So, you want a jumbo acoustic guitar, huh? Something that’s loud enough to wake up the neighbors but still sweet enough to keep them from complaining.
Lucky for you, I’ve rounded up the 7 best jumbo acoustic guitars of 2024.
We’ll look at what makes each one awesome, so grab a snack, sit back, and let’s dig in… this is gonna be good.
Best Jumbo Acoustic Guitars (TL;DR Overview)
- Best Overall: Gibson SJ-200 Original VS – The granddaddy of ’em all. Trust me, this thing’s a beast.
- Best for Beginners: Epiphone J-200 EC Studio VS – For those just starting but want to sound like they’ve been playing forever.
- Best Value: Harley Benton Custom Line King – Doesn’t cost much, but it plays like it should.
- Best Tonewood Selection: Martin Guitars J40 – Top-notch woods that scream “fancy.”
- Most Versatile: Takamine GJ72CE-NAT – This one does it all. Studio, stage, you name it.
- Classic Style with a Twist: Gibson J-185 Original – Classic look but easier on the hands.
- Best for Flashy Looks: Guild F250E Deluxe Blonde – If you wanna stand out, well, here ya go.
1. Gibson SJ-200 Original VS
Ah, the Gibson SJ-200. This guitar’s been around for decades, and it’s still top of the heap. Known as the King of Flat-tops, it’s been used by some big names. Ever heard of Bob Dylan? Yeah, he rocked this. Elvis, too. So, if you wanna play something iconic, this is it.
It’s got a super jumbo body, which basically means it’s huge. You’ll feel it. But with that size comes a sound that’s loud, rich, and full of depth. The solid Sitka spruce top and flamed maple back and sides?
Well, that’s just the cherry on top. And hey, it’s got an LR Baggs VTC pickup system, so you can plug in and still sound like you’re playing unplugged.
Key Features
- Body Shape: Super Jumbo (big, big, big)
- Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
- Back and Sides: Flamed Maple (fancy!)
- Scale: 648 mm (25.5″)
- Pickup System: LR Baggs VTC
- Finish: Vintage Sunburst (classic)
Why I Recommend It
If you want a guitar that feels like a Cadillac (smooth, luxurious, and definitely not cheap), go for the SJ-200. The sound is massive, and the craftsmanship? Chef’s kiss. But yeah, it’s pricey. Like, a lot. But worth it if you’re serious.
2. Epiphone J-200 EC Studio VS
Now, if you love the Gibson but your wallet’s like “yeah, no,” the Epiphone J-200 EC Studio is the next best thing. It’s basically Gibson’s budget-friendly cousin. Still has that jumbo shape, but your bank account won’t hate you for it.
This one’s got a solid spruce top, which is great for a warm, full sound. And bonus: it’s got a cutaway. You know what that means? You can actually reach those high frets without bending your wrist like you’re doing yoga.
It also has some electronics built in, so you can plug it in whenever you’re ready to take the stage!
Key Features
- Body Shape: Jumbo with cutaway (reach those high notes)
- Top: Solid Spruce
- Pickup System: Onboard electronics (plug and play!)
- Hardware: Gold-plated (a lil’ bling never hurt)
Why I Recommend It
This one’s perfect if you’re just starting out but still want to look (and sound) like you’ve been playing for years. Affordable, playable, and it looks pretty slick. What’s not to like? 😉
3. Harley Benton Custom Line King
Alright, so you’re on a budget, but you still want a guitar that sounds good enough to show off? Enter the Harley Benton Custom Line King. This thing gives you a solid spruce top, which helps keep the tone rich and resonant, and it doesn’t break the bank.
For the price, it’s honestly kinda surprising how well this guitar plays. And it’s got Fishman electronics (fancy name for a pickup system), so if you ever want to plug it in, you’re set. Built-in tuner too, because who has time for tuning by ear these days?
Key Features
- Body Shape: Jumbo with cutaway
- Top: Solid Spruce
- Pickup System: Fishman Presys-II with a tuner (so handy)
- Finish: High-gloss natural
Why I Recommend It
The Harley Benton King is great for anyone who wants a big-sounding jumbo guitar but doesn’t want to take out a loan for it. No, it’s not gonna be the best guitar in the world, but it’s pretty dang good for what you pay.
Got a feeling that jumbo guitars like this Harley Benton aren’t for you? Well, Takamine P5DC may be exactly what you’re looking for.
4. Takamine GJ72CE-NAT
Here’s one for those who want a jumbo that can pretty much do it all. The Takamine GJ72CE-NAT is a jumbo acoustic-electric, and whether you’re playing on stage, recording in the studio, or just noodling around at home, this thing performs like a champ.
It’s got a solid spruce top and flamed maple back and sides, so not only does it sound good, it looks stunning too. The sound? Bright, clear, with plenty of low-end punch. Plus, it comes with Takamine’s own preamp system, which has an EQ and tuner built right in. Super handy, especially if you’re gigging.
Key Features
- Body Shape: Jumbo with cutaway
- Top: Solid Spruce
- Pickup System: Takamine TK-40D preamp
- Back and Sides: Flamed Maple (🔥)
Why I Recommend It
If you’re looking for versatility, this is it. The Takamine GJ72CE-NAT is like a Swiss Army knife of jumbo guitars. Looks good, sounds even better, and can handle pretty much any playing situation you throw at it. What more do ya need?
5. Martin Guitars J40
Now, the Martin J40… this is where things get fancy. Martin is known for making guitars that are pure class, and the J40 is no different. The tone on this guitar is unbelievable—seriously. You play a note, and it just hangs there, all rich and velvety, like that perfect cup of coffee on a Sunday morning.
The guitar’s made from the best tonewoods around—solid rosewood for the back and sides, Sitka spruce on the top. This isn’t a guitar you plug in. Nope, it’s pure acoustic bliss. Just you and the sound, baby.
Key Features
- Body Shape: Jumbo
- Back and Sides: Solid Rosewood
- Neck: Mahogany
- Finish: High-gloss natural (fancy, but not too flashy)
Why I Recommend It
If you’re into high-quality, all-acoustic jumbos, the Martin J40 is a dream come true. It’s a premium guitar, sure, but it’ll give you that jaw-dropping tone that’ll make you wanna practice more just to hear it. Pricey? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
6. Gibson J-185 Original
A slightly smaller sibling to the SJ-200, the Gibson J-185 is for those who want that Gibson magic in a more manageable package. The body’s a little smaller, but the sound? Still big, still warm, still totally Gibson.
It’s got a solid Sitka spruce top (because apparently that’s the wood to use if you want good sound) and maple back and sides. The sound is bright and punchy but with that smooth Gibson warmth. And, of course, it’s got electronics too, so you can easily plug it in and play live.
Key Features
- Body Shape: Jumbo (but not too jumbo)
- Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
- Scale: 629 mm (24.75″)
- Pickup System: LR Baggs VTC
- Finish: Nitrocellulose (shiny!)
Why I Recommend It
The J-185 is perfect for players who love the jumbo sound but don’t want to wrestle with a guitar the size of a small boat. It’s comfortable, stylish, and has that classic Gibson sound that never disappoints.
7. Guild F250E Deluxe Blonde
Alright, last but certainly not least, we’ve got the Guild F250E Deluxe Blonde. This one’s for all you flashy types out there who want a guitar that turns heads. That blonde finish with gold hardware? Yeah, you’re gonna get some looks when you pull this thing out.
But it’s not all about the looks. The solid spruce top and arched maple back and sides give it a bright, punchy sound that’s perfect for strumming. And it’s got a Fishman Sonitone pickup system, so you can plug in and get playing in no time.
Key Features
- Body Shape: Jumbo
- Top: Solid Spruce
- Pickup System: Fishman Sonitone GT-1
- Finish: Blonde, high-gloss (bling bling)
Why I Recommend It
If you wanna make an entrance (both visually and sonically), the Guild F250E Deluxe is the way to go. It looks great, sounds fantastic, and makes you feel like you’re the main act, even if you’re just jamming in your living room.
My Ratings
Now, I know you’re probably thinking, “Okay, cool, but how do these jumbos actually stack up against each other?”
Well, I’ve done the hard work for you and rated each guitar based on factors like sound, build quality, playability, and, of course, price.
No guitar is perfect (except maybe the Gibson SJ-200, but hey, we all have our biases 😉), so here’s my honest breakdown of how these jumbo beasts measure up.
| Guitar Model | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Gibson SJ-200 Original VS | 10 |
| Epiphone J-200 EC Studio | 8 |
| Harley Benton Custom King | 7 |
| Takamine GJ72CE-NAT | 8.5 |
| Martin Guitars J40 | 9.5 |
| Gibson J-185 Original | 9 |
| Guild F250E Deluxe Blonde | 8.5 |
FAQs: Got Questions? Let’s Answer ‘Em
What makes a guitar „jumbo”?
A jumbo guitar has a bigger body than your standard acoustic. The bigger the body, the louder the sound. Jumbos are built for volume and depth, making them perfect for strumming or playing in large spaces where you need to fill the room.
Are jumbo guitars hard to play?
Depends on you. If you’re smaller or not used to big guitars, a jumbo might feel like holding a car door. But if you’re cool with the size, you get that booming, rich sound in return. Just maybe don’t fall asleep playing it—it’s a heavy one 😉
Why are Gibsons so expensive?
Because they’re hand-made with top-notch materials in the USA. You’re paying for quality, craftsmanship, and a long-standing reputation. Plus, y’know, the Gibson name.
Are jumbo guitars good for beginners?
If you’re comfortable with the bigger size, then sure! Jumbo guitars can sound really inspiring, which can keep you practicing longer. If size is an issue, maybe try something like the Epiphone J-200 EC Studio, which is a bit more beginner-friendly.
What’s the difference between the SJ-200 and the J-185?
The SJ-200 is bigger and louder, while the J-185 is a little more compact and easier to handle. Both are great, just depends on what you’re looking for.
Can I play fingerstyle on a jumbo?
Totally. Jumbos aren’t just for strumming—you can get some incredible fingerpicking tones, too. The resonance is super satisfying. Give it a try!
Do all jumbo guitars come with electronics?
Not all of them. Some, like the Martin J40, are pure acoustics, while others (like the Takamine GJ72CE-NAT) come with built-in electronics so you can plug in.
Final Thoughts: Go Big or Go Home
There you have it—7 jumbo acoustic guitars that’ll take your playing to the next level. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade to something special, there’s a jumbo here for you.
The Gibson SJ-200 might be the king, but each guitar on this list has something special to offer. So go ahead, grab a jumbo, and let those chords ring out… you’re about to sound huge.
