Anyone have experience with the Yamaha FG-340 II? Seeking insights!

Instruments Guitar and Bass
1

I’m on a quest to learn more about the Yamaha FG-340 II acoustic guitar, and I’m hoping the community can help! There seems to be a bit of mystery surrounding this model, and I want to gather insights from any owners or enthusiasts out there.

Specifications and Features

I’ve read a bit about the general specifications of the FG-340 II, but I would love to dive deeper. What should I expect in terms of:

  • Wood type (what’s commonly used for the top, back, and sides?)
  • Neck profile (is it comfortable for fingerstyle or strumming?)
  • Sound quality (how does it compare to other models in the same range?)

Historical Context

Also, if anyone has knowledge about the history of this model or where it stands among Yamaha’s other offerings, that would be super helpful. Was it targeted at beginners, or did it have more pro-level features?

Performance and Usage

How does it hold up in various situations? I’m particularly interested in:

  • Live performances (is it versatile enough for different genres?)
  • Recording sessions (any notable attributes that stand out in a studio setting?)
  • Durability (how well does it withstand regular playing?)

Buying Advice

Lastly, I’m considering purchasing one. What should I look out for? Do you know any reputable sellers or marketplaces where I can find a good deal?

Thank you in advance for any insights you can share! I’m looking forward to hearing your experiences and advice, whether it’s specific to the FG-340 II or Yamaha guitars in general.

2

I’ve had a Yamaha FG-340 II for about 5 years now. Its sound is warm and balanced, ideal for fingerpicking and strumming alike. I would say it’s undervalued for the price point!

3

I totally agree, jerrywade! The bass response is solid, and it holds up well against higher-end models, especially for folk music.

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4

I’ve played a few FG-340 IIs and they really shine in the mids. If you’re considering alternatives, the FG-180 has a similar vibe but with a slightly brighter tone.

5

Can anyone elaborate on the tonal difference between the FG-340 II and the FG-800? Just curious if the upgrade is worth it or not!

6

Great question, tiffany75! The FG-800 typically has a brighter tone, but I prefer the warmth of the 340 II. It really comes down to personal taste.

7

Don’t forget that string choice can drastically alter its sound! You could try lighter gauge strings for a brighter sound or go heavier for that rich, deep tone.

8

My FG-340 II is one of my favorite guitars! I find playing it at different humidity levels affects the tonal qualities. Playing in a drier environment can add to the crispness!

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9

I’ve tuned my FG-340 II using alternate tunings, and it sounds fantastic. It really brings out the guitar’s character, especially with DADGAD tuning.

10

That’s a solid tip! I should try that. Have you done any modifications or upgrades to enhance the sound?

11

I do have a bone saddle on mine that improved the projection quite a bit. It’s worth considering if you’re looking to enhance its tonal quality.

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12

That’s interesting! I wonder if replacing the bridge pins would make a notable difference too?

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13

You can definitely experiment with bridge pins! Just keep in mind that subtle changes can lead to dramatic results. Happy strumming!

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14

I’ve had my Yamaha FG-340 II for about 5 years now! Keeping it clean is essential. I recommend using a soft cloth and a bit of guitar polish after each use to keep the finish shining.

15

Absolutely! I also suggest changing the strings every few weeks depending on how often you play. It really revitalizes the sound.

16

Great advice! I’d like to add that using a humidifier in your guitar case can really help with wood stability, especially during dry seasons.

17

That’s a solid tip! I also recommend storing it in a safe place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping.

18

I’ve found that using lighter gauge strings gives a lovely tone on the FG-340 II! Just remember to adjust the action if you switch gauges.

19

Interesting! I’ve always stuck with medium gauge. How do lighter strings affect the playability?

20

Lighter strings are easier to fret and bend, which can be great for beginners. However, they can break more easily during intense playing.