Acoustic Guitars: 3 Centuries of Beautiful Music

Acoustic guitars gain their name from the type of amplification they provide. Unlike the electric guitar, acoustic guitars do not need external devices to for proper amplification but are amplified acoustically. However, acoustic amplification does not produce a loud sound, so external devices are sometimes used to help amplify the acoustic guitar sound. The “acoustic” guitar was the only type of guitar until electric guitars were created.

Acoustic guitars generally feature a standard array of six strings. However, twelve string acoustic guitars are also available. Custom guitars sometimes feature four, eight or ten strings, depending on the use. Acoustic guitars are made of wood. The type of wood used to manufacture the guitar plays a role in the quality and sound of the guitar. As the wood matures, the overall tone of the guitar can improve, as well. Some acoustic guitars are made of materials other than wood, but wood is the most commonly used acoustic guitar construction material.

There is a wide variety of acoustic guitar manufacturers. Choosing a manufacturer is not as important as choosing the materials used in construction and the overall sound of the guitar. Price also plays an important role in picking out an acoustic guitar for many people. Many of the top manufacturers are known for the quality and affordability of their guitars. The more expensive guitars are made of solid wood tops, sides and backs. Beginner guitars are usually constructed with layers of wood pressed together, known as laminated wood.

The acoustic bass guitar is a relatively new addition to the family of acoustic guitars. Like the standard acoustic guitar, the acoustic bass guitar has a hollow body. However, the bass version of an acoustic guitar is larger than a standard acoustic guitar. It features the normal four strings for a bass guitar. Because acoustic guitars of all types can be difficult to hear, most are fitted with plug-ins for better amplification.

Acoustic guitars come in different types according to the material used for the string. Nylon is commonly used for acoustic guitar strings, but steel string acoustic guitars often produce a louder sound. Acoustic guitars featuring steel strings require stronger construction than nylon string guitars because the strings have higher tension. The body of a steel string acoustic guitar is also larger than nylon strung guitars.

Acoustic guitars can be used for finger picking or for strumming. A pick is commonly used for both methods. The acoustic guitar is often used in country, blue, bluegrass, folk and many styles of rock music. Acoustic guitars are also popular for solo performances. The dimensions of acoustic guitars came about in the mid 1800s, and the dimensions remain the same to this day.