Are you a left-handed guitarist looking for the perfect acoustic-electric guitar? If so, you’re in luck! In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about left handed acoustic electric guitars, from their unique features to the best models on the market.
Editor’s Note: _Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are a great option for left-handed guitarists who want the versatility of an acoustic guitar with the added benefit of being able to plug into an amplifier._
We’ve done the research and put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the right decision when choosing a left handed acoustic electric guitar.
Key Differences Between Left and Right-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitars
| Feature | Left-Handed | Right-Handed |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Reversed | Standard |
| Neck | Reversed string order | Standard string order |
| Electronics | Mounted on the right side of the body | Mounted on the left side of the body |
Main Article Topics
- The benefits of left handed acoustic electric guitars
- The different types of left handed acoustic electric guitars available
- How to choose the right left handed acoustic electric guitar for you
- Tips for playing left handed acoustic electric guitar
1. Body Shape
The body shape of a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is reversed from a right-handed guitar, with the cutaway on the left side of the body. This is done to accommodate the fact that left-handed guitarists strum with their right hand and fret with their left hand, which is the opposite of right-handed guitarists.
The reversed body shape of a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is important because it allows left-handed guitarists to play the guitar in a comfortable and natural way. If a left-handed guitarist were to play a right-handed guitar, they would have to reach across the body of the guitar with their right hand to strum, which would be awkward and uncomfortable.
In addition to being more comfortable to play, the reversed body shape of a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar also gives left-handed guitarists a more natural sound. When a left-handed guitarist plays a right-handed guitar, the sound of the guitar is muffled by their body. This is because the soundhole is located on the right side of the body of a right-handed guitar, which is facing away from the left-handed guitarist’s body.
By contrast, the soundhole on a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is located on the left side of the body, which is facing towards the left-handed guitarist’s body. This allows the sound of the guitar to be projected more directly towards the left-handed guitarist, giving them a more natural and resonant sound.
Benefits of a Reversed Body Shape for Left-Handed Guitarists
- More comfortable to play
- More natural sound
- Less likely to cause fatigue or pain
Challenges of Finding a Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Fewer options available than right-handed guitars
- May be more expensive than right-handed guitars
Tips for Choosing a Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Consider your playing style and budget
- Try out different models to find one that is comfortable to play
- Be patient and don’t be afraid to ask for help from a guitar teacher or sales associate
2. Neck
The reversed string order on the neck of a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is a defining characteristic that sets it apart from right-handed guitars. This unique feature has several important implications for left-handed guitarists:
- Facilitates Natural Playing Position: The reversed string order allows left-handed guitarists to play in a natural and comfortable position, with their left hand fretting the notes and their right hand strumming the strings.
- Improves Finger Dexterity: The reversed string order can improve finger dexterity for left-handed guitarists, as it allows them to use their stronger fingers for the more complex fretting patterns.
- Enhances Sound Projection: The reversed string order on a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar results in a more natural sound projection for left-handed guitarists, as the soundhole is positioned towards their body.
- Provides a Distinctive Tonal Quality: The reversed string order can contribute to a slightly different tonal quality on a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar, as the strings vibrate in a different direction than on a right-handed guitar.
Overall, the reversed string order on the neck of a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is an essential feature that allows left-handed guitarists to play comfortably, develop their skills, and produce a unique and satisfying sound.
3. Electronics
The strategic placement of electronics on a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is a crucial factor that enhances the playing experience for left-handed guitarists. This thoughtful design addresses the unique needs of left-handed players, ensuring their comfort and accessibility while performing.
- Optimized Ergonomics: The placement of electronics on the right side of the body aligns perfectly with the natural playing position of left-handed guitarists. This ergonomic design allows for effortless access to controls, such as volume and tone knobs, without interrupting the flow of playing.
- Ease of Use: The accessibility of electronics on the right side of the body eliminates the need for awkward reaching or uncomfortable hand positions. Left-handed guitarists can instinctively adjust settings and make changes during performances, maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted playing experience.
- Enhanced Control: The convenient positioning of electronics enables left-handed guitarists to have precise control over their sound. They can quickly adjust volume levels, switch between pickups, and fine-tune their tone, allowing for a dynamic and expressive performance.
- Unimpeded Playing: The placement of electronics on the right side of the body ensures that left-handed guitarists have unobstructed access to the fretboard and strings. This layout prevents accidental bumps or interference with the playing hand, fostering a comfortable and uninhibited playing experience.
In summary, the strategic placement o
f electronics on the right side of the body in left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is a testament to the thoughtful consideration given to the needs of left-handed players. This design feature empowers left-handed guitarists with enhanced comfort, ease of use, precise control, and uninhibited playing, enabling them to fully express their musicality and captivate audiences.
4. Playability
The playability of a guitar is a crucial factor that significantly impacts the overall playing experience, especially for left-handed guitarists. Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of left-handed players, ensuring their comfort and maximizing their ability to perform at their best.
The reversed body shape of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars allows left-handed players to strum with their right hand and fret with their left hand, providing a natural and comfortable playing position. This ergonomic design eliminates the awkwardness and discomfort that left-handed players may encounter when playing right-handed guitars.
Furthermore, the controls and fretboard on left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are strategically positioned for optimal accessibility. The controls, such as volume and tone knobs, are placed on the right side of the body, making them easily erreichbar for left-handed players. The fretboard is also designed to be comfortable for left-hand fretting, with the frets and inlays arranged in a way that facilitates smooth and accurate fingering.
The combination of these design features in left-handed acoustic-electric guitars results in enhanced playability, allowing left-handed guitarists to focus on their performance without being hindered by discomfort or technical limitations. This enables them to develop their skills, express their creativity, and captivate audiences with their music.
In summary, the playability of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is a testament to the importance of catering to the needs of left-handed players. These guitars empower left-handed musicians with the ability to play comfortably, develop their skills effectively, and perform at their best, fostering a more inclusive and fulfilling musical experience.
Key Insights:
- Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are specifically designed for left-handed players, addressing their unique playing needs.
- The reversed body shape, strategically placed controls, and optimized fretboard contribute to enhanced comfort and playability.
- Improved playability empowers left-handed guitarists to maximize their skills, express their creativity, and captivate audiences.
5. Tone
The tone of a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is a crucial aspect that contributes to its overall quality and versatility. While the handedness of the guitar does not significantly alter the fundamental tonal characteristics, the unique design and construction of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars result in certain nuances that distinguish them from their right-handed counterparts.
The body shape of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars, with the cutaway on the left side, influences the resonance and projection of the sound. The reversed string order, with the thickest string on the bottom and the thinnest string on the top, also affects the tonal balance and response of the guitar.
Despite these subtle differences, left-handed acoustic-electric guitars generally produce a warm and rich sound that is well-suited for a wide range of musical styles. The combination of a resonant body and responsive strings allows for clear and articulate note definition, making them ideal for fingerpicking, strumming, and soloing.
The versatility of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is further enhanced by the availability of different body sizes and shapes, such as dreadnought, grand auditorium, and parlor. Each body style offers unique tonal qualities, allowing players to choose the guitar that best complements their playing style and musical preferences.
Some notable examples of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars that exemplify their tonal excellence include the Martin D-28 Left-Handed, the Taylor 814ce Left-Handed, and the Gibson J-45 Left-Handed. These guitars are renowned for their rich, balanced sound and exceptional playability, making them the choice of many professional musicians.
In summary, the tone of a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is a harmonious blend of warmth, richness, and versatility, making it an ideal instrument for musicians of all levels and genres. Whether for intimate solo performances or electrifying stage shows, left-handed acoustic-electric guitars deliver an exceptional tonal experience that captivates audiences.
| Characteristic | Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Right-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Reversed cutaway on the left side | Cutaway on the right side |
| String Order | Thickest string on the bottom | Thickest string on the top |
| Tone | Warm, rich, well-balanced | Warm, rich, well-balanced |
| Versatility | Suitable for a wide range of genres | Suitable for a wide range of genres |
6. Versatility
The versatility of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is a significant advantage for musicians who seek an instrument that can adapt to different musical styles. This versatility stems from the unique combination of tonal characteristics, playability, and design features that cater to the needs of left-handed guitarists.
- Tonal Range and Expression: Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars offer a rich and resonant sound that can accommodate a wide range of genres. The warmth and clarity of the tone make them suitable for delicate fingerpicking in folk and blues, while the powerful projection and sustain enhance their presence in rock and country.
- Playability and Comfort: The reversed body shape and string order of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars provide a natural and comfortable playing experience for left-handed musicians. This allows for effortless fretting and strumming, enabling guitarists to focus on their performance and musical expression.
- Genre-Specific Adaptations: Some left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are designed with specific genres in mind. For example, models with smaller bodies and brighter tones are well-suited for folk and blues, while larger-bodied guitars with deeper tones excel in rock and country.
- Live Performances and Recording: The versatility of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars makes them ideal for both live performances and recording sessions. The ability to switch between different genres seamlessly allows musicians to adapt to the demands of various musical settings.
In conclusion, the versatility of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is a testament to their adaptability and suitability for a wide range of musical styles. They empower left-handed musicians with the freedom to explore differ
ent genres and express their creativity without limitations.
7. Availability
The growing availability of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is a significant development in the music industry, addressing the needs of a previously underserved segment of guitarists. This increased availability has profound implications for left-handed musicians, providing them with a wider range of options and empowering them to fully participate in the musical landscape.
- Expanding Market Recognition: The increasing availability of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars demonstrates a growing recognition of the needs of left-handed musicians. Major manufacturers are investing in the production of left-handed models, acknowledging the demand and potential of this market segment.
- Improved Accessibility: With more manufacturers offering left-handed acoustic-electric guitars, left-handed guitarists now have better access to high-quality instruments. This eliminates the challenges of finding suitable guitars in the past and allows them to choose from a wider range of options that meet their playing styles and preferences.
- Increased Competition: The growing number of manufacturers producing left-handed acoustic-electric guitars fosters competition, driving innovation and improving the overall quality of instruments available to left-handed players. This competition benefits all left-handed guitarists, as it leads to a wider selection and potentially more affordable options.
In conclusion, the increasing availability of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is a positive development that empowers left-handed musicians and contributes to a more inclusive and diverse music industry. As more manufacturers recognize the needs of left-handed guitarists, the availability of high-quality instruments will continue to expand, providing left-handed players with the opportunity to fully express their musical talents.
8. Price
The pricing of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is closely intertwined with the concept of “left handed acoustic electric guitar.” The higher cost of left-handed models, while not substantial, stems from several factors that contribute to their unique production and market dynamics:
- Lower Production Volume: Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are produced in smaller quantities compared to their right-handed counterparts due to the lower demand. This limited production run increases the cost per unit, as manufacturers spread the fixed costs of production over a smaller number of instruments.
- Specialized Manufacturing: The production of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars requires specialized tooling, jigs, and templates that differ from those used for right-handed models. This additional investment in manufacturing processes contributes to the slightly higher price point.
- Economies of Scale: The economies of scale that benefit the production of right-handed acoustic-electric guitars, due to their higher demand and larger production runs, are less pronounced for left-handed models. This reduced scale of production can lead to higher unit costs.
Despite the slightly higher cost, the price difference between left-handed and right-handed acoustic-electric guitars is typically not significant. This is because manufacturers are increasingly recognizing the needs of left-handed guitarists and are investing in efficient production methods to reduce the cost premium.
The availability of affordable left-handed acoustic-electric guitars is crucial for fostering inclusivity in the music industry. It allows left-handed musicians to access high-quality instruments that meet their unique playing needs without incurring a substantial financial burden.
| Characteristic | Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Right-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Production Volume | Lower | Higher |
| Manufacturing | Specialized | Standard |
| Economies of Scale | Less pronounced | More pronounced |
| Price Difference | Slightly higher | Lower |
FAQs About Left Handed Acoustic Electric Guitars
Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are a unique and versatile type of guitar that offer a number of benefits for left-handed players. However, there are also some common questions and misconceptions about these guitars. In this FAQ section, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions about left-handed acoustic-electric guitars.
Question 1: _Are left-handed acoustic-electric guitars more expensive than right-handed models?_
Answer: Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are typically slightly more expensive than right-handed models due to lower production volume and specialized manufacturing processes. However, the price difference is usually not significant.
Question 2: _Are left-handed acoustic-electric guitars difficult to play?_
Answer: No, left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are not difficult to play for left-handed guitarists. They are designed with the left-handed player in mind, with the controls and fretboard positioned for optimal comfort and playability.
Question 3: _Can I learn to play guitar on a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar if I’m right-handed?_
Answer: While it is possible to learn to play guitar on a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar if you’re right-handed, it is not recommended. It is generally easier to learn to play on a guitar that is designed for your handedness.
Question 4: _Are there any famous left-handed acoustic-electric guitar players?_
Answer: Yes, there are many famous left-handed acoustic-electric guitar players, including Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, and Kurt Cobain.
Question 5: _Where can I find a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar?_
Answer: You can find left-handed acoustic-electric guitars at most music stores and online retailers.
Question 6: _What are the benefits of playing a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar?_
Answer: There are many benefits to playing a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar, including:
Improved comfort and playabilityMore natural sound projectionGreater finger dexterityA unique and distinctive tonal quality
If you’re a left-handed guitarist, playing a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar can offer you a number of advantages. With so many great options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect left-handed acoustic-electric guitar for your needs.
Transition to the next article section: _Now that we’ve answered some of the most common questions about left-handed acoustic-electric guitars, let’s take a look at some of the best models on the market._
Tips for Choosing a Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Choosing the right left-handed acoustic-electric guitar can be a daunting task, but with the right information, you can
find the perfect guitar for your needs. Here are eight tips to help you get started:
1. Consider Your Playing Style and Budget
The first step in choosing a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar is to consider your playing style and budget. If you’re a beginner, you may want to start with a less expensive guitar that is easy to play. As you progress in your playing, you can upgrade to a more expensive guitar with more features.
2. Try Out Different Models
Once you have a budget in mind, you can start trying out different models of left-handed acoustic-electric guitars. It’s important to try out different guitars to find one that feels comfortable to play and sounds good to you.
3. Pay Attention to the Neck
The neck of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a guitar. The neck should be comfortable to play and the frets should be evenly spaced.
4. Consider the Body Shape
The body shape of a guitar can affect the sound of the guitar. Dreadnought guitars have a large body that produces a loud, powerful sound. Grand auditorium guitars have a smaller body that produces a more balanced sound. Parlor guitars have a small body that produces a warm, mellow sound.
5. Choose the Right Electronics
If you plan on playing your guitar amplified, you’ll need to choose a guitar with the right electronics. The most common type of electronics for acoustic-electric guitars is a piezoelectric pickup. Piezoelectric pickups are mounted under the bridge of the guitar and they convert the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal.
6. Get a Professional Setup
Once you’ve chosen a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar, it’s important to get it professionally set up. A professional setup will ensure that the guitar is playing at its best and that the intonation is correct.
7. Take Care of Your Guitar
Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are beautiful instruments, but they require proper care to stay in good condition. Be sure to clean your guitar regularly and store it in a cool, dry place.
8. Have Fun
Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun when choosing and playing your left-handed acoustic-electric guitar. The guitar is a wonderful instrument that can bring you years of enjoyment.
Summary of Key Takeaways or Benefits:
- By following these tips, you can choose the perfect left-handed acoustic-electric guitar for your needs.
- With the right guitar, you’ll be able to enjoy years of playing and making music.
Transition to the Article’s Conclusion:
Now that you know how to choose a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar, it’s time to start shopping! With so many great options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Conclusion on Left-Handed Acoustic Electric Guitars
Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars are a unique and versatile type of guitar that offer a number of benefits for left-handed players. They are designed with the left-handed player in mind, with the controls and fretboard positioned for optimal comfort and playability. Left-handed acoustic-electric guitars also produce a more natural sound projection for left-handed players, as the soundhole is facing towards their body.
If you’re a left-handed guitarist, playing a left-handed acoustic-electric guitar can offer you a number of advantages. With so many great options on the market, you’re sure to find the perfect left-handed acoustic-electric guitar for your needs. So what are you waiting for? Start shopping today!
Youtube Video:
