Algonquin 12 String Acoustic Guitar | MACKENZIE AND MARR GUITARS

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Algonquin 12 String Acoustic Guitar

A Solid Wood Spruce and Bolivian Rosewood 12 String Guitar


The Algonquin 12 string solid wood acoustic guitar
Availability: 
In Stock

Our solid AAA grade Sitka Spruce and Bolivian Rosewood 12-string acoustic guitar. With direct pricing, it is half the price of comparable models.

After more requests than we can count from owners of our other models, we introduced a 12 String acoustic guitar. The Algonquin 12 with its AAA-grade Sitka top and Bolivian Rosewood back and sides has been a huge hit. It easily outperforms 12 strings costing 3 or 4 times as much.

Suggested Retail Price: 
CAD $4,200.00
Your Price: 
Price:CAD $1,499.99

There was a time in this fair land when only six strings would ring. The new Algonquin 12 changes that, and does so at an (almost) affordable price.

Crafted with a AAA grade bookmatched Sitka Spruce top and AAA grade book-matched Bolivian Rosewood back and sides, the guitar is (modesty alert.....) spectacularly beautiful. If all an owner did, was hang it on their wall, they would have a sculpture that would be the envy of the art world. BUT, and a big BUT to boot...this guitar is a 12 string that hits every player's expectation and then goes on the exceed them.

For more than a decade we've been asked for a 12 string guitar that would meet the standards of our six-string models.....a beautiful solid wood acoustic with an easy action and a full, rich sound.
We made a number of prototypes over the years but were never 100% satisfied with the results. Then, in 2018 design work began for a new body shape. What became the Alberta Jumbo was destined for the Ian Tyson Inspiration but from day one we saw it as a perfect foundation for a 12 string guitar.

The big Alberta body is a refined Jumbo shape - punching out full, fantastic, overtone-rich bass notes and adding just a hint of "attitude" to mid and treble notes. It is ideally suited for the jangly characteristics of a dedicated 12 string acoustic.

The MacKenzie & Marr Algonquin 12 is an exceptional acoustic guitar known for its impeccable craftsmanship and rich tonal qualities. Designed by the renowned Canadian guitar company MacKenzie & Marr, the Algonquin 12 combines traditional construction techniques with modern innovations to deliver a superior playing experience.

At the heart of the Algonquin 12 is its solid AAA grade Sitka spruce top, which provides a well-balanced and resonant sound. The back and sides are crafted from solid Bolivian Rosewood, adding warmth and depth to the guitar's tone. This combination of tonewoods creates a harmonious blend of clarity, projection, and dynamic range, making it suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

The Algonquin 12 features a comfortable, easy-to-play mahogany neck with an ebony fingerboard, ensuring smooth playability and excellent intonation. The precise fretwork allows for effortless chord transitions and intricate fingerpicking patterns. The guitar is also equipped with high-quality hardware, including Grover tuners and a bone nut and saddle, which contribute to its exceptional tuning stability and sustain.

One of the standout features of the Algonquin 12 is its stunning aesthetics. The guitar boasts an elegant, minimalist design with tasteful appointments such as herringbone purfling, a vintage-inspired tortoiseshell pickguard, and tasteful binding. The attention to detail in the construction and finishing is evident, creating a visually striking instrument that is as much a pleasure to look at as it is to play.

The MacKenzie & Marr Algonquin 12 is a meticulously crafted acoustic guitar that offers outstanding sound, playability, and aesthetics. Whether you're a professional musician or an avid enthusiast, the Algonquin 12 is a worthy instrument that will inspire and elevate your musical journey.

Owner Reviews

Todd C from Frederick

Wed, 08/30/2023 - 07:31

I've been watching Mackenzie & Marr for quite some time, enjoying the website videos. Owning too many acoustic guitars, another purchase didn't seem prudent. However, I have begun to get serious about recording my original songs, so for the past 8-10 months I have been slowly building a catalog of recordings using several of my 6-string acoustics. Discussing arrangements with my producer, we decided that having a 12-string on some of the songs would be a good idea, so I purchased an older Alarez-Yairi 12-string. The guitar is fine, but playability is typical 'fight you' 12-string, making the playing experience difficult. After checking the Mackenzie & Marr website, as I do periodically, I discovered that the 12-string Algonquin had finally been released and was in-stock, so I hit the 'Buy' button. Although I haven't had as much playing time using the Algonquin as I'd like, I have been pleased with not only the fit & finish, but also the sound (full & rich). The guitar is has a beautiful small jumbo outline and wood selection is right-on. The most important part is playability - it is excellent ! So, am I satisfied, definitely 'YES'. I'll be doing an online video review of the guitar in the future so stay tuned. Thanks to John and the Mackenzie & Marr crew.

Richard from Crestone

Mon, 08/28/2023 - 16:34

I have the Algonquin 12, and while it may not be quite as good as my 1972 Martin 12-string, I've compared it to a $2,500 Taylor 12-string and find the MacMarr FAR superior, both in terms of sound and fingering.

Kirk from Queen Creek

Wed, 06/28/2023 - 23:12

I will admit, I was hesitant to purchase the Algonquin 12 string, but I really wanted a high-quality instrument without paying 3k for it. After doing some research, and reading reviews, it seemed that these guitars fit that description. Even though I wasn’t certain of that, the guarantee made it worth the try. So, I have to say, I was not only more than impressed with this guitar, it actually far exceeded my expectations. First of all, the wood is absolutely beautiful. I love to just look at it. But secondly, it is wonderful to play, and sounds amazing. I am actually thinking of selling my Taylor six string and buying the Dionisio. If it is even close to the 12 string, it will easily rival my Taylor at essentially half the price. I hope more people discover this company, and the wonderful instruments they make. I am a fan.

Steven from Coquitlam

Sun, 06/25/2023 - 21:25

At $1500 this guitar represents exceptional value. The quality of the wood is nice. The craftsmanship is really very good. The sound is balanced, and the guitar seems to resonate much longer than I would have expected. There are lovely and complex harmonics that make it a joy to play and listen to. The sound is very clean and clear. This guitar is built to last. It is SOLID! Everything seems to be overbuilt compared to most other 12’s I considered in this price range. With the light strings that it came with, one could expect this guitar would be passed down to grandchildren and beyond. The gloss lacquer shows well but is perhaps too thick, and I think might mute the guitar a bit. The electronics are top notch and more than compensate for the lower overall volume that light strings and a heavier build deliver. The bottom end is also a bit lacking. I expected more bass response out of a jumbo body, but again – the electronics can compensate for that. My guitar came with a beautiful heartwood strip down the centre of the back, but no heartwood on the sides. It should be noted to future buyers considering this guitar – ‘Bolivian Rosewood’ is actually Pau Ferro… had I known this before purchasing, I would have bought something else. Knowing this after the fact, I have a new appreciation for another tonewood that until now I though was reserved for entry level fingerboards. Maccassar Ebony is not as black as true ebony - looks more like rosewood to me, but nice none the less. Is the top ‘AAA’ Sitka? Hmmm… it is nice, and does have some nice figuring, but the figuring is not consistent across the entire top and does not have the visual depth that triple ‘aaa’ typically does. The top on my Larrivee D-05 it is far superior (although it was hand-picked by Jean Jr. for me and may be in a class of its own). Carefully check your headstock before you decide it will not stay in tune. Initially I struggled tuning this thing, wondering why the b would go out of tune every time I tuned the e… During set up at M&M, one of the high e strings was intertwined with a b string… seems there is not much room up there to route the stings properly. The pegs in the saddle could be spaced better. I would prefer the second-row strings didn’t contact the front row pegs. Plastic binding? Canadian Maple would be a tasteful and cost-effective improvement. A binding on the finger board would be a nice touch as well. A vintage-inspired tortoiseshell pickguard was mentioned in the marketing description but absent from the case. A clear plastic one was included instead. The strap button is not in the position indicted on the website but run into the heel at the back of the guitar, making it impossible to keep a strap attached there. It will definitely require replacement with a strap lock. Am I being a bit too picky? Perhaps. But when the marketing description suggests it is worth $4,200… I thought I would point out why it would not sell at that price. I should not be able to find fault with anything at all on a $4K guitar. A 7-day trial really isn’t enough time to bond with a guitar and it took a few months for me to really get familiar with it. I understand that a longer trial makes it too difficult to accept a return, so I went into this assuming I would keep it and just accept my purchase. I may buy one of the others I looked at in the same price range for comparison. That said, the Algonquin 12 does provide more value than the $1,500 asked for one.Steve

Victor from Auburndale

Mon, 05/01/2023 - 11:06

Upon receiving the 12 string guitar, I tuned it up and immediately could tell, it was a keeper! The vibrant sound of the 12 string was awesome! I have played several songs on it to date and just love the sound!❤️ I play songs on Youtube/FB and did a song for my audience and had many comments saying what a beautiful sounding guitar! Thanks Vic Shumate Auburndale, Fl

PETER from Shorewood

Wed, 04/05/2023 - 15:39

I have been a serious player since 1970, and owned far too many acoustic guitars than any rational person should. Some I had to sell (the poverty of youth), and some I traded away (with a few regrets), but this year I acquired two beautiful MacKenzie & Marr instruments. Let me first comment on the Algonquin 12 string. First, the setup: I am a finger-style player, having studied classical guitar for nine years long ago. Finger-style on a twelve string with the ability to move all over the fingerboard (inversions, overtones, pedal tones), can make a good twelve string become "Magic Music". Over the years I have had a Guild 212 jumbo, a Martin D-35-12, and an exceptional Taylor V-Class instrument. Frankly, only the Taylor had a setup that allow me to both play all over the fingerboard along with great tone from my fingers. That changed with my Algonquin. It is the easiest fingering I have ever experienced on any twelve string, and an absolute delight to play. Despite eight top-line six string guitars, I am first drawn to the Algonquin. Second, the Tone: Most 12 string guitars have fairly good tone in first position. I realize that few 12 string players are playing bar chords in the 7th position, but, I do. The tone needs to be balanced on all strings at all positions on the fretboard. The tone also needs good projection, especially in the upper strings and upper fret positions. The tone sustains itself both at very soft as well as very loud volumes. I found this true whether using a flat pick or strictly my fingers. The Algonquin put itself in a class of 1 on these terms. Next, my thoughts on my new Ian Tyson Inspiration. Being a finger style player, the action needed to be spot on, particularly since I am frequently at the ninth fret and higher. The Tyson delivered. It's playability is right up there with a 25 year old Lowden, a Gibson Parlor, and a custom built Hoffman. I can't give it higher praise than that! The tone and volume dynamics are still there on the 15th through 18th fret. Balance of the tone is important to me; In general I am not a fan of dreadnoughts, as I don't need the "boomy bass" usually there in a Martine D28; I am playing melodies with bass lines, where balance is critical. Once again the Tyson is right there, and the tone is well rounded all over the finger board. What is so amazing is that the Ian Tyson Inspiration delivers musicality that is absolutely equal to instruments in my collection that would cost over $7,000 US to replace. Pretty amazing for the price point of this instrument. Bottom line? No matter which of my collection I chose to play, I ALWAYS include the Ian Tyson (if it wasn't the first choice)! Finally, the response time on any questions or concerns I have had about the instruments has been rapidly and effectively answered and dealt with by the M&M team. I don't think you could go wrong on purchasing either of these incredible instrument. Peter M.

Ken from Sacramento

Wed, 08/10/2022 - 23:35

This is a beautiful guitar, very pleasing to the eye. The tone and ease of play are much better than expected for this price point. And the clarity and presence are excellent as well. With a solid AAA Sitka spruce top and Bolivian Rosewood back and sides, this instrument is a tremendous value, comparing very favorably with top-end Martin, Guild, and Taylor 12-strings. And I can't seem to put it down!

David from Racine

Thu, 07/21/2022 - 11:23

My experience with 12-string guitars was limited to the not so good instrument that I bought way back in 1990. I didn't know much about guitars then. It was a Dreadnought Style guitar, large and not too dissimilar to hugging a log. The sound of the instrument was bright but brittle and over time the neck warped Beyond repair and could not be readjusted.  I considered a number of brand named instruments and found to be overpriced and I didn't like the sound of most when I heard them on the videos.  Then I found the Algonquin in my online search. First, I admire the business philosophy of Mackenzie and Marr: high quality instruments at Factory Direct prices. I appreciate the craftsmanship and the care that went into the development of this Algonquin. It took me a while to adjust to the algonquin. The shape and size of this instrument were different than my old 12 string. The body style of the Algonquin is very similar in design and tone to my Santa Cruz F model 6 string, both being rich and balanced and resonant. The overtones on the Algonquin ring like handbells. The appearance of the instrument is indeed dramatic with the split Rosewood back, the spruce top with its long straight grain, the detail work and finish flawless. Tuners are quite sensitive and this instrument is easy to keep in tune.  I am very happy to have purchased this instrument. My only regret was not having the electronics installed. Simply, I was just too anxious to play your superb instrument. Thank you for your work in developing this fine instrument.

Lou from Ormond Beach

Wed, 06/08/2022 - 11:01

I’m a singer-songwriter, and play 12-string as my primary instrument. I use live on-stage solo, with duos, trios, and bands, through small PA’s and house systems, in venues from small clubs to festival stages. It’s my choice in studio settings as well. I was looking for a backup 12-string guitar I could quickly switch to in a live situation if needed. Well, the Algonquin 12 caught my eye right away. It’s a beautiful axe, and the pictures (fit and finish), reviews (from first-timers to professionals), and brand endorsements (Tom Rush) caught my attention. After couple of email exchanges with John Marr, who satisfied my concerns about on-stage feedback issues, and keeping a 12-string guitar at concert pitch, I decided to take a chance and ordered one. The no-questions-asked 7-day guarantee made it an easy choice. The guitar arrived in perfect shape, and after installing the battery, I found it to be better than expected. The Anthem pickup is flawless, and easy to adjust. Most important, the sound is truly wonderful. Bolivian rosewood and spruce bring a clarity which I expect will only improve as the guitar opens up. Needless to say, the Algonquin 12 is now my primary live performance guitar and my former go-to axe (without mentioning the brand) is now relegated to the guitar stand at the back of the stage. Can’t wait to see what songs may be waiting to be unlocked. If the songs end up as pretty as the guitar, I’ll be all set.

Chris from CASTLE ROCK

Thu, 05/19/2022 - 14:47

I’ve been a six-string acoustic guitar player for almost thirty years now, and I have probably ten or so six strings spread around the house, from a cheap $100 Yamaha that was my first guitar (and is now my take camping guitar) to a wonderful mahogany Taylor that rarely leaves the house, and many sundry six-strings in between. The Taylor has been my favorite since I acquired it, and it opened my eyes to the wonders of all solid wood construction on a guitar. A solid top, back and sides on a guitar simply blows away a laminate instrument, and for this reason I made the decision to only purchase solid wood guitars from here on out. But when I got the itch to try a twelve string, I just couldn’t bring myself to pay Taylor prices (or, god forbid, Martin) for an instrument that I might only use 10-20 percent of the time. Luckily I stumbled upon the Mackenzie & Marr website and this Algonquin 12 guitar. Sure, I was reticent at first. Their guitar listings all sounded too good to be true, and I’ve never bought a guitar without playing it first. But, between the positive reviews and the ‘return it in the first week’ offer, I decided to give it a go. Man, am I glad I did. Took a couple weeks for the guitar to arrive, but when it did, I was blown away by the instrument right out of the box. They weren’t kidding—this baby is like a work of art. The Sitka Spruce top is flawless and the grain tight and even. The Rosewood back and sides have the most amazing wood coloring and grain patterns, and I love the little strip of lighter heartwood that runs down the middle of the back. Both woods are further enhanced by the beautiful high-gloss finish that adds such an incredible depth and clarity to the guitar’s look. My hand effortlessly glides up and down the satin finish of the mahogany neck, and the ebony fingerboard looks and feels stunning, as do the sparkling brass tuners and glossy headstock. But all that gleam and glitz would be meaningless without a good sound and playability. Well, I’m happy to report that this guitar has both of those as well in abundance. Right out of the box, the instrument was set up perfectly, and I only had to tune it up two steps to get it in tune. I’ve also heard twelves can be a nightmare to tune, but this one was no problem. I’ve spent many hours at guitar shops trying out twelve stings and some play like you need a vice to fret the strings, but this guitar is as easy as my Taylor in its action, almost like playing a six-string. And the sound is out of this world. It sounds as good or better than the twelve string Martins and Taylors I’ve tried, but for a third the price! And the included pickup sounds awesome as well. There is just so much sound when you plug this thing in, from the throaty, freight train lows to the bell-like clarity of the highs, and the warm mids in between, this guitar has it all. I could go on and on, but suffice to say, this was a great purchase, and I will likely be back for another Mack & Marr in the future!

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Specifications

Dimensions
Neck Profile: 
Shallow "C"
Frets To The Body: 
14
Scale Length: 
646 mm (25.4 inches)
Fretboard Radius: 
355mm (14 inches)
Neck width at nut: 
48 mm (1.88 inches)
E to E string spacing at nut: 
41 mm (1.6 inches)
Body Style: 
Alberta Jumbo
Width at Upper Bout: 
29 cm (11.4 inches)
E to E string spacing at saddle: 
60 mm (2.35 inches)
Width at Waist: 
22.5 cm (9 inches)
Width at Lower Bout: 
41cm (16 inches)
Body Depth: 
10 cm (4 inches) at the neck - 12.5 cm (5 inches) at the end-pin
Body Length: 
51.5 cm (20.5 inches)
Materials
Body finish: 
Gloss lacquer
Neck finish: 
Polished satin lacquer
Fretboard and Bridge: 
Macassar Ebony
Neck: 
African Mahogany (Akoumé)
Tuning Machines: 
Grover mini rotomatics
Body Back and Sides: 
Solid bookmatched rare Bolivian Rosewood
Body Top Wood: 
Solid bookmatched AAA grade Sitka Spruce
Nut & Saddle: 
Genuine bone
Bracing: 
Hand scalloped Spruce X bracing
Strings: 
D'Addario EJ38 light gauge (10-47) phosphor bronze
Body Binding: 
Ebony
Bridge Pins: 
Bone
Extras
Case: 
Professional arch top hardshell case (included at no additional cost)
Electronics: 
Optional L.R.Baggs Anthem

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