Yamaha FG-580 Acoustic Guitar – Natural – Nippon Gakki Japan – Includes Original Chipboard Case – Used Very Good
The FG-580 sits near the top of the vintage Yamaha FG hierarchy and represents some of the finest work to come out of the Nippon Gakki factory during the golden era of Japanese acoustic guitar building. Produced from 1971 to 1978, it was one of a handful of handcrafted models in the FG lineup — a jumbo dreadnought built to a standard that Yamaha's more affordable models of the same period simply couldn't match. The solid spruce top is braced and graduated with genuine care, and the Jacaranda back and sides — a tonewood Yamaha used throughout this era that sits in Brazilian rosewood territory in both appearance and character — give the instrument a richness and complexity that rewards close listening. Whether the Jacaranda on these guitars is technically Brazilian rosewood or a close relative has been a matter of collector debate for decades, and we won't settle it here. What we can tell you is that it looks beautiful and sounds extraordinary. The neck is substantial but not oversized — comfortable and confidence-inspiring in the hand — and the ebony fingerboard and bridge are smooth and well-finished. The overall build quality is a reminder of just how seriously Yamaha took these instruments when they made them by hand in Japan fifty years ago.
This one is a sweetheart. It sounds fantastic — good volume with a soft, warm overall tone that is immediately inviting. Single notes cut through with real clarity while strumming carries a deep, full warmth that is characteristic of the best Yamahas of this era. The neck feels great and the guitar is genuinely easy and enjoyable to play. Action sits at 5/64 on the high E and 6/64 on the low E at the 12th fret — comfortable and musical, with the saddle close to its lower limit. The neck is straight with a fully functioning truss rod, original nut and saddle intact, no meaningful modifications. There is some fret wear in the cowboy chord area consistent with a lifetime of playing that does not affect playability. Some scratches in the finish on the top and a few minor cosmetic marks here and there, but it presents really well and is structurally sound throughout. A one-owner guitar that has clearly been appreciated. Comes with the original Yamaha chipboard case.
- Make: Yamaha
- Model: FG-580
- Era: 1971-1978
- Country of origin: Japan (Nippon Gakki)
- Body shape: Jumbo dreadnought
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back and sides: Jacaranda (laminate)
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ebony
- Bridge: Ebony
- Nut: Original
- Saddle: Original, near lower limit
- Scale length: 25.6"
- Frets: 20
- Tuners: Original chrome
- Action: 5/64 high E, 6/64 low E at 12th fret
- Modifications: None
- Condition: Used Very Good – some finish scratches on top, minor cosmetic marks, fret wear in cowboy chord area, does not affect playability, structurally sound throughout
- Includes: Original chipboard case
Ships carefully packed and insured for full value. International buyers are welcome — please contact us for a shipping quote before purchasing.
About Mill River Music
Mill River Music is an independent, human-powered music shop located in downtown Northampton, MA, run by a team of players, enthusiasts, and certified repair technicians. Every piece of used gear we sell is personally inspected, tested, and set up before it ships — we don't list it until we'd be happy to play it ourselves.
As Martin and Taylor certified techs, we hold our guitar work to a high standard, and we're committed to full transparency about the condition of everything we sell. No surprises.
When you buy from Mill River, you're supporting an independent local business that genuinely cares — about gear, about players, and about doing things right. We're here every step of the way. Reach out anytime.
