John Connearn Explores the Emerald Acoustic Guitar Range

Guitarist John Connearn recently spent time with a selection of Emerald guitars, taking a closer look at the core acoustic range and sharing his thoughts on the sound, feel and playability of each model.

In this long-form video, John explores four of our key acoustic models: the compact X7, the versatile X10, our flagship X20 and the powerful jumbo-inspired X30.

Together, these guitars show the breadth of what is possible with Emerald’s full carbon fiber construction — from travel-friendly comfort to big, full-bodied acoustic tone.

A Fresh Look at the Emerald Range

Emerald guitars are handcrafted in Donegal, Ireland, using our signature one-piece carbon fiber construction. This approach allows us to create instruments that are stable, durable and reliable, while also giving us the freedom to design guitars around comfort, balance and modern playability.

For players used to traditional wooden acoustics, carbon fiber can still feel like something different — but as John’s video shows, the Emerald range is built first and foremost around great tone, feel and musicality.

Whether you are looking for a compact guitar for travel and everyday playing, a stage-ready acoustic with a familiar feel, a dependable all-rounder or a jumbo-sized guitar with huge presence, each model in the Emerald range has its own voice and purpose.

Emerald X7 — Compact, Comfortable and Surprisingly Full

The Emerald X7 is our most compact acoustic guitar, designed for players who want a smaller-bodied instrument without sacrificing tone.

With its comfortable body size and 24″ scale length, the X7 is an ideal choice for travel, songwriting, relaxed playing at home, or anyone who simply prefers a more compact guitar. Despite its smaller size, the X7 delivers a voice that is much bigger and fuller than many players expect from a travel-friendly acoustic.

Its carbon fiber construction also makes it especially suited to players on the move, offering excellent tuning stability and reliability across changing climates and conditions.

For players looking for a serious small-bodied acoustic rather than a compromise, the X7 is a standout option.

Emerald X10

The Emerald X10 sits in a unique space within the range. Designed with a comfortable body shape and a slim, easy-playing neck profile, it is a great choice for players who want an acoustic guitar that feels immediately familiar to those coming from electric guitar.

The X10 is compact, responsive and stage-ready, with a design that makes it easy to move between acoustic playing, amplified performance and more modern tonal options depending on the chosen pickup setup.

Its balanced voice and comfortable ergonomics make it a highly versatile guitar for live use, recording, songwriting and everyday playing.

For players who want an acoustic that feels fast, comfortable and adaptable, the X10 is one of the most player-friendly models in the Emerald range.

Emerald X20 — The Flagship All-Rounder

The X20 is our flagship acoustic model and one of the most popular guitars in the Emerald range.

Inspired by the power and familiarity of a traditional dreadnought, but redesigned with Emerald’s modern ergonomic approach, the X20 delivers a full, balanced voice that works across a wide range of styles.

From fingerpicking to flatpicking, the X20 is built as a dependable all-rounder.

For many players, the X20 is the model that best captures the heart of the Emerald acoustic range — versatile, reliable and ready for almost anything.

Emerald X30 — Big Tone and Jumbo Presence

At the larger end of the acoustic range sits the Emerald X30.

The X30 is our jumbo-inspired acoustic guitar, built for players who want a bigger voice with rich bass, strong projection and sparkling highs. It is designed to deliver a full-bodied sound with plenty of presence, making it ideal for players who love a big acoustic tone.

Despite its larger size, the X30 still benefits from Emerald’s ergonomic design approach, making it more comfortable to hold and play than many traditional jumbo acoustics.

For strummers, singer-songwriters, studio players and anyone looking for a powerful acoustic voice, the X30 offers a rich and inspiring playing experience.

Four Models, Four Distinct Voices

One of the great strengths of the Emerald acoustic range is that each model has its own clear identity.

The X7 is compact, comfortable and travel-friendly.
The X10 is modern, versatile and easy to play.
The X20 is the balanced flagship all-rounder.
The X30 delivers a big, full-bodied jumbo tone.

All four share the same Emerald DNA: full carbon fiber construction, excellent tuning stability, weather resistance, modern ergonomics and a focus on inspiring tone.

John’s video gives players a chance to hear these differences for themselves and get a better sense of which model might be the right fit.

Watch John Connearn Explore the Emerald Acoustic Range

In the video, John takes time with each guitar, exploring the details, playability and character of the main Emerald acoustic range.

Whether you are new to carbon fiber guitars or already familiar with Emerald, this is a great opportunity to hear how the X7, X10, X20 and X30 compare side by side.

Watch the full video below:

Find Your Emerald

Every player has a different style, sound and feel they are looking for. That is why the Emerald range is built around choice — from model size, veneers, pickups, inlays, hardware and custom visual options.

You can explore the full Emerald range on our website, design your own guitar in the 3D Builder, or connect with an Emerald Ambassador near you to try one in person.