Acoustic Guitars- One Size Fits All?…probably not!
Are you a first-time guitar player looking for the perfect instrument?
Picking a guitar
An Important Set, before you buy a guitar. Contact us for a free consultation first
Does your current acoustic guitar feel uncomfortable or unplayable?
Choosing the right size acoustic guitar is an important part of finding an instrument that feels comfortable to play, produces great sound quality, and fits who you are as a musician.
One size does not fit all! From parlor guitars to jumbo-sized acoustics, there are many sizes available for all levels of skill and experience, so let’s take a closer look at what makes each one unique and helpful in determining which is best for you.
Introducing Acoustic guitars - an overview of the different sizes
Check out one our Dreadnought Cuitars~
Acoustic guitars come in a variety of sizes that offer different tonal characteristics and playability. A typical acoustic guitar has a big body—either dreadnought, jumbo or grand concert—relative to its smaller counterparts. Dreadnought guitars are perfect for strumming heavier styles of music; the bigger size allows for more projection and volume. Jumbo guitars produce booming sound with plenty of power and clarity, while grand concerts provide good projective balance across all strings. For those players who prefer a more balanced sound, parlor or auditorium-sized guitars are also available. These smaller body models have greater projection than larger acoustic guitars, while still providing enough warmth in the low-end frequency range to balance out the mix. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced player, it’s important to understand the variety of sizes before choosing an acoustic guitar—each size offers something unique, so finding the right one can make all the difference!
Making the best choice for your body type and playing style
Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced pro, the size of your guitar can make a difference in how comfortable you are playing. Bigger guitars offer larger contact surfaces for fretting and strumming, giving more range of motion and potential for easier playability. Smaller-sized guitars, meanwhile, can be lighter and less intimidating for smaller players. Finding the right size guitar to suit both your body type and playing style is key to getting the best sound out of your instrument – so it pays to do some research before you buy! Try some different sizes out at a local music shop before committing – it could mean the difference between finding yourself a new favorite or having an unused wall decoration!
A beginner's guide to guitar size selection
When it comes to learning the guitar, the size you choose is key! Acoustic guitars come in a variety of sizes — from extra small travel guitars, all the way up to larger jumbo-style instruments. Most beginning guitarists are advised to start with a full-sized steel string acoustic. Full-sized guitars produce great sound in a comfortable size and weight that is perfect for regular practice and performance. They can also work well for players who have smaller hands — as long as you make sure to pick one with an adjustable bridge or “action” that can be made more manageable. Grand Auditorium and Dreadnaught body styles are great options for beginners, but make sure to read reviews before settling on one model. Finally, if space or portability is an issue, look into mini-guitars that offer full sound even though they may be smaller than your hand!
A Breedlove Concertina
A beautiful Concertina guitar with Big Sound!
Smaller body guitars - the benefits and drawbacks
If you like the sound and style of an acoustic guitar, but want something a little smaller to play, then a smaller-body guitar might be right for you. These guitars offer several benefits; most importantly, they are more comfortable to play - ideal for people with smaller frames or those who just want something that is easier to handle. On top of this, they usually produce a shallow yet sweet tone, making them great for fingerpicking and melodic strums. Of course, there are some drawbacks; primarily, the output isn't as high as that of larger body acoustics. Smaller body guitars won't be heard in large venues without amplification or when playing with an ensemble of other instruments. In addition, some players may find the reduced size results in less resonance and sustain. Ultimately though, if the concept appeals to you, then it's definitely worth trying out small-body acoustic guitars to hear what you think!
Mid-sized guitars - finding a balance between sound quality and comfort
Finding the middle ground between playability and sound quality can be challenging for acoustic guitarists. Mid-sized guitars aim to balance these two factors in a way that’s ideal for certain performers. These guitars offer solid options for those who want a greater reach than smaller models but with a more comfortable feel than larger instruments. The bigger body size of mid-sized guitars is key to producing a much rounder and fuller tone than their smaller counterparts. The larger size also has great projection, making it perfect for gigs or recordings. Although they're usually more affordable than their full-size counterparts, they come with plenty of features — like fancy inlays and intricate designs — that make them stand out from others. Ultimately, mid-sized guitars are an excellent choice for those who want a combination of sound quality and comfort without breaking the bank.
Jumbo guitars - bigger sounds for larger players
For larger players looking for that extra bit of volume and sustain, a jumbo-sized acoustic guitar might be a perfect choice. Because of their large bodies and deep bowls, these guitars generate some of the biggest sounds you'll find on the market. Although they may take some getting used to due to their large size, once you gain control over them, you will enjoy the rich tones and deep bass they provide. Perfect for everything from strumming and fingerstyle playing to open tunings - jumbo guitars help create beautiful melodies with even bigger vibes.
What We Can Do for you
Our Passion is your journey
The size of the acoustic guitar is something that should be taken into consideration when picking the perfect instrument. With various sizes to choose from, depending on your body type, playing style, and experience level, it can seem overwhelming at times. At Southwest Acoustic Products we are here to guide you through this choice.
We will take the time to get to know you and your needs and then make personal recommendations that match your playing style. From smaller parlor acoustic guitars for women or children to large dreadnaught styles for more experienced players, we are confident that there is an option from our range that is perfect for each individual customer. So if you’re ready to find the perfect acoustic guitar, don’t hesitate to contact Southwest Acoustic Products for a no-obligation consultation. We look forward to helping you create wonderful music with your unique instrument!
