Yamaha FD01 Vs FG800 [Which is Better Performing]

Yamaha guitars have a different fanbase for both beginners and professional guitarists out there. Every guitarist must have a Yamaha in their guitar collection. However, the brand comes on top when beginners look for the best guitars. Its FD01 and FG800 models are good options for people who just started their musical journey. Hence, they want a discussion on YamahaFD01 Vs FG800.

Well, new guitar learners always search for affordable yet quality guitars for learning the best. And surely these two guitar models of Yamaha serve these purposes. But since they have some differences, it is obvious that newbies will be confused.

Major Differences in Short –

Basically, both these Yamaha guitars have almost the same features and wood. However, their key difference is in the sound quality. The Yamaha FG800 is surely great in this aspect due to some of its exceptional features. Hence, it also differentiates the price of Yamaha FD01 and Yamaha FG800. Moreover, the FG800 comes with a more designed appearance.

So, yes, there is a lot more to discuss. Thus, let us discuss the topic more elaborately with an attached comparison table of the two guitars.

Comparison Table:

Yamaha FD01 and FG800 Review:

There is an uncountable number of players who play Yamaha guitars. Some have both the FD01 and FG800 in their collection and showed mixed reactions. However, let’s have an individual review of these guitars to have a clear conception.

About Yamaha FD01 in Detail Discussion –

Probably, this is the best acoustic guitar model from the Yamaha F series. The guitars of this series are specifically made for the new guitar learners out there. Thus, they are a bit compromised in terms of sound quality.

The Yamaha FD01 is not an exception as well. At a very affordable price, the guitar is a good deal. Moreover, it comes with a solid wood top whereas other budget-friendly guitars have a laminated top.

This is also a full-sized dreadnought guitar but also lightweight at the same time. Hence, the young enthusiasts out there can slay with this guitar very well. Also, due to the wood top, the guitar produces bright tones and crisp tones which is also satisfying.

However, not the entire body of the guitar is constructed with quality materials and that is why people think twice before getting it. Otherwise, for newbies, this FD01 can be a good option.

Things We Liked About / Pros:

• Featured with a solid spruce top.
• Lightweight guitar with excellent design.
• The guitar produces a bright and crisp sound.
• It is a great option for beginners out there.

Things We Didn’t Like About / Cons:

• The nut and saddle come in poor quality.
• Setup requires time

About The Yamaha FG800 in Detail Discussion –

Speaking of the real beast, here comes the Yamaha FG800, best for both beginners and professionals. This one is literally a wonderful guitar for sound and bass projection. Everything is good about this guitar and hence, the Yamaha FG800 stands out easily.

The most convincing part is that the guitar has a scalloping bracing pattern. This pattern helps strengthen the guitar top. As a result, it also produces the quality sound that most guitarists desire.

However, this guitar is also a full-sized dreadnought with a bit slimmer neck compared to other standard guitars. Nonetheless, the Yamaha FG800 guitar body is laminated. Moreover, its nut and saddle are also made of plastic.

Still, the guitar retains quality in its materials. Its nut is thick enough to offer you maximum playability. Hence, complex chords are also easy to play. So, yes, it is good news for all beginners out there.

Things We Liked About / Pros:

• Comes with a great finish and design.
• The guitar produces a nice tone and the tuners are also great.
• The guitar is highly durable and playable as well.
• Equipped with high-quality materials.

Things We Didn’t Like About / Cons:

• The price rate is comparatively high.
• The setup is also complex.

Differences Between Yamaha FD01 Vs FG800:

Yes, there are significant differences between these two Yamaha guitars. Let’s get to know them.

1) Body Construction –

Both Yamaha FD01 and FG800 are beautifully made models. They both are crafted with excellent finish and design. Moreover, learning guitars, they are highly suitable.

However, to differentiate between these guitars according to their body construction, the Yamaha Fg800 definitely wins the battle. Its body is laminated with advanced technology. Moreover, it has a Nato back and sides. Even though the nut and saddle are made of plastic, still, they are excellent.

Again, the Yamaha FG800 features a 43mm thick nut as well. Hence, stretching is not required. Also, this guitar has die-cast tuners. Whereas, the FD01 is not laminated though it has a wood spruce top. Again, their nut and saddle are made of medium-quality plastic.

2) Tone –

The tone of guitars depends on their design and body material. However, both guitars are made of almost the same design. Yet, due to some differences in their materials, they sound different.

In fact, they differ a lot in terms of sound quality. However, for featuring a solid spruce top, both guitars deliver quality sound. But as the Yamaha Fg800 is equipped with a scalloping brace, it is obviously meant to sound better.

Moreover, the internal structure of the Yamaha Fg800 is also better which adds to its sound production. Thus, the guitar sounds way better and clearer while not sounding too bright or booming. So, the Yamaha FG800 is definitely a louder instrument.

3) Neck and Fretboard –

However, both Yamaha FD01 and FG800 have the same rosewood fretboard with the same number of frets. Moreover, their neck is also made of Nato material. Though their neck structure is almost the same, the Yamaha FG800 has it’s way slimmer.

4) Playability –

Both Yamaha FD01 and FG800 guitars are famous for their convincing level of playability. They both are now beginners’ first choices. However, for being exceptionally designed both externally and internally, many intermediate players also choose the FG800 to play.

Moreover, the thick nut of the guitar does not require much stretching of your finger to play chords. So, yes, it is quite easy to play especially when you are a noob. However, both guitars are full-sized yet lightweight.

5) Durability –

Durability depends on the materials manufacturers use to produce guitars. However, both Yamaha FD01 and FG800 are made of quality materials. They have a solid spruce top and Nato back and sides. However, the FD01 is not laminated like the FG800.

Therefore, the Yamaha FG800 is likely to last longer than the FD01. Nonetheless, it is noticed that both guitars serve for almost the same amount of time.

6) Price –

Compared to Yamaha FD01, the Yamaha FG800 costs almost 50 dollars more. It is obvious that the FG800 has better features and sound quality. Moreover, the guitar is exceptionally durable. Hence, according to price, it serves well.

So, Which One to Choose?

Well, now you have a clear concept about these two Yamaha guitars and their differences. So, you know which one to choose.

You should always choose guitars that produce the sound you need or desire. Thus, according to your desire, you should go for one. However, if you want a semi-professional yet budget guitar then you better go for the FG800.

Again, if you are running low on your budget and still want to learn guitar, go for the Yamaha FD01. If its nut and saddle disturb you and make you think twice before getting then you can change them. A little modification in its nut and saddle will bring a hell lot of change that you might want an FD01 instead of the FG800.

FAQs –

Question 1: Is Yamaha FG800 good for beginners?

Answer: This guitar is just perfect for beginners. Even many intermediate guitarists can also pick this Yamaha FG800 because of their exceptional structure, feature, and wonderful sound quality. Moreover, the guitar is a great bargain in terms of playability and price.

Question 2: What is the difference between FG800 and FS800?

Answer: The main difference between FG800 and FS800 lies in their sound quality. The FG800 delivers more sustain and bass while the FS800 offers a warmer sound being its junior version. However, this difference is little and unnoticeable as well, especially to beginners.

Question 3: Does Yamaha FG800 have high action?

Answer: This is one of the cons of the Yamaha FG800. It has high action. Thus, you might have to set it up properly to bring its action down a little bit.

Question 4: Which is the best Yamaha FG series?

Answer: Almost all models of the Yamaha FG series have the same features and sound quality. Yet, they have some distinctions that make them different from each other. However, till now the FG830 guitar stands out from all other models because of being a ‘working musician’ grade acoustic guitar. Moreover, it is also a best-selling guitar.

Question 5: Are TransAcoustic guitars worth it?

Answer: TransAcoustic guitars are great especially for the newbies as these guitars help them keep playing. Their features are great along with the electronics, hardwoods, and everything else. Moreover, they offer great value for the money.

Last Updated on February 20, 2023 by Perry Garner