In the world of musical instruments, few can match the beauty and versatility of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this exceptional guitar offers a mesmerizing blend of classic acoustic tones and modern electric capabilities, making it a true masterpiece for musicians of all genres.
Editor’s Notes:The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is a groundbreaking instrument that has captured the hearts of guitarists worldwide. Its unique combination of traditional and contemporary features makes it an essential tool for musicians seeking to expand their sonic horizons.
Through extensive analysis and careful research, we have assembled this comprehensive guide to the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your musical journey, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to make informed decisions and elevate your playing experience.
Key Differences/Key Takeaways:
| Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar | Other 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitars | |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape: | Roundback or Cutaway | Dreadnought or Jumbo |
| Electronics: | OP-Pro preamp with EQ and tuner | Varies depending on the model |
| Sound: | Balanced, warm, and resonant | Can vary depending on body shape and construction |
Transition to Main Article Topics:
- The History and Evolution of the Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar
- The Construction and Design Features of the Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar
- The Unique Sound and Versatility of the Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar
- The Benefits and Advantages of Owning an Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar
- Tips and Tricks for Getting the Most Out of Your Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar
1. Roundback Body
The roundback body of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar plays a pivotal role in shaping its exceptional sound. Unlike traditional flat-back guitars, the roundback design creates a larger internal cavity, allowing for greater resonance and projection. This unique body shape enhances the guitar’s natural acoustic properties, producing a fuller, richer tone with increased sustain.
The roundback body also contributes to the guitar’s impressive projection. The curved back acts as a natural amplifier, directing sound waves forward, resulting in a more powerful and focused sound. This projection makes the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar ideal for both intimate acoustic performances and larger stage settings, ensuring that every note is heard with clarity and impact.
Overall, the roundback body of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is a key component that sets it apart from other guitars. Its unique design enhances resonance, projection, and overall sound quality, making it a versatile and exceptional instrument for musicians of all levels.
Detailed Information in Creative and Insightful Table Format:
| Roundback Body | Flat-back Body | |
|---|---|---|
| Resonance | Enhanced | Limited |
| Projection | Increased | Reduced |
| Sound Quality | Fuller, richer tone with increased sustain | Thinner, less resonant tone |
2. Cutaway Design
The cutaway design of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is a crucial feature that enhances playability and expands the guitarist’s range. Unlike traditional guitars with a solid body, the cutaway design features a strategically placed notch in the upper bout of the guitar, allowing the fretting hand to reach higher frets with greater ease and comfort.
- Enhanced Fingerboard Access: The cutaway design provides unobstructed access to the higher frets, enabling guitarists to execute complex fingerings, solos, and lead melodies with greater fluidity and precision. This is particularly beneficial for playing intricate passages and reaching notes in the upper registers of the fretboard.
- Improved Playability: The cutaway design reduces strain on the fretting hand, as the wrist does not need to bend as sharply to reach higher frets. This ergonomic design enhances playing comfort, allowing guitarists to perform for longer durations without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.
- Extended Range: The cutaway design effectively extends the playable range of the guitar, making it possible to access and play notes that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to reach on a traditional guitar. This expanded range opens up new possibilities for musical expression and technical exploration.
- Versatility: The cutaway design caters to various playing styles and genres. It is particularly advantageous for guitarists who frequently play in higher registers, such as lead guitarists, soloists, and fingerstyle players. The cutaway design empowers guitarists to explore the full potential of the 12-string guitar, unlocking a wider sonic palette.
In summary, the cutaway design of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is a thoughtful and innovative feature that significantly enhances playability, comfort, and range. It empowers guitarists of all levels to reach higher frets effortlessly, unlocking new possibilities for musical expression and technical mastery.
3. 12 Strings
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is renowned for its captivating sound, characterized by a rich, shimmering quality that sets it apart from other guitars. This unique sonic signature is largely attributed to the presence of 12 strings, rather than the traditional six strings found on most guitars.
- Enhanced Harmonic Complexity: The 12 strings on the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar create a more harmonically complex sound compared to six-string guitars. The additional strings introduce new overtones and resonances, resulting in a fuller, richer sound with increased depth and texture.
- Increased Sustain: The 12 strings on the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar contribute to longer sustain, allowing notes to ring out for an extended duration. This increa
sed sustain enhances the guitar’s expressiveness, making it ideal for creating lush, ambient soundscapes and emotive solos. - Chorus-like Effect: The slight detuning between the 12 strings creates a subtle chorus-like effect, adding a shimmering, ethereal quality to the sound. This effect is particularly noticeable when playing chords or arpeggios, resulting in a lush, spacious soundscape.
- Distinctive Jangle: The 12 strings on the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar produce a distinctive jangle or chime-like sound when strummed. This unique sonic characteristic is highly sought after by guitarists in genres such as folk, rock, and country, where it adds a bright, shimmering texture to the music.
In summary, the 12 strings on the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar play a pivotal role in shaping its rich, shimmering sound. The increased harmonic complexity, extended sustain, chorus-like effect, and distinctive jangle combine to create a captivating and versatile instrument that inspires musicians across a wide range of genres.
4. OP-Pro Preamp
The OP-Pro preamp plays a crucial role in the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar, acting as the central hub for sound shaping and amplification. This sophisticated preamp is meticulously designed to complement the guitar’s unique sonic characteristics, providing guitarists with unparalleled control over their sound.
The OP-Pro preamp features a comprehensive range of tone-shaping options, allowing guitarists to tailor their sound to suit their musical style and playing environment. The three-band EQ, consisting of bass, mid, and treble controls, enables precise adjustments to the guitar’s tonal balance. Additionally, the presence control provides further refinement, enhancing the clarity and definition of the sound.
Beyond tone shaping, the OP-Pro preamp also serves as a high-quality amplifier, ensuring that the guitar’s natural acoustic sound is faithfully reproduced when plugged into an external sound system. The preamp’s transparent design preserves the guitar’s inherent character, allowing the natural dynamics and nuances of the performance to shine through.
In practical terms, the OP-Pro preamp empowers ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar players to excel in various musical settings. Whether performing live on stage, recording in the studio, or practicing at home, the preamp’s versatility ensures that the guitar’s sound can be effortlessly adapted to match the specific requirements of the situation.
Detailed Information in Creative and Insightful Table Format:
| Feature | Benefits for Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| Three-band EQ (bass, mid, treble) | Precise tonal shaping to suit various musical styles and playing environments |
| Presence control | Enhanced clarity and definition of the sound |
| High-quality amplification | Faithfully reproduces the guitar’s natural acoustic sound when plugged in |
| Transparent design | Preserves the guitar’s inherent character and dynamics |
| Versatility | Adaptable to a wide range of musical settings, from live performances to studio recordings |
5. Built-in Tuner
The built-in tuner in the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is a valuable feature that plays a pivotal role in maintaining accurate intonation, ensuring that the guitar always sounds its best. This highly precise tuner is seamlessly integrated into the guitar’s design, providing guitarists with convenient and immediate access to accurate tuning, regardless of their playing environment.
- Convenience and Efficiency: The built-in tuner eliminates the need for external tuning devices, saving guitarists time and effort during rehearsals, performances, and practice sessions. Its intuitive interface and clear display allow for quick and precise tuning, keeping the guitar in perfect intonation at all times.
- Enhanced Sound Quality: Accurate intonation is crucial for achieving optimal sound quality. The built-in tuner ensures that each string is tuned to its correct pitch, eliminating any potential intonation issues that could detract from the guitar’s overall sound. This results in a more harmonious and pleasing playing experience.
- Reliability in Diverse Environments: The built-in tuner is designed to function reliably in various environments, including noisy or dimly lit stages. Its high sensitivity and accurate detection capabilities ensure that guitarists can trust the tuner’s readings, even in challenging conditions.
- Suitable for All Skill Levels: The built-in tuner is beneficial for guitarists of all skill levels. Beginners can rely on the tuner for quick and accurate tuning, while experienced players can appreciate the convenience and precision it offers, especially during live performances or recording sessions.
In conclusion, the built-in tuner in the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is a crucial feature that enhances the playing experience and ensures optimal sound quality. Its convenience, reliability, and accuracy make it an indispensable tool for guitarists seeking to maintain their instrument in perfect intonation at all times.
6. Balanced Electronics
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is renowned for its ability to seamlessly blend the natural acoustic tone of a traditional guitar with the versatility and power of an electric guitar. This unique combination is largely attributed to the guitar’s balanced electronics system, which plays a pivotal role in capturing and amplifying the guitar’s natural sound without compromising its inherent character.
- Acoustic-Electric Piezo Pickup: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar utilizes a piezo pickup strategically placed beneath the bridge saddle. This pickup accurately captures the vibrations of the strings, converting them into an electrical signal that preserves the guitar’s natural acoustic tone and dynamics.
- OP-Pro Preamp with EQ: The guitar’s onboard OP-Pro preamp is meticulously designed to complement the piezo pickup. It features a three-band EQ, allowing guitarists to fine-tune the amplified sound, ensuring that the guitar’s natural acoustic character remains intact while accommodating various musical styles and playing environments.
- Balanced XLR Output: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar features a balanced XLR output, providing a direct connection to a mixing console or audio interface. This balanced output ensures a clean and noise-free signal transmission, preserving the guitar’s natural tone and allowing for professional-quality amplification.
- Natural Sound Reproduction: The combination of the piezo pickup, OP-Pro preamp, and balanced XLR output results in a natural and transparent sound reproduction when the guitar is amplified. This allows guitarists to experience the true aco
ustic tone of their instrument, even in amplified settings, making it ideal for live performances and studio recordings.
In conclusion, the balanced electronics system in the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is a testament to the guitar’s exceptional design and construction. It empowers guitarists to harness the natural beauty of their instrument while enjoying the versatility and convenience of an electric guitar, opening up a world of musical possibilities and sonic exploration.
7. Comfortable Playability
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is not only known for its exceptional sound but also for its remarkable playability. Two key factors that contribute to this unparalleled playing experience are its contoured body and low action.
The contoured body of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is designed to fit comfortably against the player’s body, providing a natural and relaxed playing position. This contoured design reduces strain on the player’s arms and shoulders, allowing for extended playing sessions without discomfort.
Furthermore, the low action of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar makes it incredibly easy to press down on the strings, requiring less effort from the player. This low action is achieved through careful adjustment of the string height above the fretboard, ensuring that the strings are close enough to the fretboard for easy fingering without causing buzzing or fretting out.
The combination of a contoured body and low action results in an incredibly comfortable playing experience, allowing guitarists to perform with greater ease, accuracy, and speed. This enhanced playability is particularly beneficial for complex fingerpicking patterns, intricate chords, and fast-paced solos, empowering guitarists to express themselves fully through their music.
In summary, the contoured body and low action of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar are crucial elements that contribute to its exceptional playability, making it an ideal choice for guitarists seeking comfort, ease of playing, and enhanced performance.
Detailed Information in Creative and Insightful Table Format:
| Contoured Body | Low Action | |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Reduces strain on arms and shoulders | Less effort required to press down on strings |
| Playability | Allows for natural and relaxed playing position | Enhances accuracy and speed |
| Performance | Facilitates complex fingerpicking patterns and intricate chords | Empowers guitarists to express themselves fully through music |
8. Durable Construction
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is renowned for its exceptional durability, a crucial quality for an instrument that faces the rigors of touring and regular use. Its robust construction ensures that the guitar can withstand the demanding conditions of life on the road and the wear and tear of frequent playing.
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar’s durable construction begins with its unique body design. The roundback body is made from a combination of durable materials, including a spruce top and Lyrachord back and sides. This combination provides strength and resilience, protecting the guitar from dings, dents, and scratches that are common during transportation and handling.
The guitar’s neck is also built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The select hardwood neck is reinforced with a carbon fiber rod, increasing its strength and stability. This reinforcement helps to prevent warping or bending, ensuring that the guitar’s intonation remains accurate even under extreme conditions.
The durable construction of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar extends to its hardware components as well. The chrome-plated tuning machines are corrosion-resistant, maintaining their functionality even after prolonged exposure to moisture and humidity. The rosewood bridge is strong and durable, providing a solid foundation for the strings and ensuring accurate intonation.
The combination of a robust body, reinforced neck, and durable hardware components makes the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar an ideal choice for musicians who demand a reliable and long-lasting instrument. Its durable construction ensures that the guitar can withstand the rigors of touring and regular use, providing years of exceptional performance and enjoyment.
Detailed Information in Creative and Insightful Table Format:
| Durable Construction | Benefits for Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar | |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Combination of spruce top and Lyrachord back and sides | Provides strength and resilience, protecting the guitar from damage |
| Neck | Select hardwood reinforced with carbon fiber rod | Increases strength and stability, preventing warping or bending |
| Hardware | Chrome-plated tuning machines, rosewood bridge | Corrosion-resistant and durable, ensuring reliable performance |
9. Versatile Applications
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar stands out for its remarkable versatility, effortlessly adapting to a diverse array of musical genres. Its unique blend of acoustic and electric capabilities makes it a highly sought-after instrument for musicians seeking to explore a wide sonic palette.
The guitar’s rich and resonant acoustic tone provides a solid foundation for genres such as folk, country, and bluegrass. The 12 strings add a shimmering and evocative dimension, enhancing the guitar’s expressiveness and emotional depth. Additionally, the built-in electronics allow for seamless amplification, making the guitar suitable for live performances and studio recordings.
Beyond traditional acoustic genres, the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar also excels in contemporary musical styles. Its balanced electronics and versatile EQ options enable guitarists to shape their sound to fit genres such as rock, pop, and even jazz. The guitar’s ability to produce both warm acoustic tones and crisp electric sounds makes it an ideal choice for musicians seeking a versatile instrument that can adapt to various musical contexts.
The versatility of the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is not only limited to its sonic capabilities but also extends to its playability. The comfortable body design and low action make it accessible to players of different skill levels and playing styles. Whether fingerpicking intricate folk melodies or strumming energetic rock chords, the guitar responds effortlessly, allowing guitarists to express their creativity without hindrance.
In summary, the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar’s versatile applications stem from its unique combination of acoustic and electric elements, coupled with its exceptional playability. This versatility empowers musici
ans to explore a wide range of musical genres, from traditional acoustic styles to contemporary electric sounds, making it a truly indispensable instrument for any musician seeking sonic diversity and creative freedom.
Detailed Information in Creative and Insightful Table Format:
| Genre | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Folk, Country, Bluegrass | Rich and resonant acoustic tone, 12 strings for added expressiveness |
| Rock, Pop | Balanced electronics, versatile EQ options, ability to produce crisp electric sounds |
| Jazz | Combination of warm acoustic and clear electric tones, playability suited for complex fingerpicking patterns |
10. Iconic Status
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar has achieved iconic status among guitarists, earning a place in the pantheon of classic instruments. This recognition stems from a combination of factors that have solidified the guitar’s reputation as an exceptional musical tool.
- Unmistakable Sound and Style: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar possesses a distinctive sound that sets it apart from other guitars. Its rich, resonant tone, coupled with the shimmering overtones of the 12 strings, creates a captivating sonic experience. The guitar’s unique roundback body and cutaway design further contribute to its iconic appearance, making it instantly recognizable to guitar enthusiasts.
- Versatile Performance: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is renowned for its versatility, effortlessly adapting to a wide range of musical genres. Its balanced electronics and onboard EQ allow guitarists to shape their sound to suit any musical style, from delicate folk arpeggios to soaring rock solos. This versatility has made the guitar a favorite among musicians seeking an instrument that can keep up with their diverse musical explorations.
- Durability and Reliability: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is built to withstand the rigors of touring and regular use. Its durable construction, featuring a combination of select hardwoods and composite materials, ensures that the guitar remains in optimal condition even after years of heavy use. This reliability has made it a trusted companion for countless musicians who rely on their instruments to perform at their best.
- Legacy and Influence: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Its unique sound and versatility have influenced generations of guitarists, inspiring them to create groundbreaking music. The guitar’s association with iconic musicians, such as Glen Campbell, Jimmy Page, and John Denver, has further cemented its status as a classic instrument.
In conclusion, the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar has achieved iconic status due to its distinctive sound, versatile performance capabilities, durable construction, and lasting legacy. Its recognition as a classic among guitarists is a testament to its exceptional qualities, ensuring that it will continue to inspire and captivate musicians for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar
This section addresses commonly asked questions and misconceptions surrounding the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar, providing informative answers to enhance understanding and clarify key aspects of this exceptional instrument.
Question 1: What are the key features that set the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar apart from other guitars?
Answer: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is distinguished by its unique combination of features, including its roundback body design, cutaway design, 12 strings, OP-Pro preamp, built-in tuner, balanced electronics, comfortable playability, durable construction, and iconic status.
Question 2: How does the roundback body design contribute to the guitar’s sound and playability?
Answer: The roundback body design enhances the guitar’s resonance and projection, resulting in a fuller and richer tone. It also provides a comfortable playing experience, as the curved back conforms to the player’s body, reducing strain on the arms and shoulders.
Question 3: What are the benefits of having 12 strings on the guitar?
Answer: The 12 strings on the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar produce a rich and shimmering sound, characterized by increased harmonic complexity, extended sustain, a chorus-like effect, and a distinctive jangle. These qualities enhance the guitar’s expressiveness and versatility.
Question 4: How does the OP-Pro preamp contribute to the guitar’s sound and functionality?
Answer: The OP-Pro preamp provides comprehensive tone-shaping options through its three-band EQ and presence control, allowing guitarists to tailor their sound to suit various musical styles and playing environments. It also serves as a high-quality amplifier, faithfully reproducing the guitar’s natural acoustic sound when plugged into an external sound system.
Question 5: Why is the built-in tuner an important feature of the guitar?
Answer: The built-in tuner ensures accurate intonation at all times, eliminating the need for external tuning devices. Its high precision and reliability allow guitarists to maintain optimal sound quality and play with confidence, regardless of their playing environment.
Question 6: What makes the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar an iconic instrument?
Answer: The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar has achieved iconic status due to its distinctive sound, versatile performance capabilities, durable construction, and lasting legacy. Its unique blend of acoustic and electric elements, coupled with its association with renowned musicians, has solidified its place as a classic instrument among guitarists.
In summary, the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar is an exceptional instrument that combines innovative design, exceptional sound quality, and unparalleled versatility. Its unique features and iconic status make it a highly sought-after guitar for musicians of all levels and genres.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Ovation 12 String Electric Acoustic Guitar
To fully harness the potential of your ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar and elevate your playing experience, consider incorporating the following tips into your practice and performances:
Tip 1: Experiment with Different String Gauges: Explore various string gauges to find the optimal balance between tone and playability. Lighter gauges offer a brighter sound with reduced tension, while heavier gauges provide a fuller, warmer tone with increased sustain.
Tip 2: Explore the OP-Pro Preamp: Utilize the onboard OP-Pro preamp to shape your sound and enhance your performance. Experiment with the three-band EQ and presence control to tailor the guitar’s tone to suit your musical style and playing environment.
Tip 3: Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is essential for developing your skills and maximizing the guitar’s capabilities. Dedicate time each day to practice scales, chords, and songs, focus
ing on accuracy and technique.
Tip 4: Experiment with Different Playing Techniques: Explore various playing techniques to unlock the guitar’s sonic potential. Incorporate fingerpicking, strumming, and hybrid picking into your playing to create a diverse range of sounds and textures.
Tip 5: Keep Your Guitar Well-Maintained: Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring your guitar’s optimal performance and longevity. Clean the strings and fretboard regularly, adjust the truss rod as needed, and have the guitar professionally serviced periodically.
Tip 6: Use a Humidifier in Dry Environments: Protect your guitar from the damaging effects of dry air by using a humidifier in environments with low humidity levels. This helps prevent the wood from drying out and cracking, maintaining the guitar’s structural integrity.
Tip 7: Explore Different Amplification Options: Experiment with various amplification options to find the best setup for your sound and playing style. Consider using an acoustic amplifier, a PA system, or a combination of both to achieve the desired volume and tone.
Tip 8: Seek Professional Guidance: If you encounter any challenges or have specific goals, consider seeking guidance from a qualified guitar teacher or luthier. They can provide expert advice, personalized instruction, and help you maximize your playing potential.
Incorporating these tips into your approach to playing the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar will enhance your overall experience, allowing you to fully unlock its sonic capabilities and expressive potential.
Conclusion
The ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar stands as a testament to innovative craftsmanship and exceptional musicality. Its unique blend of acoustic warmth and electric versatility, coupled with its distinctive design and iconic status, make it an indispensable instrument for musicians seeking to expand their sonic horizons and captivate audiences.
As you embark on your musical journey with the ovation 12 string electric acoustic guitar, embrace the transformative power of its sound and the boundless possibilities it offers. Explore its rich tonal palette, harness the versatility of its electronics, and revel in the comfort and playability it provides. With dedication and a spirit of exploration, you will unlock the full potential of this exceptional instrument and create music that resonates with authenticity and artistry.
