ANAHEIM, CA. — A new generation of Yamaha acoustic-electric guitars is on the way. Yamaha Guitars is proud to expand on its successful line-up of acoustic-electric guitars with the unveiling of the new A-Series handcrafted guitars. Featuring a new look, a new feel and a new sound, the A-Series launches Yamaha into a previously untapped market segment by providing a professional instrument designed to be the workhorse of any steel-string guitarist's arsenal.

Offered in a dreadnought cutaway and a concert size cutaway, the A–Series represents a departure from the look of Yamaha's acclaimed FG Series and L Series guitars. From the new headstock design to the touch-of-class rosette and mahogany binding, Yamaha has focused on every detail to create the feel and playability sought by today's acoustic-electric guitar player. Featuring a slim neck profile and a rounded fretboard edge, the A-Series delivers ease and comfort. Yamaha also increased its traditional string spacing and lowered the action to accommodate today's players. In addition, the semi-open pore finish on the necks of the A-Series maintains the wood's feel, yet also enhances playability.

Tone is always key to an acoustic electric guitar and Yamaha has overachieved with the A-Series. Dreadnought and concert shapes are offered in Mahogany back and sides and Rosewood back and sides. All models feature solid spruce tops and are outfitted with new S.R.T. (Studio Response Technology) electronics developed by Yamaha.

The new S.R.T. preamp, an exclusive Yamaha technology, incorporates a piezo pickup system with a built-in microphone modeling technique specific to each guitar model. The S.R.T. system lets players choose from three different mic settings that can be blended with the piezo pickup, delivering on the often-elusive dream of providing studio-quality sound while playing live on stage. In addition, the S.R.T. system's feedback detector cancels feedback frequencies in live situations.

"We often hear stories from artists and customers that their first guitar was a Yamaha and now, with the new A-Series, their next guitar should also be a Yamaha," said Dennis Webster, Marketing Manager, Yamaha Guitars. "The new handcrafted A-Series guitars exhibit many firsts for Yamaha acoustic-electric guitars while delivering an outstanding look, unbelievable tone, and a comfortable feel. With these incredible guitars, Yamaha will reach new players."

Armando Vega, Product Manager, Yamaha Guitars, said "this guitar is definitely designed for frequent performers who require a reliable workhorse that looks great, feels great and sounds amazing in all applications. The A-Series provides the ultimate performance-level 'bang-for-your-buck' guitar by offering quality build and materials, leading edge electronics and a neck profile that is a thrill to play instead of a chore."

The A-Series guitars are expected to ship in May 2011.

For more information, visit Yamaha at Winter NAMM 2011 in the Marriott Marquis Ballroom; write Yamaha Corporation of America, Box 6600, Buena Park, CA 90622; telephone (714) 522-9011 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (714) 522-9011 end_of_the_skype_highlighting email infostation@yamaha.com; or visit www.yamaha.com/press.