Yamaha Pacifica PAC012 Review (2023)

Build Quality:
Hardware:
Electronics:
Sound:
Value:
Average:

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Pros:

• Very comfortable
• Easy to play
• Affordable

Cons:

• Not the highest quality tonewood
• Not the best tuners

Being the leading manufacturer in guitar market is a hard task but being the leading manufacturer for decades and decades is almost an impossible one. Unless, of course, the company’s expertise and dedication to their product is at Yamaha’s level. They are renowned for great quality guitars, professional level guitars, and guitars for beginners. They have basically tapped into all markets without compromising the quality they are known for. That is why a lot of people have been dedicated fans of Yamaha guitars and that is why I always find it easy (easier, at least) to write a review for their models. Their PAC012DLX is one of the many examples that proves how Yamaha can take their expertise and create a very affordable, yet great quality model that anyone can enjoy.

Build

The PAC012DLX is a part of Pacifica Series – the one known for great playability and tone. The series is made for any style of playing and has been in high regards since it was introduced in 1990s. Guitars in the Pasicica series have defined edges and deep curves, giving their models better sound and more volume. This specific model has bolt-on construction and features Agathis body, maple neck and sonokeling rosewood fingerboard.  Agathis is very lightweight tonewood and produces warm tone. Although Agathis is not a fan favourite because it is not of the highest quality, that does not show in the sound and durability of this mode. Also, for the price that this model is offered at there needs to be a sacrifice or two made, the good news is, though, that the sacrifice does not affect the sound.

Hardware

As you might expect, this model comes with basic hardware. That definitely does not mean that the guitar is lacking in anything. If you are looking for a beginner guitar than the hardware on this one will be enough for you. Now let’s get a little bit into details. The PAC012DLX features 5-position pickup switch and master volume, tone controls, two single-coils at the neck and middle and a vintage-style tremolo bridge. I have heard that the tuners on this model are not the greatest but otherwise everything is up to par.

Yamaha Pacifica 012 Sound

Agathis might not be the highest quality tonewood but it definitely does the job. Clear and warm sound that can match up to almost any higher priced model. The flat neck is very comfortable for forming chords and easy playing. The sound of this model is a testimony to Yamaha’s knowledge of tonewood and ability to prioritize and yet create guitars with surprisingly great tone and sound for two or three times less cost than other companies.

Conclusion

If you have never picked up an electric guitar in your life and have no idea where to start, Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012DLX might be a good point. The comfort and playability that this model provides, along with basic hardware and sound (not to mention its jaw-dropping price) will fit any budget and meet all the basic requirements. Of course, there are a lot of other models that have better tonewood or more tweaked hardware but for the price you are giving for this guitar I doubt you will find a matching quality model anywhere else.

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