Yamaha FG-420 Acoustic 6 string guitar-

by Ken
(Ontario, Canada)

Please settle a dispute.
This guitar was bought new approx. 1980.
The label says FG-420, made in Taiwan.
Ser# 50528193
I want to know if this guitar is laminate or not?
How can I tell?
It is in superb condition. Does age affect the quality
of sound on this guitar?

Ken

ANSWER

Hi, Ken--

Here is the Blue Book description of the guitar:

FG420A
- dreadnought-style body, spruce top, nato back and sides, round soundhole with a multi-ring abalone rosette, multi-ply body binding, nato neck, 14/20-fret bound bubinga fingerboard with pearl dot inlays, nato headstock overlay with logo and leaf design inlay, three-per-side chrome tuners, rosewood bridge, black pickguard, available in Natural finish, mfg. 1989-1994.

From this description, we can assume that it is NOT laminate.

As for your question about the sound, most players will say that a guitar's sound improves with age as the wood ages.

Lynne




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Comments for Yamaha FG-420 Acoustic 6 string guitar-

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Oct 08, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		FG-420 Dove to Leaf Logo Change in 1987
by: Scott McL

I bought my FG-420 in 1987 on sale from the MSRP of $260. The salesman explained that Yamaha had to sell the guitars at a discounted price to unload them because they infringed upon the Martin D-76 1976 release logo, and also infringed on a Gibson dove logo. Martin’s logo: https://telluridemusiccompany.com/products/1976martind-76376161 Yamaha’s Dove Logo fan club on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Yamaha-Dove-Acoustic-Guitars/100063156877995/. I have searched for the legal dispute but never found evidence. Some people seem to be selling the FG models with the dove logo for a premium. I continue to play my FG-420 today, and it works great.
Aug 04, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yamaha FG-420 gray interior label,Taiwan)
by: Anonymous

This is a wonderful instrument. It is sometimes referred to as "a poor man's Martin." This model was made in Japan for two years before its manufacture was moved to Taiwan. I own models produced in both countries and have a hard time telling the difference. It's similar to the Martin D-28 Dreadnought. The tone is quite warm, the action very smooth. This would be a spectacular, affordable find for someone new to the instrument or even a somewhat accomplished player.
Mar 22, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Laminate with 5 different woods
by: Auldfahrt

I've consulted the Yamaha Guitar archive (https://yamahavintagefg.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Yamaha-Acoustic-Guitar-Archive-v6.4.4-FG-US-Only.pdf) and It states: The top is laminated Spruce (Solid tops state so) the back and sides are Toog aka Philippine Rosewood scientific name Petersianthus quadrialatus. a Nato neck, Ovangkol fretboard and Indian Rosewood bridge. I've never heard of Toog before but am learning...
Mar 12, 2023
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		FG-420-C
by: Scott Wagner

I bought this guitar in 1989. It’s a Martin Style copy. Very well made. The top is spruce, not laminate. When I bought it, I think it cost $350 Us My wife did not talk to me for a while, so it was expensive for me at the time! It was an ok sounding guitar that I played until I could afford Martins and Gibsons, then it sat in the closet for many years. It is in very good condition, not dehydrated. Recently 2019-23, I have rediscovered it. I must say it sounds as good as the average Martin D28 the same age. I am amazed at how loose it sounds, nice bass and midrange. Definitely an underrated guitar…pick one up as it’s a great bargain if it’s in decent shape!
Aug 01, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Best Guitar iv played and iv played lots of them
by: Strummer

Had my fg240 by my side for last 30 yrs would not .be without it.brill tone great guitar
Oct 22, 2020
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yamaha 12 string acoustic
by: L.Picciano

I bought my FG 420 12 new in '85. Dove headstock, laminate spruce top. I knew it was a laminate top when I purchased it but, I didn't care. The guitar sounded so rich and full, I bought it without any hesitation, even after trying others in the store. In spite of contrary opinions, the guitar's tone has improved with age, becoming warmer and more articulate. The action is still so nice, I can even fingerpick it and the sound is amazing. I use light D'Addario strings (.010 to .047) and keep it tuned down a half step, using a capo at the first fret for standard concert pitch. Never had any problems during its 35 year life. A keeper, for sure.
Nov 07, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		FG420 all laminate
by: Bmac51

Almost any lower to mid priced Yamaha guitar will have an 'S'after the model number if it has a solid top.This does not necessarily mean it has solid sides and back,most likely they are laminate until you get up into the higher priced models.So the FG420 would be laminate throughout.
Nov 04, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		fg-420 e-c?
by: ned

gday folks,a few years back i was gifted an electric acoustic fg-420 e-c, made in taiwan, but i cant seem to find much more than that, both on the guitar and the interwebs.... does anyone know much of these guitars? any info would be ace :)
Aug 22, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yamaha infatuation. Re-lived.
by: Brad Bloodworth

Hi Lynn et al,

I'm having a resurrected love affair with yamaha acoustics at present.
Thank heavens I finally found your site and info about the FG420/A. I currently own a CJ818S, and an FG180 black label. About to acquire an FG365Sii and an FG420(87-88) Dove inlay.
Both are in great once loved condition. My main question
is will the 420 be similar in sound to either the 180
or the 365.
Many thanks

Brad in Sydney.
Jul 13, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Solid top
by: Anonymous

I picked up an 89 FG-420A used yesterday. Taking a picture of the inside I can fairly confidently say that it has a solid top.
Mar 12, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not laminate
by: Dean Haas

I am looking at an FG 420LA (made in taiwan) that I wound up with, and despite the comments here stating it is a laminate guitar, I am not so sure. The Nato grain on the back lines up perfectly between inside and outside. On the top, the soundhole its hard to tell. There are no obvious plies visible but I can't say for sure.
Feb 16, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		My FG420
by: J.Turner

I've had my FG420 since 1989. It is my baby! Always in tune,and sounding better each year it ages.
Feb 07, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		brill for the money
by: sailor sam

i bought my fg 420 second hand from fret music in southamptom around 1988 for £100 .its been a brilliant guitar , has vastly improved with age . and still gets played just as much as my newer more expencive guitars
Jan 20, 2018
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		FG-420-L
by: Anonymous

I picked up the yamaha FOG-420-L don't know much about it just wanted a left handed guitar I am disabled any information to help me know about what year this guitar was made would be appreciated thanks
Sep 28, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		A spruce top is not a solid spruce top.
by: Anonymous

I worked in the retail instrument industry for 10 years and in that time had many dealings with yamaha.They are actually,in the conservative price point,some of the most consistent acoustics for the money.The FG series(First Guitar)is a wonderful line of instruments.I must inform all who are certain it is a solid spruce top that this is NOT the case.The top on the 420 is a laminate.ALL FG SERIES acoustics that DO have a solid top ALWAYS have the designation S at the end of the model number I.E. an FG 420S would be a solid top,while the FG 420 is the laminate top version.You may trust that this information is sound and learned over 10 years of selling Yamaha products among countless others.I have also owned 2 yamaha FG acoustics.Both were the solid top versions and the difference in tonal quality is significant,while the natural wood,over time,actually improves if the instrument is cared for properly.A laminate top will soynd the same 10 years down the road as the day you bought it.Less volume,less warmth,less overall balance.But that does not mean a laminate is not right for the right person.I just happen to believe if you can afford the solid top,there is no reason whatsoever to buy laminate.
May 18, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		fg-420-C
by: Denis

I have this guitar and it is brilliant and it seems never to go out of tune once set on a night and is also ok the next day.
Oct 23, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		FG420 vs FG420A
by: Anonymous

It seems the "A" was added around the same time as the headstock logo was changed. It changed from a dove to a Y leaf.
laminated or not the FG420 is a great sounding guitar and ages very well ….get one
Feb 02, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yamaha FG420
by: Anonymous

Like another comment-bought my Yamaha FG 420 made in Taiwan on Jan 2nd 1987 for 231 Canadian at Sherwood Music Kitchener. Not sure if store still exists but my guitar does and I also love it. Still have sales slip for it. Could not find on guitar but on sales slip the number starts with first 2 being 61. Another strange coincidence my name is Ron
Dec 16, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		What is a FG-420LA Worth?
by: Anonymous

Does anyone know what a Left Handed, acoustic Yamaha FG-420LA in new condition would be worth or where I could find the info.? Thanks much!
May 31, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yamaha FG 420
by: Anonymous

THe guitar will be a laminate . Even the early FG180 guitars were and they were excellent .Nothing wrong with that !
Feb 08, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		S/No
by: Banacek60chord

PS Ken. If you squint, you'll probably find the serial no. starts 8o, not 50. There's a full key on the web.
Feb 08, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Construction
by: Banacek60chord

This guitar is a solid spruce top and will mature with age. The rest of the box is very nice laminate and there's nowt wrong wi' that. List price when new was about $300 as near as I've been able to find out.
Get one.
Dec 25, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yamaha 420
by: Anonymous

I've owned my fg420 since 1990 picked it up in a pawn shop it's my favorite guitar for the fact it has stood the test of time and the rowdiness of my youth from throwing it across the room using it for a boat paddle and just plain abuse. This guitar has been played the top is laminate the wood from the sound hole is going away from use you can see the grain runs opposite direction it's a ply. I don't look at my guitars as a piece of fine furniture but a tool to get the job done the frets on this guitar need replaced the back is beat up the head stock corners are worn down I had a d28 cutaway Martin built for me in the custom shop it was junk I literally threw it in the trash after I destroyed it I had sent that guitar back to Martin 2 times to have the neck fixed their warranty sucks this old yamaha has been a true friend we grew up together
Oct 21, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		FG420A
by: Mr. Fix

The anonymous contributor stating the tops are laminate, ie. ply. I think is mistaken. Without doubt the sides will be and probably the back but not the tops. They all, these days, in the case of solid, claim to be 'spruce' but in actual fact are more often 'yellow pine', which is preferable as it has a less 'brittle' tone.
Any one volunteer to have their top core drilled to test.
Will Yamaha not provide the information?
Jul 07, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		YAMAHA FG 420
by: Anonymous

Hi
I bought my Yamaha new in January 1987 for 231.00 Canadian. It has the multi ring around sound hole. Made in Taiwan, also has the white bird under the Yamaha name on headstock. I love this guitar!!!!! Ron
Feb 28, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		GUITAR
by: Andy

Hi, I have a left hand yamaha acoustic fg 420 LA which i bought in 2001 for £135. just wondered if it has kept its value, not that i want to sell it. i have tried a few shops over the years for info but noone of them could give any backround. cheers Andy
Jan 04, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Fg 420
by: Mario Rossi

I have a fg 420 as well. It has no "A" but what l
Do have is a white bird on the head under the
Yamaha name. It also had a trim line in the centre
at the back of the body of the guitar. Can you
Comment on that. Thank you Mario
Dec 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		dont fear the laminate.
by: Will

It's laminate. Most Yamaha's were. The cool thing about it is that they made laminates that sound amazing.

Also the description would say solid spruce top or solid back and sides. Also, NATO wood is used as laminate, not solid.
May 19, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		not solid
by: Anonymous

It is a laminate. It has to say solid spruce not just spruce for it to be solid. Also yamaha at that time annotates solid guitars with an 'S'.
Nov 06, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Yamaha FG-420 6 string-guitar ser# 50528193
by: Ken

Hi Lynne:
There is a multi ring formation around the
sound hole of the guitar I asked you to settle
a dispute about. There also is pearl inlay on the
fingerboard.For some reason, I didn't think the
rings were there. I dug out the guitar to double check and sure enough the rings are there.
Once again thank you for your help.
This guitar is in excellent condition and I will
sell it for a reasonable price.

Ken

***

Ken--

Glad I could help!

Lynne
Nov 06, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Additional query re:Yamaha FG420- 6 string guitar
by: Anonymous

Hi Lynne:
I want to thank you for your valuable response. It is valuable to me.
My only concern is that you mentioned FG420A.
The label on my guitar simply says model FG420, made in Taiwan.And of course, I included the serial number just in case it is helpful.
Can you please comment.

ANSWER

It is the same guitar. The 420 and all of Yamaha's FG series gained the "A" suffix in 1989. The fact that yours has no "A" just means that it was made between 1985 and 1989.

That is probably why your has no multi-ring abalone rosette also. It was most likely added during the massive 1989 overhaul of the entire FG series. The Blue Book lists only those made from 1989 to 1994. Information on the FG 420 before 1989 is sparse.

From the Blue Book:

"Yamaha has also changed the series several times since the original red label guitars were introduced. We were unable to compile any information on the FG Series between approximately the mid-1970s and the late 1980s because there are no catalogs available for that time period."

Lynne
Jul 29, 2021
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Just a lil deception tactic..
by: Anonymous

In my years of reading specs, especially written by manufacturers, if THE DOCUMENT DOES NOT USE THE WORD "SOLID" THEN IT IS IN FACT, LAMINATE.

It's just a little "deception" tactic that so many makers employ...

Kinda like "100% Vitamin C" listed on Cranberry Juice Cocktail, a NON-JUICE beverage. They want customers to perceive it as the real juice products that state "100% JUICE" on the label.

My grandfather told me about deception all over the place when I was a boy...

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