Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar Instruction Manual

Introduction

Welcome to the instruction manual for your new Yamaha FG820 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar. This instrument is crafted with a solid Sitka Spruce top and Mahogany back and sides, designed to deliver a warm and strong sound. This guide will help you understand its features, set it up correctly, maintain it, and troubleshoot any issues to ensure a long-lasting and enjoyable musical experience.

Setup

Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove the guitar from its packaging. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Ensure all components are present.

Tuning the Guitar

The Yamaha FG820 is a 12-string acoustic guitar. Each pair of strings (except the highest two) is tuned to the same note, with one string being an octave higher. The highest two pairs are tuned in unison. Use a reliable tuner to achieve standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E, with octave pairs for E, A, D, G and unison for B, E). The Yamaha Player Port app can assist with tuning.

Adjusting the Truss Rod

Your guitar features an adjustable truss rod. This allows for fine-tuning of the neck relief. Adjustments should only be made by experienced individuals or a qualified guitar technician to prevent damage.

Operating the Guitar

Playing Position

Hold the guitar comfortably against your body. For right-handed players, the right arm rests over the upper bout, and the left hand supports the neck. Ensure a relaxed posture to avoid strain.

Basic Strumming and Chords

Begin with simple open chords. The 12-string configuration provides a fuller, richer sound compared to a 6-string guitar. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find a comfortable rhythm. The Player Port app (as shown in the setup video) also offers tips and tricks for playing.

Maintenance

Cleaning

Wipe down the guitar body and neck with a soft, dry cloth after each use to remove sweat and oils. For a deeper clean, use a guitar-specific polish sparingly. Clean the rosewood fingerboard with a suitable conditioner periodically to prevent drying and cracking.

Humidity Control

Acoustic guitars, especially those with solid wood tops, are sensitive to humidity changes. Store your guitar in an environment with stable humidity (ideally 45-55% relative humidity) to prevent warping or cracking of the wood. A guitar humidifier can be used in dry climates.

String Replacement

Replace strings regularly (every 1-3 months depending on usage) to maintain optimal tone and playability. Use phosphor bronze 12-string acoustic guitar strings for best results. Replace one string at a time to maintain neck tension.

Troubleshooting

• Buzzing Strings: This can be caused by low action, uneven frets, or insufficient neck relief. Check neck relief with a straight edge. If the action is too low, consider raising the saddle or consulting a technician.
• Poor Intonation: If the guitar sounds out of tune even when individual strings are tuned correctly, the intonation might be off. This often requires professional adjustment of the bridge saddle.
• Dull Tone: Old or dirty strings are a common cause of dull tone. Replace strings regularly. Ensure the guitar is stored in proper humidity conditions.
• Difficulty Holding Tune: Ensure strings are properly stretched when new. Check tuning machine tightness. Extreme temperature or humidity changes can also affect tuning stability.

Specifications

Product Overview

Image: Front view of the Yamaha FG820 12-String Acoustic Guitar in Natural finish, showcasing the solid Sitka Spruce top, soundhole, and headstock with 12 tuning pegs.

Image: Back view of the Yamaha FG820 12-String Acoustic Guitar, highlighting the mahogany back and neck.

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official Yamaha website or contact your authorized Yamaha dealer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.

You can visit the official Yamaha store for more products and support: Yamaha Store