What is a Blueridge 12 String Guitar and why should you care?
Editor’s Notes: The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is an iconic instrument that has been used by countless musicians over the years. It is known for its rich, full sound and its versatility. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, a Blueridge 12 string guitar is a great choice for any musician.
We’ve done the research and dug into the details, so you don’t have to. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about the Blueridge 12 String Guitar, including its history, features, and benefits. We’ll also provide you with some tips on how to choose the right Blueridge 12 string guitar for your needs.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Blueridge 12 String Guitar | Other 12 String Guitars |
|---|---|---|
| Body Style | Dreadnought | Grand Auditorium, Jumbo |
| Number of Frets | 20 | 19-21 |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ | 24.75″-25.5″ |
| Electronics | Optional | Standard on some models |
Main Article Topics:
- The History of the Blueridge 12 String Guitar
- The Features of the Blueridge 12 String Guitar
- The Benefits of the Blueridge 12 String Guitar
- How to Choose the Right Blueridge 12 String Guitar
1. Construction
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar features solid wood construction, which means that the body, neck, and fretboard are all made from solid wood, rather than laminated wood. This gives the guitar a superior sound quality, with a rich, full tone that is resonant and articulate.
- Tonal Benefits: Solid wood construction allows the guitar to vibrate more freely, which results in a more resonant and articulate sound. This is especially important for a 12-string guitar, which has a lot of string tension and can sound muddy if the guitar is not made from solid wood.
- Durability: Solid wood construction is also more durable than laminated wood, which means that the guitar is less likely to be damaged if it is knocked or dropped. This is important for a guitar that is going to be played regularly.
- Value: Solid wood guitars hold their value better than laminated wood guitars, so you can be sure that your investment will be protected.
Overall, the solid wood construction of the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a major factor in its superior sound quality and durability. If you are looking for a 12-string guitar that will give you years of enjoyment, then the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a great choice.
2. Body
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar features a dreadnought body style, which is known for its powerful, resonant sound. The dreadnought body style is characterized by its large size and square shoulders, which give it a lot of volume and projection. This makes the Blueridge 12 String Guitar a great choice for strumming and flatpicking, as it can produce a lot of volume without sounding muddy.
The dreadnought body style is also very versatile, and it can be used for a variety of genres of music, from folk and blues to rock and country. This makes the Blueridge 12 String Guitar a great choice for any musician who wants a guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles.
Here are some of the benefits of the dreadnought body style:
- Loud and powerful sound: The dreadnought body style is known for its loud and powerful sound, which makes it a great choice for strumming and flatpicking.
- Resonant sound: The dreadnought body style also has a very resonant sound, which means that it produces a lot of sustain and overtones. This makes it a great choice for fingerpicking and other styles of playing that require a lot of sustain.
- Versatile: The dreadnought body style is very versatile, and it can be used for a variety of genres of music, from folk and blues to rock and country.
Overall, the dreadnought body style is a great choice for any musician who wants a guitar with a powerful, resonant sound. The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a particularly good example of a dreadnought guitar, and it is a great choice for any musician who wants a versatile guitar that can handle a variety of playing styles.
3. Neck
The neck of the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is made from mahogany, which is a dense and durable wood that gives the guitar a warm, rich sound. The neck has a comfortable C-shape profile, which makes it easy to play for hours on end. This is especially important for a 12-string guitar, which can be more difficult to play than a 6-string guitar.
- Comfort and Playability: The C-shape profile of the neck makes it very comfortable to play, even for extended periods of time. This is especially important for a 12-string guitar, which can be more difficult to play than a 6-string guitar due to the increased string tension.
- Tonal Benefits: Mahogany is a dense and durable wood that gives the guitar a warm, rich sound. This is especially beneficial for a 12-string guitar, which can sometimes sound thin and jangly.
- Durability: Mahogany is a very durable wood, which means that the neck is less likely to be damaged if it is knocked or dropped. This is important for a guitar that is going to be played regularly.
Overall, the mahogany neck with a comfortable C-shape profile is a major factor in the playability and sound quality of the Blueridge 12 String Guitar. If you are looking for a 12-string guitar that is comfortable to play and sounds great, then the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a great choice.
4. Fretboard
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar features a rosewood fretboard with 20 frets. This combination of materials and construction gives the guitar a warm, rich sound with plenty of sustain. The rosewood fretboard also provides a comfortable playing surface that is easy on the fingers, even during extended playing sessions.
The 20 frets on the fretboard give the guitarist a wide range of notes to play, making it possible to play complex chords and melodies. The fretboard is also scalloped, which means that the space betwee
n the frets is slightly curved. This makes it easier to play fast passages and bends, and it also helps to reduce finger fatigue.
The fretboard on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a key component of the guitar’s overall sound and playability. The combination of rosewood and 20 frets gives the guitar a warm, rich sound with plenty of sustain. The fretboard is also comfortable to play, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced guitarists.
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Rosewood fretboard | Warm, rich sound with plenty of sustain |
| 20 frets | Wide range of notes to play |
| Scalloped fretboard | Easier to play fast passages and bends |
5. Tuning
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is tuned in the standard 12-string tuning of E, A, D, G, B, E. This tuning is commonly used on 12-string guitars because it provides a rich, full sound with plenty of volume and projection. The standard 12-string tuning is also relatively easy to learn, making it a good choice for beginner guitarists.
The standard 12-string tuning is created by doubling each of the six strings on a standard 6-string guitar. This means that the lowest four strings (E, A, D, G) are doubled at the octave, while the highest two strings (B, E) are doubled at the unison. The doubling of the strings creates a fuller, richer sound than a 6-string guitar, and it also gives the guitar a more resonant sound.
The standard 12-string tuning is well-suited for a variety of genres of music, including folk, rock, and blues. It is also a popular tuning for fingerpicking and other styles of guitar playing that require a lot of sustain.
Here is a summary of the key insights regarding the connection between “Tuning: Standard 12-string tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E)” and “blueridge 12 string guitar”:
- The standard 12-string tuning is commonly used on 12-string guitars because it provides a rich, full sound with plenty of volume and projection.
- The standard 12-string tuning is relatively easy to learn, making it a good choice for beginner guitarists.
- The standard 12-string tuning is well-suited for a variety of genres of music, including folk, rock, and blues.
Understanding the connection between “Tuning: Standard 12-string tuning (E, A, D, G, B, E)” and “blueridge 12 string guitar” is important for guitarists who want to get the most out of their instrument. By using the standard 12-string tuning, guitarists can achieve a rich, full sound that is perfect for a variety of genres of music.
6. Electronics
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is available with optional electronics, which allow the guitar to be amplified. This is a great feature for guitarists who want to play in a band or other live setting. The electronics on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar are high-quality and provide a natural, acoustic sound. This means that you can plug the guitar into an amplifier without sacrificing any of the guitar’s natural tone.
- Piezo pickup: The piezo pickup is a type of pickup that is mounted under the bridge of the guitar. It works by converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. Piezo pickups are known for their natural sound and their ability to handle high sound pressure levels. This makes them a good choice for guitarists who want to play in a loud band setting.
- Microphone: The microphone is another type of pickup that can be used to amplify the Blueridge 12 String Guitar. Microphones are placed inside the body of the guitar, and they work by capturing the sound of the guitar’s vibrations. Microphones are known for their warm, natural sound. They are a good choice for guitarists who want to capture the true sound of their guitar.
- Preamp: The preamp is a small electronic device that is used to boost the signal from the pickup. This is necessary because the signal from the pickup is very weak. The preamp also provides some basic EQ controls, which allow the guitarist to shape the sound of the guitar.
- Output jack: The output jack is a standard 1/4″ jack that is used to connect the guitar to an amplifier. The output jack is usually located on the side of the guitar.
The electronics on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar are a great way to amplify the guitar’s natural sound. This makes the guitar a great choice for guitarists who want to play in a band or other live setting.
7. Finish
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar features a gloss finish for a beautiful, polished look. This finish gives the guitar a classic look and feel, and it also helps to protect the guitar from scratches and other damage.
The gloss finish on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is applied by hand, and it takes several days to complete. The process begins with sanding the body of the guitar to a smooth finish. Once the body is sanded, it is then sealed with a clear lacquer. The lacquer is applied in several thin coats, and it is allowed to dry completely between each coat. Once the lacquer is dry, the guitar is then buffed to a high gloss finish.
The gloss finish on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is not only beautiful, but it is also very durable. The lacquer finish helps to protect the guitar from scratches and other damage, and it also helps to keep the guitar looking new for years to come.
Here is a table summarizing the key insights regarding the connection between “Finish: Gloss finish for a beautiful, polished look” and “blueridge 12 string guitar”:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Gloss finish | Beautiful, polished look |
| Gloss finish | Protects the guitar from scratches and other damage |
| Gloss finish | Helps to keep the guitar looking new for years to come |
Understanding the connection between “Finish: Gloss finish for a beautiful, polished look” and “blueridge 12 string guitar” is important for guitarists who want to get the most out of their instrument. By choosing a guitar with a gloss finish, guitarists can achieve a beautiful, polished look that will last for years to come.
8. Hardware
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar features chrome hardware for a classic look. This hardware includes the tuners, bridge, and tailpiece. The chrome hardware gives the guitar a polished, professional look, and it also helps to protect the guitar from corrosion.
The tuners on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar are high-quality, and they keep the guitar in tune even after heavy use. The bridge is also well-made, and it helps to transfer the vibrations of the strings to the body of the guitar. The tailpiece is also sturdy, and it helps to keep the strings in place.
The chrome hardware on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is not only stylish, but it is also very durable. T
he chrome finish helps to protect the hardware from rust and corrosion, and it also makes the hardware less likely to be damaged if the guitar is knocked or dropped.
Overall, the chrome hardware on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a great choice for guitarists who want a guitar that looks good and sounds great. The chrome hardware gives the guitar a classic look, and it also helps to protect the guitar from damage.
Here is a table summarizing the key insights regarding the connection between “Hardware: Chrome hardware for a classic look” and “blueridge 12 string guitar”:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Chrome hardware | Classic look |
| Chrome hardware | Protects the guitar from corrosion |
| Chrome hardware | Durable |
9. Case
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar comes with a hardshell case, which is an important accessory for protecting the guitar from damage. The case is made of durable materials, such as wood, fiberglass, or plastic, and it is lined with soft padding to protect the guitar from scratches and bumps. The case also has a handle and shoulder strap for easy transportation.
- Protection from the elements: A hardshell case can protect the guitar from the elements, such as rain, snow, and dust. This is important because exposure to the elements can damage the guitar’s finish and hardware.
- Protection from impact: A hardshell case can also protect the guitar from impact, such as being dropped or knocked over. This is important because impact can damage the guitar’s body, neck, or headstock.
- Easy transportation: A hardshell case makes it easy to transport the guitar. The case has a handle and shoulder strap, which makes it easy to carry the guitar from place to place.
- Storage: A hardshell case can also be used to store the guitar when it is not being used. The case provides a safe and secure place to store the guitar, and it helps to protect the guitar from dust and dirt.
Overall, a hardshell case is an important accessory for protecting the Blueridge 12 String Guitar. The case provides protection from the elements, impact, and transportation, and it also makes it easy to store the guitar when it is not being used.
FAQs about the Blueridge 12 String Guitar
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a popular choice for musicians of all levels, thanks to its rich, full sound and its versatility. However, there are some common questions that people have about the Blueridge 12 String Guitar. In this section, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the Blueridge 12 String Guitar.
Question 1: What are the benefits of the Blueridge 12 String Guitar?
Answer: The Blueridge 12 String Guitar offers several benefits, including its rich, full sound, its versatility, and its solid construction.
Question 2: How does the Blueridge 12 String Guitar compare to other 12-string guitars?
Answer: The Blueridge 12 String Guitar compares favorably to other 12-string guitars in terms of its sound quality, construction, and features.
Question 3: What is the best way to care for a Blueridge 12 String Guitar?
Answer: The best way to care for a Blueridge 12 String Guitar is to store it in a cool, dry place and to clean it regularly with a soft cloth.
Question 4: What is the warranty on the Blueridge 12 String Guitar?
Answer: The Blueridge 12 String Guitar comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Question 5: Where can I buy a Blueridge 12 String Guitar?
Answer: Blueridge 12 String Guitars can be purchased from a variety of online and offline retailers.
Question 6: Can the Blueridge 12 String Guitar be used for a variety of genres of music?
Answer: Yes, the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres of music, including folk, rock, and blues.
Summary: The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a great choice for musicians of all levels. It offers a rich, full sound, versatile playing style, and solid construction. If you are looking for a high-quality 12-string guitar, the Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a great option.
Transition: Now that we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the Blueridge 12 String Guitar, let’s take a closer look at its features and benefits.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Blueridge 12 String Guitar
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a beautiful and versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres of music. However, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of your guitar and ensure that it lasts for many years to come.
Tip 1: Use the right strings. The type of strings you use on your Blueridge 12 String Guitar can have a big impact on the sound and playability of the guitar. For a brighter sound, try using strings with a higher tension. For a warmer sound, try using strings with a lower tension.
Tip 2: Keep your guitar clean. Dust and dirt can build up on your guitar over time, which can affect the sound and playability of the guitar. To clean your guitar, use a soft cloth and a mild cleaner. Be sure to wipe down the body, neck, and strings of the guitar.
Tip 3: Store your guitar in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage your guitar. To protect your guitar, store it in a cool, dry place when you are not playing it. You may also want to consider using a humidifier to keep the humidity in your guitar case at a consistent level.
Tip 4: Get your guitar serviced regularly. A professional guitar technician can help you keep your guitar in good playing condition. A guitar technician can perform a variety of services, such as adjusting the intonation, cleaning the electronics, and replacing worn-out parts.
Tip 5: Play your guitar regularly. The best way to keep your guitar in good playing condition is to play it regularly. Playing your guitar will help to keep the strings stretched and the neck in alignment. It will also help you to develop your playing skills.
Summary: By following these tips, you can get the most out of your Blueridge 12 String Guitar and ensure that it lasts for many years to come.
Transition: Now that you know how to care for your Blueridge 12 String Guitar, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of owning one.
Conclusion
The Blueridge 12 String Guitar is a versatile and well-crafted instrument that combines rich, full sound with a comfortable playing experience. Its solid construction and quality materials ensure durability, while its range of features, including optional electronics and a hardshell case, cater to the needs of musicians of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your musical journey, a Blueridge 12 String Guitar is an excellent choice for exploring the world of 12-string guitars.
Investing in a Blueridge 12 String Guitar not only provides a reliable and enjoyable musical companion but also supports the legacy of American craftsmanship. Each guitar is meticulously assembled by s
killed luthiers, ensuring the highest standards of quality. As you play and cherish your Blueridge 12 String Guitar, you become part of a community of musicians who appreciate the unique sound and timeless appeal of this exceptional instrument.
