Yamaha CSF1M Acoustic-Electric Parlor Guitar

95
GEARANK
95 out of 100. Incorporating 50+ ratings and reviews.
$449.99
Yamaha
Yamaha CSF1M - Tobacco Brown Sunburst

Gearank High Notes

In January 2022 we announced the results of our analysis of acoustic guitar brands – Yamaha ranked 6th.

Gearank Recommended

The CSF1M appeared on our recommended list for Parlor Guitars when we published our first edition in September 2021 – at that time it was only outranked by the Gretsch G9520E Gin Rickey in the $200 to $500 category. However, when we published our second edition in March 2022, it rose to the top rated position in that category.

See our Current Recommendation.

Cons

  • Pickup included has no preamp
  • Small body size is not everyone’s cup of tea

Pros

  • Focused and clear sound
  • Loud and has good sustain for a small guitar
  • Student-friendly short-scale neck and compact size
  • Passive pickup works surprisingly well with acoustic processors, preamps, and effects

The Yamaha CSF1M is a parlor guitar that punches above its size. It’s a compact, student-friendly instrument that’s ready for the stage.

Its solid Sitka spruce top, scalloped bracing, and mahogany back and sides deliver a focused, articulate tone. Its smaller size makes it comfortable to play while still having good acoustic projection.

The shorter 23.5″ scale length adds a touch of warmth to the sound and makes it easier on the hands. This makes it an easy pick for younger students while offering an excellent grab-and-go option for experienced players. Don’t expect it to sound as full as a dreadnought, but its warm voicing will not disappoint. It is perfect for folk, blues, rock, and country genres.

It also features Yamaha’s SRT Zero Impact Pickup system, a passive pickup system developed to be more discrete than the usual active electronics found on acoustic-electric guitars. Being passive, it doesn’t have the tone-shaping features and loudness of active pickups, but it is very transparent. It works well with acoustic guitar processors, pedal preamps, and effects.

Whether you’re developing strumming or fingerpicking, this little guitar will not disappoint. And having been crafted by Yamaha, the CSF1M boasts excellent build quality.

Rounding up its features is its sleek finish and old-school blues box appeal.

The Yamaha CSF1M is a stellar option for those seeking a portable, sonically impressive acoustic practice and performance companion.

Specifications

  • Body Shape: Parlor
  • Top: Solid Sitka Spruce
  • Back and Sides: Mahogany
  • Finish: Gloss Tobacco Brown Sunburst or Vintage Natural
  • Bridge: Walnut
  • Neck: Nato
  • Neck Profile: Not Specified
  • Fingerboard: Rosewood
  • Fingerboard Radius: 16″
  • Number of Frets: 20
  • Frets to Body: 14
  • Scale Length: 23.5”
  • Nut Width: 1.692″

TrustpilotBishal Rana100/100

Online Reviews

Website Source *Rating Value
Acoustic Guitar Forum YamahaGuy 95/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm’s adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

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