Top 10 Folk Guitar Suppliers Brands in USA

1. Introduction

Folk guitars hold a special place in the hearts of many musicians, cherished for their rich tones and acoustic qualities. In the United States, numerous brands have dedicated themselves to crafting high-quality folk guitars that cater to diverse musical preferences and styles. This post provides a comprehensive look at the top 10 folk guitar suppliers in the USA, showcasing their histories, offerings, and why they stand out in the competitive market.

Top 10 Folk Guitar Suppliers Brands in USA: 

Collings

Brand Story:

Founded by Bill Collings in the mid-1970s, Collings Guitars has grown from a small workshop to a renowned name in the guitar industry. Bill's commitment to precision and artistry set a high standard for acoustic guitars.

Company Details:

Based in Austin, Texas, Collings Guitars prides itself on meticulous craftsmanship and innovative design.

Main Products:

Collings offers a wide range of acoustic guitars, including their popular dreadnought, OM, and parlor models.

Website: https://www.collingsguitars.com/

KASPAR

Brand Story:

KASPAR Guitars is known for blending traditional guitar-making techniques with modern innovation. The brand focuses on creating instruments that resonate with contemporary musicians.

Company Details:

KASPAR is headquartered in China, Tennessee, and has garnered a reputation for producing versatile and reliable guitars.

Main Products:

The brand offers a variety of folk guitars, from entry-level models to professional-grade instruments.

Website: https://www.yidamusic.com/

TAKAMINE

Brand Story:

Established in 1959, Takamine began as a small family business in Japan before expanding internationally. The brand is named after Mount Takamine, symbolizing its high standards and aspirations.

Company Details:

Takamine USA operates from their headquarters in California, maintaining a strong commitment to quality and innovation.

Main Products:

Takamine's lineup includes a range of acoustic-electric guitars known for their excellent playability and sound quality.

Website: https://www.takamine.com/

Breedlove

Brand Story:

Breedlove Guitars was founded in 1990 by Larry Breedlove and Steve Henderson, two experienced luthiers with a passion for crafting unique and high-quality instruments.

Company Details:

Based in Bend, Oregon, Breedlove is dedicated to sustainability and innovative guitar designs.

Main Products:

Breedlove offers a variety of acoustic guitars, including their acclaimed Concert and Oregon series.

Website: https://breedlovemusic.com/

FENDER

Brand Story:

Fender is an iconic name in the music industry, known for its groundbreaking electric guitars. The brand also produces a range of high-quality acoustic guitars that cater to folk musicians.

Company Details:

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, Fender continues to influence the music world with its innovative 

instruments.

Main Products:

Fender's acoustic lineup includes the popular Paramount and California series.

Website: https://www.fender.com/

SEAGULL

Brand Story:

Seagull Guitars, a sub-brand of Godin Guitars, was founded in 1982 by Robert Godin. The brand focuses on crafting handmade acoustic guitars with exceptional sound quality.

Company Details:

Seagull is based in La Patrie, Quebec, Canada, but has a significant presence in the USA.

Main Products:

Seagull offers a range of acoustic guitars, including the S6 and Artist series.

Website: https://seagullguitars.com/

Gibson

Brand Story:

Gibson is a legendary brand with a rich history dating back to 1902. Known for its electric guitars, Gibson also produces some of the finest acoustic guitars.

Company Details:

Based in Nashville, Tennessee, Gibson's commitment to quality and innovation remains unwavering.

Main Products:

Gibson's acoustic lineup includes the renowned J-45 and Hummingbird models.

Website: https://www.gibson.com/

Martin

Brand Story:

Founded in 1833 by Christian Frederick Martin, C.F. Martin & Co. is one of the oldest guitar manufacturers in the world. The brand is synonymous with high-quality acoustic guitars.

Company Details:

Martin is headquartered in Nazareth, Pennsylvania, and continues to lead the industry with its craftsmanship and innovation.

Main Products:

Martin offers a wide range of acoustic guitars, including the iconic D-28 and 000-28 models.

Website: https://www.martinguitar.com/

Woodsy's Music

Brand Story:

Established in 1972, Woodsy's Music is a family-owned business that has become a trusted name for musicians in the USA. The store offers a diverse selection of musical instruments, including folk guitars.

Company Details:

Woodsy's Music is based in Kent, Ohio, and is known for its personalized service and extensive inventory.

Main Products:

Woodsy's offers a variety of folk guitars from top brands, catering to both beginners and professionals.

Website: https://www.woodsysmusic.com/

Orangewood

Brand Story:

Orangewood Guitars was founded with the mission of making high-quality guitars accessible to everyone. The brand is known for its direct-to-consumer model, which keeps prices affordable.

Company Details:

Based in Los Angeles, California, Orangewood focuses on offering well-crafted guitars at competitive prices.

Main Products:

Orangewood's acoustic lineup includes the popular Mason and Brooklyn series.

Website: https://orangewoodguitars.com/

FAQs About Choosing a Folk Guitar Manufacturer

1. What should I consider when choosing a folk guitar manufacturer?

When choosing a folk guitar manufacturer, consider the brand's reputation, the quality of materials used, craftsmanship, customer reviews, and after-sales service.

2. Are more expensive folk guitars always better?
Not necessarily. While higher-priced guitars often use premium materials and superior craftsmanship, many mid-range guitars offer excellent quality and sound. It's essential to try different guitars and find one that suits your style and budget.

3. How important is the wood type in a folk guitar?
The wood type significantly affects the guitar's tone and resonance. Common woods like spruce, cedar, mahogany, and rosewood each offer distinct sound characteristics.

4. Can I buy a good folk guitar online?
Yes, many reputable brands offer online shopping. Ensure the retailer has a good return policy and read customer reviews before making a purchase.

5. What is the difference between a folk guitar and other acoustic guitars?
Folk guitars are typically smaller and have a distinct tone suitable for folk music. They often have a narrower neck and a more comfortable body size, making them ideal for fingerpicking and strumming.

Summary

Selecting the right folk guitar involves understanding the unique qualities and heritage of different brands. The USA is home to some of the finest folk guitar manufacturers, each offering a range of instruments that cater to various musical styles and preferences. From the timeless craftsmanship of Martin and Gibson to the innovative designs of Breedlove and Orangewood, these brands provide exceptional options for every guitarist.