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Parlor Acoustic Guitars

Reach for a parlor guitar and you’ll notice how good it feels in your hands right away. Parlor acoustic guitars are smaller and more compact than many traditional body styles, yet still serve up warm, focused tones and rich mids that invite you to fingerpick, write songs, or settle into long sessions. Players often love the mix of intimacy and personality parlor guitars bring.

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  1. Fender Highway Parlor Thinline Acoustic Electric Guitar with Bag

    Fender Highway Parlor Thinline Acoustic Electric Guitar with Bag

    $999.99
    The Fender Highway Series represents not a revision, but a re-imagining of the acoustic experience, inviting players to throw away the map and get lost on the open road of creativity. At the intersection of time...

    12 Payments of $83.33

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What is a Parlor Guitar, Anyway?

The parlor guitar is an underdog in the acoustic world — the small-bodied six-string that punches way above its weight. Originally designed for cozy living room performances back in the 19th century (hence “parlor”), these compact, comfortable boxes have made a major comeback with modern players who know tone isn’t measured in cubic inches.

A parlor acoustic guitar gives you a warm, focused sound that’s perfect for fingerpicking, blues, folk, and throwing down impromptu verses at 2 a.m. when the dreadnought’s asleep in the case. Its smaller size isn’t just for looks — it’s a vibe. Whether you're writing on the couch or gigging in tight spots, the parlor-size guitar is the secret weapon that fits like it was built just for you.

Our parlor guitars for sale come loaded with killer tonewoods, pro-level electronics, and serious style all in a body that won’t break your back or your bank account. Grab yours today! 

Parlor Guitar

Small Body, Big Attitude

At first glance, a parlor guitar might look like the little sibling tagging along behind a row of full-size acoustics, but don’t be fooled. What these instruments lack in bulk, they make up for in character. The parlor acoustic guitar has a narrower waist, shorter scale length, and a more compact body overall. That means it’s lighter, easier to play, and carries a tone that’s intimate, punchy, and surprisingly rich for its size.

Unlike a dreadnought, which projects like it's trying to win an argument, a parlor-size guitar keeps things tight and articulate. It doesn’t boom — it blooms. That makes it perfect for fingerstyle playing, light strumming, and smoky vocal accompaniments where nuance matters more than volume wars. 

Which Parlor Guitar Is Right for You?

Shopping for a parlor acoustic guitar isn’t about “what’s best” — it’s about what’s you. Do you want bluesy bark? Vintage vibes? Something that won’t flinch when it hits the stage? Lucky for you, there’s no shortage of awesome parlor guitars for sale that match your style, your sound, and your wallet. Here are a few of our favorites: 

Alvarez AP66 Parlor Acoustic Guitar

The grown-up’s parlor guitar. The Alvarez AP66 features a solid African mahogany top paired with mahogany back and sides for a dark, woody tone with loads of midrange character. It's got that throwback voice that blues heads and fingerpickers crave — dry, focused, and not trying to be anything but real. The fit and finish are clean and classic, with subtle detailing that says “I’ve been around,” even if it just came out of the box.

Yamaha CSF-TA TransAcoustic

Yamaha's CSF-TA packs built-in reverb and chorus right into the guitar body. No amp, no pedalboard — just dreamy ambient tone straight from your lap. It’s a solid choice if you want to make your couch sessions sound like a studio take. Plus, the solid spruce top gives it a bright, responsive tone that balances out the smaller body size like a pro.

Gretsch G5021E Rancher Penguin Parlor

You want flair? You got it. The Rancher Penguin parlor acoustic guitar is all about style and substance. The signature triangular soundhole, Fishman Presys III electronics, and dazzling vintage-inspired looks give you a stage-ready instrument that’s practically begging to be played live. Under the hood, you get rich low-end and a snappy high-end response that works well across styles.

Dean AXS Parlor Mahogany

Coming in under $200, the AXS Parlor gives you a full mahogany body, a surprisingly warm tone, and classic parlor charm without the luxury price tag. It’s a perfect first parlor guitar — or a second one for your road-weary hands. Throw it in the van, take it to the beach, or leave it by the writing desk for when inspiration attacks.

PRS SE P20 Parlor Acoustic Guitar

Don't let the minimalist looks fool you; the SE P20 is a parlor-size guitar with serious chops. With an all-mahogany body, it offers up a dry, woody tone that’s perfect for blues pickers and singer-songwriters who like their sound raw and honest. The short scale makes complex chords feel effortless, and PRS's clean craftsmanship means it looks as smooth as it sounds. Check it out for yourself!

What Type of Music Is the Parlor Acoustic Guitar For?

Parlor guitars may not dominate stadium tours or metal festivals, but when it comes to nuance, expression, and soulful storytelling, they’re the real champions.

  • Blues: Where the parlor guitar truly shines. With its tight projection and raw midrange bark, it’s perfect for that fingerpicked Delta blues vibe.
  • Folk & Americana: Whether you’re covering Woody Guthrie or writing your own lo-fi confessionals, a parlor acoustic guitar gives you the warm, rootsy character folk music thrives on.
  • Singer-Songwriter: If you like spilling your guts in verse form, the parlor-size guitar might be your soulmate. Its intimate sound supports vocals beautifully, without overwhelming them.
  • Indie & Lo-Fi: Parlor guitars have a naturally vintage tone that just fits when you're trying to sound like you recorded your album in an attic on purpose. 

Parlor guitars thrive in genres where feel matters more than firepower. They’re not trying to be the loudest — just the realest. 

Parlor Acoustic Guitar

Frequently Asked Questions: Parlor Acoustic Guitars

If you'd like to learn more about parlor acoustic guitars before you buy, check out our helpful FAQs below for additional information. 

Is a parlor guitar good for beginners?

Absolutely. A parlor-size guitar is great for beginners thanks to its smaller body, which is easier to hold and play, especially for younger players or those with smaller hands. It’s less intimidating than a dreadnought but still delivers a satisfying, full sound. 

Are parlor guitars only for travel or practice?

Not at all. While a parlor-size guitar is convenient for travel, it’s not a toy or a step-down from a full-size model. Pro musicians use parlor acoustic guitars on stage and in the studio because of their distinct voice and versatility. 

Where can I find quality parlor guitars for sale?

Right here at American Musical Supply. We carry a curated selection of parlor acoustic guitars from trusted brands like PRS, Yamaha, Gretsch, and Alvarez — so you can find the one that fits your sound and your budget. 

Find Your Perfect Parlor Guitar and Start Playing Your Way at AMS

Ready to find your next favorite guitar? At American Musical Supply, we’ve got an amazing lineup of parlor acoustic guitars, from classic couch crooners to stage-ready stunners. With fast shipping, easy payment plans, and absolutely zero hassle, getting the right parlor guitar in your hands has never been smoother. Pick your sound, grab your gear, and let’s make some noise. 

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