Tanglewood TC3 Crossroads Orchestra Acoustic Guitar, Whiskey Burst Satin

A mid-size mahogany acoustic for everyday playing

A mid-size body and a modest price make the Tanglewood TC3 an easy first or second acoustic. It is an orchestra acoustic guitar from the Crossroads TC series, built from mahogany, and it suits learners, songwriters and anyone who wants one guitar for a bit of everything.

Orchestra size, everyday comfort

The orchestra shape, sometimes called folk, is smaller than a dreadnought but still has enough body to sound full. Your arm wraps over it without stretching, and it sits well when you play on a chair, a stool or the edge of the bed. That balance of size and volume is why so many teachers suggest this style of body to new players.

• Mid-size body that suits most adults and teenagers
• Equally happy with a pick or with your fingers
• No electronics, so nothing to set up before you play
• Light enough to move from room to room

What mahogany brings

Every main tonewood here is mahogany: the top, the back and the sides. The result is a warm, rounded tone with a solid low end and highs that stay clear without turning sharp. Strummed chords sound full, and picked melodies have a soft, singing quality. It is a sound that sits nicely under a voice, which helps if you sing while you play.

Finish and feel

A Whiskey Burst Satin finish gives the TC3 a sunburst look, darker at the edges and lighter in the middle, with the mahogany grain showing through. The satin surface feels smooth and natural rather than slick. The fingerboard is Eboncore, which is dark, hard-wearing and comfortable under your fingertips.

The TC3 is a strong all-rounder in the tanglewood crossroads range. If you want to plug in later, the TC5E adds electronics in a bigger dreadnought body. If you need something to travel with, the TC2 is smaller. Left-handed players can choose the TC3LH, the same guitar built the other way round for £139. At £129 with free UK delivery, the TC3 is a sensible place to start.