Introduction to the Yamaha A-Series AC1R
The Yamaha A-Series AC1R acoustic-electric guitar occupies a sweet spot in Yamaha’s popular A-Series lineup. Positioned as a high-quality, concert-style model, the AC1R combines premium tonewoods and expert craftsmanship to deliver an impressive playing experience.
With its solid Sitka spruce top and rosewood back and sides, the AC1R produces a rich, resonant acoustic tone perfect for a wide range of musical genres. It comes equipped with Yamaha’s SRT piezo pickup system, allowing players to amplify their sound with the guitar’s natural acoustic character intact.
Other key specs include scalloped bracing for optimal resonance, a mahogany neck for stability and sustain, and an ebony fingerboard for smooth playability. Visually, the AC1R impresses with its concert-style cutaway body and choice of Vintage Natural or Tobacco Sunburst finishes.
In this in-depth review, we’ll take a close look at the AC1R’s construction, playability, unplugged and amplified sound, and overall value. We’ll help you determine if this versatile concert-style model deserves a spot in your acoustic guitar arsenal.
Construction and Materials
The Yamaha AC1R features premium tonewoods and high-quality construction that contribute to its impressive sound. The top is made of solid Sitka spruce, which provides excellent resonance, warmth and projection due to its lightness and stiffness. Sitka spruce is revered as an ideal top wood for acoustic guitars.
The back and sides are rosewood, which adds complexity and overtones to the AC1R’s tone. The rich, resonant properties of rosewood pair nicely with the spruce top. Visually, the rosewood back and sides are gorgeous, with varied grain patterns.
Yamaha uses scalloped X-type bracing on the AC1R, which is carefully tuned to allow the top to vibrate freely, increasing volume and sustain. Scalloped bracing is known for enhancing resonance without sacrificing structural stability.
The AC1R has a mahogany neck that contributes to balanced tone, with good midrange presence and warmth. Mahogany is a popular neck wood prized for its attractive appearance and sustain.
Finally, the fingerboard and bridge are made from ebony, which is dense and hard for excellent durability and sustain. Ebony also helps provide precise intonation. Its luxurious look and feel complement the AC1R’s elegant aesthetics.
Overall, the all-solid-wood construction and scalloped bracing of the Yamaha AC1R results in an acoustic guitar with excellent resonance, projection and appealing tone. The choice of premium tonewoods demonstrates Yamaha’s expertise in crafting acoustic guitars with superior sound.
Body Style and Design
The Yamaha AC1R features a classic concert-style body shape, providing a comfortable playing experience and balanced, focused tone. This makes it an exceptionally versatile instrument suitable for various musical genres and playing scenarios.
The concert-style shape is smaller and more comfortable than a full-size dreadnought, with a tapered waist for easy mobility. However, it still produces impressive volume and projection thanks to its solid wood construction. The compact concert body strikes a perfect balance – not too large but not too small.
One of the AC1R’s distinctive design elements is its generous single-cutaway shape, which allows easy access to the higher frets. This is a major advantage for lead guitarists who need to solo and improvise up the neck. The cutaway design also facilitates more advanced chord voicings and fingerstyle techniques.
This model is available in two classic finish options: Vintage Natural and Tobacco Sunburst. Both choices complement the guitar’s premium solid wood construction, with the Tobacco Sunburst in particular emphasizing the striking grain patterns of the rosewood back and sides. These finishes give the AC1R a timeless, vintage vibe perfect for any playing scenario.
In summary, the AC1R’s compact concert-style shape provides comfort and versatility, while the single-cutaway expands the fretting range. The guitar is beautifully finished in two vintage-inspired styles that highlight the tonewoods’ inherent beauty.
Playability and Ergonomics
The Yamaha AC1R features a slim, comfortable neck profile that makes playing across the ebony fretboard smooth and fluid. The action out of the box is impressively low, with minimal buzzing, allowing for easy fretting and chord changes.
The fretboard width provides ample room between strings, even for fingerstyle techniques that require wider string spacing. The strings are positioned close to the fretboard, reducing the tension needed when pressing notes and chords. This enhances playability, especially during long practice or gigging sessions.
Despite its concert-style body, the AC1R has a nicely balanced weight distribution. The contoured body design with forearm and ribcage cutaways allows the guitar to fit snugly against the player’s body in either a seated or standing position.
The ergonomic neck joint and sloped shoulder provide unfettered access to even the highest frets, making soloing less stressful on the wrist. Overall, the AC1R offers a comfortable and highly playable experience suitable for guitarists of varying hand sizes and playing techniques.
Unplugged Acoustic Tone
The Yamaha AC1R produces a rich, balanced acoustic tone that projects with volume while retaining musical dynamics. The solid Sitka spruce top and rosewood back and sides generate a warm, resonant sound with plenty of sustain.
Tonal Characteristics
The guitar’s solid spruce top produces bright, sparkling highs balanced with warm, round lows and focused mids. The rosewood back and sides add depth and overtones, contributing to a well-rounded tonal palette. The mahogany neck also provides a touch of midrange warmth. Overall, the tone is versatile for various styles yet retains an appealing acoustic character.
Volume and Projection
Despite its concert-sized body, the AC1R projects impressively and produces substantial volume. The scalloped bracing allows the top to vibrate freely, aiding projection. The sound carries well when played solo or in an ensemble setting. The focused midrange cuts through a mix, allowing the guitar to hold its own in a full band context.
Responsiveness and Dynamics
The AC1R is highly responsive, reflecting subtle playing nuances and dynamics. Notes bloom with complexity as you dig in, and delicate fingerstyle passages come through clearly. The guitar reacts well to different pick and strumming styles. The sound remains balanced across the tonal spectrum, avoiding muddiness or thinness when played hard.
Plugged-In Sound
The Yamaha AC1R comes equipped with Yamaha’s proprietary SRT piezo pickup system, designed to accurately translate the nuances of the guitar’s natural acoustic tone when plugged in. SRT stands for Studio Response Technology, and it utilizes multiple piezo sensors positioned at different points underneath the bridge. This allows the pickup to capture a more dynamic and multi-dimensional representation of the guitar’s sound.
When plugged into an amplifier or PA system, the AC1R retains its clear, warm, and balanced tone. The SRT system avoids the quacky, nasal quality that can plague inferior piezo pickups, providing an organic and natural amplified sound. Single notes have excellent clarity and definition, while strummed chords ring out with body and richness. The guitar is able to convey subtle playing dynamics and articulation cleanly through the amp.
The onboard preamp and controls also allow the player to shape their amplified tone as needed. The AC1R comes equipped with a simple single-band EQ, volume control, and built-in tuner, providing effective tone tweaking options directly from the guitar. The preamp has been designed specifically for the SRT pickup, helping to optimize and enhance the guitar’s inherent amplified tone. Overall, the AC1R’s preamp and electronics offer an easy-to-use, no-fuss performance solution for plugging in.
Comparisons to Other A-Series Models
The Yamaha AC1R differs from other models in the A-Series lineup in several notable ways. Here is how it compares to some of Yamaha’s other popular A-Series acoustic-electric guitars:
Comparison of Features and Specifications
The AC1R has a concert-style body, making it smaller than the larger dreadnought shapes of models like the AC3R and AC5R. It has an all-solid wood construction with a solid Sitka spruce top and rosewood back and sides. Other A-Series models may use laminate woods for the back and sides.
The AC1R is an acoustic-electric model featuring Yamaha’s SRT piezo pickup system. The AC1M and AC3M are acoustic-only models without built-in pickups. The AC3R and AC5R use Yamaha’s proprietary System55T pickup system, which differs from the SRT system on the AC1R.
The AC1R has traditional X-bracing, while other models may use scalloped bracing or Yamaha’s Advanced Scalloped Bracing pattern. This can affect the guitar’s resonance and tone.
Differences in Sound and Performance
Due to its concert-style body and all-solid wood construction, the AC1R has a focused, balanced tone with nice projection and dynamics. The larger dreadnought models like the AC3R and AC5R offer more low-end punch and volume.
The AC1R’s smaller body size and slim neck profile create a very comfortable and playable instrument. The dreadnought models have a fuller body and neck that some may find less comfortable, especially for extended playing sessions.
When plugged in, the AC1R’s SRT pickup system provides a very natural amplified tone comparable to its unplugged sound. The System55T electronics on other models offer more tonal shaping options but may color the amplified tone more.
The AC1R is an exceptionally well-made instrument that stands apart from other A-Series models in its design, materials, electronics, and overall musicality. It’s an excellent choice for players prioritizing comfort, playability, and balanced acoustic tone.
Accessories and Options
The Yamaha AC1R is a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that can be used in many playing scenarios, from the bedroom to the stage. To keep it protected and performing at its best, here are some recommended accessories to consider:
Cases
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Gig bag – A lightweight nylon or padded gig bag is a good option for taking the AC1R to practices, jam sessions, or smaller gigs. Models from brands like Gator offer ample padding and storage pockets at an affordable price point.
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Hard case – For maximum protection during transport, a hardshell guitar case is recommended. Models from brands like SKB and Gator offer sturdy, road-ready cases with plush interiors to keep the AC1R safe from bumps and dings.
Additional Accessories
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Strings – While the AC1R comes strung with quality strings, you may want to experiment with different gauges and materials like phosphor bronze or silk and steel. Popular options include D’Addario and Elixir strings.
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Capo – A capo is useful for quickly changing the AC1R’s key and expands the guitar’s versatility. High-quality models from Shubb and Kyser are reliable options.
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Tuner – A clip-on chromatic tuner like the Snark SN-2 comes in handy for quick tuning checks before performances or recording.
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Strap – A comfortable strap distributes the AC1R’s weight for longer playing sessions. Levy’s and Taylor offer quality leather and suede options.
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Pickguard – Adding a pickguard helps protect the AC1R’s top from pick scratches. Companies like L.R. Baggs and Taylor offer models that complement the guitar’s aesthetics.
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Pick sampler – Trying out picks of different shapes, sizes, and materials can impact tone and playing dynamics. Variety packs from Dunlop and D’Andrea are cost-effective ways to experiment.
Pricing and Value
The Yamaha AC1R has a current street price that typically ranges between $1,000-$1,200 at most major music retailers. This puts it solidly in the mid-range bracket for a concert-sized acoustic-electric guitar with solid wood construction and high-end appointments.
When comparing the AC1R to other guitars in this price tier, it represents excellent value for money. Models from Taylor, Martin, and Gibson with similar build quality and features often retail for $300-$500 more. The AC1R manages to deliver pro-level performance and craftsmanship for a very reasonable price point.
Within Yamaha’s own A-Series lineup, the AC1R is priced in the middle between more affordable models like the AC1M ($700-$900 range) and high-end offerings like the AC5R ($1,500+ range). The use of solid wood for the top, back and sides, scalloped bracing, and premium electronics help justify the AC1R’s higher cost over Yamaha’s entry-level options.
Overall, the Yamaha AC1R punches well above its weight class in terms of value. Players get the tone and playability of a more expensive instrument thanks to Yamaha’s expertise in acoustic engineering and mass production capabilities. Considering the quality materials, versatile sound, and reliable electronics, the AC1R remains competitively priced against rival models. It’s an excellent option for gigging musicians that want stage-ready features without breaking the bank.
Pros, Cons and Conclusion
Summary of Pros and Cons
The Yamaha AC1R has many excellent qualities that make it a great choice for players looking for a versatile, concert-style acoustic-electric. Here are some of the key pros and cons:
Pros
- High-quality solid wood construction with Sitka spruce top and rosewood back/sides provides excellent acoustic tone
- Slim concert body style offers comfort and balanced tone
- SRT pickup system accurately captures the guitar’s natural acoustic sound when plugged in
- Ebony fingerboard and bridge offer smooth feel and great intonation
- Impressive projection and volume for live performances
- Responsive playability suits various techniques and genres
- Attractive vintage-inspired aesthetics with natural or sunburst finish
Cons
- Higher price tag compared to other Yamaha A-Series models
- Electronics may add unnecessary complexity for strictly acoustic players
- Lacks the bass response of a jumbo or dreadnought body
- Sunburst finish limits visibility of premium tonewoods
Best Uses and Players
The Yamaha AC1R is an exceptionally versatile acoustic-electric that can cover a wide range of musical styles and playing scenarios. Its balanced midrange tone and smooth playability make it a great choice for fingerstyle, country, pop, rock, folk, and more. Players who do a lot of live gigs will benefit from its amplified performance capabilities. The cutaway design also provides easy access to higher frets for leads. While suitable for all skill levels, intermediate to advanced players can best take advantage of this guitar’s nuanced responsiveness. The AC1R makes for an excellent upgrade for serious hobbyists and working musicians alike.
Final Thoughts and Rating
With its solid woods, comfortable body size, great electronics, and impressive craftsmanship, the Yamaha AC1R represents a fantastic value in its price range. It punches above its weight when compared to similar models from other major brands. While not completely flawless, the AC1R avoids any major downsides and provides an inspiring playing experience. For players seeking a quality concert-style acoustic-electric with vintage appeal, the Yamaha AC1R is easy to recommend. Overall rating: 4.5/5 stars.