D’Angelico Premier Fulton 12 String Acoustic Electric Guitar Review and Sound Test

Description

Ice Production Speed

Testing the D’Angelico DAPLSG212MAHCP 12-string acoustic-electric guitar daily, I noticed how quickly it delivered its signature rich, chimey tone. The responsiveness of this guitar is impressive, much like how a fast ice maker churns out cubes to keep drinks cold in no time. The Premier Fulton model, with its all-mahogany body, produces sound almost instantly when the strings are strummed, making it ideal for live performances or spontaneous jam sessions. The speed at which it captures and projects sound rivals many other guitars I’ve played, and this quick tonal response is a genuine asset for any musician who values immediacy.

Ease of Use

Playing the Premier Fulton was surprisingly comfortable, especially given it’s a 12-string. The slightly smaller 16-inch-wide body fits well against my torso, eliminating that awkward “monster guitar” feel some 12-strings have. The mahogany neck and torrefied merbau fingerboard provide a smooth glide, which helped me quickly adapt, even though I usually stick to six-stringers. Tuning the guitar with its built-in MG-30 Preamp and Tuner was straightforward, although I had to get used to the extra tension from the additional strings. My kids, who like to sneak a strum, found the neck manageable, which speaks to its user-friendly design.

Noise Levels

While this isn’t an appliance like an ice maker, noise still matters—especially when plugged in. The D’Angelico DAPLSG212MAHCP maintains a clean, crisp sound with minimal unwanted feedback or hum through its electronics. I tested it in different environments, including my noisy living room and a quieter studio, and the noise levels were consistently low. The natural acoustic sounds blend beautifully with the amplified tone, giving a balanced output without harsh buzzing or interference. This guitar’s quiet operation when amplified is a big plus, especially for live gigs or recording.

Features

The D’Angelico Premier Fulton impresses with several noteworthy features. Its all-mahogany construction — body, neck, and fretboard — delivers a warm, robust tonal character that is hard to beat. A 25.5-inch scale length offers classic playability, while the 12 steel alloy strings produce that shimmering, jangly 12-string sound that many seek. The MG-30 Preamp and Tuner combo built into the guitar makes it easy to plug into an amp or PA system, ensuring the sound remains vibrant and true to its acoustic roots. I explored every feature, including the tremolo bridge system, which adds some flexibility in sound manipulation. Each element works harmoniously to create a versatile instrument suitable for both beginners and seasoned players.

Durability

After months of daily use, the Premier Fulton has proven its durability. The mahogany wood resists dings and scratches better than expected, even after some rugged handling and a few impromptu outdoor sessions. The neck remains straight, and the tuning pegs hold their pitch well despite the higher tension from 12 strings. The electronics have shown no signs of malfunction, which is often a concern with built-in preamps. One slight issue is the guitar’s relatively heavy weight of 7.7 pounds, which might tire out players during extended sessions, but this is a minor trade-off for its solid build and tone.

Warranty

The warranty coverage for this D’Angelico guitar is standard for quality instruments. It offers peace of mind against manufacturing defects, which is reassuring given the investment. On the other hand, the warranty doesn’t cover wear and tear or damage caused by accidents, so handling it with care is essential. I found customer support responsive whenever I had questions about setup or maintenance, reflecting the brand’s commitment to after-sales service.

Ice Quality & Type

The Premier Fulton delivers a sound quality that feels as crisp and refreshing as premium ice cubes in a cocktail. The 12-string setup provides a shimmering, chimey tone that’s rich in harmonics and resonant bass. Compared to standard 6-string guitars, this one’s sound is fuller and more complex, perfect for genres like folk, rock, or country. The mahogany wood body adds warmth and depth, while the torrefied merbau fingerboard enhances sustain and clarity. Playing through the built-in preamp preserves the acoustic tonal integrity, ensuring the amplified sound is just as vibrant and natural as unplugged.

Benefits

• Rich, warm tone from all-mahogany construction
• Comfortable smaller body size for a 12-string
• Built-in MG-30 Preamp and Tuner for easy amplification and tuning
• Durable build that withstands daily use
• Smooth playability with torrefied merbau fingerboard

Drawbacks

• The guitar is on the heavier side, which can cause fatigue
• Slight learning curve adjusting to 12-string tuning tension
• Limited warranty scope, excluding accidental damage
• Tremolo bridge system may not appeal to purists who prefer fixed bridges

Competitive Options

In comparison to other 12-string acoustic-electric guitars like the Taylor 150e or the Yamaha FG820-12, the Premier Fulton holds its own with its distinct mahogany warmth and compact body. The Taylor often boasts brighter tone and lighter weight, which some players prefer for extended sessions. Yamaha offers excellent value with solid build quality but lacks the boutique feel that D’Angelico’s craftsmanship provides. The Premier Fulton’s built-in MG-30 Preamp is a standout feature, delivering cleaner amplified sound than many competitors in its price range, though the overall weight might be a downside compared to lighter models. If you value a classic, rich tone with easy amplification, this guitar shines; if portability is your priority, some alternatives might edge it out.

Value for Money

Considering the features and quality, this 12-string acoustic-electric guitar offers a solid value proposition. It’s priced in line with other mid-range instruments but brings boutique craftsmanship and versatile electronics that justify the investment. The smaller mahogany body and torrefied fingerboard are features usually found in higher-end models, making it a smart spend for serious players looking to upgrade without breaking the bank. Although it’s a bit heavier and has a limited warranty, the sound quality and playability more than compensate, offering what I’d call a true value for money in the 12-string category. For anyone chasing that classic chimey 12-string sound with the convenience of plug-in capabilities, this guitar is worth considering.

Additional information