Is ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar on your music instrument list? With its unique blend of rich acoustic sound and versatile electric capabilities, the Ovation 12-string Acoustic-Electric Guitar has captivated musicians of all levels for decades.
Editor’s Notes:ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar is widely regarded as one of the finest acoustic-electric guitars on the market, renowned for its exceptional sound quality, comfortable playability, and stunning aesthetics. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, this guitar is an excellent choice.
After analyzing numerous reviews, consulting with industry experts, and conducting thorough research, we have compiled this comprehensive ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar guide to assist you in making an informed decision.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Lyrachord Composite Bowl |
| Neck Material | Nato |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood |
| Electronics | OP-Pro preamp with EQ and tuner |
Main Article Topics:
- The History of the Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- The Unique Features of the Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- The Benefits of the Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- How to Choose the Right Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar for You
- The Best Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitars on the Market
1. Body Shape
The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar’s unique body shape, known as the Lyrachord Composite Bowl, is a key factor in its distinctive sound and comfortable playability.
- Composite Construction: The Lyrachord Composite Bowl is made of a combination of materials, including fiberglass, carbon fiber, and Kevlar, which gives it a unique strength and resonance.
- Roundback Design: Unlike traditional acoustic guitars with a flat back, the Lyrachord Composite Bowl has a roundback design, which contributes to its rich and full sound.
- Mid-Depth Body: The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar has a mid-depth body, which makes it comfortable to play while still providing a full and resonant sound.
- Cutaway Design: The cutaway design of the guitar’s body allows for easy access to the higher frets, making it ideal for playing lead guitar or complex chords.
Overall, the Lyrachord Composite Bowl body shape of the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is a key factor in its unique sound, comfortable playability, and overall versatility.
2. Neck Material
In the realm of ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitars, the choice of neck material plays a significant role in shaping the instrument’s playability, tone, and overall feel. Nato, a tropical hardwood native to Central and South America, has emerged as a popular choice for guitar necks due to its unique properties and affordability.
- Strength and Durability: Nato wood is known for its exceptional strength and durability, making it resistant to warping and bending. This ensures that the neck remains stable and true over time, even under demanding playing conditions.
- Tonal Characteristics: Nato’s tonal characteristics are well-suited for acoustic guitars. It produces a warm, balanced sound with a clear midrange and a subtle high-end shimmer. This tonal profile complements the rich, resonant sound of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar’s Lyrachord Composite Bowl body.
- Playability: The density of Nato wood contributes to the neck’s smooth and comfortable playability. It allows for fast and effortless fretting, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced players.
- Affordability: Compared to other neck materials such as mahogany or rosewood, Nato is a more affordable option. This makes it an attractive choice for guitar manufacturers looking to produce high-quality instruments at a competitive price point.
Overall, the use of Nato as the neck material in ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitars offers a combination of strength, tonal balance, playability, and affordability, making it a popular choice among guitarists of all levels.
3. Fretboard Material
In the realm of ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitars, the choice of fretboard material plays a crucial role in shaping the instrument’s playability, tone, and overall feel. Rosewood, a dense and durable hardwood, has long been prized for its exceptional qualities, making it a popular choice for premium guitars.
One of the key benefits of rosewood as a fretboard material is its tonal characteristics. Rosewood produces a warm, rich sound with a clear and articulate midrange. This tonal profile complements the bright and resonant sound of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar’s Lyrachord Composite Bowl body, creating a balanced and pleasing overall sound.
In addition to its tonal qualities, rosewood is also known for its exceptional playability. The smooth, dense surface of rosewood allows for fast and effortless fretting, making it a comfortable and enjoyable experience for guitarists of all levels. The durability of rosewood ensures that the fretboard will withstand years of use and maintain its excellent playing condition.
Furthermore, rosewood is aesthetically pleasing, with a deep reddish-brown color and attractive grain patterns. This adds to the overall beauty and appeal of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar, making it a visually stunning instrument.
| Characteristic | Rosewood Fretboard |
|---|---|
| Tone | Warm, rich, clear midrange |
| Playability | Smooth, dense surface for effortless fretting |
| Durability | Withstands years of use and maintains excellent playing condition |
| Aesthetics | Deep reddish-brown color and attractive grain patterns |
Overall, the use of rosewood as the fretboard material in ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitars offers a combination of exceptional tone, playability, durability, and beauty, making it a highly sought-after choice among discerning guitarists.
4. Electronics
The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar features the OP-Pro preamp with EQ and tuner, an advanced electronic system that enhances the guitar’s versatility and functionality.
- Preamp:
The preamp amplifies the guitar’s signal, allowing it to be connected to an amplifier or PA system. It also provides tone shaping options, such as bass, midrange, and treble controls, allowing the guitarist to customize their sound.
- EQ:
The EQ section of the preamp allows the guitarist to fine-tune the guitar’s sound even further. By adjusting the EQ sliders, the guitarist can boost or cut specific frequency ranges, creating a sound that is tailored to their playing style and the musical genre.
- Tuner:
The built-in tuner is a convenient and accurate way to keep the guitar in tune. It features a bright LED display that makes it easy to see the tuning status, and it can be used in noisy environments.
- Versatile Connectivity:
The OP-Pro preamp provides multiple output options, including XLR and 1/4-inch outputs. This allows the guitar to be connected to a variety of sound systems, making it suitable for both live performances and recording.
Overall, the OP-Pro preamp with EQ and tuner is a powerful and versatile electronic system that enhances the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar’s capabilities. It provides the guitarist with a wide range of tone shaping options and connectivity options, making it an ideal choice for a variety of musical styles and playing situations.
5. String Configuration
The unique string configuration of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar, featuring 12 strings instead of the traditional six, sets it apart from other acoustic guitars.
- Expanded Tonal Range:
The 12 strings provide a wider tonal range compared to a standard 6-string guitar, creating a fuller and richer sound. The octave strings add depth and resonance, while the unison strings enhance the clarity and articulation.
- Distinctive Chiming Sound:
The 12-string configuration produces a characteristic chiming sound that is instantly recognizable. This shimmering and bell-like tone is a hallmark of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar, making it popular in genres such as folk, rock, and country.
- Increased Dynamic Range:
The additional strings allow for a greater dynamic range, enabling the guitarist to play with more expressiveness and control. The wider tonal palette and increased sustain make it suitable for both delicate fingerpicking and powerful strumming.
- Technical Challenges:
While the 12-string configuration offers unique sonic benefits, it also presents some technical challenges. The increased string tension requires a more precise setup and regular maintenance to ensure optimal playability and intonation. Additionally, the wider neck and string spacing may require some adjustment for guitarists accustomed to traditional 6-string guitars.
In conclusion, the 12-string configuration of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar contributes to its distinctive sound, expanded tonal range, and dynamic expressiveness. While it requires careful setup and maintenance, this unique string arrangement continues to captivate guitarists and listeners alike.
6. Sound Quality
The ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar is renowned for its rich and resonant sound quality, a defining characteristic that sets it apart from other acoustic guitars. This exceptional sound is the result of a combination of factors, including the unique body shape, the choice of tonewoods, and the advanced bracing system.
- Lyrachord Composite Bowl Body:
The Lyrachord Composite Bowl body is a key contributor to the rich and resonant sound of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar. The unique bowl-shaped design and composite construction create a strong and durable body that resonates freely, producing a full and balanced sound with excellent projection.
- Solid Spruce Top:
The solid spruce top is another important factor in the guitar’s sound quality. Spruce is a lightweight and resonant wood that produces a bright and clear tone. The solid construction allows the top to vibrate freely, enhancing the guitar’s volume and sustain.
- Scalloped X-Bracing:
The scalloped X-bracing pattern provides structural support to the guitar’s top while allowing it to vibrate more freely. This results in a more resonant and responsive sound, with improved sustain and projection.
- Precision Neck and Bridge:
The precision neck and bridge are carefully crafted to ensure optimal string tension and intonation. This attention to detail contributes to the guitar’s overall sound quality, ensuring that each note is clear and well-defined.
The combination of these factors results in the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar’s signature rich and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for musicians who demand a full and expressive acoustic tone.
7. Playability
The ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar is renowned for its exceptional playability, offering a comfortable and smooth playing experience that enhances the musical journey.
- Slim Neck Profile:
The neck of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar features a slim profile, making it easy to grip and maneuver. This design reduces fatigue during extended playing sessions and allows for effortless fretting, especially for those with smaller hands.
- Low String Action:
The guitar’s low string action ensures that the strings are close to the fretboard, requiring less pressure to fret. This results in a more comfortable playing experience, reducing finger strain and allowing for faster and more fluid playing.
- Smooth Fretboard:
The fretboard of the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar is meticulously polished to provide a smooth surface. This eliminates any rough edges or imperfections that could hinder playing, ensuring a comfortable and consistent feel across the entire fretboard.
- Balanced Weight:
The ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar is designed with a balanced weight distribution, making it comfortable to hold and play for extended periods. The guitar’s weight is evenly distributed across the body, reducing fatigue and allowing musicians to focus on their performance.
The combination of these factors contributes to the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar’s exceptional playability, making it an ideal choice for musicians of all levels. Its comfortable and smooth playing experience enhances creativity, expression, and over
all enjoyment of the musical journey.
8. Versatility
The ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar stands out for its remarkable versatility, allowing musicians to explore a wide range of genres with a single instrument.
The unique combination of its rich acoustic sound and versatile electric capabilities makes it suitable for various musical styles, from delicate fingerpicking to powerful strumming. The 12-string configuration adds depth and resonance, providing a distinctive chiming sound that complements genres such as folk, rock, and country.
Furthermore, the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar’s onboard electronics, including the OP-Pro preamp with EQ and tuner, enhance its versatility even further. The preamp allows for precise tone shaping, while the tuner ensures accurate intonation, making it adaptable to different musical contexts and performance settings.
This versatility makes the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar an ideal choice for musicians who require an instrument that can keep up with their diverse musical interests and needs. Its ability to transition seamlessly between genres empowers musicians to express their creativity and connect with audiences across musical boundaries.
| Genre | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Folk | Delicate fingerpicking, warm and resonant sound |
| Rock | Powerful strumming, chiming 12-string sound |
| Country | Twangy rhythms, clear and articulate sound |
| Blues | Emotional solos, rich and expressive sound |
| Jazz | Complex chords, smooth and sophisticated sound |
9. Durability
The ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar is renowned for its exceptional durability, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of frequent use and extensive touring. This durability is a result of meticulous craftsmanship and the use of high-quality materials.
The Lyrachord Composite Bowl body is a key factor in the guitar’s durability. This innovative material is a combination of fiberglass, carbon fiber, and Kevlar, which makes it incredibly strong and resistant to damage. Unlike traditional wooden acoustic guitars, the Lyrachord Composite Bowl body is not susceptible to warping or cracking, even under extreme temperature and humidity changes.
The nato neck and rosewood fretboard further contribute to the guitar’s durability. Nato is a dense and durable wood that is resistant to bending and warping, while rosewood is known for its strength and stability. The combination of these materials ensures that the neck and fretboard can withstand the tension of the 12 strings and maintain their shape over time.
The ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar’s hardware is also designed for durability. The chrome-plated tuning machines are corrosion-resistant and provide precise tuning stability. The bridge is made of durable materials and securely anchors the strings, ensuring that they stay in place even during aggressive strumming.
The combination of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship makes the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar an extremely durable instrument. It is built to withstand the demands of professional musicians and can provide years of reliable performance.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Lyrachord Composite Bowl body | Resistant to damage, warping, and cracking |
| Nato neck and rosewood fretboard | Strong and stable, can withstand string tension |
| Chrome-plated tuning machines | Corrosion-resistant, provide precise tuning stability |
| Durable bridge | Securely anchors strings, prevents slippage |
10. Value
The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar offers an exceptional price-to-performance ratio, making it a highly valuable instrument for musicians of all levels.
This value is a result of several factors, including:
- High-quality materials and construction: The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is made with high-quality materials, including a solid spruce top, nato neck, and rosewood fretboard. These materials contribute to the guitar’s rich sound, excellent playability, and durability.
- Efficient manufacturing processes: Ovation utilizes efficient manufacturing processes to produce its guitars, which helps to keep costs down without sacrificing quality.
- Direct-to-consumer sales: Ovation sells its guitars directly to consumers through its website and authorized dealers, which eliminates the middleman and reduces the overall cost of the guitar.
As a result of these factors, the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar offers exceptional value for money. Musicians can get a high-quality instrument with a rich sound, excellent playability, and durable construction at a very reasonable price.
This value makes the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar an attractive option for musicians who are looking for a versatile and affordable instrument that can meet their needs.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| High-quality materials and construction | Rich sound, excellent playability, and durability |
| Efficient manufacturing processes | Lower production costs |
| Direct-to-consumer sales | Elimination of middleman and reduced costs |
11. Brand Reputation
The reputation of Ovation as a trusted and respected brand plays a significant role in the perception and success of its 12-string acoustic-electric guitar.
- Manufacturing Expertise: Ovation has a long-standing history of innovation and craftsmanship in guitar making. The brand’s reputation for producing high-quality instruments with meticulous attention to detail instills confidence among musicians.
- Artist Endorsements: Ovation guitars have been endorsed by renowned musicians such as Glen Campbell, Melissa Etheridge, and Steve Winwood. These endorsements serve as a testament to the quality and versatility of Ovation’s instruments, further enhancing the brand’s reputation.
- Industry Recognition: Ovation has received numerous industry awards and accolades for its guitars, including recognition from organizations like the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM). These awards reinforce the brand’s reputation for excellence and innovation.
- Customer Testimonials: Positive feedback and reviews from satisfied customers further strengthen Ovation’s reputation. Musicians who have purchased and played Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitars often praise their rich sound, exceptional playability, and durable con
struction.
Overall, Ovation’s reputation as a trusted and respected brand contributes to the high regard for its 12-string acoustic-electric guitar. Musicians can purchase this instrument with confidence, knowing that it is backed by a brand with a proven track record of quality and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
This section addresses commonly asked questions and misconceptions regarding the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar.
Question 1:What are the unique features of the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar?
Answer: The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is distinguished by its Lyrachord Composite Bowl body, which provides a rich and resonant sound. It also features a nato neck and rosewood fretboard, offering comfortable playability and durability.
Question 2:How versatile is the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar?
Answer: This guitar is highly versatile, suitable for a wide range of genres including folk, rock, country, blues, and jazz. Its onboard electronics, including the OP-Pro preamp with EQ and tuner, further enhance its adaptability to different musical contexts.
Question 3:Is the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar durable?
Answer: Yes, this guitar is built to last, featuring a Lyrachord Composite Bowl body that is resistant to damage, warping, and cracking. The nato neck and rosewood fretboard provide additional strength and stability, ensuring longevity even under demanding playing conditions.
Question 4:What is the price range for the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar?
Answer: The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar offers an excellent price-to-performance ratio, making it accessible to musicians of all levels. Its high-quality materials and construction, combined with efficient manufacturing processes and direct-to-consumer sales, result in a very reasonable price point.
Question 5:Why is the Ovation brand trusted and respected?
Answer: Ovation has a long-standing reputation for innovation and craftsmanship in guitar making. Endorsements by renowned musicians, industry recognition, and positive customer testimonials further reinforce the brand’s credibility and the exceptional quality of its instruments.
Question 6:What are the benefits of using a 12-string acoustic-electric guitar?
Answer: A 12-string acoustic-electric guitar offers a wider tonal range, a distinctive chiming sound, and increased dynamic range compared to a traditional 6-string guitar. It is particularly well-suited for genres that benefit from its rich and resonant sound, such as folk, rock, and country.
In summary, the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is renowned for its unique features, versatility, durability, affordability, and the trusted reputation of the Ovation brand. It is an excellent choice for musicians seeking a high-quality instrument that can meet the demands of various musical styles and playing levels.
This concludes our FAQ section on the ovation 12 string acoustic electric guitar. For further information or specific inquiries, please consult the provided resources or reach out to the manufacturer directly.
Proceed to the next section: Conclusion
Tips for Using the Ovation 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Harnessing the full potential of your Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar requires proper technique and care.
Tip 1: Fingerpicking Mastery
Embrace fingerpicking techniques to unlock the guitar’s rich and shimmering sound. Utilize your thumb and fingers to create intricate and expressive melodies and accompaniments.
Tip 2: Optimal Tuning
Maintain accurate intonation by regularly tuning your guitar. The built-in tuner ensures precise tuning, enhancing the overall clarity and resonance of your performance.
Tip 3: Experiment with String Gauges
Explore different string gauges to customize the guitar’s feel and tone. Lighter gauges provide easier playability, while heavier gauges offer increased volume and sustain.
Tip 4: Proper Humidity Control
Protect your guitar from damage caused by extreme temperature and humidity fluctuations. Use a humidifier or keep the guitar in a controlled environment to maintain its structural integrity and sound quality.
Tip 5: Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Preserve the pristine condition of your guitar by regularly cleaning the body, strings, and fretboard. This prevents dirt and grime accumulation and extends the guitar’s lifespan.
By incorporating these tips into your playing and maintenance routine, you can maximize the performance and longevity of your Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar, enabling you to fully explore its musical possibilities.
Proceed to the next section: Conclusion
Conclusion
Our exploration of the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar has illuminated its unique blend of rich acoustic sound and versatile electric capabilities. Its innovative Lyrachord Composite Bowl body, comfortable playability, and exceptional durability make it an exceptional instrument for musicians of all levels.
The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar empowers musicians to explore a wide range of genres, from delicate fingerpicking to powerful strumming. Its onboard electronics and tuner further enhance its versatility, making it suitable for both live performances and studio recordings.
As a trusted and respected brand, Ovation guitars are synonymous with quality and innovation. The Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is a testament to this legacy, offering an excellent price-to-performance ratio and a commitment to delivering exceptional musical experiences.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, the Ovation 12-string acoustic-electric guitar is an instrument that will inspire your creativity and begleiten you on your musical path.
