D’Angelico Premier Fulton LS 12-string Acoustic Guitar Review Unveils Rich Vintage Sunburst Sound

Description

Features

Picking up the D’Angelico Premier Fulton LS 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar – Satin Vintage Sunburst, model number DAPLSG212SVSBCP, felt like holding a piece of craftsmanship designed with serious tone lovers in mind. This Grand Auditorium body is slightly smaller at 16 inches wide, making it easier to handle than some of the bulkier 12-string guitars I’ve tried. The spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides brings a balanced sound, delivering both warm lows and bright highs. One standout feature is the D’Angelico MG-30 preamp and tuner built into the guitar, which made plugging in for gigs or practice sessions a breeze. The fingerboard is crafted from torrefied merbau wood, and its satin finish, along with the vintage sunburst, gives it a classy look that’s hard to ignore. The 25.5-inch scale length is pretty standard but works well here to maintain string tension without making it a tough stretch for the fingers.

Ease of Use

I found the neck profile to be a real winner for playability. The slim “C” shape mahogany neck fits my hand like it was custom made. After a few hours of play, my fingers didn’t feel cramped or fatigued, which is impressive for a 12-string. Beginners might find the 12-string setup intimidating, but this guitar’s design makes it surprisingly approachable. The built-in tuner is a huge help for quick adjustments—no need to carry extra gadgets or waste time tuning by ear. My friends who stopped by were impressed by how comfortable it felt to hold, even for those not used to 12-string acoustics. That said, tuning the extra six strings still takes patience, but the guitar’s design somewhat eases the process.

Ice Production Speed

Switching gears—I have to admit, ice production speed is a funny analogy here, but if this guitar were an ice machine, it would be the equivalent of a decent, reliable one. It doesn’t churn out sound instantly like an electric guitar, but the Premier Fulton warms up quickly, and the sound blooms with a satisfying shimmer after just a few strums. It’s not an instant punch, but the tonal richness grows steadily, much like how a good ice maker fills trays efficiently but with quality in mind.

Noise Levels

On the quieter side, this guitar doesn’t produce any unwanted buzzing or fret noise in my experience, which can be a problem with some 12-string models. It’s fairly quiet when unplugged, with the natural acoustic sound resonating clearly, and the preamp doesn’t add any hiss or interference when amplified. I was able to practice late into the night without disturbing my family, which is always a plus. However, cranking the volume through an amp does bring out a bit more hum, but that’s pretty standard for acoustic-electrics.

Durability

The Premier Fulton LS felt solid in hand, and after a few months of regular use, it has held up well without any issues. The mahogany neck and body woods are known for their robustness, and the satin finish seems resistant to minor scratches and fingerprints. One time, I accidentally bumped it against a chair, and there was no noticeable damage. For a 12-string, which can be a bit delicate due to the extra tension, this one seems built to last. However, I would still recommend keeping it in a good case and away from extreme humidity changes to protect the wood.

Warranty

The manufacturer offers a standard warranty, which covers defects and basic repairs. I haven’t had to use it myself, but knowing that there’s some protection gives peace of mind, especially if you’re investing in a high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar like this one. Be sure to register the product after purchase to keep your warranty active.

Benefits

• Rich, balanced tone with sparkling highs and warm lows
• Comfortable slim “C” profile neck for smooth playability
• Built-in MG-30 preamp and tuner for easy amplification and tuning
• Durable mahogany and spruce construction with a classy vintage sunburst finish

Critiques

• Tuning 12 strings demands patience, even with the built-in tuner
• Slight hum when amplified at higher volumes
• The smaller body size might sacrifice a bit of bass depth for some players
• Price point might be a stretch for beginners on a budget

Competitive Options

Looking around, the Premier Fulton LS stands out against other 12-string acoustic-electrics like the Taylor 150e and the Takamine EF381SC. Taylor’s model offers a slightly bigger body and arguably more bass punch, but the D’Angelico edges out in playability with that slim neck and its vintage aesthetic. Meanwhile, the Takamine boasts robust electronics but feels bulkier and less refined in finish. For those who want a 12-string with a great balance of tone, comfort, and elegant styling, this guitar holds its own. It’s less flashy than some competitors but delivers on sound and feel. However, if you prioritize ultra-powerful amplified output or a deeper bass resonance, some rivals might be more to your liking.

Price Performance

The value proposition here is solid given the quality materials and features packed into the D’Angelico Premier Fulton LS 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar – Satin Vintage Sunburst. You’re paying for more than just a 12-string; the preamp/tuner combo and refined craftsmanship justify the investment. While it may not be the cheapest option out there, the balance of aesthetics, playability, and sound quality makes it a smart spending decision for intermediate to advanced players looking for that classic chimey 12-string vibe without breaking the bank. For newcomers, it might feel a bit pricey, but the quality you get can save money down the line by avoiding frequent upgrades.

Ice Quality & Type

The “ice” this guitar produces is the shimmering 12-string chime that’s both bright and clear. The phosphor bronze strings contribute to this sparkling quality, and the spruce top helps keep the tone crisp. It’s not overly metallic or harsh, which can be a problem with some 12-string acoustics, especially those with cheaper woods. The tone stays consistent whether you’re fingerpicking or strumming, and it has a natural resonance that makes it great for folk, rock, and even blues. The tonal layers really stand out plugged in, where the preamp captures the nuanced harmonics beautifully.

Strengths

• Excellent build quality with premium woods
• Player-friendly slim neck design
• Clear, balanced acoustic and amplified tone
• Integrated tuner and preamp simplify use on stage and practice

This guitar has become my go-to for both home jamming and small gigs. It’s a joy to play, and its sound always gets compliments. Although tuning can be a bit of a chore, the sonic payoff is more than worth it. The blend of vintage style and modern electronics makes the D’Angelico Premier Fulton LS 12-string Acoustic-electric Guitar a real standout in its class.

Additional information