Are you tired of lugging around a heavy, bulky acoustic guitar? If so, then you need to check out acoustic guitars with small bodies. These guitars are much more portable and comfortable to play, making them perfect for musicians on the go.
Editor’s Note:Acoustic guitars with small bodies are becoming increasingly popular, as more and more musicians discover their many benefits. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at these guitars and explore why they’re so great.
We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you make the right decision. So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, read on to learn more about acoustic guitars with small bodies.
Key Differences: Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies vs. Traditional Acoustic Guitars
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar with Small Body | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Body Size | Smaller than traditional acoustic guitars | Larger than acoustic guitars with small bodies |
| Weight | Lighter than traditional acoustic guitars | Heavier than acoustic guitars with small bodies |
| Portability | More portable than traditional acoustic guitars | Less portable than acoustic guitars with small bodies |
| Comfort | More comfortable to play than traditional acoustic guitars | Less comfortable to play than acoustic guitars with small bodies |
| Sound | Can produce a variety of sounds, from bright and jangly to warm and mellow | Typically produce a louder, more resonant sound |
Main Article Topics
- The Benefits of Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
- How to Choose the Right Acoustic Guitar with a Small Body
- Tips for Playing Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
- The Best Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
- Conclusion
1. Body size
The smaller body size of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them more portable and comfortable to play, which is a key benefit for many musicians. Here are a few reasons why:
- Portability: Smaller guitars are easier to carry around, making them ideal for musicians who travel frequently or play in multiple locations. They are also easier to store in small spaces, such as in a car trunk or closet.
- Comfort: Smaller guitars are more comfortable to play for extended periods of time, especially for players with smaller hands or frames. The shorter scale length and lower string tension make them easier to fret and strum.
- Playability: Smaller guitars are often easier to play than larger guitars, especially for beginners. The shorter scale length and lower string tension make them easier to learn on.
Overall, the smaller body size of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for musicians who value portability, comfort, and playability. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a guitar that’s easy to learn on, or a seasoned pro looking for a guitar that’s easy to travel with, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
2. Weight
The lighter weight of acoustic guitars with small bodies is a key benefit for many musicians, especially those who travel frequently or play in multiple locations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Portability: Lighter guitars are easier to carry around, making them ideal for musicians who travel frequently or play in multiple locations. They are also easier to store in small spaces, such as in a car trunk or closet.
- Comfort: Lighter guitars are more comfortable to play for extended periods of time, especially for players with smaller hands or frames. The shorter scale length and lower string tension make them easier to fret and strum.
- Playability: Lighter guitars are often easier to play than larger guitars, especially for beginners. The shorter scale length and lower string tension make them easier to learn on.
Overall, the lighter weight of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for musicians who value portability, comfort, and playability. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a guitar that’s easy to learn on, or a seasoned pro looking for a guitar that’s easy to travel with, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
3. Portability
The portability of acoustic guitars with small bodies is a key benefit for musicians who travel frequently or play in multiple locations. Here are a few reasons why:
- Easier to carry around: Smaller guitars are easier to carry around, making them ideal for musicians who travel frequently or play in multiple locations. They are also easier to store in small spaces, such as in a car trunk or closet.
- More comfortable to play for extended periods of time: Smaller guitars are more comfortable to play for extended periods of time, especially for players with smaller hands or frames. The shorter scale length and lower string tension make them easier to fret and strum.
- Easier to learn on: Smaller guitars are often easier to play than larger guitars, especially for beginners. The shorter scale length and lower string tension make them easier to learn on.
Overall, the portability of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for musicians who value portability, comfort, and playability. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a guitar that’s easy to learn on, or a seasoned pro looking for a guitar that’s easy to travel with, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
Here are a few examples of how the portability of acoustic guitars with small bodies can be beneficial:
- A musician who travels frequently for gigs can easily take their acoustic guitar with them in the overhead bin of an airplane.
- A musician who plays in multiple locations can easily transport their acoustic guitar from one location to another in the back of their car.
- A musician who teaches guitar lessons can easily bring their acoustic guitar to their students’ homes.
The portability of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for musicians of all levels and genres. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a guitar that’s easy to learn on, or a seasoned pro looking for a guitar that’s easy to travel with, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
Table: Portability of Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar with Small Body | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lighter | Heavier |
| Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Portability | More portable | Less portable |
4. Comfort
The comfort of acoustic guitars with small bodies is a key benefit for many musicians, especially those with smaller hands or frames. Here are a few reasons why:
- Shorter scale length: Acoustic guitars with small bodies typically have a shorter scale length than traditional acoustic guitars. This means that the distance between the nut and the bridge is shorter, which makes it easier to reach the frets and strum the strings.
- Lower string tension: Acoustic guitars with small bodies typically have lower string tension than traditional acoustic guitars. This means that the strings are easier to press down, which makes it more comfortable to play for extended periods of time.
- Smaller body size: The smaller body size of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them more comfortable to hold and play, especially for players with smaller hands or frames.
Overall, the comfort of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for musicians of all levels and genres. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a guitar that’s easy to learn on, or a seasoned pro looking for a guitar that’s comfortable to play for extended periods of time, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
Here are a few examples of how the comfort of acoustic guitars with small bodies can be beneficial:
- A musician with smaller hands can easily reach the frets and strum the strings on an acoustic guitar with a small body.
- A musician who plays for extended periods of time can do so comfortably on an acoustic guitar with a small body, thanks to the lower string tension.
- A musician who travels frequently can easily take their acoustic guitar with them in the overhead bin of an airplane, thanks to the smaller body size.
The comfort of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for musicians of all levels and genres. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a guitar that’s easy to learn on, or a seasoned pro looking for a guitar that’s comfortable to play for extended periods of time, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
Table: Comfort of Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar with Small Body | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Scale length | Shorter | Longer |
| String tension | Lower | Higher |
| Body size | Smaller | Larger |
| Comfort | More comfortable | Less comfortable |
5. Sound
Acoustic guitars with small bodies are known for their versatility in producing a wide range of sounds, from bright and jangly to warm and mellow. This sonic diversity makes them well-suited for a variety of musical genres, from folk and blues to rock and pop.
- Body size: The smaller body size of acoustic guitars with small bodies gives them a brighter, more jangly sound than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because the smaller body resonates less, producing a tighter, more focused sound.
- String tension: Acoustic guitars with small bodies typically have lower string tension than traditional acoustic guitars. This lower string tension makes the strings easier to fret and strum, which can result in a more mellow, relaxed sound.
- Wood choice: The type of wood used to construct an acoustic guitar can also affect its sound. Acoustic guitars with small bodies are often made from mahogany, rosewood, or spruce. Mahogany produces a warm, mellow sound, while rosewood produces a brighter, more jangly sound. Spruce is a versatile wood that can produce a variety of sounds, depending on the construction of the guitar.
- Playing style: The way you play an acoustic guitar can also affect its sound. If you play with a light touch, you will produce a brighter, more jangly sound. If you play with a heavier touch, you will produce a warmer, more mellow sound.
The combination of these factors gives acoustic guitars with small bodies their unique sound. They are versatile guitars that can be used for a variety of musical genres. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a guitar that’s easy to learn on, or a seasoned pro looking for a guitar that can produce a variety of sounds, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
6. Volume
The volume of an acoustic guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the size of the body, the type of wood used, and the playing style. Acoustic guitars with small bodies are typically quieter than traditional acoustic guitars, but they are still loud enough for small gatherings.
- Body size: The smaller body size of acoustic guitars with small bodies means that they have less air to resonate, which results in a quieter sound.
- Type of wood: The type of wood used to construct an acoustic guitar can also affect its volume. Mahogany and rosewood are denser woods that produce a louder sound than spruce, which is a lighter wood.
- Playing style: The way you play an acoustic guitar can also affect its volume. If you play with a light touch, you will produce a quieter sound. If you play with a heavier touch, you will produce a louder sound.
Overall, the volume of an acoustic guitar with a small body is typically quieter than a traditional acoustic guitar, but it is still loud enough for small gatherings. This makes them a good choice for musicians who play in small venues or who want a guitar that is easy to transport.
7. Projection
The projection of an acoustic guitar refers to how well it can project sound outward. Acoustic guitars with small bodies typically have less projection than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because the smaller body size means that there is less air to resonate, which results in a quieter sound. However, the reduced projection of acoustic guitars with small bodies also makes them better suited for intimate settings, such as small venues or living rooms.
- Smaller body size: The smaller body size of acoustic guitars with small bodies means that they have less air to resonate, which results in less projection.
- Lower volume: Acoustic guitars with small bodies are typically quieter than traditional acoustic guitars, which al
so contributes to their reduced projection. - Intimate settings: The reduced projection of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them better suited for intimate settings, such as small venues or living rooms.
- Less feedback: The reduced projection of acoustic guitars with small bodies also means that they are less likely to feedback, which can be a problem in larger venues.
Overall, the reduced projection of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them better suited for intimate settings. If you are looking for a guitar that is easy to transport and that is well-suited for small venues, then an acoustic guitar with a small body is a great option.
8. Playability
The playability of an acoustic guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the scale length, the string tension, and the neck width. Acoustic guitars with small bodies typically have a shorter scale length and lower string tension than traditional acoustic guitars. This makes them easier to play, especially for beginners.
The scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A shorter scale length means that the frets are closer together, which makes it easier to reach the frets and strum the strings. The string tension is the amount of tension that is applied to the strings. Lower string tension makes the strings easier to press down, which is also easier on the fingers.
The combination of a shorter scale length and lower string tension makes acoustic guitars with small bodies easier to play than traditional acoustic guitars. This is especially beneficial for beginners, who may find it difficult to play a traditional acoustic guitar.
Here are some examples of how the playability of acoustic guitars with small bodies can be beneficial:
- A beginner can more easily learn to play guitar on an acoustic guitar with a small body.
- A player with smaller hands can more easily reach the frets and strum the strings on an acoustic guitar with a small body.
- A player with arthritis or other hand problems can more easily play an acoustic guitar with a small body.
Overall, the playability of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for beginners and players with smaller hands or hand problems.
Table: Playability of Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar with Small Body | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Scale Length | Shorter | Longer |
| String Tension | Lower | Higher |
| Playability | Easier to play | More difficult to play |
9. Versatility
The versatility of acoustic guitars with small bodies is one of their key strengths. These guitars can be used to play a wide range of musical genres, from folk and blues to rock and pop. This makes them a great choice for musicians who want a guitar that can handle a variety of musical styles.
The versatility of acoustic guitars with small bodies is due to several factors. First, their smaller size makes them more comfortable to play for extended periods of time. This makes them a good choice for musicians who play a lot of different genres of music.
Second, the smaller body size of acoustic guitars with small bodies gives them a brighter, more jangly sound than traditional acoustic guitars. This makes them well-suited for genres such as folk and blues. However, the smaller body size also means that these guitars have less projection than traditional acoustic guitars. This makes them better suited for intimate settings, such as small venues or living rooms.
Here are some examples of how the versatility of acoustic guitars with small bodies can be beneficial:
- A singer-songwriter can use an acoustic guitar with a small body to play a variety of genres, from folk to pop.
- A blues musician can use an acoustic guitar with a small body to play traditional blues songs, as well as more modern blues-rock songs.
- A rock musician can use an acoustic guitar with a small body to play acoustic versions of their songs, or to write new songs on the road.
Overall, the versatility of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great choice for musicians who want a guitar that can handle a variety of musical genres.
Table: Versatility of Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar with Small Body | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Versatility | Can be used for a variety of genres | More limited in terms of genres |
| Comfort | More comfortable to play for extended periods of time | Less comfortable to play for extended periods of time |
| Sound | Brighter, more jangly sound | Warmer, more mellow sound |
| Projection | Less projection | More projection |
10. Affordability
Acoustic guitars with small bodies are typically more affordable than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because they require less materials to build and are often made with less expensive woods. As a result, acoustic guitars with small bodies are a great option for beginners who are on a budget.
- Lower cost of materials: Acoustic guitars with small bodies require less wood to build than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because the body is smaller and the neck is shorter. As a result, acoustic guitars with small bodies can be made with less expensive woods, such as laminate or plywood.
- Less labor required: Acoustic guitars with small bodies require less labor to build than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because the smaller body and shorter neck are easier to assemble. As a result, acoustic guitars with small bodies can be produced more quickly and efficiently, which reduces the cost of labor.
- More affordable for beginners: Acoustic guitars with small bodies are more affordable than traditional acoustic guitars, making them a great option for beginners. This is because beginners are often on a budget and may not be able to afford a more expensive guitar. Acoustic guitars with small bodies are also a good option for beginners because they are easier to play and more comfortable to hold.
Overall, the affordability of acoustic guitars with small bodies makes them a great option for beginners. If you are on a budget or are new to playing guitar, an acoustic guitar with a small body is a good choice.
11. Durability
Acoustic guitars with small bodies are just as durable as traditional acoustic guitars, if properly cared for. This is because they are made from the same materials
and are constructed in the same way. The smaller size of acoustic guitars with small bodies does not make them any more or less durable than traditional acoustic guitars.
However, it is important to note that all acoustic guitars, regardless of their size, need to be properly cared for in order to last. This includes storing them in a cool, dry place, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity, and cleaning them regularly.
If you take care of your acoustic guitar with a small body, it will last for many years to come. Here are some tips for caring for your acoustic guitar:
- Store your guitar in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid exposing your guitar to extreme temperatures and humidity.
- Clean your guitar regularly with a soft, dry cloth.
- If your guitar gets wet, dry it off immediately with a soft, dry cloth.
- Have your guitar inspected and serviced by a qualified technician on a regular basis.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your acoustic guitar with a small body will last for many years to come.
Table: Durability of Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar with Small Body | Traditional Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Can be just as durable, if properly cared for | Can be just as durable, if properly cared for |
| Materials | Made from the same materials | Made from the same materials |
| Construction | Constructed in the same way | Constructed in the same way |
| Care | Needs to be properly cared for | Needs to be properly cared for |
12. Aesthetics
Acoustic guitars with small bodies are available in a variety of styles and finishes, to suit any taste. This is important because the appearance of a guitar can be just as important as its sound or playability. A guitar that is visually appealing is more likely to be picked up and played, and it can also be a source of pride for its owner.
There are many different styles of acoustic guitars with small bodies. Some of the most popular styles include:
- Dreadnought: Dreadnought guitars are the most common type of acoustic guitar. They have a large body and a powerful sound.
- Grand Auditorium: Grand Auditorium guitars are slightly smaller than dreadnought guitars, but they have a similar sound. They are known for their versatility and can be used for a variety of genres of music.
- Concert: Concert guitars are the smallest type of acoustic guitar. They have a delicate sound that is perfect for fingerpicking and classical music.
- Parlor: Parlor guitars are even smaller than concert guitars. They have a sweet, mellow sound that is perfect for folk and blues music.
In addition to the different styles, acoustic guitars with small bodies are also available in a variety of finishes. Some of the most popular finishes include:
- Natural: Natural finishes show the natural wood grain of the guitar. This is a popular finish for guitars that are made from high-quality woods.
- Sunburst: Sunburst finishes are a gradient finish that fades from a dark color at the center of the guitar to a lighter color at the edges. This is a popular finish for guitars that are made from mahogany or rosewood.
- Black: Black finishes are a classic choice for guitars. They are available in both glossy and matte finishes.
- White: White finishes are a popular choice for guitars that are made from maple or spruce. They are also available in both glossy and matte finishes.
The style and finish of an acoustic guitar with a small body are important factors to consider when choosing a guitar. The style of the guitar will affect its sound, and the finish will affect its appearance. By choosing a guitar that is both aesthetically pleasing and sounds great, you can find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Table: Styles and Finishes of Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
| Style | Finish |
|---|---|
| Dreadnought | Natural, sunburst, black, white |
| Grand Auditorium | Natural, sunburst, black, white |
| Concert | Natural, sunburst, black, white |
| Parlor | Natural, sunburst, black, white |
FAQs about Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
Acoustic guitars with small bodies have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more musicians discover their many benefits. However, there are still some common questions and misconceptions about these guitars. Here are six of the most frequently asked questions about acoustic guitars with small bodies:
Question 1: Are acoustic guitars with small bodies as good as traditional acoustic guitars?
Answer: Yes, acoustic guitars with small bodies can be just as good as traditional acoustic guitars. They are made from the same materials and are constructed in the same way. The smaller size of acoustic guitars with small bodies does not make them any less durable or less capable of producing great sound. Question 2: Are acoustic guitars with small bodies easier to play than traditional acoustic guitars?
Answer: Yes, acoustic guitars with small bodies are generally easier to play than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because they have a shorter scale length and lower string tension. This makes them easier to reach the frets and strum the strings. Question 3: Are acoustic guitars with small bodies less versatile than traditional acoustic guitars?
Answer: No, acoustic guitars with small bodies are just as versatile as traditional acoustic guitars. They can be used to play a wide range of musical genres, from folk and blues to rock and pop. Question 4: Are acoustic guitars with small bodies less durable than traditional acoustic guitars?
Answer: No, acoustic guitars with small bodies are just as durable as traditional acoustic guitars, if properly cared for. They are made from the same materials and are constructed in the same way. Question 5: Are acoustic guitars with small bodies more affordable than traditional acoustic guitars?
Answer: Yes, acoustic guitars with small bodies are typically more affordable than traditional acoustic guitars. This is because they require less materials to build and are often made with less expensive woods. Question 6: What are the benefits of acoustic guitars with small bodies?
Answer: Acoustic guitars with small bodies offer a number of benefits, including portability, comfort, and playability. They are also more affordable than traditional acoustic guitars.
Overall, acoustic guitars with small bodies are a great option for musicians of all levels and genres. They offer a number of benefits over traditional acoustic guitars, without sacrificing sound quality or durability.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that we’ve answered some of the most common questions about acoustic guitars with small bodies, let’s take a closer look at some of the specific benefits that these guitars offer.
Tips for Choosing and Playing Acoustic Guitars with Small Bodies
Acoustic guitars with small bodies offer a number of benefits over traditional acoustic guitars, including portability, comfort, and playability. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing and playing an acoustic guitar with a small body.
Tip 1: Consider your playing style. If you play primarily fingerstyle or strumming, a smaller guitar with a shorter scale length and lower string tension may be a good choice. If you play lead guitar or use a lot of bends and vibrato, a larger guitar with a longer scale length and higher string tension may be a better option.
Tip 2: Choose the right body size. Acoustic guitars with small bodies come in a variety of sizes, from parlor guitars to grand auditorium guitars. The size of the guitar will affect its sound and volume. Parlor guitars have a smaller body and a quieter sound, while grand auditorium guitars have a larger body and a louder sound. Choose the size that is right for your playing style and the venues where you will be playing.
Tip 3: Consider the neck shape. The neck shape of an acoustic guitar can affect its playability. Some guitars have a C-shaped neck, while others have a V-shaped neck. C-shaped necks are generally more comfortable for beginners, while V-shaped necks are often preferred by experienced players. Choose the neck shape that is most comfortable for you.
Tip 4: Get a good setup. A proper setup can make a big difference in the playability and sound of your acoustic guitar. A good setup includes adjusting the action, intonation, and truss rod. Having your guitar professionally set up by a qualified technician is a good investment that will help you get the most out of your instrument.
Tip 5: Experiment with different strings. The type of strings you use can also affect the sound and playability of your acoustic guitar. Experiment with different brands and gauges of strings to find the combination that works best for you. Heavier strings will produce a louder sound with more sustain, while lighter strings will be easier to play and produce a brighter sound.
Tip 6: Use a strap. When playing an acoustic guitar with a small body, it is important to use a strap to prevent the guitar from falling. A strap will also help you to distribute the weight of the guitar more evenly, making it more comfortable to play.
Tip 7: Take care of your guitar. Acoustic guitars with small bodies are just as durable as traditional acoustic guitars, but they still need to be properly cared for. This includes storing the guitar in a cool, dry place, avoiding exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity, and cleaning the guitar regularly. By taking care of your guitar, you can help ensure that it will last for many years to come.
By following these tips, you can choose and play an acoustic guitar with a small body that is right for you. These guitars offer a number of benefits over traditional acoustic guitars, and they can be a great choice for musicians of all levels and genres.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- Acoustic guitars with small bodies are more portable, comfortable, and playable than traditional acoustic guitars.
- They are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes to suit any taste.
- With proper care, acoustic guitars with small bodies can last for many years.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, an acoustic guitar with a small body can be a great choice. By following these tips, you can choose and play an acoustic guitar with a small body that is right for you and your playing style.
Conclusion
Acoustic guitars with small bodies offer a number of benefits over traditional acoustic guitars, including portability, comfort, and playability. They are also available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and finishes to suit any taste. With proper care, acoustic guitars with small bodies can last for many years.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, an acoustic guitar with a small body can be a great choice. By following the tips in this article, you can choose and play an acoustic guitar with a small body that is right for you and your playing style.
Acoustic guitars with small bodies are a versatile and affordable option for musicians of all levels and genres. They are perfect for players who want a guitar that is easy to play and transport, and that can produce a great sound. If you are looking for an acoustic guitar that is small in size but big on sound, then an acoustic guitar with a small body is the perfect choice for you.
Youtube Video:
