What is the scale size of the Yamaha APXT2?

The Yamaha APXT2 is a 3/4 scale guitar, meaning it has a shorter neck and a smaller body compared to standard full-sized acoustic guitars.

Does the Yamaha APXT2 have built-in electronics?

Yes, it is an electro-acoustic guitar featuring a built-in preamp system and a tuner, allowing it to be used with an amplifier or sound system.

What woods are used in the construction of the APXT2?

The guitar features a spruce top and meranti back and sides, a combination that provides a clear and balanced tone.

Is the Yamaha APXT2 suitable for beginners?

Yes, its smaller 3/4 size and slinkier string feel make it very comfortable for beginners and younger players who might find full-size guitars difficult to handle.

Can the APXT2 be used for professional live performances?

While compact, it is designed with 'stage-ready style' and includes electronics specifically for live performance, though it is often used as a secondary travel instrument.

How does the APXT2 compare to the Martin LX1E?

The APXT2 is generally more affordable and features a slim-line body design based on the APX series, whereas the Martin LX1E focuses on a more traditional small-body dreadnought shape.

Is a gig bag or case typically included with the APXT2?

The APXT2 is designed for travel and portability, and it often includes a dedicated Gig Bag from Yamaha, though players should check specific retailer listings.

What finishes is the APXT2 available in?

The model is available in various finishes including Black and Old Violin Sunburst.

What is the tonal character of this guitar?

Despite its small size, it delivers a strong, clear, and balanced tone that is versatile enough for most genres and playing techniques.

Is the APXT2 significantly smaller than a standard Yamaha APX model?

Yes, it is the 3/4 size version of the APX series, making it much more compact and lightweight for travelling.

Does it have an onboard tuner?

Yes, the electronics system includes a built-in tuner for convenience during practice or performance.

What is the typical price for a Yamaha APXT2 in the UK?

The typical price for this model is approximately £211, though prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.

Gear article

Yamaha APXT2 3/4 Electro Acoustic

The Yamaha APXT2 is a 3/4 size electro-acoustic guitar based on the design of the popular APX series. It features a compact spruce and meranti construction designed for travel, practice, and live performance via its integrated electronics.

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Background and Design

The Yamaha APXT2 is the travel-sized equivalent of Yamaha's long-standing APX series, which has been a staple in the electro-acoustic market for decades. Designed to offer the same stage-ready ergonomics in a more portable format, the APXT2 utilises a 3/4 scale length. This makes it significantly more compact than a standard dreadnought or concert guitar, catering to players who require a 'life on the road' instrument that can easily fit in overhead compartments or small transport spaces.

Construction and Materials

The instrument is constructed using a spruce top paired with meranti back and sides. This combination is chosen for its durability and balanced tonal profile. Despite the slim-line body design—characteristic of the APX lineage—the guitar is engineered to deliver a strong and clear acoustic response. The 3/4 scale length provides a 'slinkier' string feel with less tension, which can be advantageous for smaller hands or younger players.

Electronics and Performance

A primary feature of the APXT2 is its integrated electronics system. It includes a built-in preamp and contact-based pickup system derived from Yamaha's ART (Acoustic Resonance Transducer) technology. This allows the guitar to be plugged directly into amplifiers or PA systems for live performance. The inclusion of an onboard tuner ensures that the player can maintain pitch stability without needing external pedals or clip-on devices.

Comparative Analysis

Within the compact guitar market, the APXT2 sits as an affordable alternative to premium travel models such as the Martin LX1E Little Martin or the Taylor Baby series. While the Martin LX1E often commands a higher price point, the APXT2 focuses on providing a slim-line body that is more comfortable for electric guitarists transitioning to acoustic. For those seeking alternative aesthetics or different body shapes, the Fender Newporter Player or the Sigma DTC-28HE offer full-sized alternatives, while the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon provides a much larger jumbo-sized frame for those not prioritising portability.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the scale size of the Yamaha APXT2?: The Yamaha APXT2 is a 3/4 scale guitar, meaning it has a shorter neck and a smaller body compared to standard full-sized acoustic guitars.
Does the Yamaha APXT2 have built-in electronics?: Yes, it is an electro-acoustic guitar featuring a built-in preamp system and a tuner, allowing it to be used with an amplifier or sound system.
What woods are used in the construction of the APXT2?: The guitar features a spruce top and meranti back and sides, a combination that provides a clear and balanced tone.
Is the Yamaha APXT2 suitable for beginners?: Yes, its smaller 3/4 size and slinkier string feel make it very comfortable for beginners and younger players who might find full-size guitars difficult to handle.
Can the APXT2 be used for professional live performances?: While compact, it is designed with 'stage-ready style' and includes electronics specifically for live performance, though it is often used as a secondary travel instrument.
How does the APXT2 compare to the Martin LX1E?: The APXT2 is generally more affordable and features a slim-line body design based on the APX series, whereas the Martin LX1E focuses on a more traditional small-body dreadnought shape.
Is a gig bag or case typically included with the APXT2?: The APXT2 is designed for travel and portability, and it often includes a dedicated Gig Bag from Yamaha, though players should check specific retailer listings.
What finishes is the APXT2 available in?: The model is available in various finishes including Black and Old Violin Sunburst.
What is the tonal character of this guitar?: Despite its small size, it delivers a strong, clear, and balanced tone that is versatile enough for most genres and playing techniques.
Is the APXT2 significantly smaller than a standard Yamaha APX model?: Yes, it is the 3/4 size version of the APX series, making it much more compact and lightweight for travelling.
Does it have an onboard tuner?: Yes, the electronics system includes a built-in tuner for convenience during practice or performance.
What is the typical price for a Yamaha APXT2 in the UK?: The typical price for this model is approximately £211, though prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer.