Overview: FS vs FG Series
Yamaha’s FS and FG lines are staples in the acoustic scene—great tone, solid build, and a reputation for longterm reliability at a very accessible price point.
The FG800 is part of Yamaha’s classic fullsize dreadnought range. Think big sound, deep lows, and great projection. On the other hand, the FS800 is from the folksize category—smaller body, a little tighter and snappier in tone, and more comfortable for smaller players or fingerstyle lovers.
Both guitars are built to impress beginner and intermediate guitarists alike—but they punch above their weight class in terms of specs and performance.
Build Quality and Design
Despite the price tag, Yamaha doesn’t cut corners with these builds. Here’s the shared foundation:
Solid Sitka spruce top (serious tonewood and hard to find in this range) Nato/Okoume back and sides Scalloped bracing—improves resonance and volume Gloss finish Diecast tuners
What sets them apart? The FS800’s body is more compact than the FG800, which affects not only the aesthetics but the tonal output and feel in your hands.
In short: FG800: Larger dreadnought body = more volume and bass FS800: Smaller concert shape = more balanced tone, easier to hold
Neck and Playability
Both guitars feature a nato neck with a slim taper and a satin finish that aids smooth movement up and down the fretboard.
Scale length: both at 25″ Nut width: standard 1.69″ (43mm) Rosewood fingerboards and bridges give a prograde touch under your fingers
Here’s the difference in feel: the FG800 has a bit more neck shoulder due to the body style, while the FS800 feels slightly slimmer and more approachable for smaller hands or younger players.
Sound and Tone
This is where preferences really start to matter.
The FG800 leans warm, deep, and powerful—thanks to its dreadnought size. It’s ideal for strummers needing volume and lowend pulse.
The FS800 is more focused. Its smaller body tightens up the low end and brings in a woody midrange clarity, which fingerpickers and solo players typically love.
In a nutshell: FG800: Bigger boom, suited for chords, jam sessions, fullband setups FS800: Crisp articulation, great for melodies, singersongwriters, and recording
Yamaha FS800 vs Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar Specs
Let’s zero in. Here’s a sidebyside spec rundown so you’re not left guessing.
| Specification | Yamaha FS800 | Yamaha FG800 | |||| | Body Shape | Concert | Dreadnought | | Top Wood | Solid Sitka Spruce | Solid Sitka Spruce | | Back/Sides | Nato/Okoume | Nato/Okoume | | Bracing | Scalloped X | Scalloped X | | Scale Length | 25” | 25” | | Nut Width | 1.69” (43mm) | 1.69” (43mm) | | Neck Material | Nato | Nato | | Fingerboard | Rosewood | Rosewood | | Number of Frets | 20 | 20 | | Finish | Gloss | Gloss | | Tuning Machines | Diecast Chrome | Diecast Chrome | | Weight | Lighter than FG800 | Heavier than FS800 |
Looking at the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs, there’s no significant difference in materials or build quality—these are as close as siblings get. The main divergence lies in the size, shape, and how they respond to your playing.
Why Choose One Over the Other?
Here’s a quick decision filter:
Get the FG800 if: You want louder volume and broad tone for strumming You’re used to the feel of a fullsize guitar You want power in a solo or ensemble setting
Choose the FS800 if: You’re smaller in size or prefer compact guitars You favor clarity over boom You lean toward fingerpicking or detailed articulation
If possible, play both. Your ears and hands will make the decision easier than comparison charts ever will.
Price and Value
Both models offer incredible bang for your buck. At under $250 (as of writing), you’re getting solid tops, dependable craftsmanship, and Yamaha’s decades of experience. Not many brands match that quality in this price tier.
Also consider: They’re reliable workhorses. Whether you’re headed to open mic night or recording at home, either guitar won’t flake out. Plus, with proper care, they’ll last for decades.
Final Thoughts
The yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs draw a tight comparison, but actually give two different flavors of greatness. The FG800 delivers power and presence. The FS800 counterpunches with control and finesse. It’s not about which is better—it’s about which fits your style.
So—concert or dreadnought? Boom or balance? Either way, Yamaha’s got you covered.