Overview: FS800 vs FG800
The FS and FG series are staples in Yamaha’s acoustic lineup. The FS800 is a concertsized model—slightly smaller, lighter, and designed for players who prioritize comfort and focus. The FG800, meanwhile, is a dreadnought. Bigger body, bolder sound. That’s the core difference: comfort and clarity versus projection and power.
Both guitars have similar DNA. Sitka spruce tops, nato/okoume back and sides, rosewood fingerboards—nothing fancy, but all reliable. Yamaha’s scalloped bracing design helps both models punch above their weight in sound.
yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs
Let’s settle into the nittygritty with the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs. These two models are built in the same production facilities, using the same materials—but their shapes change the tone and playability dramatically.
| Feature | Yamaha FS800 | Yamaha FG800 | |||| | Body Shape | Concert | Dreadnought | | Top Material | Solid Sitka Spruce | Solid Sitka Spruce | | Back/Sides | Nato/Okoume | Nato/Okoume | | Fingerboard | Rosewood | Rosewood | | Scale Length | 25” | 25 9/16” | | Nut Width | 1.69” (43mm) | 1.69” (43mm) | | Bracing | Scalloped XBracing | Scalloped XBracing | | Finish | Gloss | Gloss |
You’re getting nearly identical specs on the surface. But because of the different body shapes, they’re built to serve somewhat different players.
Tone & Sound
This is why you’re really here. Specs matter, but sound matters more. The FS800, thanks to its compact concert body, has a tight low end and a crisp top. It’s perfect if you like playing fingerstyle, blues, or lighter strumming patterns. The tone is balanced—less boom, more detail.
The FG800 is bigger and louder. Its dreadnought body pumps out bass and provides more sustain. If you like strumming, flatpicking, or need something to cut through in a group jam, the FG800 will speak your language louder and deeper.
Neither is “better,” just different. If you want warmth and lowend projection, the FG800 wins. If you want articulation and comfort, lean FS800.
Build Quality & Materials
Yamaha isn’t cutting corners here, even though these are budgetfriendly. Solid Sitka spruce tops are the real standout—this is a tonewood you usually don’t see until you’re into midtier or premium pricing. The nato/okoume back and sides get the job done. They won’t age or resonate like mahogany, but they’ll survive years of playing.
The finish is reliably clean. Fretwork and nut saddles are shockingly good for sub$250 guitars. Plus, Yamaha uses the same bracing pattern on both—scalloped Xbracing—which helps boost the topend resonance and overall voice.
Playability
Playability often comes down to body comfort and neck setup. The FS800’s slimmer body is super approachable—kids, teens, smallerframed players, or just someone who likes couch playing will dig this size. It’s less fatiguing and more precise.
On the FG800, the bigger body can feel bulky if you’re not used to it. But it pays off when you strum hard and need output. Both guitars have similar neck profiles. Think of a slim C shape that’s easy to grip, good for most hand sizes.
Out of the box, the action is usually moderate. Not too high, not bottomedout. A basic setup can make a difference though, especially if you want faster fretting.
Durability & Value
Here’s where Yamaha crushes the budget game. These guitars are built to last. You can knock them around a bit, take them on trips, and not worry about babying them. The finish resists scratches, and they hold tuning better than most entrylevel acoustic models.
In raw value, these guitars are punching way above their buying price. Solid top. Good fretwork. Proven design. You’re not going to beat this unless you go up several hundred bucks.
Which Should You Buy?
Alright: FS800 or FG800? Here’s the quick decision guide.
Choose the FS800 if: You’re smallerframed or want something easier to hold You prefer fingerpicking or playing solo You want more midrange and clarity
Choose the FG800 if: You’re playing in a band, or need volume and lowend You strum hard and want more boom You don’t mind a bigger body guitar
Still stuck? Play both if you can. Specs speak volumes, but feel and sound rule in the end.
Final Thoughts
For anyone digging into yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs, the takeaway is simple: same quality, different flavors. Whether it’s the focused, balanced tone of the FS800 or the power and presence of the FG800, Yamaha delivers serious acoustic value for beginners and experienced players alike.
If you’re chasing comfort and nuances, go FS800. If you want projection and body, go FG800. Either way, you’ll spend under $250, and walk away with a guitar that feels like it should’ve cost more.