Yamaha FG303-E | 1980s Japanese Domestic Market Acoustic-Electric

The 1980s Yamaha FG303-E is a rare semi-jumbo acoustic-electric built for the Japanese domestic market between 1980 and 1983. 
 
This Yamaha FG303-E features a natural gloss spruce top with highly figured American walnut back and sides. The Yamaha FG303-E includes a factory 2-way pickup system with Volume, Treble and Bass controls. Shorter 636mm scale length. Includes original hard shell case.
 
The FG303-E was produced exclusively for Japan at Yamaha's Kaohsiung factory during the early 1980s . The "-E" suffix denotes the factory pickup system, a rare feature for this era. The semi-jumbo folk body and shorter scale provide a comfortable playing experience with punchy, balanced vintage tone. The American walnut back and sides offer a striking wood grain not commonly seen on mass-market models.
 
Test it for yourself at our Sydney shop, or we can ship it safely to your door anywhere in Australia. Contact us for a shipping quote.
In stock at Guitar Garage Sydney. $790
 
Key Features
Decade: 1980s (1980-1983)
Made in: Taiwan (Kaohsiung factory)
Serial: 11127
Model: FG303-E
Body Shape: Semi-jumbo folk
Top: Spruce (laminated)
Back and Sides: American walnut (laminated)
Neck: Nato
Fingerboard: Indian rosewood
Bridge: Indian rosewood
Scale: 636mm (shorter scale)
Finish: Natural gloss
Electronics: Factory 2-way pickup system with V.T.B. (Volume/Treble/Bass) controls 
Case: Original hard shell case included
Condition: Good (honest wear, structurally sound)
 
Sound and Tone
The semi-jumbo body and spruce top deliver punchy, balanced tone. American walnut back and sides offer a distinct voice with good clarity. The shorter 636mm scale reduces string tension for easier fretting. The factory pickup system allows control of volume, treble and bass.
 
Feel and Playability
The shorter scale length and semi-jumbo body shape provide a comfortable playing experience. Normal fretwear but remains super playable with good action. Structurally stable with no cracks.
 
Condition
Good, structurally stable condition. Honest cosmetic wear consistent with early 1980s instrument. Body has normal pitting and blemishes across the finish from decades of use. No structural cracks. Typical fretwear but still plays well with good action. Factory electronics and onboard controls fully intact and functional. A highly playable vintage player's acoustic.
 
Background
The Yamaha FG series is one of the most successful acoustic guitar lines in history. The FG303-E was a rare JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) model produced for a short period between 1980 and 1983. The "-E" suffix indicates factory-installed electronics, uncommon for early 80s acoustics. These models are increasingly sought after by collectors and players seeking unique vintage Yamahas.