This is a comparison that might seem unfair on the surface—a $200 beginner acoustic versus a $900 all-solid instrument. But here’s why I’m making it: these two guitars represent entirely different approaches to the used market. Understanding where each sits helps clarify exactly what you should be shopping for.
Two very different price points—both offering massive value in their own lane.
The Used Market Logic: 4-to-1 Price Ratio
On the used market, a well-maintained Yamaha FG800 sells for roughly $120–$180. A used Alvarez Laureate LF70e goes for approximately $600–$750.
The question isn’t “which is better?” (The Laureate wins that on paper every time). The question is: Is the Laureate four times better? And for what kind of player does each guitar make sense?
1. The Yamaha FG800: The Undisputed Budget King
The FG800 has been the entry-level standard for years. It’s earned that spot through sheer competence and Yamaha’s legendary quality control.
The Build: Solid Sitka spruce top, laminate nato back/sides, and walnut fretboard.
The Surprise: It sounds significantly better than the price suggests. There’s none of that “boxy” or muddy quality found in other budget acoustics. It’s bright, clear, and projects well.
The Reality Check: Because of the laminate back and sides, this guitar has “peaked” on day one. It won’t “open up” or improve with age like an all-solid guitar. Also, the nut and saddle are plastic, which is the first thing I’d recommend upgrading.
2. The Alvarez Laureate LF70e: Premium Ambitions
The Laureate series is Alvarez’s statement piece. They are aiming directly at the “Big Three” (Martin, Taylor, Gibson) but at a mid-tier price.
The Build: AAAA-grade solid Sitka spruce top, solid East Indian rosewood back/sides, ebony fretboard, and a genuine bone nut/saddle.
The Surprise: This guitar genuinely competes with instruments in the $1,500 range. The LR Baggs HiFi pickup system is a standout—it sounds like a mic’d acoustic, not a “quack-heavy” piezo.
The Reality Check: It’s an Alvarez. It doesn’t carry the “prestige tax” of a Martin. This is great for buyers (lower used prices) but something to consider if you care about high-end resale value.
📊 Head-to-Head Comparison
Feature
Yamaha FG800
Alvarez Laureate LF70e
Used Price
$120 – $180
$600 – $750
Top Wood
Solid Sitka Spruce
AAAA Solid Sitka Spruce
Back/Sides
Laminate Nato
Solid East Indian Rosewood
Electronics
None (Acoustic only)
LR Baggs HiFi System
Tonal Profile
Bright & Focused
Complex & Dynamic
Lifespan
Steady Performance
Improves with age
Who Should Buy What?
✅ Buy a used Yamaha FG800 if:
You’re a beginner and don’t want to over-invest yet.
You need a “campfire” or travel guitar you don’t have to worry about.
You want a reliable backup that won’t break the bank.
✅ Buy a used Alvarez Laureate if:
You’re ready for your “forever” guitar but don’t want to pay $2,500.
You plan to record or perform live (the LR Baggs system is worth the entry fee alone).
You want the complexity and overtones that only all-solid wood can provide.
Final Verdict
The FG800 gets you playing. The Laureate rewards you for playing.
If you are looking for the best pure value under $200, the Yamaha is the only answer. But if you want a professional-level instrument masquerading as a mid-tier guitar, the Laureate is a “sleeper” hit on the used market.
