth, making it rich and full. And with the D’Angelico MG-30 pickup, your amplified sound is clear and true to the guitar’s natural tone.
The Stairstep Wave machine heads add a touch of elegance, making this guitar a joy to play and a delight to look at.
Pros:
- Stylish design with unique machine heads
- Balanced tone
- Clear amplified sound
Cons:
- PPS nut may not appeal to everyone
- Limited tonal variety compared to higher-end models
Which One Would I Choose?
If I had to pick one from this lineup, the Taylor C24 CE would be my top choice. Imagine having a guitar that’s ready for any situation—whether you’re recording a delicate fingerstyle piece in the studio or strumming away at a live gig.
The solid mahogany construction provides a warm, resonant tone that’s perfect for both. Plus, the V-Class Bracing adds sustain and projection, ensuring your sound is always spot-on. The Expression System 2 pickup is like having a sound engineer right there with you, capturing every nuance of your playing.
It’s an investment, no doubt, but for the quality and versatility it offers, it’s worth every penny.
If you have any questions about this list or you want to chat about these guitars, drop a comment on one of my YouTube channels (Best Guitars Now or Strefa Gitar) or send an email to dave@strefagitar.pl.
FAQ
1. What makes a Grand Auditorium guitar different from other body styles?
- Grand Auditorium guitars strike a balance between the full-bodied sound of a dreadnought and the brighter tone of smaller body styles. This makes them versatile for both strumming and fingerpicking.
2. Are all Grand Auditorium guitars suitable for beginners?
- Not all of them, no. Some models are beginner-friendly, while others are geared more toward experienced players. It’s about finding the right match for your skill level and playing style.
3. Do all these guitars come with built-in pickups?
- Yes, every guitar on this list is equipped with a built-in pickup system, making them perfect for both acoustic playing and amplified performances.
4. How does the choice of wood affect the sound of these guitars?
- The type of wood used in the guitar’s construction has a big impact on its tone. For instance, mahogany tends to offer a warm, rich sound, while spruce gives a brighter, more resonant tone. It all depends on what sound you’re going for.
5. Should I go for a matte or gloss finish on my guitar?
- This really comes down to personal preference. A gloss finish looks sleek and offers more protection, but a matte finish gives a natural feel and doesn’t show fingerprints as easily. Choose what feels right for you.
6. Are there significant differences between the pickups used in these guitars?
- Yes, the pickups vary in how they capture and shape your sound. Some pickups offer a more natural acoustic tone, while others have built-in EQ systems that let you tweak your sound to fit different styles and settings.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Grand Auditorium guitar is all about finding the one that resonates with you—both in sound and feel.
Each guitar on this list brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the rich tones of the Taylor C24 CE or the bold design of the Schecter Synyster Gates. Think about your playing style, what you need from your guitar, and which one feels like the best fit for your musical journey.
No matter which you choose, you’re sure to find a guitar that sounds great, feels comfortable, and inspires you to keep playing.
