Alvarez AD30 review

An affordable solid-topped dreadnought that punches above its price point

Alvarez AD30 against a white wall
(Image: © Future/Richard Blenkinsop)

Guitar World Verdict

Boasting an impressive spec, the Alvarez AD30 delivers the classic dreadnought sound and response and makes for either a superb first guitar or just a fun and reliable workhorse.

Pros

  • +

    Quality tonewoods

  • +

    Bright, responsive sound

  • +

    Punchy bottom end

  • +

    Slick neck profile

  • +

    Good tuning pegs

Cons

  • -

    The bridge shape might hinder some

  • -

    A dreadnought isn’t for everyone

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The Alvarez guitar brand was born in 1965 as a result of a collaboration between the St Louis Music distributor in the US and master luthier Kazuo Yairi in Japan, whose aim was to import good quality acoustic guitars into the US. Cut to today and they’re a brand that is really making waves in the industry. Their use of quality tonewoods, attention to detail, high build standards and attractive price points are just some of the reasons many players are choosing Alvarez.

The Alvarez AD30 is a dreadnought acoustic guitar featuring a solid sitka spruce top and layered African mahogany back and sides. There are also some other key specs that help this guitar punch above its price tag, including a real bone nut, sturdy tuners and forward-shifted X-bracing. 

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