Yamaha FS800 vs Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar Specs
Let’s cut to the chase. The main difference between these guitars is size and sound projection. But when we’re looking at yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs, there’s more going on under the hood than just shape.
Body Style: FS800 has a concertstyle body — smaller, lighter, and more focused in sound. FG800 comes with a dreadnought body — bigger, louder, and more booming lows.
Top Wood: Both models feature a solid Sitka spruce top, offering great tonal clarity and volume for the price.
Back and Sides: Nato (eastern mahogany) all around. It keeps things warm and budgetfriendly.
Neck and Fingerboard: Nato neck. Rosewood fingerboard. Comfortable enough for beginners, responsive enough for intermediates.
Scale Length: Roughly 25 inches for both. Feels natural, not too long or cramped.
Nut Width: Both sit at 1.6875 inches — giving enough spacing for fingerpicking but not so wide that chords feel awkward.
Sound and Tone
The FS800 is tighter, more midrangefocused. It doesn’t boom, but that’s why some players prefer it. It’s great for playing in apartments or with others where you don’t want to overpower. If you’re into folk, fingerstyle, or want a more articulate tone, it nails it.
The FG800, on the other hand, growls a bit more. It has punch in the low end, which means it carries better in live or group settings. Great for strumming. Think rock, country, and campfire staples.
In the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs comparison, neither has “better” sound — they just serve different tones and dynamics.
Build Quality
Yamaha’s reputation for tight quality control shines here. At under $300, both guitars are shockingly wellbuilt. The satin neck finish is smooth and easy on the fretting hand. The tuners are solid for factory stock. There’s some laminate in the construction (back and sides), but that’s tradeoff city when you’re on a budget.
The spruce top is where the magic is — and that’s where it counts for tone anyway. Over time, that solid wood top opens up, making the guitar sound better the more you play it.
Playability
Concert body (FS800) means a slimmer waist and lighter feel. It’s a favorite for smaller players, young learners, or those used to electric guitars. The dreadnought (FG800) has a deeper body and more projection but might feel bulky to some.
The action out of the box is decently low. For those picky about setup, a small truss rod adjustment or saddle shave makes it even better. For the price, it’s remarkably playable without doing much.
Looks and Finish
Minimalist. Clean. No frills. Both models keep it straightforward — no gold hardware, no inlay overload. Just clean lines, a natural finish, and a traditional Yamaha headstock.
There’s subtle binding on the body and rosette detailing around the soundhole. Any flash is tonal, not visual.
Value and Longevity
Whether you grab the FS800 or the FG800, you’re getting more than your money’s worth. These are lifetime starter guitars — meaning they work just as well five years in as they do fresh out of the box. They don’t demand immediate upgrades and don’t feel like “cheap” instruments.
They’re durable enough to take a beating, gentle enough to reward finesse. With climate stability (important for acoustics), they tend to stay in shape if treated right.
Who Should Choose Which?
Lean FS800 if: You’ve got a smaller frame or shorter arms You practice late at night or in small rooms You focus on fingerpicking, folk, or lighter strumming You want a lighter, more portable acoustic
Lean FG800 if: You’re a strong strummer or performer You want big bass and loud volume You play rock, country, or rhythmheavy styles You’re not concerned about the guitar’s size or weight
Final Thoughts
When it comes to yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs, everything rides on body size and how you play. Both share similar materials, construction quality, and price brackets. The difference is in sound profile and comfort.
Neither is “better.” Both are workhorses. If you prioritize clarity and comfort, go FS800. If you want volume and drive, go FG800. Either way, you’re landing a fantastic acoustic guitar under $250 that’ll hold its own for years.