Gearank

The Bristol BD-16 is an affordable acoustic guitar that features vintage-inspired forward-x top bracing. This type of bracing allows the top to vibrate more freely, improving the overall resonance and tone of the instrument.

This vintage-inspired bracing complements its dreadnought body, resulting in improved punch and projection. The body follows the familiar tonewood combination of using spruce for the top and mahogany for the back and sides, albeit utilizing laminate to keep the price low.

Finally, it has a mahogany neck with a slim profile and adjustable truss rod, with the aim of making your fretting hand more comfortable, a common theme in most guitars that are meant for beginners.

Features:

• Body Shape: Dreadnought
• Top: Spruce
• Back and Sides: Mahogany
• Finish: High Gloss
• Bridge: Rosewood
• Neck: Mahogany
• Neck Profile: Slim
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Fingerboard Radius: Not Specified
• Number of Frets: 20
• Frets to Body: 14
• Scale Length: 25.6”
• Nut Width: 43 mm

Pros

Good tone and projection are the two most commended traits of the Bristol BD-16, and most of the positive reviews are from beginners and first time guitar owners. While it may not impress most experienced guitarists, there are some who chimed in with their approval, stating that for a cheap beater guitar, this one sounds good.

Cons

Playability seems to be an issue for some, with a few reports of bad frets and action that need adjustment.

Overall

The Bristol BD-16's good projection and tone makes it an ideal first guitar for those who are into strumming oriented playing and other similar styles. And it doesn't hurt that it's made by the same company that produces the more expensive and well regarded Blueridge guitars such as the BG-40 and BR-70.

Although this was previously on our recommended list, there are now more highly rated options available which you can see in our guide to The Best Acoustic Guitars.