In the market for a new 12-string guitar? If so, you may be considering an Ovation. Ovation is a well-respected brand that produces high-quality guitars, and their 12-string models are no exception.
Editor’s Note:Ovation 12-string guitars are known for their rich sound and excellent playability. If you’re looking for a 12-string guitar that will inspire you to create beautiful music, then an Ovation is a great option.
We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you make the right decision. We’ll discuss the key features of Ovation 12-string guitars, compare them to other brands, and help you find the perfect model for your needs.
Key Differences Between Ovation and Other Brands
There are some key differences between Ovation 12-string guitars and other brands. These include:
| Feature | Ovation | Other Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Body Shape | Roundback | Dreadnought, Jumbo, etc. |
| Bracing | X-bracing | Scalloped bracing, A-bracing, etc. |
| Electronics | OP-Pro preamp | Various preamps and pickup systems |
Benefits of Ovation 12-String Guitars
There are many benefits to choosing an Ovation 12-string guitar, including:
- Rich, full sound: Ovation’s roundback body shape and X-bracing give their guitars a rich, full sound that is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking.
- Excellent playability: Ovation’s guitars are known for their excellent playability, with a comfortable neck and low action that make them easy to play for hours on end.
- Durable construction: Ovation’s guitars are built to last, with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides that can withstand years of use.
- Versatile: Ovation’s 12-string guitars are versatile instruments that can be used for a wide variety of genres, from folk and rock to country and blues.
How to Choose the Right Ovation 12-String Guitar
When choosing an Ovation 12-string guitar, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Body shape: Ovation’s roundback body shape is a classic, but they also offer a variety of other body shapes, such as the Elite and the Celebrity. Choose the body shape that best fits your playing style and personal preferences.
- Bracing: Ovation’s X-bracing is a good choice for all-around playing, but they also offer guitars with scalloped bracing and A-bracing. Scalloped bracing provides a brighter sound, while A-bracing provides a warmer sound.
- Electronics: Ovation’s OP-Pro preamp is a great choice for live performance, but they also offer guitars with a variety of other preamps and pickup systems. Choose the electronics that best meet your needs.
- Price: Ovation 12-string guitars range in price from around $500 to $2,000. Choose the price range that fits your budget.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a high-quality 12-string guitar, then an Ovation is a great option. With their rich sound, excellent playability, and durable construction, Ovation guitars are built to last. And with a wide variety of models to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.
1. Body Shape
The body shape of an acoustic guitar has a significant impact on its sound. Ovation’s roundback body shape is designed to provide a rich, full sound with excellent projection, making it an ideal choice for 12-string guitars.
The roundback body shape creates a larger internal volume than traditional dreadnought or jumbo body shapes. This larger volume allows the guitar to resonate more freely, producing a richer, fuller sound. The roundback shape also helps to project the sound more effectively, making it easier to hear in a live setting.
In addition to its sonic benefits, the roundback body shape is also more comfortable to play than traditional body shapes. The rounded back conforms to the player’s body more easily, making it easier to hold and play for long periods of time.
Overall, the roundback body shape is an important component of the Ovation 12-string guitar’s sound and playability. It is a key factor in the guitar’s rich, full sound and excellent projection.
| Body Shape | Sound | Projection |
|---|---|---|
| Roundback | Rich, full | Excellent |
| Dreadnought | Bright, powerful | Good |
| Jumbo | Warm, resonant | Fair |
2. Bracing
The bracing pattern of an acoustic guitar is one of the most important factors that determines its sound. Ovation’s X-bracing pattern is a unique design that provides a balanced sound with plenty of volume and sustain, making it an ideal choice for 12-string guitars.
- Increased Volume: The X-bracing pattern helps to distribute the tension of the strings more evenly across the soundboard, resulting in increased volume.
- Improved Sustain: The X-bracing pattern also helps to increase the sustain of the guitar, meaning that notes will ring out for longer.
- Balanced Sound: The X-bracing pattern helps to create a balanced sound across the entire frequency range, from the low end to the high end.
- Reduced Feedback: The X-bracing pattern also helps to reduce feedback, making it less likely that the guitar will produce unwanted noise when played at high volumes.
Overall, the Ovation X-bracing pattern is a key factor in the sound and playability of their 12-string guitars. It provides a balanced sound with plenty of volume and sustain, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of playing styles.
3. Electronics
The Ovation OP-Pro preamp system is a key component of the Ovation 12-string guitar’s sound and playability. It provides a natural, amplified sound with plenty of tonal control, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of playing styles.
- Natural Sound: The OP-Pro preamp system is designed to amplify the natural sound of the guitar without adding any unwanted coloration. This results in a clear, articulate sound that is true to the guitar’s acoustic voice.
- Amplified Sound: The OP-Pro preamp system provides plenty of amplification power to drive the guitar’s signal to an external amplifier or PA system. This makes it easy t
o achieve a loud, clear sound, even in large venues. - Tonal Control: The OP-Pro preamp system features a three-band EQ that allows you to adjust the sound of the guitar to your liking. This gives you the flexibility to dial in the perfect sound for any playing style or situation.
- Feedback Control: The OP-Pro preamp system also features a feedback control knob that helps to reduce feedback when playing at high volumes. This makes it easier to achieve a clean, clear sound, even in challenging acoustic environments.
Overall, the Ovation OP-Pro preamp system is a versatile and powerful tool that can help you to get the most out of your 12-string guitar. It provides a natural, amplified sound with plenty of tonal control, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of playing styles.
4. Neck
The neck of an acoustic guitar is one of the most important factors that determines its playability. Ovation’s 12-string guitars feature a comfortable neck profile and low action, making them easy to play for hours on end.
- Comfortable Neck Profile: The neck profile of an acoustic guitar refers to the shape of the neck. Ovation’s 12-string guitars feature a slim, comfortable neck profile that is easy to grip and play. This makes it easier to reach the frets and play complex chords, even for players with smaller hands.
- Low Action: The action of an acoustic guitar refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. Ovation’s 12-string guitars feature a low action, which makes the strings easier to press down. This is especially beneficial for beginners, as it requires less finger strength to play the guitar.
- Improved Playability: The combination of a comfortable neck profile and low action makes Ovation’s 12-string guitars a joy to play. The guitars are easy to fret and play, even for extended periods of time. This makes them an ideal choice for players of all levels, from beginners to experienced professionals.
- Increased Versatility: The comfortable neck profile and low action of Ovation’s 12-string guitars make them suitable for a wide range of playing styles. Whether you’re playing fingerstyle, strumming, or flatpicking, you’ll find that Ovation’s 12-string guitars are easy to play and comfortable to hold.
Overall, the neck of an acoustic guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing a guitar. Ovation’s 12-string guitars feature a comfortable neck profile and low action, making them easy to play for hours on end. This makes them an ideal choice for players of all levels and playing styles.
5. Fretboard
The fretboard is a crucial component of any guitar, and the material used for the fretboard can significantly impact the playing experience. Ovation’s 12-string guitars feature rosewood fretboards, which are known for their smooth, natural playing surface and warm, rich tone.
Rosewood is a dense, hardwood that is naturally resistant to wear and tear. This makes it an ideal material for fretboards, as it can withstand the rigors of playing without becoming damaged. The smooth surface of rosewood also makes it easy to slide your fingers across the fretboard, which is essential for playing complex chords and melodies.
In addition to its durability and playability, rosewood also contributes to the overall sound of the guitar. Rosewood has a warm, rich tone that complements the bright, shimmering sound of 12-string guitars. This makes rosewood a popular choice for players who want a guitar with a balanced, full sound.
Overall, the rosewood fretboard on Ovation’s 12-string guitars is an important factor that contributes to the guitar’s playability, durability, and sound. If you’re looking for a 12-string guitar with a smooth, natural playing surface and a warm, rich tone, then an Ovation guitar with a rosewood fretboard is a great option.
Key Insights:
- Rosewood is a dense, hardwood that is naturally resistant to wear and tear, making it an ideal material for fretboards.
- The smooth surface of rosewood makes it easy to slide your fingers across the fretboard, which is essential for playing complex chords and melodies.
- Rosewood has a warm, rich tone that complements the bright, shimmering sound of 12-string guitars.
6. Tuners
High-quality tuners are an essential component of any guitar, and Ovation’s 12-string guitars are equipped with some of the best tuners in the industry. These tuners are precision-engineered to provide accurate and stable tuning, even after heavy use. This is especially important for 12-string guitars, as the increased number of strings can make it more difficult to keep the guitar in tune.
Ovation’s tuners are made from high-quality materials, such as brass and steel, and they feature a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of playing and touring. The tuners are also designed to be easy to use, with a smooth and precise action that makes it easy to adjust the tuning of each string.
The importance of high-quality tuners cannot be overstated. A guitar that stays in tune will sound better, play better, and be more enjoyable to play. Ovation’s 12-string guitars are equipped with the best tuners in the industry, ensuring that your guitar will stay in tune, even after heavy use.
Key Insights:
- High-quality tuners are essential for keeping a guitar in tune, even after heavy use.
- Ovation’s 12-string guitars are equipped with some of the best tuners in the industry.
- Ovation’s tuners are made from high-quality materials and feature a durable construction.
- Ovation’s tuners are easy to use and provide accurate and stable tuning.
7. Strings
The strings on a 12-string guitar play a vital role in the instrument’s sound and playability. Ovation guitars come with a variety of string gauges to suit different playing styles. This is an important consideration when choosing an Ovation 12-string guitar for sale, as the string gauge can affect the sound, feel, and playability of the guitar.
Lighter string gauges are easier to press down, which can be beneficial for beginners or players with smaller hands. However, lighter string gauges can also produce a thinner, less resonant sound. Heavier string gauges produce a fuller, more resonant sound, but they can be more difficult to press down. Ultimately, the best string gauge for you will depend on your playing style and preferences.
Here is a table that summarizes the different string gauges available on Ovation 12-string guitars:
| String Gauge | Sound | Feel | Playability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (.010-.047) | Thin, bright | Easy to press down | Good for beginners and players with smaller hands |
| Medium (.011-.052) | Balanced, warm | Moderate feel |
Good all-around string gauge td> |
| Heavy (.012-.056) | Full, resonant | Difficult to press down | Good for experienced players and players who want a fuller sound |
When choosing an Ovation 12-string guitar for sale, it is important to consider the string gauge. The string gauge can affect the sound, feel, and playability of the guitar. By choosing the right string gauge, you can find an Ovation 12-string guitar that is perfect for your playing style and preferences.
8. Accessories
When purchasing an Ovation 12-string guitar, it is important to consider the accessories that are available to enhance your playing experience. Ovation offers a wide range of accessories, including cases, straps, and picks, that are designed to protect and improve the playability of your guitar.
- Cases: A good case is essential for protecting your guitar from damage during storage and transportation. Ovation offers a variety of cases to choose from, including hard cases, soft cases, and gig bags. Hard cases provide the most protection, while soft cases and gig bags are more lightweight and portable.
- Straps: A comfortable strap is essential for playing your guitar for extended periods of time. Ovation offers a variety of straps to choose from, including leather straps, nylon straps, and padded straps. Leather straps are the most durable, while nylon straps are more lightweight and padded straps are more comfortable.
- Picks: Picks are essential for playing the guitar, and the type of pick you use can affect your sound. Ovation offers a variety of picks to choose from, including plastic picks, metal picks, and wooden picks. Plastic picks are the most common, while metal picks produce a brighter sound and wooden picks produce a warmer sound.
- Other accessories: Ovation also offers a variety of other accessories for their 12-string guitars, including tuners, strings, and capos. These accessories can help you to keep your guitar in tune, change strings quickly and easily, and play in different keys.
By choosing the right accessories, you can protect your Ovation 12-string guitar and improve your playing experience. Ovation offers a wide range of accessories to choose from, so you can find the perfect combination of accessories to meet your needs.
9. Price
When considering the purchase of an Ovation 12-string guitar, it is important to take into account the price range of these instruments. Ovation offers a variety of models to suit different budgets, with prices ranging from around $500 to $2,000.
- Affordability: Ovation 12-string guitars are relatively affordable compared to other brands of similar quality. This makes them a great option for musicians on a budget.
- Value for Money: Ovation guitars are known for their high quality and durability. Even the most affordable models offer excellent sound and playability, making them a great value for the money.
- Variety of Options: Ovation offers a wide range of 12-string guitars to choose from, with different body shapes, finishes, and features. This allows musicians to find the perfect guitar to suit their needs and budget.
Overall, the price range of Ovation 12-string guitars makes them a great option for musicians of all levels. Whether you are a beginner looking for an affordable first guitar or a professional musician looking for a high-quality instrument, Ovation has a guitar to suit your needs and budget.
10. Warranty
When purchasing an Ovation 12-string guitar, it is important to consider the warranty that is offered. Ovation offers a limited lifetime warranty on all of their guitars, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.
This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship for the lifetime of the guitar. This means that if your guitar ever develops a problem, Ovation will repair or replace it free of charge. This warranty is one of the best in the industry and demonstrates Ovation’s commitment to the quality of their guitars.
There are several benefits to having a lifetime warranty on your guitar. First, it gives you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected. Second, it can save you money in the long run if your guitar ever needs to be repaired. Third, it shows that Ovation is confident in the quality of their guitars and is willing to stand behind their products.
If you are considering purchasing an Ovation 12-string guitar, the limited lifetime warranty is an important factor to consider. This warranty gives you peace of mind and protects your investment. It is one of the best warranties in the industry and demonstrates Ovation’s commitment to the quality of their guitars.
| Warranty | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Limited lifetime warranty | Peace of mind, potential cost savings, and a demonstration of quality |
11. Reputation
The reputation of Ovation as a well-respected brand with a long history of producing high-quality guitars is a significant factor contributing to the appeal of its 12-string guitars for sale. This reputation is built upon several key aspects:
- Consistent Quality: Ovation has consistently produced high-quality guitars for decades, earning the trust of musicians worldwide. Their 12-string guitars are no exception, offering exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
- Innovative Design: Ovation is known for its innovative guitar designs, such as the roundback body shape and the X-bracing pattern. These designs enhance the sound and playability of their guitars, including their 12-string models.
- Professional Endorsements: Ovation guitars have been endorsed by numerous professional musicians, including Glen Campbell, Melissa Etheridge, and Al Di Meola. These endorsements attest to the quality and performance of Ovation guitars, including their 12-string models.
- Industry Recognition: Ovation has received numerous industry awards and accolades for its guitars, including the “Acoustic Guitar of the Year” award from Guitar Player magazine. This recognition further solidifies Ovation’s reputation as a producer of high-quality guitars.
The reputation of Ovation as a well-respected brand with a long history of producing high-quality guitars is an important consideration for those seeking a 12-string guitar for sale. It provides assurance that Ovation’s 12-string guitars are crafted to the highest standards, offering exceptional sound, playability, and durability.
FAQs on Ovation 12-String Guitars for Sale
This section addresses frequently asked questions and misconceptions surrounding Ovation 12-string guitars for sale, providing informative answers to guide potential buyers.
Question 1: Are Ovation 12-stri
ng guitars suitable for beginners?
Answer: Yes, Ovation 12-string guitars are beginner-friendly due to their comfortable neck profile, low action, and balanced sound. They offer a smooth playing experience, making them ideal for those starting their musical journey.
Question 2: How do Ovation 12-string guitars compare to other brands?
Answer: Ovation 12-string guitars stand out with their unique roundback body shape, which provides a rich and full sound. Additionally, their X-bracing pattern enhances volume and sustain while reducing feedback. These innovative features give Ovation guitars a competitive edge.
Question 3: Are Ovation 12-string guitars versatile?
Answer: Yes, Ovation 12-string guitars are highly versatile. Their balanced sound and comfortable playability make them suitable for various genres, from folk and rock to country and blues. They can also be used for fingerstyle, strumming, and flatpicking techniques.
Question 4: What is the price range for Ovation 12-string guitars?
Answer: Ovation 12-string guitars range in price from around $500 to $2,000. This range caters to different budgets, making it accessible for both aspiring and professional musicians.
Question 5: Do Ovation 12-string guitars come with a warranty?
Answer: Yes, Ovation offers a limited lifetime warranty on all their guitars, including 12-string models. This warranty provides peace of mind and protects the investment, ensuring long-term satisfaction.
Question 6: What are the key factors to consider when choosing an Ovation 12-string guitar?
Answer: When selecting an Ovation 12-string guitar, important factors include body shape, bracing pattern, electronics, neck profile, fretboard material, tuners, strings, accessories, price, and warranty. Considering these aspects ensures that the chosen guitar aligns with individual playing style and preferences.
Summary: Ovation 12-string guitars for sale are renowned for their exceptional sound quality, playability, and versatility. They cater to beginners and experienced players alike, offering a range of models to suit different budgets and musical needs. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, Ovation 12-string guitars provide a worthwhile investment for musicians seeking a high-quality instrument.
Transition: Explore further to discover the exceptional features and benefits of Ovation 12-string guitars and make an informed decision for your musical journey.
Tips for Choosing an Ovation 12-String Guitar
Selecting an Ovation 12-string guitar requires careful consideration to ensure it aligns with your musical needs and preferences. Here are some essential tips to guide your decision-making process:
Tip 1: Consider Body Shape and BracingThe body shape and bracing pattern significantly impact the sound and projection of an Ovation 12-string guitar. Ovation’s signature roundback body shape offers a rich and full tone, while the X-bracing pattern enhances volume and sustain.Tip 2: Evaluate ElectronicsIf you plan to amplify your guitar, consider the electronics system. Ovation’s OP-Pro preamp provides natural sound amplification with tonal control, making it suitable for live performances and recording.Tip 3: Choose a Comfortable Neck ProfileThe neck profile determines the playability and comfort of the guitar. Ovation guitars feature a comfortable neck profile that facilitates easy fretting and smooth transitions.Tip 4: Select Durable MaterialsDurability is crucial for long-lasting performance. Ovation guitars are crafted from high-quality materials, such as solid spruce tops and mahogany back and sides, ensuring resilience against wear and tear.Tip 5: Pay Attention to TunersPrecise tuning is essential for maintaining intonation. Ovation guitars are equipped with high-quality tuners that provide accurate and stable tuning, even after heavy use.Tip 6: Experiment with String GaugesString gauges affect the sound and feel of the guitar. Ovation offers a range of string gauges to suit different playing styles and preferences. Experiment with different gauges to find the optimal balance for your needs.Tip 7: Explore AccessoriesEnhance your playing experience with accessories such as cases, straps, and picks. Ovation offers a variety of accessories designed to protect and complement their guitars.
By following these tips, you can make an informed decision and choose an Ovation 12-string guitar that meets your specific requirements. These guitars offer exceptional sound quality, playability, and durability, making them a worthwhile investment for musicians seeking a high-performance instrument.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider body shape and bracing for optimal sound and projection.
- Evaluate electronics for live performances and recording.
- Choose a comfortable neck profile for ease of playability.
- Select durable materials for long-lasting performance.
- Pay attention to tuners for precise and stable intonation.
- Experiment with string gauges to find the optimal balance for your playing style.
- Explore accessories to enhance your playing experience.
Conclusion: Embark on your musical journey with an Ovation 12-string guitar, renowned for its exceptional sound quality, playability, and versatility. By following these tips, you can select the perfect guitar to elevate your music to new heights.
Conclusion
In the realm of musical instruments, Ovation 12-string guitars stand out as exceptional choices for musicians seeking a harmonious blend of sound quality, playability, and versatility. Their unique design features, including the roundback body shape, X-bracing pattern, and OP-Pro electronics system, contribute to their rich, full sound and exceptional projection.
Crafted from premium materials and equipped with high-quality components, Ovation 12-string guitars are built to withstand the rigors of frequent use and provide lasting performance. Their comfortable neck profile and low action make them a delight to play, allowing for effortless fretting and smooth transitions.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, an Ovation 12-string guitar can elevate your musical journey. Their versatility extends across various genres, from folk and rock to country and blues, making them suitable for a wide range of playing styles and techniques.
Investing in an Ovation 12-string guitar is an investment in musical excellence. Their exceptional sound quality, playability, and durability make them a worthwhile choice for musicians seeking an instrument that will inspire their creativity and enhance their performances.
