Yamaha’s Mission in the EntryLevel Market
Yamaha isn’t new to making accessible but highquality instruments. Both the FS and FG series have been around for decades, constantly refined. The FS800 and FG800, part of the brand’s updated 800 series, land in that sweet spot for beginners and even budgetconscious intermediate players.
What sets them apart? It mainly boils down to size and sound. But before diving deep into yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs, here’s some background that helps frame the conversation.
Core Similarities: Solid Foundations
Before we split hairs, it’s worth mentioning how much these two guitars actually share:
Top Wood: Both have a solid Sitka spruce top, a feature that’s rare in this price range. Back & Sides: Nato (a mahogany cousin), decent resonance. Neck & Fingerboard: Nato necks with rosewood fingerboards. Bracing: Yamaha’s “scallopedbracing” system enhances bass and clarity. Finish: Gloss natural, clean and classic.
These shared specs mean that you’re already starting with a fundamentally sound acoustic guitar either way. What’s different is how they deliver the sound and feel.
Body Size & Shape: FS800 vs FG800
This is where the roads diverge.
FS800: Concert body—smaller, tighter waist, more midrange emphasis. Great for fingerstyle and players with smaller frames. FG800: Dreadnought shape—larger body, booming bass, suitable for strumming and flatpicking.
The FS800 has a shorter scale length (closer frets), making it a bit easier for beginners or those with smaller hands. Meanwhile, the FG800’s fullsize scale lets it ring out with more power. That size and resonance make it a good fit accompanying vocals or playing in groups.
Tone Comparison: Nuance vs Power
Think of it this way:
The FS800 is crisp, defined. It cuts through better, makes individual notes pop—ideal for fingerpicking or intricate passages. The FG800 is louder and bassier. It brings warmth and fullness, especially when strumming.
Neither is better universally; it comes down to your goals. Do you want nuance and control? FS800. Need campfire volume and rhythm support? FG800.
Price & Value
Both guitars fall into the same budget range, usually hovering around $200 or slightly more. For a solid top guitar, that’s excellent value. Yamaha’s factory consistency is also strong—fewer surprises or QC issues compared to other brands at this price.
If you’re seeking a first acoustic guitar, the decision often comes down to feel and sound preference rather than price.
Playability: Neck Feel and Comfort
In this part of the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs showdown, the FS800 usually edges out in comfort for beginners. The concert body is easier to handle, especially sitting down. Its neck is equally slim to the FG800’s, but combined with a smaller body, it feels more controllable.
The FG800 isn’t tough to play—it’s just that its size can feel bulky to smaller players. Both guitars have good factory setups, though you might still consider a professional tuning or nut action adjustment down the line.
Durability and Build
Yamaha guitars have a reputation for longlasting builds, and both these models continue the trend.
Thanks to laminate back and sides, you get durability and consistent performance in different environments—especially useful if you’re moving between climates or gigging. And because they’re part of a longstanding product line, parts like tuners, saddles, and nuts are pretty standard and easy to replace down the road.
Who Should Buy Which?
Here’s a quick breakdown if you’re stuck:
Get the FS800 if: You have a smaller frame or shorter arms You primarily play fingerstyle You want better note articulation and control
Get the FG800 if: You prefer strumming and strong projection You want a traditional fullsize acoustic sound You play rhythm guitar or sing along
Both guitars are starter beasts, but different players will naturally lean toward one or the other.
Final Verdict
You can’t go wrong with either. But understanding the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs is what turns a guessing game into an informed choice. The FS800 leans toward detail, control, and comfort. The FG800 pushes volume, drive, and warmth. One fits tighter spaces, smaller players, and articulate pickers. The other? It fills the room and delivers headroom.
Your ears and hands will be the best guides. If you can, try them both and see what feels and sounds right. But regardless of which one ends up in your hands, you’ll be getting a reliable, greatsounding partner at a great price.