I remember the first time I laid eyes on an Ovation classical guitar. With its unique round back and silky nylon strings, I was instantly drawn to this piece of art. But, little did I know, my acoustic journey was about to take a drastic turn– one that would change my perspective on guitars forever. Before I share the details of this transformational journey, let’s take a multi-faceted look at these remarkable instruments, their features, and just why they may be the perfect fit for you too.
As a fingerstyle guitarist, I’m continually drawn to the intricacies and nuances of various guitar types. And, when it comes to uniqueness, I can safely say that Ovation classical guitars top the chart. With an industry presence spanning decades, these fantastic musical instruments come with a story, a personality, and a sound all of their own. From their ergonomic design to their unmistakable rounded tone, there’s so much to explore about these guitars.
An Ovation Nylon String Guitar isn’t just an instrument; it’s an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist looking to add a new dimension to your sound or a budding musician seeking to find your voice, these guitars are designed with you in mind. So, come along with me as we dive deep into the world of Ovation classical guitars, their place in the music industry, and why they’re acclaimed by many as one of the best guitar options on the market. It’s about time you knew what makes this guitar so special.
Overview of Ovation Guitars
In my journey as a musician, with many different types of guitars at my fingertips – mundane or marvelous, thrifty or ostentatious – Ovation’s offerings have laid an indelible mark on my playing style and musical sensibilities. One series, in particular, has captured my admiration: the Ovation Applause series. But before we delve into that marvel, let’s take a step back. Let’s explore why, among so many guitars, Ovation’s earthy craftsmanship deserves a standing ovation.
Did you know that Ovation guitars pioneered a revolutionary round-back design for better sound projection and durability? True to its name, Ovation is renowned for its innovative approach in guitar construction, which has catalyzed a seismic shift in the industry’s benchmark of sound projection, build quality, and overall artistry.
As a connoisseur of music and an industry insider, I can vouch for the exceptional features that set Ovation guitars apart from the pack. Their meticulous attention to detail and unwavering emphasis on sound fidelity make an Ovation guitar instantly recognizable. The uniqueness of their design – a tangible testament to their ingenuity- is nothing short of a breath of fresh air in an industry where ‘more of the same’ has become commonplace.
From the moment I first held an Ovation guitar, I was struck by its intuitive ergonomics and signature round back. This design, though unusual at first glance, is a stroke of clever engineering that effortlessly combines comfort and resonance, resulting in a rich, full-bodied sound and a guitar that feels like an extension of the musician.
When we look back at the arsenal of Ovation guitar models, the Chronos, Inovation, and Legend likely come to mind. These models bear testimony to the scope and scale of innovation vested into every nook and cranny of Ovation’s workshop. Each model is a veritable instrument of passion, brimming with features like the Lyrachord body, the adjustable truss rod, and the unique multi-soundhole design.
While my experiences across Ovation’s portfolio have been enlightening, the Applause series holds a special place in my session repertoire. The Ovation Applause series is an exploration of possibilities, an ode to the relentless pursuit of perfection that so clearly animates Ovation’s DNA. Its synthesis of aesthetics, tonal quality, and affordability manifests the essence of Ovation: turning the science of sound into the art of music.
In conclusion, my Ovation guitars review is a testament to the brand’s innovative spirit, attention to detail, and unparalleled sound properties. From the evolution of their models to the birth of the Applause series, their journey echoes an unwavering commitment to excellence. For anyone exploring new tonal landscapes or seeking a reliable workhorse guitar, Ovation provides a sonic realm worth delving into.
However, the melody is painted onto the canvas of silence, and thus, the song remains unfinished. We have many miles to traverse in our exploration of the domain of Ovation classical guitars which we will endeavor to illuminate in the sections that ensue.
Features
Ergonomics and Design
Transitioning into the sphere of classical guitar ergonomics, one can’t help but appreciate how intuitively Ovation guitars harmonize design and comfort. For someone like me, who has spent countless hours playing on an array of stages across the globe, I’ve come to understand that ease of play is tantamount to musical expression. A guitar that “fits”, improves not only your playability but enhances performance confidence as well.
The distinguishing factor between Ovation guitar models often lies within the contrasting designs of the 12-fret classical guitar and the 14-fret classical guitar. I’ve always found Ovation’s 12-fret models to deliver just the right blend of familiarity and innovation with their compact, comfortable contour and closer string spacing. They offer clearance for the picking hand while maintaining a sleek, compact profile that fits comfortably against the body, easing the transition for electric players.
On the other hand, the 14-fret guitar offers expanded range, propelling a brighter tone and amplified projection due to the extended fretboard. It’s a preferred choice for many classical guitarists who desire larger and louder chordal structures. But the true beauty here is that neither holds precedence over the other; each offers unique advantages catering to specific playing styles and personal preferences.
Another noteworthy trademark of Ovation guitars is the guitar nut width and neck profile. The nut width on these guitars aligns with classical standards, wide enough to facilitate fingerstyle players’ complex chord positions, but narrow enough to appeal to players used to narrower necks. This meticulously planned detail adds substantially to the overall playability and, of course, ergonomics of these instruments.
Thus, through thoughtful attention to details—like the precise guitar nut width—and the use of differing fret-count models, Ovation succeeds in delivering a range of guitars substantial in both their ergonomic proficiency and their ability to accommodate every type of player. Each model, offering its own unique advantage, presents a testament to Ovation’s proficiency in understanding the nuances of guitar ergonomics while leading with design innovations.
As we segue into the next segment, we will shed light on the very essence of any musical instrument—the sound quality. Ovation’s knack for precision in design and ergonomics pours seamlessly into this dimension as well. So let’s delve in and examine how the careful balance of these features resonates in the voices of Ovation classical guitars.
Sound Quality
Having delved into the fascinating features of Ovation guitars and their incredible ergonomics and design, it’s now time to immerse ourselves in the vastly influential topic of sound quality.
As a musician, I cannot overstate the importance of sound quality. The tone, resonance and overall auditory experience is what truly breathes life into music, making it a critical consideration when choosing an instrument. Now, speaking candidly about my experiences with Ovation and my personal dismissal of low-quality sound, I find that Ovation classical guitars exhibit impressive sound quality excellence.
In the fascinating world of guitars, a grand debate often comes down to one thing: nylon vs steel string guitars. Nylon strings offer a soft, mellow tone and less strain on your fingers, making them ideal for beginners or classical music aficionados. Their distinctive, round tone is a standout quality in certain music genres such as flamenco and bossa nova.
Alternatively, steel-string guitars generate a loud, bright and bold tone. Their sound is exceptionally fitting for rock, country and pop music styles. In my opinion, steel strings also deliver greater sustain and can add a certain brilliance to your melody.
With Ovation guitars, you can explore this nylon vs steel string dichotomy as they offer both options. My onstage and recording experiences have consistently reflected the ability of Ovation guitars to elicit a full, rounded tone with ample projection and presence, regardless of the string type.
The natural acoustics and innovative design in Ovation classical guitars, especially in the soundhole positioning and bowl-shaped back, contribute to their astounding sound quality. However, what sets Ovation guitars apart is their commitment to technology-infused sound innovation.
From their piezoelectric pickups to the integrated pre-amplification system, every aspect is fine-tuned to create a pure, amplified tone. This creates a unique, nuanced sound that is distinctly ‘Ovation’. These features not only enhance auditory experience for the player but also significantly impact the clear sound production in a recording studio or live performance setting.
Ultimately, the Ovation guitar sound quality weaves seamlessly into the overall vibe of the instrument and could be a definitive factor influencing your buying decision. Remember, when it comes to choosing your perfect string companion, the true sound quality test is by trusting your ears and your own personal taste in music.
With our exploration of sound quality complete, let’s now take the leap to discover where these guitars have made their mark in the music industry.
Ovation Classical Guitars in Music Industry
My immersion in the versatile world of music has offered me a ringside view of various instruments and their distinctive roles. A special mention in this panorama belongs to Ovation guitars, whose influence I’ve observed first-hand through numerous workshops, festivals, and sessions I’ve attended. Let’s embark on a journey to decode the allure of these instruments among a world of musicians.
Ever wondered why Ovation guitars are preferred by some of the biggest names in the music industry? The answer lies in their superior sound quality, versatility, and the inventive design that effortlessly enhances a performing artist’s musical persona. Some examples still resonate with me, leaving an indelible print of Ovation’s impact on the music industry.
Take the case of Linda McCartney for instance. The Linda McCartney Ovation guitar was an iconic instrument in her illustrious career, contributing significantly to her distinctive sound. It was a valuable part of her ensemble, which she held onto even during her performances with Wings, the band she established with Paul McCartney.
The fact that Paul, an already established music icon, embraced the Ovation sound, further outlines their far-reaching influence. His musical genius paired with the innovative design and excellent sound quality of an Ovation guitar resulted in some truly spectacular moments. Albums that spawned from their collaboration bore an unmistakably unique auditory signature, making a strong case for Ovation’s standing in the music industry.
Moreover, the impact of Ovation is not just limited to musicians and performers. Producing music involves a myriad range of studio gear, and Ovation holds a distinguished place in that echelon as well. As someone who has spent considerable time enveloped in the sonorous symphony emitting from various Ovations, I stand a privileged witness to the allure of Ovation music studio gear.
All these experiences, observations, and interactions make me endorse Ovation guitars strongly. The brand’s commitment to user-focused design paired with top-notch sound quality makes Ovation guitars a noteworthy expert choice. Its wide acceptance among prominent musicians exemplifies their value and affirms the brand’s lasting legacy in the music industry.
Yet, my belief is not just rooted in the observations of others’ experiences. My personal encounters with Ovation guitars, the emotion evoked in every strum, and the enduring craftsmanship that supports these sensations, is what truly solidifies my faith in Ovation. And it is my personal goal to help you, my readers, understand the depth of this belief.
Buying Guide
Consequently, we arrive at the most practical part of our musical journey, and perhaps one of the most exciting—the buying process. As a seasoned online guitar buyer myself, I’m here to help you navigate the occasionally murky waters of the internet guitar marketplace.
There’s a certain thrill linked with unboxing a freshly delivered package, especially when that package contains something as personal and inspiring as an Ovary classical guitar. But before your fingers can dance on the new guitar’s strings and you inhale the intoxicating blend of wood and varnish, there are a few things to bear in mind when buying an Ovation guitar online.
What are the crucial factors you need to consider when you decide to invest in an Ovation guitar?
Before you dive headfirst, there’s a significant part of the buying process deserving your careful attention—acoustic guitar shipping. Transporting musical instruments can be a complicated affair due to their delicate nature, and guitars are no exception. When buying an Ovation guitar online, ensure that the retailer has safe, reliable, and relatively swift shipping options. Check their handling procedures—for instance, if they loosen the strings prior to shipping to prevent undue tension and avoid potential damage.
It always pays to read the fine print. Take note of their return policy—if your guitar arrives damaged or if there’s any fault you couldn’t perceive through the screen, you should be able to return or replace the purchase with minimal fuss and expense.
Now, let’s delve into what you’re buying. As you may realize by now, each Ovation guitar has its unique features and nuances. Influential among these are the features we explored earlier— ergonomics and design, sound quality, and role in the music industry. Your choice should align with your personal style, your musical goals, and, definitely, your budget.
Take time to research or ask about the guitar’s history. An instrument’s past can greatly affect its present condition. For instance, has it undergone any significant repairs? Was it stored properly? These factors can influence the guitar’s overall sound and functionality.
Check customer reviews and ratings. They’re an invaluable source of insight when buying an Ovation guitar online. Repeat customers and positive reviews are good signs that the online store is trustworthy and delivers quality products.
Remember, buying an Ovation guitar is an investment, not only in financial terms, but more importantly in your musical journey. By being informed and discerning, you ensure your transaction is as gratifying as the moment your fingers first caress the strings of your new Ovation classical guitar.
To recap, when navigating the guitar marketplace and buying your Ovation online, it’s decisive to consider acoustic guitar shipping, the retailer’s return policy, the guitar’s features, its past, customer reviews, and, most certainly, your personal preferences and goals. This prudent approach guarantees a better chance for you to find the guitar that will enhance your musical expression and bring you lasting joy.
With these insider tips and your innate passion for music, you are undoubtedly ready to embrace the delightful adventure of buying your very own Ovation classical guitar. Up next are some insights from the community of Ovation guitar enthusiasts to further guide you on your journey.
Community Opinions
Just a quick stroll in a guitar shop and you’ll quickly realise the sheer diversity of guitars out there. One such brand that has always piqued my interest, and has been a topic of hot debate in the numerous classical guitar forum discussions I’ve partaken in, is Ovation. With their distinctive bowl-shaped back and a unique tone, they’ve been both lauded and criticised.
Does the opinion of a music community matter when it comes to making your next guitar purchase?
In my experience as a co-founder of an e-learning site for stringed instruments – a role that has allowed me to interact with countless musicians of all levels – I’d say a resounding ‘yes’. Navigating the myriad choices of instruments can be overwhelming, and I’ve found that the collective wisdom of seasoned musicians can be invaluable in narrowing down one’s options and defining personal tastes.
It has been fascinating to observe the threads of conversations in music gear discussions, particularly when it comes to Ovation. Some have revered this brand for consciously veering away from traditional designs, offering a fresh take on the classical guitar. The uniquely shaped body, they contend, offers easier playability, especially when standing. These enthusiasts frequently extol the amplified sound of an Ovation, heralding its balance and projection.
On the flip side, there are those players who feel a certain level of disquiet with Ovation’s divergence from the traditional. The rounded back, they argue, challenges the conventional seating position for classical guitarists. A few have even voiced concerns about the tonal quality of these guitars when played acoustically, calling it ‘thin’ or ‘nasal’.
Still, I have never been one to shy away from exploring the unconventional. In fact, they often turn out to be the most rewarding of journeys. The real magic happens when you find a guitar that resonates with you and becomes an extension of your own musical language.
Looking at the rich tapestry of views and critiques, it’s clear to me that guitars, like any other form of artistic expression, are deeply personal and subjective. So, would I ever suggest ignoring the communal cacophony of opinions? By no means. But I encourage any aspiring guitarist to not be daunted by the multitude of voices and instead to use them as a guide in their exploration.
Whether we choose to walk the well-trodden path of tradition or veer off towards modern innovation, understanding the community’s diverse perspectives gives us valuable insights, helping us make informed decisions. And that is the true beauty of engaged and robust community opinions. Throughout our shared music journey, may they continue to challenge, inform, and inspire us all.
FAQs
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Conclusion
So, are Ovation classical guitars worth your hard-earned money? As we’ve navigated through the world of these top-tier instruments together, we’ve explored their integral features, examined their unique ergonomic design, experienced their impeccable sound quality, and witnessed their profound impact on the music industry.
My affinity for Ovation classical guitars stems from countless hours spent strumming their strings in practice rooms and performance stages alike. I’ve relished in the warm robust tones of their nylon string guitar models, and how the fine acoustics truly underscore every piece I play. Drawing on such personal experiences and knowledge, I hope to have brought you closer to understanding their allure and worth.
Yet, these guitars are more than just their stellar specs. They’re a testament to innovation in guitar manufacturing, offering accessibility for all players, regardless of their skill level. The Ovation brand has carved a niche for itself by consistently delivering stellar quality, innovative design, and superior craftsmanship – a combination only found in truly great instruments.
Ultimately, the decision is yours. My suggestion is to let your fingers and ears be the judge. If you’re in the market for a classical guitar with a unique edge, the Ovation might just strike the perfect chord. Remember to refer back to the buying guide section to aid your decision-making process.
As for my final thoughts? The Ovation classical guitar indeed commands respect, not just as a mere instrument, but as a reliable companion on your musical journey. Their investment in quality, innovation, and aesthetics is evident and reflected in the faithful Ovation community. Their belief in the product instills a sense of trust, making purchasing an Ovation classical guitar, a truly worthwhile decision.
Teja Gerken, a fingerstyle guitarist with a unique blend of folk, classical, jazz, and world music, has made significant contributions to the guitar world. Known for albums like ‘On My Way’ and ‘Postcards’, and as a co-founder of Peghead Nation, he brings his expertise from intimate venues to global stages. At Fretterverse, Gerken offers deep insights into diverse fingerstyle techniques and musical fusion.