What is a nylon string ovation guitar?Nylon string ovation guitars are a type of acoustic guitar that uses nylon strings instead of steel strings. This gives them a softer, warmer sound that is often preferred for classical and flamenco music. Ovation guitars are also known for their unique roundback body shape, which gives them a louder, more resonant sound.
Editor’s Notes: Why is “nylon string ovation guitar” important?Nylon string ovation guitars are a popular choice for beginner guitarists because they are easier to play than steel-string guitars. They are also a good choice for guitarists who want a guitar with a warm, mellow sound.
After doing some analysis and digging through tons of information, we put together this nylon string ovation guitar guide to help you make the right decision.
| Nylon String Ovation Guitars | Steel String Ovation Guitars | |
|---|---|---|
| String Material | Nylon | Steel |
| Sound | Softer, warmer | Brighter, louder |
| Playability | Easier to play | More difficult to play |
Main Article Topics
- The history of nylon string ovation guitars
- The different types of nylon string ovation guitars
- How to choose the right nylon string ovation guitar
- How to play nylon string ovation guitar
1. Strings
The type of strings used on a guitar has a significant impact on the sound of the instrument. Nylon strings are softer and warmer sounding than steel strings, which gives nylon string ovation guitars their characteristic mellow tone. This makes them a popular choice for classical and flamenco music, but they can also be used for a variety of other genres.
- Facet 1: Construction and Materials
Nylon strings are made of a synthetic material called nylon, while steel strings are made of steel. Nylon is a softer material than steel, which gives nylon strings their characteristic warm sound. Nylon strings are also less tense than steel strings, which makes them easier to play.
- Facet 2: Sound Quality
The softer material and lower tension of nylon strings results in a sound that is mellower and warmer than the sound of steel strings. Nylon strings also produce less sustain than steel strings, which gives them a more intimate sound.
- Facet 3: Playability
Nylon strings are easier to play than steel strings, making them a good choice for beginners. The softer tension of nylon strings makes them easier to press down on the fretboard, and the wider neck of nylon string ovation guitars makes it easier to finger the strings.
- Facet 4: Versatility
While nylon string ovation guitars are most commonly used for classical and flamenco music, they can also be used for a variety of other genres, including folk, jazz, and even rock. The warm sound of nylon strings can add a unique character to any genre of music.
Overall, the type of strings used on a guitar has a significant impact on the sound, playability, and versatility of the instrument. Nylon strings are softer and warmer sounding than steel strings, which makes them a popular choice for classical and flamenco music, but they can also be used for a variety of other genres.
2. Body
The unique roundback body shape of Ovation guitars is one of the key factors that contributes to their distinctive sound. The roundback design allows the guitar to resonate more freely, which results in a louder, more resonant sound. This is especially beneficial for nylon string ovation guitars, as nylon strings have a softer sound than steel strings. The roundback body shape helps to project the sound of the guitar, making it easier to hear in a variety of settings.
In addition to the roundback body shape, Ovation guitars also feature a unique bracing system that helps to further enhance the sound of the guitar. The bracing system is designed to distribute the tension of the strings evenly across the body of the guitar, which helps to prevent the guitar from warping and also helps to improve the sound quality.
The combination of the roundback body shape and the unique bracing system gives Ovation guitars their characteristic sound. Nylon string ovation guitars are known for their warm, mellow sound, which is perfect for classical and flamenco music. However, they can also be used for a variety of other genres, including folk, jazz, and even rock.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between nylon string ovation guitars and steel string ovation guitars:
| Feature | Nylon String Ovation Guitars | Steel String Ovation Guitars |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Roundback | Dreadnought |
| String Material | Nylon | Steel |
| Sound | Warm, mellow | Bright, loud |
| Playability | Easier to play | More difficult to play |
Overall, the unique roundback body shape of Ovation guitars is one of the key factors that contributes to their distinctive sound. Nylon string ovation guitars are known for their warm, mellow sound, which is perfect for classical and flamenco music. However, they can also be used for a variety of other genres, including folk, jazz, and even rock.
3. Neck
The neck of a guitar is one of the most important factors that determines the playability of the instrument. Nylon string ovation guitars typically have a wider neck than steel string guitars, which makes them easier to play. This is especially beneficial for beginners, as it makes it easier to finger the strings and press down on the fretboard.
The wider neck of nylon string ovation guitars also makes it easier to play chords. This is because the wider neck provides more space between the strings, which makes it easier to avoid accidentally muting the strings. Additionally, the wider neck makes it easier to reach the frets, which can be helpful for players with smaller hands.
Overall, the wider neck of nylon string ovation guitars is one of the key factors that makes them easier to play. This is especially beneficial for beginners, as it makes it easier to finger the strings, press down on the fretboard, and play chords.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between the necks of nylon string ovation guitars and steel string ovation guitars:
| Feature | Nylon String Ovation Guitars | Steel String Ovation Guitars |
|---|---|---|
| Neck Width | Wider | Narrower |
| Playability | Easier to play | More difficult to play |
Ultimately, the best way to determine which type of guitar is right for you is to try out different guitars and see which one feels the most comfortable to play. However, if you are a beginner, a nylon string ovation guitar is a great option, as it will be easier to learn to play.
4. Fretboard
The fretboard is a crucial component of any guitar, and the material used for the fretboard can have a significant impact on the sound, playability, and overall quality of the instrument. Nylon string ovation guitars typically have a fretboard made of rosewood or ebony, two types of wood that are known for their durability, beauty, and tonal qualities.
- Tonal Qualities:
Rosewood and ebony are both dense hardwoods that produce a warm, rich sound. This makes them ideal for nylon string ovation guitars, as the warm sound of the fretboard complements the mellow sound of the nylon strings.
- Durability:
Rosewood and ebony are both very durable woods, which makes them a good choice for fretboards. The fretboard is one of the most frequently used parts of the guitar, and it is important to have a fretboard that can withstand the wear and tear of regular playing.
- Playability:
Rosewood and ebony are both smooth woods that are easy to play on. This is important for nylon string ovation guitars, as they are often used for classical and flamenco music, which require a high degree of precision and dexterity.
- Aesthetics:
Rosewood and ebony are both beautiful woods that can add to the overall aesthetic appeal of a nylon string ovation guitar. Rosewood has a reddish-brown color with a distinctive grain pattern, while ebony is a deep black color with a very fine grain pattern.
Overall, the fretboard on a nylon string ovation guitar is typically made of rosewood or ebony because these woods offer the best combination of tonal qualities, durability, playability, and aesthetics.
5. Bridge
The bridge is a crucial component of any guitar, and it plays an important role in the sound and playability of the instrument. The bridge is responsible for transferring the vibrations of the strings to the body of the guitar, and it also helps to keep the strings in place and at the correct tension.
Nylon string ovation guitars have a unique bridge design that is specifically designed to accommodate the softer tension of nylon strings. Nylon strings are not as tense as steel strings, so they require a bridge that is able to provide the correct amount of support without putting too much tension on the strings.
The bridge on a nylon string ovation guitar is typically made of rosewood or ebony. These woods are both very hard and durable, and they can withstand the tension of nylon strings without warping or breaking.
The bridge is also designed to allow for easy intonation. Intonation is the process of adjusting the length of the strings so that they are in tune with each other. The bridge on a nylon string ovation guitar has a series of small screws that can be adjusted to change the length of the strings.
The bridge on a nylon string ovation guitar is an important component of the instrument. It plays a crucial role in the sound, playability, and intonation of the guitar.
Here is a table that summarizes the key features of the bridge on a nylon string ovation guitar:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Rosewood or ebony |
| Design | Designed to accommodate the softer tension of nylon strings |
| Intonation | Adjustable intonation |
6. Tuners
Keeping a guitar in tune is essential for playing in tune and producing music that sounds good. Nylon string ovation guitars typically have geared tuners, which make it easy to keep the guitar in tune. This is especially important for nylon string guitars, as nylon strings are more susceptible to going out of tune than steel strings.
- Facet 1: Geared tuners
Geared tuners are a type of tuning machine that uses gears to turn the tuning pegs. This makes it much easier to tune the guitar, as you don’t have to use as much force. Geared tuners are also more precise than friction tuners, which means that you can get the guitar in tune more accurately.
- Facet 2: Nylon strings
Nylon strings are softer and more flexible than steel strings. This makes them easier to play, but it also makes them more susceptible to going out of tune. Nylon strings also stretch more than steel strings, so you need to tune them more often.
- Facet 3: Importance of keeping the guitar in tune
Playing in tune is essential for sounding good. If your guitar is out of tune, it will sound muddy and dissonant. This can make it difficult to play along with other musicians and can also make it difficult to sing in tune.
- Facet 4: Benefits of geared tuners for nylon string guitars
Geared tuners make it easy to keep a nylon string guitar in tune. This is because geared tuners are more precise and easier to use than friction tuners. As a result, you can spend less time tuning your guitar and more time playing it.
Overall, the geared tuners on nylon string ovation guitars are an important feature that makes it easy to keep the guitar in tune. This is especially important for nylon string guitars, as nylon strings are more susceptible to going out of tune than steel strings.
7. Electronics
The addition of electronics to nylon string ovation guitars opens up a world of possibilities for players. By plugging the guitar into an amplifier, players can achieve a wider range of sounds, from clean and pristine to distorted and overdriven. This makes nylon string ovation guitars a more versatile instrument, suitable for a wider range of genres.
One of the most important benefits of electronics on nylon string ovation guitars is the ability to control the volume. This is especially useful in live performance situations, where players need to be able to adjust their volume to match the rest of the band. Additionally, electronics allow players to add effects to their sound, such as reverb, delay, and chorus. These effects can help to create a more lush and spacious sound.
Another benefit of electronics on nylon string ovation guitars is the ability to record the guitar directly into an audio interface. This makes it easy to create high-quality recordings of your playing, which can be used for practice, songwritin
g, or sharing with others.
Overall, the addition of electronics to nylon string ovation guitars is a significant upgrade that provides players with a wider range of sounds, more control over their volume, and the ability to record their playing directly into an audio interface.
Here is a table summarizing the key benefits of electronics on nylon string ovation guitars:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Increased versatility | Electronics allow nylon string ovation guitars to be used for a wider range of genres, from classical to rock. |
| Greater control over volume | Electronics allow players to adjust the volume of their guitar to match the rest of the band or to create specific effects. |
| Ability to add effects | Electronics allow players to add effects to their sound, such as reverb, delay, and chorus. |
| Easy recording | Electronics allow players to record their guitar directly into an audio interface, making it easy to create high-quality recordings. |
8. Sound
The sound of a nylon string ovation guitar is one of its most distinctive features. The warm, mellow sound is produced by the combination of the nylon strings and the unique body shape of the guitar. Nylon strings are softer and more flexible than steel strings, which gives them a warmer, less bright sound. The roundback body shape of ovation guitars also contributes to the warm sound, as it allows the sound to resonate more freely.
The warm, mellow sound of nylon string ovation guitars makes them ideal for classical and flamenco music. Classical music often requires a guitar with a warm, rich sound that can support the melody and harmony. Flamenco music is also characterized by its warm, passionate sound, and nylon string ovation guitars are often used to accompany flamenco dancers and singers.
In addition to classical and flamenco music, nylon string ovation guitars can also be used for a variety of other genres, including folk, jazz, and even rock. The warm, mellow sound of these guitars can add a unique character to any genre of music.
Here is a table that summarizes the key insights about the sound of nylon string ovation guitars:
| Key Insight | Description |
|---|---|
| Nylon strings produce a warm, mellow sound. | The softer and more flexible nature of nylon strings results in a sound that is warmer and less bright than the sound produced by steel strings. |
| The roundback body shape of ovation guitars allows the sound to resonate more freely. | The unique body shape of ovation guitars helps to project the sound of the guitar, making it easier to hear in a variety of settings. |
| Nylon string ovation guitars are ideal for classical and flamenco music. | The warm, mellow sound of nylon string ovation guitars makes them a popular choice for classical and flamenco music, as they can support the melody and harmony and add a passionate touch to the music. |
| Nylon string ovation guitars can also be used for a variety of other genres. | The warm, mellow sound of nylon string ovation guitars can add a unique character to any genre of music, making them a versatile choice for a variety of musical styles. |
9. Playability
Nylon string ovation guitars are easier to play than steel string guitars due to several important factors. These factors combine to make nylon string ovation guitars an excellent choice for beginners, as they offer a more comfortable and accessible playing experience.
- Wider neck: Nylon string ovation guitars typically have a wider neck than steel string guitars. This wider neck provides more space between the strings, making it easier to finger the strings and press down on the fretboard. This is especially beneficial for beginners, as it reduces the risk of accidentally muting the strings.
- Softer strings: Nylon strings are softer and more flexible than steel strings. This makes them easier to press down on the fretboard, which can be helpful for players with smaller hands or less strength. Additionally, the softer strings produce less tension on the neck, making it more comfortable to play for extended periods.
- Lower action: Nylon string ovation guitars typically have a lower action than steel string guitars. This means that the strings are closer to the fretboard, which makes it easier to fret the notes cleanly. This is especially important for beginners, as it reduces the risk of buzzing and intonation issues.
- Smaller body size: Nylon string ovation guitars often have a smaller body size than steel string guitars. This smaller body size makes them more comfortable to hold and play, especially for players with smaller frames or shorter arms.
Overall, the combination of these factors makes nylon string ovation guitars easier to play than steel string guitars. This makes them an excellent choice for beginners, as they offer a more comfortable and accessible playing experience. As players progress in their guitar journey, they may eventually transition to steel string guitars, but nylon string ovation guitars remain a popular choice for many players due to their unique sound and playing feel.
10. Versatility
Nylon string ovation guitars are renowned for their versatility, as they can be used to play a wide range of musical genres. This versatility stems from the unique characteristics of nylon strings and the design of ovation guitars.
Nylon strings produce a warm, mellow sound that is well-suited for classical and flamenco music. However, these guitars can also produce a surprisingly bright and lively sound when used for folk and jazz. The combination of nylon strings and the ovation guitar’s unique body shape creates a sound that is both rich and articulate, making it suitable for a variety of musical styles.
Here are some specific examples of how nylon string ovation guitars are used in different genres:
- Classical music: Nylon string ovation guitars are the traditional choice for classical guitarists. The warm, mellow sound of these guitars blends well with the delicate melodies and harmonies of classical music.
- Flamenco music: Nylon string ovation guitars are also popular for flamenco music. The bright, lively sound of these guitars provides a strong rhythmic foundation for flamenco dancing and singing.
- Folk music: Nylon string ovation guitars are often used for folk music. The warm, mellow sound of these guitars complements the acoustic sound of folk music, and the fingerpicking style that is often used with nylon string guitars creates a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
- Jazz music: Nylon string ovation guitars are also used for jazz music. The warm, mellow sound of these guitars blends well with the improvisational nature of jazz, and the fingerpicking style that is often used with nylon string guitars creates a unique and personal sound.
The versatility of nylon string ovation guitars is one of their greatest strengths. These guitars can be used to play a wide range of musical genres, from classical to flamenco to folk to jazz. This makes them a valuable instrument for any musician who wants to explore different musical styles.
Table: Key Insights on the Versatility of Nylon String Ovation Guitars
| Key Insight | Description |
|---|---|
| Nylon strings produce a warm, mellow sound that is well-suited for classical and flamenco music. | The warm, mellow sound of nylon strings is ideal for the delicate melodies and harmonies of classical music and the rhythmic foundation of flamenco music. |
| The ovation guitar’s unique body shape creates a sound that is both rich and articulate. | The roundback body shape of ovation guitars allows the sound to resonate more freely, resulting in a rich and articulate sound that is suitable for a variety of musical styles. |
| Nylon string ovation guitars can be used to play a wide range of musical genres, from classical to flamenco to folk to jazz. | The unique characteristics of nylon strings and the design of ovation guitars make them suitable for a variety of musical styles, offering musicians a versatile instrument that can adapt to different genres. |
11. Price
The price of a nylon string ovation guitar is typically higher than that of a steel string guitar. This is due to several factors, including the cost of materials, the construction process, and the perceived value of nylon string guitars.
- Materials: Nylon strings are more expensive to produce than steel strings. This is because nylon is a synthetic material that must be manufactured, while steel is a naturally occurring material that can be mined. Additionally, nylon strings are typically thicker than steel strings, which requires more material to produce.
- Construction: Nylon string ovation guitars typically have a more complex construction process than steel string guitars. This is because the neck of a nylon string guitar must be reinforced to withstand the tension of the nylon strings. Additionally, nylon string guitars often have a wider neck and a different body shape than steel string guitars, which requires more time and effort to construct.
- Perceived value: Nylon string ovation guitars are often perceived as being more valuable than steel string guitars. This is because nylon string guitars are often associated with classical music, which is seen as a more refined and sophisticated genre of music. Additionally, nylon string guitars are often made with higher quality materials and craftsmanship, which contributes to their perceived value.
Despite their higher price, nylon string ovation guitars offer several advantages over steel string guitars. Nylon strings are softer and easier to play, which makes them a good choice for beginners. Additionally, nylon strings produce a warmer and more mellow sound than steel strings, which is preferred by some players.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to purchase a nylon string ovation guitar or a steel string guitar depends on the individual player’s needs and preferences. However, it is important to be aware of the price difference between these two types of guitars before making a decision.
FAQs about Nylon String Ovation Guitars
Nylon string ovation guitars offer a unique and distinctive sound that has made them popular among guitarists of all levels. However, there are also some common questions and misconceptions about nylon string ovation guitars. Here are six frequently asked questions about nylon string ovation guitars, along with their answers:
Question 1: What is the difference between a nylon string ovation guitar and a steel string ovation guitar?
The main difference between a nylon string ovation guitar and a steel string ovation guitar is the type of strings used. Nylon strings are softer and more flexible than steel strings, which gives them a warmer and more mellow sound. Steel strings are brighter and louder, and they are typically used for rock, pop, and country music. Nylon strings are more commonly used for classical, flamenco, and folk music.
Question 2: Are nylon string ovation guitars easier to play than steel string ovation guitars?
Yes, nylon string ovation guitars are generally easier to play than steel string ovation guitars. This is because nylon strings are softer and easier to press down on the fretboard. Additionally, nylon string ovation guitars typically have a wider neck, which makes it easier to finger the strings. This makes nylon string ovation guitars a good choice for beginners.
Question 3: Can nylon string ovation guitars be used for a variety of genres?
Yes, nylon string ovation guitars can be used for a variety of genres, including classical, flamenco, folk, jazz, and even rock. The warm and mellow sound of nylon strings can add a unique character to any genre of music. However, nylon string ovation guitars are not as well-suited for genres that require a bright and loud sound, such as heavy metal or hard rock.
Question 4: Are nylon string ovation guitars more expensive than steel string ovation guitars?
Yes, nylon string ovation guitars are typically more expensive than steel string ovation guitars. This is because nylon strings are more expensive to produce than steel strings, and because nylon string ovation guitars often have a more complex construction process. Additionally, nylon string ovation guitars are often perceived as being more valuable than steel string ovation guitars, due to their association with classical music.
Question 5: What are the benefits of owning a nylon string ovation guitar?
There are many benefits to owning a nylon string ovation guitar. Nylon strings are softer and easier to play, which makes them a good choice for beginners. Additionally, nylon strings produce a warm and mellow sound that is well-suited for a variety of genres. Nylon string ovation guitars are also known for their craftsmanship and quality.
Question 6: What are some of the limitations of nylon string ovation guitars?
Nylon string ovation guitars have some limitations, such as their inability to produce a bright and loud sound. Additionally, nylon strings are more susceptible to stretching and going out of tune than steel strings. However, these limitations are outweighed by the many benefits of owning a nylon string ovation guitar.
Overall, nylon string ovation guitars are a great choice for guitarists of all levels. They offer a unique and distinctive sound that can be used for a variety of genres. If you are looking for a guitar that is easy to play, sounds great, and is built to last, then a nylon string ovation guitar is a great option.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about nylon string ovation guitars, let’s take a closer look at some of the specific features and benefits of these guitars.
Tips for Playing Nylon String Ovation Guitars
Nylon string ovation guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres. However, there are some specific techniques and tips that can help you get the most out of your nylon string ovation guitar.
Tip 1: Use the right strings. Nylon strings come in a variety of t
ensions and materials. It is important to choose the right strings for your guitar and playing style. If you are unsure which strings to choose, consult with a guitar teacher or luthier.
Tip 2: Tune your guitar regularly. Nylon strings are more susceptible to stretching and going out of tune than steel strings. It is important to tune your guitar regularly, especially before and after playing.
Tip 3: Use a light touch. Nylon strings are more delicate than steel strings. It is important to use a light touch when playing nylon string ovation guitars. This will help to prevent the strings from breaking.
Tip 4: Experiment with different picking and strumming techniques. Nylon strings can be played with a variety of picking and strumming techniques. Experiment with different techniques to find the sound that you like best.
Tip 5: Use a guitar strap. A guitar strap can help to distribute the weight of the guitar and prevent it from falling. This is especially important when playing while standing.
Tip 6: Take care of your guitar. Nylon string ovation guitars are delicate instruments. It is important to take care of your guitar and store it in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Tip 7: Get regular maintenance. Regular maintenance can help to keep your nylon string ovation guitar in good playing condition. This includes cleaning the guitar, lubricating the tuners, and adjusting the truss rod.
Tip 8: Learn from others. There are many resources available to help you learn how to play nylon string ovation guitars. These resources include books, online lessons, and videos. Take advantage of these resources to improve your playing skills.
Conclusion
Nylon string ovation guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres. They offer a warm and mellow sound that is well-suited for classical, flamenco, folk, and jazz music. Nylon string ovation guitars are also known for their craftsmanship and quality.
If you are looking for a guitar that is easy to play, sounds great, and is built to last, then a nylon string ovation guitar is a great option. With proper care and maintenance, your nylon string ovation guitar will provide you with years of enjoyment.
We encourage you to explore the many resources available to learn more about nylon string ovation guitars. There are many books, online lessons, and videos that can help you improve your playing skills. You can also find nylon string ovation guitars for sale at most music stores.
We hope this article has helped you to learn more about nylon string ovation guitars. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
