It is somewhere between the typical mahogany and a spruce top guitar

it sounds cleaner and less jangly than a spruce top guitar

As a consequence its balance of frequencies is very different from the typical spruce top guitar

But, I have always loved Yamaha musical instruments.

Great instrument

it may not look it, but this baby gets LOUD, so if you're looking for a very versatile instrument, this is a good all-around choice for a tight budget

I prefer this size over a dreadnought, at least for home play.

Your local store is a good resource for determining the best size for you

I liked the Sigma and enjoyed how it sounded different to any other acoustic

I like the Yamaha FS850 even more

I highly recommend the Yamaha FG850

He recommended a LR Baggs M1A (amplified) pickup if you want an acoustic electric

The more common tops, spruce and maple emphasize one frequency range over another

It sounds like it has a reduced frequency range and accentuates the primary notes so in many ways when strummed hard it sounds and would record cleaner

Solid wood is superior to a laminated top.

If buying for the first time, you need, easy on the fingers, light metal strings (ask a pro), a capo, a strap, a good inexpensive tuner, a stand to make it easy to pick up and play in your room, a bag or case to travel

If you have larger hands, you may prefer an FG, but personally I'm a huge ban of this little workhorse.

I love the warmth of a mahogany guitar, and this is exactly what I wanted