Electro–Acoustic Guitars – What are They, and Which One Should I Buy?

If you are looking for a happy medium between an acoustic and an electric (and don’t have the cash to buy both), why not pick up an electro–acoustic? An electro–acoustic, commonly known as an acoustic electric guitar, is simply an acoustic guitar with an electric guitar output plug–in. This allows you to play the guitar anywhere or, if need be, plug it in and rock out. This article discusses the basics of electro-acoustic guitars and the best guitars to spend your hard-earned money on. If you do not want to waste any time or money on a bad guitar that does not last, read on.

Electro–acoustic guitars are hollow-body acoustic guitars fitted with a pickup, microphone, or transducer. In classical electric acoustic guitars, microphones and transducers must be used because pickups can only detect metal vibrations. The technical and really interesting part about electro-acoustic guitars is that they use Piezo pickups, which are tiny crystals that change shape under vibrations. These crystals create voltage that can be amplified using a pre-amplifier built into the guitar. The fact that crystals are built into these guitars is a fascinating concept.

These are two recommended, relatively low–priced electro–acoustic guitars:

Ovation CC024–4Q

A truly beautiful guitar, Ovation went all out on this line of electro–acoustic guitars. Plug this beauty into an amplifier and hear a clear, rich sound that does not lose clarity or volume. And if you are a patriot, or just love American–made products, you will love this Ovation guitar. This guitar is made for a wider variety of players, and the price is relatively inexpensive, ranging from 300–500 dollars for this piece of work.

Taylor 110E Dreadnought

A full–size Taylor guitar, this acoustic electric is just bursting with music. The Taylor has no fancy designs, but intricate designs are nothing compared to sound quality. If you have ever heard one of these guitars used for live performances, you would agree that the guitar just resonates beautifully. This guitar is recommended over any electric or acoustic any day. It has outstanding makeup – a rock–hard spruce top, laminated sapele back and sides, and a tropical American mahogany neck. All–around, this guitar is one delightful Taylor experience. It may be a little too expensive for someone just starting out ($700 dollars), but it is worth every penny.

Either choice you make, these two guitars are superior electro–acoustic guitars, and both will prove their value for countless years after purchase. Also, be sure to pick up a powerful amplifier to back these guitars, or if you prefer, just play them without an amplifier.