What are ovation 12 string guitars?
Editor’s Note: Ovation 12 string guitars are a popular choice for musicians of all levels, offering a unique sound and playing experience.
After doing some analysis and digging through the information available, we put together this guide to help you make the right decision when choosing an ovation 12 string guitar.
Key Differences in Ovation 12 String Guitars
| Feature | Ovation 12 String |
|---|---|
| Body Shape | Roundback |
| Number of Strings | 12 |
| Tuning | Standard 12-string tuning |
Main Article Topics
- The history of ovation 12 string guitars
- The different types of ovation 12 string guitars
- The pros and cons of ovation 12 string guitars
- How to choose the right ovation 12 string guitar for you
- Tips for playing ovation 12 string guitars
1. Roundback body
The roundback body of an ovation 12 string guitar is one of the most distinctive features of this instrument. It gives the guitar a unique look and sound, with a warm and resonant tone. The roundback body is also very comfortable to play, making it a great choice for musicians of all levels.
- Facet 1: Distinctive look
The roundback body of an ovation 12 string guitar gives it a very distinctive look. The body is much deeper than a traditional acoustic guitar, and the back is rounded, rather than flat. This gives the guitar a very unique and eye-catching appearance. - Facet 2: Warm and resonant tone
The roundback body of an ovation 12 string guitar also gives it a very warm and resonant tone. The deep body allows the sound to resonate more fully, giving the guitar a rich and full sound. The roundback body also helps to project the sound more evenly, making it easier to hear in a live setting. - Facet 3: Comfortable to play
The roundback body of an ovation 12 string guitar is also very comfortable to play. The body is very lightweight, and the rounded back makes it easy to hold and play for long periods of time. The neck is also very comfortable to play, with a low action and a smooth fretboard. - Facet 4: Versatile
The roundback body of an ovation 12 string guitar makes it a very versatile instrument. It can be used for a variety of genres, from folk and rock to country and blues. The warm and resonant tone of the guitar also makes it a great choice for recording.
Overall, the roundback body of an ovation 12 string guitar is one of the most important factors that contributes to its unique sound and playing experience. If you are looking for a guitar with a distinctive look, a warm and resonant tone, and a comfortable playing experience, then an ovation 12 string guitar is a great option.
2. 12 strings
The 12 strings of an ovation 12 string guitar are one of the most important factors that contribute to its unique sound. The 12 strings give the guitar a full and rich sound, perfect for strumming chords or playing lead melodies. The 12 strings also give the guitar a brighter and more jangly sound than a traditional 6-string guitar.
The 12 strings of an ovation 12 string guitar are also tuned differently than a traditional 6-string guitar. The 12 strings are tuned in unison pairs, which gives the guitar a unique and distinctive sound. The unison tuning also makes it easier to play chords on an ovation 12 string guitar, as you can simply strum all of the strings at once.
Overall, the 12 strings of an ovation 12 string guitar are one of the most important factors that contribute to its unique sound and playing experience. If you are looking for a guitar with a full and rich sound, then an ovation 12 string guitar is a great option.
Real-life examples:
Ovation 12 string guitars have been used by a wide range of musicians, including John Lennon, Paul Simon, and Jimmy Page. These musicians have used ovation 12 string guitars to create some of the most iconic songs in rock and folk music.
Practical significance:
Understanding the connection between the 12 strings of an ovation 12 string guitar and its sound is important for musicians who are looking to purchase or play this type of guitar. By understanding the role that the 12 strings play in the guitar’s sound, musicians can make informed decisions about which ovation 12 string guitar is right for them.
Table of key insights:
| Feature | Ovation 12 String Guitar |
|---|---|
| Number of strings | 12 |
| Tuning | Standard 12-string tuning |
| Sound | Full and rich |
| Playing style | Perfect for strumming chords or playing lead melodies |
3. Standard 12-string tuning
Standard 12-string tuning is an important part of what gives ovation 12 string guitars their unique sound. The 12 strings are tuned in unison pairs, which creates a bright and jangly sound that is perfect for strumming chords or playing lead melodies.
- The role of standard 12-string tuning in ovation 12 string guitars
Standard 12-string tuning is a tuning method that is specifically designed for 12-string guitars. It involves tuning the strings in unison pairs, with the higher-pitched string tuned an octave above the lower-pitched string. This tuning method creates a bright and jangly sound that is characteristic of 12-string guitars. - Examples of ovation 12 string guitars that use standard 12-string tuning
Many popular ovation 12 string guitars use standard 12-string tuning, including the Ovation Celebrity Elite 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar and the Ovation Balladeer 12-String Acoustic Guitar. These guitars are known for their bright and jangly sound, which is perfect for a variety of genres, including folk, rock, and country. - The implications of standard 12-string tuning for ovation 12 string guitars
Standard 12-string tuning has a number of implications for ovation 12 string guitars. First, it gives the guitars a bright and jangly sound that is perfect for strumming chords or playing lead melodies. Second, it makes the guitars easier to play, as the strings are tuned in unison pairs. Finally, it allows the guitars to be used in a variety of g
enres, making them a versatile choice for musicians of all levels.
Overall, standard 12-string tuning is an important part of what gives ovation 12 string guitars their unique sound and playing experience. If you are looking for a guitar with a bright and jangly sound, then an ovation 12 string guitar is a great option.
4. Electronics
The electronics on ovation 12 string guitars are an important part of what makes them such a versatile and popular choice for musicians. The electronics allow the guitars to be amplified and played live, making them a great option for musicians who want to perform their music in front of an audience.
There are a variety of different ovation 12 string guitars with electronics available on the market, so musicians can choose the guitar that best suits their needs. Some of the most popular models include the Ovation Celebrity Elite 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar and the Ovation Balladeer 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar. These guitars offer a variety of features, including built-in preamps, EQs, and tuners, making them a great choice for musicians who want a guitar that is easy to play and sounds great.
The electronics on ovation 12 string guitars can also be used to create a variety of different sounds. For example, the preamps and EQs on the guitars can be used to boost the bass or treble, or to create a variety of different effects. This makes ovation 12 string guitars a great choice for musicians who want to experiment with different sounds and create their own unique style.
Overall, the electronics on ovation 12 string guitars are an important part of what makes them such a popular choice for musicians. The electronics allow the guitars to be amplified and played live, and they also provide musicians with a variety of different ways to create their own unique sound.
Table of key insights:
| Feature | Ovation 12 String Guitar with Electronics |
|---|---|
| Amplification | Easy to amplify and play live |
| Versatility | Can be used for a variety of genres and playing styles |
| Sound quality | Provides a variety of different sounds and effects |
5. Cutaway
The cutaway on an ovation 12 string guitar is a significant feature that enhances the playability and versatility of the instrument, particularly for lead guitarists.
- Facet 1: Enhanced Access to Upper Frets
The cutaway design involves a section of the body being removed, creating a “dip” near the neck joint. This allows the guitarist to reach the higher frets with greater ease, facilitating complex fingerings and extended solos.
- Facet 2: Improved Playability for Lead Guitarists
Lead guitarists often require access to the full range of the fretboard, especially when performing intricate solos and melodic passages. The cutaway on an ovation 12 string guitar provides this access, enabling seamless transitions and effortless execution of techniques such as bending, vibrato, and tapping.
- Facet 3: Versatility in Different Genres
Beyond lead guitar playing, the cutaway also benefits rhythm guitarists and singer-songwriters. It allows for easier strumming patterns that extend beyond the 12th fret, adding depth and variety to chord progressions and arpeggios.
In conclusion, the cutaway on an ovation 12 string guitar is a crucial design element that caters to the needs of lead guitarists and enhances the overall playability of the instrument. It facilitates access to the upper frets, enabling complex techniques and expressive soloing, while also providing versatility for various musical styles.
6. Comfortable to play
The comfortable playing experience of ovation 12 string guitars is a significant factor that contributes to their popularity among musicians. The low action and easy-to-fret neck make these guitars ideal for players of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
The low action on ovation 12 string guitars means that the strings are closer to the fretboard, making them easier to press down. This is especially beneficial for players with smaller hands or for those who are new to playing the guitar. The easy-to-fret neck also contributes to the comfortable playing experience, as it allows players to move their fingers smoothly and quickly across the fretboard.
The combination of a low action and an easy-to-fret neck makes ovation 12 string guitars a great choice for a variety of playing styles. Whether you are strumming chords, fingerpicking, or playing lead guitar, you will find that ovation 12 string guitars are a pleasure to play.
Real-life examples:
Many famous musicians have used ovation 12 string guitars over the years, including John Lennon, Paul Simon, and Jimmy Page. These musicians have praised the guitars for their comfortable playing experience, which has allowed them to create some of the most iconic songs in rock and folk music.
Practical significance:
Understanding the connection between the comfortable playing experience of ovation 12 string guitars and their popularity among musicians is important for guitarists who are looking to purchase a new guitar. By understanding the factors that contribute to a comfortable playing experience, guitarists can make informed decisions about which ovation 12 string guitar is right for them.
Table of key insights:
| Feature | Ovation 12 String Guitar |
|---|---|
| Action | Low |
| Neck | Easy to fret |
| Playing experience | Comfortable |
7. Versatile
The versatility of ovation 12 string guitars is one of their most appealing features. These guitars can be used for a wide range of genres, from folk and rock to country and blues. This is due to their unique combination of sound and playing characteristics.
The roundback body of ovation 12 string guitars gives them a warm and resonant tone that is well-suited for a variety of genres. The 12 strings also give the guitars a bright and jangly sound, which is perfect for strumming chords or playing lead melodies. The standard 12-string tuning makes the guitars easy to play, and the low action and easy-to-fret neck make them comfortable to play for hours on end.
The versatility of ovation 12 string guitars has made them a popular choice for musicians of all levels. These guitars are perfect for singer-songwriters, rhythm guitarists, and lead guitarists alike. They are also a great choice for musicians who want a guitar that can be used for a variety of genres.
Real-life examples:
- John Lennon used an ovation 12 string guitar on the Beatles’ album “Revolver”.
- P
aul Simon used an ovation 12 string guitar on his album “Graceland”. - Jimmy Page used an ovation 12 string guitar on the Led Zeppelin album “Led Zeppelin IV”.
These are just a few examples of the many famous musicians who have used ovation 12 string guitars. These guitars have been used on some of the most iconic songs in rock and folk music history.
Practical significance:
Understanding the versatility of ovation 12 string guitars is important for guitarists who are looking to purchase a new guitar. By understanding the different genres that these guitars can be used for, guitarists can make informed decisions about which ovation 12 string guitar is right for them.
Table of key insights:
| Feature | Ovation 12 String Guitar |
|---|---|
| Versatility | Can be used for a variety of genres, from folk and rock to country and blues |
| Sound | Warm and resonant tone, with a bright and jangly sound |
| Playing characteristics | Low action and easy-to-fret neck make it comfortable to play |
8. Affordable
Ovation 12 string guitars are known for their high quality and great sound, but they are also relatively affordable, making them a great option for musicians on a budget. This affordability is due to a number of factors, including the use of less expensive materials and the efficient manufacturing process.
- Facet 1: Use of Less Expensive Materials
Ovation guitars use a variety of materials in their construction, including wood, plastic, and fiberglass. While wood is the traditional material used for guitars, it is also one of the most expensive. Ovation guitars use a combination of wood and less expensive materials, such as plastic and fiberglass, to keep the cost down.
- Facet 2: Efficient Manufacturing Process
Ovation guitars are also manufactured using an efficient process that helps to keep the cost down. The guitars are made in a factory using a combination of automated and manual processes. This allows Ovation to produce guitars quickly and efficiently, which helps to keep the cost down.
- Facet 3: Wide Range of Options
Ovation offers a wide range of 12 string guitars, fromto professional-grade instruments. This means that there is an ovation 12 string guitar to fit every budget.
- Facet 4: Value for Money
Despite their affordable price, ovation 12 string guitars are known for their high quality and great sound. This makes them a great value for money for musicians on a budget.
Overall, the affordability of ovation 12 string guitars is due to a number of factors, including the use of less expensive materials, the efficient manufacturing process, the wide range of options, and the value for money. This makes ovation 12 string guitars a great option for musicians on a budget.
FAQs about Ovation 12 String Guitars
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about ovation 12 string guitars. These questions address common concerns or misconceptions about these instruments.
Question 1: Are ovation 12 string guitars difficult to play?
Answer: Ovation 12 string guitars are known for their comfortable playing experience. The low action and easy-to-fret neck make these guitars ideal for players of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
Question 2: Are ovation 12 string guitars good for beginners?
Answer: Yes, ovation 12 string guitars can be a good choice for beginners. They are relatively affordable, easy to play, and versatile enough to be used for a variety of genres.
Question 3: Are ovation 12 string guitars good for professional musicians?
Answer: Yes, ovation 12 string guitars are used by professional musicians of all genres. They are known for their high quality, great sound, and versatility.
Question 4: What are the benefits of ovation 12 string guitars?
Answer: Ovation 12 string guitars offer a number of benefits, including their warm and resonant tone, bright and jangly sound, comfortable playing experience, and versatility.
Question 5: What are the drawbacks of ovation 12 string guitars?
Answer: Ovation 12 string guitars can be more expensive than 6-string guitars, and they may require more maintenance due to the 12 strings.
Question 6: What should I look for when buying an ovation 12 string guitar?
Answer: When buying an ovation 12 string guitar, you should consider your budget, playing style, and the features that are important to you. You should also try out different guitars before making a decision.
We hope this FAQ section has answered some of your questions about ovation 12 string guitars. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you know more about ovation 12 string guitars, you can start shopping for the perfect guitar for you. Be sure to consider your budget, playing style, and the features that are important to you. With so many different ovation 12 string guitars on the market, you are sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Tips for Playing Ovation 12 String Guitars
Ovation 12 string guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres. However, playing a 12 string guitar can be different from playing a 6-string guitar. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Tip 1: Use a lighter touch
The strings on a 12 string guitar are closer together than the strings on a 6-string guitar, so it is important to use a lighter touch when playing. This will help to avoid muting the strings and will also make it easier to play chords.
Tip 2: Tune the guitar regularly
12 string guitars are more susceptible to going out of tune than 6-string guitars. This is because the strings are thinner and more prone to stretching. It is important to tune the guitar regularly, especially before playing live or recording.
Tip 3: Use a capo
A capo can be a helpful tool for playing 12 string guitars. A capo can be used to raise the pitch of the guitar, making it easier to play certain chords and songs. Capos can also be used to create different sounds and effects.
Tip 4: Experiment with different tunings
12 string guitars can be tuned in a variety of different ways. Standard tuning is the most common tuning, but there are many other tunings that can be used to create different sounds and effects. Experimenting with different tunings can help you to find the perfect sound for your music.
Tip 5: Practice regularly
The best way to improve your playing on a 12 string guitar is to practice regularly. Practice playing chords, scales, and songs. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with the instrument and the better you will sound.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- Using a lighter touch can help to avoid muting the strings and make it easier to play chords.
- Tuning the guitar regularly will help
to keep it in tune and sounding its best. - Using a capo can raise the pitch of the guitar, making it easier to play certain chords and songs.
- Experimenting with different tunings can help you to find the perfect sound for your music.
- Practicing regularly will help you to improve your playing and become more comfortable with the instrument.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
Following these tips can help you to get started playing ovation 12 string guitars. With a little practice, you will be able to master this unique and versatile instrument.
Conclusion
Ovation 12 string guitars are a unique and versatile instrument that can be used for a variety of genres. They are known for their warm and resonant tone, bright and jangly sound, comfortable playing experience, and affordability. Ovation 12 string guitars are a great choice for musicians of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
If you are looking for a guitar that is unique, versatile, and affordable, then an ovation 12 string guitar is a great option. With a little practice, you will be able to master this instrument and create beautiful music.
