Are you in the market for the best acoustic guitar cutaway? If so, you’re in luck! We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
Editor’s Note:Acoustic guitar cutaways are an important feature for many guitarists. They allow you to reach the higher frets more easily, which can be essential for playing certain types of music.
We analyzed dozens of acoustic guitars with cutaways and considered factors such as sound quality, playability, and price. We also read hundreds of reviews from other guitarists. Based on our research, we’ve put together a list of the best acoustic guitar cutaways on the market.
Key Differences
| Feature | Best Acoustic Guitar Cutaway |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Dreadnought, Grand Auditorium, Concert |
| Cutaway Type | Single-cutaway, Double-cutaway |
| Pickup System | Passive, Active |
| Price | $200-$2,000 |
Main Article Topics
- Body Shape: The body shape of an acoustic guitar affects its sound and playability. Dreadnought guitars have a large body with a powerful sound, while Grand Auditorium guitars have a smaller body with a more balanced sound. Concert guitars have the smallest body and the most comfortable playability.
- Cutaway Type: There are two main types of cutaways: single-cutaways and double-cutaways. Single-cutaways have a cutaway on the treble side of the body, while double-cutaways have cutaways on both the treble and bass sides of the body. Double-cutaways provide easier access to the higher frets, but they can also make the guitar less resonant.
- Pickup System: Some acoustic guitars come with pickup systems that allow you to plug them into an amplifier. Passive pickup systems are less expensive and easier to install, but they produce a weaker signal than active pickup systems. Active pickup systems are more expensive and require a battery, but they produce a stronger signal and more control over your sound.
- Price: Acoustic guitars with cutaways can range in price from $200 to $2,000. The price of a guitar will depend on the brand, the materials used, and the features included.
1. Body shape
The body shape of an acoustic guitar affects its sound and playability. Dreadnought guitars have a large body with a powerful sound, while Grand Auditorium guitars have a smaller body with a more balanced sound. Concert guitars have the smallest body and the most comfortable playability.
When choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway, it is important to consider the body shape. Dreadnought guitars are a good choice for strumming and flatpicking, while Grand Auditorium guitars are a good choice for fingerpicking and soloing. Concert guitars are a good choice for all-around playing.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between dreadnought, grand auditorium, and concert body shapes:
| Body Shape | Sound | Playability |
|---|---|---|
| Dreadnought | Powerful, with a strong bass response | Less comfortable to play than other body shapes |
| Grand Auditorium | Balanced, with a clear treble and strong bass | More comfortable to play than dreadnought guitars |
| Concert | Clear, with a strong midrange | Most comfortable to play |
Ultimately, the best body shape for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences. If you are not sure which body shape is right for you, it is a good idea to try out different guitars before making a decision.
2. Cutaway type
The cutaway type of an acoustic guitar is an important consideration when choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway. A cutaway allows you to reach the higher frets more easily, which can be essential for playing certain types of music. There are two main types of cutaways: single-cutaways and double-cutaways.
- Single-cutaways have a cutaway on the treble side of the body, while double-cutaways have cutaways on both the treble and bass sides of the body.
- Single-cutaways are less expensive and easier to find than double-cutaways.
- Double-cutaways provide easier access to the higher frets, but they can also make the guitar less resonant.
Ultimately, the best cutaway type for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences. If you are not sure which cutaway type is right for you, it is a good idea to try out different guitars before making a decision.
3. Pickup system
Pickup systems are an important consideration when choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway. A pickup system allows you to amplify the sound of your guitar, which can be useful for playing in a band or recording. There are two main types of pickup systems: passive and active.
- Passive pickup systems are less expensive and easier to install than active pickup systems. They produce a weaker signal than active pickup systems, but they are also less likely to feedback.
- Active pickup systems are more expensive and require a battery to operate. They produce a stronger signal than passive pickup systems, and they offer more control over your sound.
The best pickup system for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are on a budget or if you are not sure whether you need an active pickup system, a passive pickup system is a good option. If you need a strong signal or if you want more control over your sound, an active pickup system is a better choice.
4. Price
The price of an acoustic guitar cutaway can vary significantly, ranging from $200 to $2,000. The price of a guitar will depend on a number of factors, including the brand, the materials used, the features included, and the country of origin.
- Brand: The brand of a guitar can have a significant impact on its price. Guitars from well-known brands, such as Taylor, Martin, and Gibson, tend to be more expensive than guitars from lesser-known brands.
- Materials: The materials used in the construction of a guitar can also
affect its price. Guitars made from solid wood are more expensive than guitars made from laminate wood. Guitars with exotic woods, such as rosewood and ebony, are also more expensive than guitars with more common woods, such as spruce and mahogany. - Features: The features included on a guitar can also affect its price. Guitars with features such as cutaways, pickup systems, and electronics are more expensive than guitars without these features.
- Country of origin: The country of origin of a guitar can also affect its price. Guitars made in the United States are typically more expensive than guitars made in other countries, such as China and Mexico.
When choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway for your needs, it is important to consider your budget. If you are on a tight budget, there are a number of affordable acoustic guitars with cutaways available. However, if you are looking for a high-quality guitar with a wide range of features, you may need to spend more money.
5. Brand
When it comes to acoustic guitars, there are few brands that are as iconic as Taylor, Martin, and Gibson. These three companies have been making guitars for over a century, and they have a reputation for producing some of the best instruments in the world.
So, what makes these brands so special? What is it about their guitars that makes them so highly sought-after by musicians of all levels?
There are a number of factors that contribute to the high quality of Taylor, Martin, and Gibson guitars. First, these companies use only the finest materials in the construction of their guitars. The woods used for the bodies and necks are carefully selected for their tonal qualities, and the hardware is made from durable materials that will last for years.
Second, Taylor, Martin, and Gibson guitars are built by skilled craftsmen who take great pride in their work. Each guitar is hand-crafted to exacting standards, and the attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the instrument.
Finally, these companies have a long history of innovation. They are constantly developing new designs and features to improve the sound and playability of their guitars. As a result, Taylor, Martin, and Gibson guitars are always at the forefront of the acoustic guitar market.
If you are looking for the best acoustic guitar cutaway, then you should definitely consider a guitar from Taylor, Martin, or Gibson. These brands offer a wide range of models to choose from, so you are sure to find one that fits your needs and budget.
Here is a table that compares the key features of Taylor, Martin, and Gibson acoustic guitars:
| Feature | Taylor | Martin | Gibson |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body shape | Dreadnought, Grand Auditorium, Concert | Dreadnought, Grand Auditorium, Concert | Dreadnought, Jumbo, Super Jumbo |
| Cutaway | Single-cutaway, Double-cutaway | Single-cutaway, Double-cutaway | Single-cutaway, Double-cutaway |
| Pickup system | Passive, Active | Passive, Active | Passive, Active |
| Price | $500-$5,000 | $500-$10,000 | $500-$12,000 |
6. Materials
The materials used in the construction of an acoustic guitar have a significant impact on its sound and playability. Solid wood guitars are generally considered to be superior to laminate guitars, but there are some important factors to consider when making this decision.
Solid wood guitars are made from a single piece of wood, which gives them a richer, more resonant sound. They are also more responsive to playing dynamics, and they tend to age better than laminate guitars. However, solid wood guitars are also more expensive and more susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity.
Laminate guitars are made from a thin layer of wood that is glued to a core of less expensive wood. This makes them less expensive and more durable than solid wood guitars, but they also have a thinner, less resonant sound. Laminate guitars are also less responsive to playing dynamics, and they tend to sound “dead” over time.
So, which type of guitar is right for you? If you are looking for the best possible sound and playability, then a solid wood guitar is the way to go. However, if you are on a budget or if you need a guitar that can withstand changes in temperature and humidity, then a laminate guitar may be a better choice.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between solid wood and laminate guitars:
| Feature | Solid wood | Laminate |
|---|---|---|
| Sound | Richer, more resonant | Thinner, less resonant |
| Playability | More responsive to playing dynamics | Less responsive to playing dynamics |
| Durability | Less durable | More durable |
| Price | More expensive | Less expensive |
7. Playability
The playability of an acoustic guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway. Neck width and string height are two key elements that affect playability.
- Neck width refers to the width of the neck at the nut. A wider neck can be more comfortable for players with larger hands, while a narrower neck can be more comfortable for players with smaller hands.
- String height refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A lower string height can make it easier to play chords and fingerstyle, while a higher string height can make it easier to play lead guitar.
- Scale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A shorter scale length can make it easier to reach the higher frets, while a longer scale length can provide a fuller, richer sound.
The best neck width, string height, and scale length for you will depend on your individual playing style and preferences. If you are not sure what neck width and string height are right for you, it is a good idea to try out different guitars before making a decision.
8. Sound quality
The sound quality of an acoustic guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway. The sound quality of a guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the body shape, the wood used in the construction of the guitar, and the type of strings that are used. However, two of the most important factors that affect the sound quality of a guitar are the bass response and the treble clarity.
The bass response of a guitar refers to the low-end frequencies that the guitar produces. A guitar with a good bass response will have a full, rich soun
d. The treble clarity of a guitar refers to the high-end frequencies that the guitar produces. A guitar with good treble clarity will have a bright, crisp sound.
Both bass response and treble clarity are important for a well-balanced sound. A guitar with a good bass response will be able to provide a solid foundation for rhythm playing, while a guitar with good treble clarity will be able to provide clear and articulate lead lines.
When choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway, it is important to consider the type of music that you will be playing. If you are playing mostly rhythm guitar, then you may want to choose a guitar with a strong bass response. If you are playing mostly lead guitar, then you may want to choose a guitar with good treble clarity. Of course, the best way to choose the right guitar for you is to try out different guitars and see which one sounds and feels the best to you.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between bass response and treble clarity:
| Feature | Bass response | Treble clarity |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The low-end frequencies that the guitar produces | The high-end frequencies that the guitar produces |
| Importance | Provides a solid foundation for rhythm playing | Provides clear and articulate lead lines |
| Factors that affect | Body shape, wood used in the construction of the guitar, type of strings used | Body shape, wood used in the construction of the guitar, type of strings used |
9. Features
When choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway, it is important to consider the features that are important to you. Two important features to consider are the cutaway and the electronics.
- Cutaway
A cutaway is a notch in the body of the guitar that allows you to reach the higher frets more easily. This can be a valuable feature for guitarists who play lead guitar or who need to reach the higher frets for certain chords.
- Electronics
Electronics can be added to an acoustic guitar to amplify the sound of the guitar. This can be useful for playing in a band or for recording. There are two main types of electronics that can be added to an acoustic guitar: passive and active.
- Passive electronics do not require a battery. They are less expensive and easier to install than active electronics, but they produce a weaker signal.
- Active electronics require a battery. They are more expensive and more difficult to install than passive electronics, but they produce a stronger signal and offer more control over the sound of the guitar.
The best way to choose the right acoustic guitar cutaway for you is to try out different guitars and see which one feels and sounds the best to you. Consider the type of music you play, the features that are important to you, and your budget. With a little research, you can find the perfect acoustic guitar cutaway for your needs.
10. Reviews
When choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway, it is important to consider the reviews of other guitarists. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the sound, playability, and construction of a guitar. They can also help you to identify any potential problems with a guitar before you buy it.
There are a number of places where you can find reviews of acoustic guitars. Online retailers, such as Amazon and Guitar Center, often have customer reviews of guitars. You can also find reviews in guitar magazines and on guitar forums. However, it is important to read multiple reviews from different sources before making a decision.
When reading reviews, it is important to pay attention to the following factors:
- The reviewer’s experience level. Experienced guitarists will be able to provide more detailed and insightful reviews.
- The reviewer’s playing style. If you play a different style of music than the reviewer, their review may not be as helpful to you.
- The reviewer’s biases. Some reviewers may be biased towards certain brands or types of guitars. It is important to read reviews from a variety of sources to get a balanced perspective.
Reviews can be a valuable resource when choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway. By reading reviews, you can learn from the experiences of other guitarists and make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points of this discussion:
| Element | Importance |
|---|---|
| Reviews | Provide valuable insights into the sound, playability, and construction of a guitar. |
| Reviewer’s experience level | Experienced guitarists can provide more detailed and insightful reviews. |
| Reviewer’s playing style | If you play a different style of music than the reviewer, their review may not be as helpful to you. |
| Reviewer’s biases | Some reviewers may be biased towards certain brands or types of guitars. It is important to read reviews from a variety of sources to get a balanced perspective. |
By understanding the connection between reviews and the best acoustic guitar cutaway, you can make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
11. Warranty
When choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway, it is important to consider the warranty that is offered. A warranty is a guarantee that the guitar will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period of time. This is important because even the best guitars can develop problems over time, and a warranty will protect you from having to pay for repairs.
The length of the warranty varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some manufacturers offer warranties that last for as long as the guitar is owned by the original purchaser, while others offer warranties that only last for a year or two. It is important to read the warranty carefully before you buy a guitar so that you know what is covered and for how long.
A warranty is an important part of choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway because it protects you from having to pay for repairs if the guitar develops a defect. When you are spending a significant amount of money on a guitar, it is important to make sure that you are protected in case something goes wrong.
Here is a table that summarizes the key points of this discussion:
| Element | Importance |
|---|---|
| Warranty | Protects you from having to pay for repairs if the guitar develops a defect. |
| Length of warranty | Varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. |
| Importance of reading the warranty | Ensures that you know what is covered and for how long. |
By understanding the connection between warranty and the best acoustic guitar cutaway, you can make an inf
ormed decision about which guitar is right for you.
12. Accessories
When choosing the best acoustic guitar cutaway, it is important to consider the accessories that are available for the guitar. Accessories such as a case, strap, and pickguard can help to protect your guitar and make it more comfortable to play.
A case is an essential accessory for any guitar. It protects the guitar from scratches, dents, and other damage. Cases are available in a variety of materials, including hard cases, soft cases, and gig bags. Hard cases offer the most protection, but they are also the most expensive. Soft cases are less expensive and more portable, but they do not offer as much protection. Gig bags are a good compromise between price and protection.
A strap is another important accessory for any guitar. It allows you to play the guitar standing up, which can be more comfortable and allow you to move around more freely. Straps are available in a variety of materials, including leather, nylon, and cotton. Leather straps are the most durable, but they are also the most expensive. Nylon straps are less expensive and more comfortable, but they are not as durable. Cotton straps are the least expensive, but they are also the least durable.
A pickguard is a thin piece of plastic that is attached to the body of the guitar. It protects the guitar from scratches and dents caused by the pick. Pickguards are available in a variety of colors and materials, so you can choose one that matches the style of your guitar.
By understanding the connection between accessories and the best acoustic guitar cutaway, you can make an informed decision about which accessories are right for you.
Here is a table that summarizes the key insights discussed in this section:
| Accessory | Importance |
|---|---|
| Case | Protects the guitar from scratches, dents, and other damage. |
| Strap | Allows you to play the guitar standing up, which can be more comfortable and allow you to move around more freely. |
| Pickguard | Protects the guitar from scratches and dents caused by the pick. |
By understanding the importance of accessories and how they contribute to the overall experience of playing the acoustic guitar, you can make informed choices that enhance your musical journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Acoustic Guitar Cutaways
This section aims to address common concerns and misconceptions associated with acoustic guitar cutaways by providing informative and straightforward answers.
Question 1: What are the main benefits of having a cutaway on an acoustic guitar?
Answer: Cutaways allow for easier access to the higher frets, facilitating complex fingerings and soloing. They enhance playability and expand the tonal range of the guitar, making them particularly suitable for players who frequently venture beyond the lower frets.
Question 2: What types of cutaways are commonly found on acoustic guitars?
Answer: The two main types of cutaways are single-cutaways and double-cutaways. Single-cutaways feature a notch on the treble side of the body, while double-cutaways have notches on both the treble and bass sides. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and playing style.
Question 3: How does a cutaway affect the sound of an acoustic guitar?
Answer: While cutaways do not significantly alter the overall tonal characteristics of the guitar, they can slightly decrease the resonance and sustain due to the removal of a portion of the body. However, this trade-off is often considered worthwhile for the increased playability and access to higher frets.
Question 4: Are cutaways more commonly found on certain body shapes?
Answer: Yes, cutaways are more prevalent on dreadnought-style guitars, which are known for their larger bodies and powerful sound. However, cutaways can be found on a wide range of body shapes, including grand auditoriums and concert guitars, to suit different playing styles and preferences.
Question 5: Do cutaways weaken the structural integrity of an acoustic guitar?
Answer: While a cutaway does remove a portion of the body, reputable manufacturers employ careful design and bracing techniques to ensure structural integrity is maintained. A well-crafted guitar with a cutaway should not be any more prone to damage or warping than a guitar without a cutaway.
Question 6: Are there any drawbacks to having a cutaway on an acoustic guitar?
Answer: Aside from the potential slight reduction in resonance, there are no significant drawbacks to having a cutaway on an acoustic guitar. The enhanced playability and access to higher registers far outweigh any minor compromises.
In summary, acoustic guitar cutaways provide numerous benefits, including increased playability, easier access to higher frets, and expanded tonal range. While they may slightly reduce resonance, this trade-off is often considered worthwhile for the added versatility and comfort they offer.
Transition to the next article section: To further enhance your understanding of acoustic guitar cutaways, let’s explore the different types of cutaways and their impact on playability in more detail.
Tips for Choosing the Best Acoustic Guitar Cutaway
To assist you in selecting the ideal acoustic guitar cutaway that aligns with your specific requirements and preferences, consider the following valuable tips:
Prioritize Playability: Evaluate the guitar’s neck width and string height to ensure a comfortable playing experience. Wider necks suit larger hands, while narrower necks accommodate smaller hands. Lower string height facilitates effortless fretting, whereas higher string height enhances lead guitar performance.
Consider Body Shape: Different body shapes produce distinct tonal qualities. Dreadnought guitars deliver a powerful sound with strong bass response, while grand auditorium guitars offer a balanced sound with enhanced mid-range clarity. Concert guitars provide a comfortable playing experience with a clear and articulate sound.
Assess Electronics: Determine if you require electronics for amplification. Passive electronics lack batteries and produce a weaker signal, while active electronics utilize batteries and provide a stronger, more versatile signal with greater control over your sound.
Evaluate Cutaway Type: Single-cutaways offer access to higher frets on the treble side, while double-cutaways provide access on both sides. Single-cutaways are more affordable and widely available, while double-cutaways enhance playability but may slightly reduce resonance.
Consider Materials: Solid wood guitars possess a richer, more resonant sound, enhanced sustain, and improved aging characteristics. Laminate guitars are more affordable and durable, making them suitable for beginners or occasional players.
Check Reviews: Read reviews from experienced guitarists to gain valuable insights into a guitar’s sound, playability, and construction. Consider reviewers’ experience levels and playing styles to assess the relevance of their feedback.
Summary: By incorporating these tips into your decision-
making process, you can confidently select the best acoustic guitar cutaway that meets your individual needs and musical aspirations, empowering you to create and enjoy music with greater ease and satisfaction.
Transition to Conclusion: With the right acoustic guitar cutaway in your hands, you possess a versatile and expressive instrument that will begleiten you on your musical journey for years to come.
Conclusion
Through this comprehensive exploration, we have unveiled the multifaceted world of acoustic guitar cutaways, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions when selecting the ideal instrument for your musical endeavors. Whether you seek enhanced playability, access to higher frets, or a specific tonal quality, cutaways offer a range of possibilities to elevate your playing experience.
Remember, the best acoustic guitar cutaway is the one that seamlessly aligns with your unique style and aspirations. Embrace the opportunity to experiment with different cutaways, body shapes, and materials until you discover the perfect match. By doing so, you unlock a world of musical expression and embark on a journey where your creativity knows no bounds.
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