What body shape does the Yamaha FSX400 have?

The FSX400 features a concert-style body, which is more compact and focused than a traditional dreadnought shape.

What type of finish is used on the FSX400?

It uses an ultra-thin natural satin polyurethane finish designed to allow the spruce soundboard to breathe and resonate more effectively.

What electronics are included in the Yamaha FSX400?

The guitar is equipped with the System75 electronics package, which includes a 4-band EQ, volume control, and a built-in tuner.

Does the FSX400 have a built-in tuner?

Yes, the System75 preamp system integrated into the guitar includes an onboard chromatic tuner for easy tuning on stage or during practice.

How does the scale length of the FSX400 affect playability?

The 25-inch (634 mm) scale length is slightly shorter than standard, which eases string tension and makes the guitar more comfortable for players with smaller hands.

Does this model feature a pickguard?

No, the FSX400 has a minimalist aesthetic that excludes both a pickguard and body binding to maintain a sleek, modern look.

What is the purpose of the phase switch on the preamp?

The phase switch is included to help manage and eliminate low-end acoustic feedback when the guitar is plugged into an amplifier or PA system.

What are the main tonal characteristics of this guitar?

The guitar delivers a focused voice characterized by sweet midrange tones and clear treble frequencies, aided by its spruce top and concert body.

Are the woods used in the FSX400 sustainable?

Yamaha constructs the FSX400 using locally sourced tonewoods to balance instrument durability with environmental considerations.

Is the FSX400 suitable for live performances?

Yes, it is described as a 'stage-ready' instrument due to its compact size, feedback-resistant electronics, and built-in EQ controls.

How does the FSX400 compare to the Yamaha APXT2?

The FSX400 is a full-sized concert guitar, whereas the APXT2 is a 3/4 size travel guitar, making the FSX400 better suited for standard performance needs.

What visual accents are present on the natural satin model?

The primary visual accent is a bold brown soundhole inlay, which contrasts with the minimalist natural wood aesthetic of the spruce top.

Gear article

Yamaha FSX400 Concert Electro Acoustic Guitar

The Yamaha FSX400 is a concert-style electro-acoustic guitar featuring a compact body, a spruce top, and locally sourced tonewoods. It is designed for both practice and stage use, incorporating an ultra-thin polyurethane finish and System75 electronics with a four-band EQ.

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Overview and Design

The Yamaha FSX400 is a modern electro-acoustic guitar that prioritises a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Unlike traditional acoustic guitars, it lacks a pickguard and body binding, resulting in a sleek appearance suitable for stage performances. The natural satin finish uses an ultra-thin polyurethane coating, which is intended to let the soundboard breathe more freely than thicker lacquers. A bold brown soundhole inlay provides the primary visual accent against the spruce top.

Construction and Tonewoods

Built with a focus on sustainability and durability, the FSX400 utilises locally sourced tonewoods. The concert-sized body is smaller than a standard dreadnought, making it more manageable for smaller players or those who prefer a more intimate playing experience. The interior features carefully designed bracing to optimise the projection and tonal balance of the spruce top, while the 25-inch (634 mm) scale length slightly reduces string tension for easier fretting.

Electronics and Sound Character

For amplified performance, the guitar is equipped with Yamaha's System75 electronics. This preamp system offers comprehensive control over the output, featuring a volume knob, a four-band equaliser for precise tone shaping, and a built-in chromatic tuner. A phase switch is also included, which is a critical tool for managing low-frequency feedback when playing at higher volumes on stage.

Acoustically, the FSX400 is characterised by a focused voice. The combination of the concert body shape and spruce top results in sweet midrange frequencies and clear trebles, rather than the booming bass associated with larger acoustic models.

Target Audience and Comparison

The FSX400 is positioned as a versatile instrument for both beginners and gigging musicians who require a compact, reliable electro-acoustic. In terms of market alternatives, it occupies a middle ground between travel-sized instruments like the Yamaha APXT2 or Martin LX1E and larger-bodied guitars such as the Gretsch G5022CWFE Rancher Falcon or Guild F-2512E jumbos. While it lacks the high-end luxury materials found in flagship models like the Taylor PS14ce, it offers a functional, stage-ready feature set for players seeking a modern, minimalist workhorse.

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Frequently asked questions

What body shape does the Yamaha FSX400 have?: The FSX400 features a concert-style body, which is more compact and focused than a traditional dreadnought shape.
What type of finish is used on the FSX400?: It uses an ultra-thin natural satin polyurethane finish designed to allow the spruce soundboard to breathe and resonate more effectively.
What electronics are included in the Yamaha FSX400?: The guitar is equipped with the System75 electronics package, which includes a 4-band EQ, volume control, and a built-in tuner.
Does the FSX400 have a built-in tuner?: Yes, the System75 preamp system integrated into the guitar includes an onboard chromatic tuner for easy tuning on stage or during practice.
How does the scale length of the FSX400 affect playability?: The 25-inch (634 mm) scale length is slightly shorter than standard, which eases string tension and makes the guitar more comfortable for players with smaller hands.
Does this model feature a pickguard?: No, the FSX400 has a minimalist aesthetic that excludes both a pickguard and body binding to maintain a sleek, modern look.
What is the purpose of the phase switch on the preamp?: The phase switch is included to help manage and eliminate low-end acoustic feedback when the guitar is plugged into an amplifier or PA system.
What are the main tonal characteristics of this guitar?: The guitar delivers a focused voice characterized by sweet midrange tones and clear treble frequencies, aided by its spruce top and concert body.
Are the woods used in the FSX400 sustainable?: Yamaha constructs the FSX400 using locally sourced tonewoods to balance instrument durability with environmental considerations.
Is the FSX400 suitable for live performances?: Yes, it is described as a 'stage-ready' instrument due to its compact size, feedback-resistant electronics, and built-in EQ controls.
How does the FSX400 compare to the Yamaha APXT2?: The FSX400 is a full-sized concert guitar, whereas the APXT2 is a 3/4 size travel guitar, making the FSX400 better suited for standard performance needs.
What visual accents are present on the natural satin model?: The primary visual accent is a bold brown soundhole inlay, which contrasts with the minimalist natural wood aesthetic of the spruce top.