Are Ovation Guitars Any Good?
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- Опубліковано 29 кві 2023
- #ovationguitars #acousticguitar #guitar @OvationGuitarsOfficial
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Welcome to this review and discussion on Ovation acoustic guitars! Specifically this CE44-1 Acoustic Electric model. What do you think? Are you an Ovation guitar player?
This was not a sponsored review.
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I never understood the dislike of ovations. They sound beautiful look beautiful sray in tune forever .
Exactly
You bet they are great. I have 4 of them. I had 2 guitars that I never played for 30 years. They still had the original strings on them. I restrung the guitar and cleaned everything up and they played like they were brand new.
I've played and owned Ovation guitars for more than 30 years. Even with all the changes and evolution of all things acoustic, no acoustic guitar comes close to an Ovation when playing live. Right now, Ovation is owned by a German company called GEWA. They were originally Ovation's distributor in Europe. I actually own two: a 1989 Legend and MY workhorse, a 1982 Folklore, which is a 12-fret guitar. I'd call them "the electric guitar killers," because the can overpower everything.
I have a questions since you been playing these since.. I'm looking at buying a used ovation celebrity it's a good price but it is made in Korea not USA ... Any difference from the Europe and the United States version you can tell me ... And being from Korea would it be a big difference from the USA model sounds or should I not even mess with ? Thanks
It's a celebrity elite it looks just like the one in this video
Feedback…. How is the non-traditional sound hole version with feedback? Less? I’ve always used a feedback buster on my acoustics.
@johnsnow2650 Korean Guitars are beautifully made.
@@mkrj2576 You don't need feedback busters with the Elite style models. I don't use them on my Legend style models, either, but you definitely don't need them on the multi-hole Elite style.
I have an Ovation Celebrity, usually play it unplugged and the sound projects really well. It has the shallow bowl which makes it very comfortable to play. Plugging in gives a whole new dynamic. I highly recommend them. Sound great, play easily, comfortable and stylish.
I have a Celebrity. I play it unplugged, it sounds good to me; and yes, the shallow ones are more comfortable
That was and still is my first and only guitar bro, plays like a flipping dream.
I got my first ovation in 1973. Glen Campbell was my guitar hero. I have had many ovations and I owned a white water rafting company. The ovation held up on the hot weather of the Grand Canyon and the jungles of Central America. I got one of the early Adamas that I still play
every day. Out of the twenty plus guitars that I have, the ovation is my go to instrument.
David Allan Coe used to play an Ovation in the 70s
Bill, what about later model Ovations? Are they still made with the same quality, or do you know?
I haven’t bought a Ovation for about twenty years. When I bought my Adamus in 78 it was considered one of the best electric/ acoustic of it’s time. My music career has been forty years around a camp fire. I have had very nice wood guitars that just couldn’t handle the rivers change in humidity or the hard horse back ride into the wilderness. The ovations have never let me down. It has a very strong feel and projects the sound nicely. It’s not a wast of money.
I own three Ovations, including a 12 string.
I simply love mine, and do not ever want to ever let them go!
I have several other traditional acoustics but I play my Ovations the most.
I do not have an Elite series which I hope to own one day.
Thank you for the excellent video. This Ovation enthusiast appreciates it very much!
😎👍🎸
Ovation guitars have been apart of many named guitarist such as Jimi Page and Richie Sambora and many more greats. When you listen to the sound from an Ovation Guitar it's powerful and fills the room. That's why Ovation Guitars stand apart from the rest. 🎸
Good review on a sadly misunderstood guitar. I picked up an Elite Celebrity Koa last year and I'm totally impressed as is anyone who plays it. I'm a guitarist in a Country / Rock group and was drawn to the Ovation due to it's feedback resistance at high volume. I wouldn't say it sounds great unplugged, so at home I normally reach for the Taylor, but on stage you can't beat the Ovation. As far the guitar slipping off your lap....Pick up a 3" roll of Anti-Slip Tape ( that you would use on stair treads) and put a 6" piece on the back where it sits on your lap . Problem solved.
I did the same thing with hook side velcro.
I've never had a problem with it sliding, and I have one with a huge bowl. I've had some friends try to play and it slid right off for them... they had beer bellies that pushed the guitar away. If an Ovation slides off you, hit the gym lol
i have an ovation...i love it!
it came from a father figure i had growing up. he taught me and my brothers how to frame houses. he was a ginger tall guy with frickles and a hippy. sadly because of his skin type, he died from aggressive skin cancer. i miss that guy so much and his guitar is what i have left. i wouldn't sell it for $100,000,000.00 dollars.
Lovely story and I totally get it. I was a troubled youth and an old timer in the neighborhood managed to corral me one summer into helping him with his furniture restoration hobby. I had broken his porch window in a snowball fight and my ‘punishment’ was I’d return in the spring to help fix it and I ended up being his apprentice of sorts. Turns out he was a guitar player as I was and there in his shop was a ‘56 Junior on a shelf, dusty from neglect. He offered to help me restore it if I stuck out the summer and learned what it would take. That was about 50 years ago and I still have that guitar. It is literally priceless to me. I kept in touch with him over the next decade or so until his death. In his will, or rather a request to his wife, much to my disbelief he left me his ‘52 LP he called Goldie. Yep, still have that one too.
Cheers to you sir!!
Thank you Jack for your review of the beautiful Ovation guitar. I have owned and loved an original Ovation Balladeer since 1978. It has no electronics but I never needed them back then. It is a wonderful and playable today as it was in 1978. Very well done video.
You still don't need the electronics, but the onboard tuner is convenient.
Thank you for this video. Very well done. I have been playing guitar for over 45 years and Ovations have always been my go-to acoustic guitars. On the high end of Ovation are models called Adamas/Ovation. These have a carbon fiber topped and certainly have that consistent sound that you spoke of. I have played them against Martin, Gibson, Taylor and many other top-end acoustic guitars, and I can say that the sound of the Adamas guitars are better to my ears that these other brands. Something else I would like to add is that for those who like to play while sitting down, Ovation offers guitars with countered vs round backs. These backs eliminate the issue of the guitar slipping on your lap. Lastly, I also would say that the electronics still seems better than other brands. I find I could shape my sound in a much easier way with the built in EQ. At the end of the day, you should play the guitar that you prefer vs following what others say about guitars. Thanks again.
They have had their own tone to me and I do enjoy them. I think the playability and lack of worrying as much about the care that has to go into a standard acoustic guitar. Their super shallows are the best ones to me.
I just bought one, cause I always wanted one. I have a healthy collection of guitars, and I love this thing. It’s unique, sounds great, and fun to play. Full stop!
My first professional grade guitar was a 1980 Ovation Balladeer with no on-board electronics.
I had a background as a Scruggs-style five-string banjo player before getting into guitar. I was used to using the whole neck of my instrument.
What I loved about that first Ovation was it's even volume and sustain response up, down, and across the neck. I could jump in to playing the thing and doing something musical with it by simply co-opting "banjo lines" and applying them to the guitar.
The other thing was that Ovation had long sustain for an acoustic guitar, but still had excellent note separation in pyrotechnical cross-picking.
Then, there was the rock-solid tuning stability, and their powerful projection and mid-range that cuts through a band mix, and how easy it is to get a stellar sound when playing in to microphones, even dead-common SM 58's,
In the here and now, I;m still a faithful "Roundback Revolutionary". I am a praise and worship leader and there's still nothing I'd rather have strapped on my body than a shallow-bowl "roundback" if I'm going to stand up in front of people and play and sing "Jesus Songs" in a 1,200 seat church Sanctuary three days a week.
It's the one guitar I can get the lush acoustic rhythm from and instantly do blistering pyrotechnical lead lines on, or carry the lead and the rhythm part at the same time with.
From 1980 to now, there's simply no other guitar I'd rather play than a "roundback."
Thank you
Your comments made up my mind.
Hope all is well
I recently bought a used circa 1980 Balladeer with original case and love it. I've wanted one since around 1975. I am really happy to have found it. Was on a day trip, suddenly decided to stop into a local guitar store and there it was on the wall. Great day!
I own a 1995 elite standard deep bowl , it's a very loud guitar and still sounds great after all these years .
I own three Ovations. My most prized is my Ovation Electric Legend which I bought in 1973 new for $395. The top of the line back then. I bought it because my favorite musicians were using them. Kenny Loggins, Cat Stevens, etc. It plays as well as the day I bought it and looks like new. It sounds even better than my newer $2500 Ovation. I also have the classical which sounds far better than my $800 Yamaha.
I have played ovations for ten years now. I now have the pro series. Whenever your plugged in. There's nothing like it. Far as it falling off your lap. Only takes about couple weeks and you find your way around that. Ovation is definitely one of best playing and sounds so beautiful. Anyways my take on it.
I like all guitars as long as they are playable. It's a tough time to sell guitars and a great time to buy them.
True. I just bought an Alhambra 1P Cedro for $150 (oig. $400ish) as a project guitar. It's gonna be pretty awesome when I get done with it.
I love the sound of ovation..when Paul McCartney started playing it...especially love the sound of ovation 12 strings.
They are by reputation, the least finicky acoustic12 strings you can use for amplification.
@@pierretombale3745
Lol.
I'm pretty sure that Sir Paul owns an older model. Don't worry about him.
But take care of the timber in your eye.
@@pierretombale3745
Agreed. I also own an older model from the late 80's
Still plays great and pushes well through my acoustic amp.
I'll never own one because they slide off your lap! You have to fukn stand up & use a strap for any serious jamming! Fukn hate those things! I know it's what gives it a unique sound, but box the back off, put a fukn kick-stand on it or something?!😅 They're slippery as owl shit!
NO THANK YOU!!!
@@satyadasgumbyji8956😂
I own an Ovation Legend guitar. I bought mine because I saw Al Di Meola playing an Ovation Legend during his Elegant Gypsy days. I particularly liked the thicker v-shaped necks. It's too bad that they have gotten so expensive.
I have a 12 string Ovation i've had for about 30 years now. I love it. It has a very beautiful and resonant sound. It's a flametop so it's look is unmatched. Thanks for the vid good sir, nice to give some love to very well made instruments
I recall the first time I played one, probably early 80s. I was both surprised and impressed. Though it didn’t possess the sound and tone I gravitate to, the appeal was obvious why many love them. Excellent and insightful demo as always Mr. F.
I agree with you. I played a friend's many years ago, and they're not bad at all, but I definitely prefer the tone on my Martin 000-18.
Jack, im glad to see you playing an Ovation finally. My first time hearing about them was a friend who owned one in the 70's. The sound was just like all my favorite guitarist of that time. Almost every band had one and recorded their music on it. The sound is very unique and i hear it in any mix which is probably why they dont have pronounced bass sounds. I have played many different acoustics over the years and sold them all. I only own Ovations because of the way they feel and play. Switching guitars from electric to acoustic was easier with Ovations because of the radius neck, string tensions, when i used to play live. I own a Balladeer 12 string, and 2 - shallow depth 6 strings. All made in the 80's and purchased used. They still hold tune now matter what, even outdoors. My friends get mad bcuz my Ovation sounds louder than his Fender, but its not louder, it cuts through a mix better 🤣
I have played Ovations for 30+ years, starting with a celebrity which still sounds great, upgraded over the years to an Ultra, then a USA customer legend, adding a USA elite along the way and this year fulfilled my dream of owning an Adamas. All great guitars in their own right and will pick any of them up on any day with great pleasure.
Definitely a sound all their own. Kind of like a modern Lute. I really like Ovations! I feel they have a really clear sound. And let's not forget, they excel in a live band setting.
I’ve just gotten back into playing guitar gain after a 40 year absence. I have played many guitars over the last year all of them relatively high end instruments from the major brands. I ran across a used Ovation 1778 TX for sale on Facebook. Due to my previous views of Ovation from 40 years ago went to see it…what I found was an easy playing instrument with the cleanest sound of any of the guitars I had played over the last year (some with values 5-10 time that of this Ovation). I bought it and fell in love once I played through my Fender Acoustic amp. Has a much clearer and fuller sound compared to the two traditional USA made guitars with high end Fishman systems (one of then Aura). Anyway I have since ordered an Adamas MD80 NWT and look forward to receiving it. I’m selling my traditional guitars not playing them anymore I enjoy the cheaper Ovation more and I’m certain I’ll also enjoy the Adamas and not needing to be so paranoid about humidity levels in the winter months. I feel so fortunate to have seen that Facebook ad!
Please provide an update. It's the Adamas any good?
Beautiful guitar with a truly unique “singing voice.” Most of them require a strap to play, but that’s a small price to pay for such a nice sound.
I live on a sail boat for 5 years now and I bought me an Ovation for the boat, because I thought it's a wet environment and it's better to have less wood. My Ovation is completly ok after all that time, played on countless beaches and boats. I never regret that buy, I really love this guitar!
I just bought one and I also sail I'm glad to hear that!
The best playing-and-sounding 12 string I ever owned was a Glen Campbell Ovation. I love these guitars, but gotta be the deep bowl higher end versions, those are the ones that sound the best, by far.
I have 2. I love the consistency for both the 6 and 12 string. I tend to not play them as often when I am at home but I love the way they project in front of people.
You're right Jack - people either dismiss Ovations or are fans. I own two: an American made 1992 Elite 5868 ASW Collector and a 1996 Korean made Celebrity CC257. I've wanted one since the 70's and finally in 2019 scored my first one and the second one came to me in 2021. Good informative video, nice and objective. My American Elite is for special occasions and the Korean Celebrity is my daily go to.
Love em! I think they are great. And I agree with you, Jack. Spread the love! One has nothing to do with the other. I love both of them for different reasons. No way could I live without my regular acoustic guitars. Yeah. I could probably live without Ovation guitars. But I don't have to. I dig em both, for different reasons. And variety is the spice of Life.
I have a 1969 Ovation Balladeer, the Glen Campbell signature model. I bought it new, and it sounds much better now than when I first got it. I own Martins, Taylors and Gibsons, too, but I treasure the unique sound and playability of my old Ovation. We’ve traveled many miles in time and space together.
I became interested in them when I saw a video of Roy Harper and Jimmy Page playing them together. I tried one out at a guitar shop the next day and I finally bought one 14 years later.
It's my favorite acoustic.
It's extremely playable, it almost feels like playing an electric.
The electronics are amazing and it sounds great with some effects.
I have owned and played Ovation guitars since the 80s and love them
I own a model from the Celebrity Elite Plus series (Ocean Blue) made in China and I’m very happy with the clear sound and precision playing from it. Great for recording sessions and live performances. Thanks for your honest comments on this video. God bless you.
Thanks for sharing!
I have 3 Ovations from 3 different decades, I bought my first blonde 12 sting in the mid 70's I still play it, it has traveled extensively! In the 80s I bought a sunburst 6 string because Jim Croce played one. I had always wanted an Adamas but wasn't playing professionally anymore so I thought I'd never get one. My daughter bought me an Adamas that is tagged on the fret board "1990" so now I'm good!
I have a near mint condition 1993 Custom Legend SS that, according to Bill Kaman himself, is likely a one off guitar. It has a custom grapeleaf above the soundhole, (no other Ovation anyone has seen has this) a carved Adamas bridge, and a neck of a Standard Legend guitar. This is a beautiful instrument with the most comfortable neck I've ever played, and has amazing sound. I got it with the original case, with the paperwork from the factory back in 2012. Since the second I bought it, it has been one of my most prized possessions, and has been used on many recordings. It is still my go to acoustic after all these years. I had a custom bone nut crafted for it, and it plays closer to an electric than an acoustic, has incredible tone, and holds tune like a rock. I will never let this guitar go willingly.
I have a 2000 US-made medium bowl Balladeer and love it. The biggest draw for me is how manageable it is on stage. No matter how loud the monitors are it simply doesn't feedback.
I have two Ovations and love them. Sambora double neck 6/12 and an Exoticwoods Legend Dark Burst. Beautiful instruments, lovely necks and absolutely a steep learning curve on how to hold them just right while sitting.
My best friend’s dad had ovations when we were kids. He still plays them. I always liked them and I stumbled across one for an incredible price earlier this year and love it!
There are multiple music artists that used the evasion guitar and a lot of ovation guitars are actually built for the stage. They are a great all-around guitar and most of them were made to open the box and go play gigs or concerts. Your most mid-range and higher end ovations were built for that in mind to have some style class and crisp cool sound. Then ovation wanted to take themselves away from the everyday run of the mill acoustic guitar with the big hole and look like all the other competition evasion wanted to take it up. Quite a few steps
have a ‘67 Josh White (12fret to body, “wide neck”, slot head, pure acoustic). Wonderful guitar. Wonderful tone. Powerful. grunts and rings, sustains forever. Never had a problem with it slipping or tilting. It’s the one guitar that will never leave (i’ve owned at least two dozen guitars over the years some have come and gone, some have stayed and this one always will)
Thanks for this video Jack. In 1988, I bought a "Celebrity by Ovation" as it was then called for about $300 US. Mine is purely acoustic with the center sound hole. It's a medium-deep bowl that always slipped off my lap until I learned to apply more pressure with my forearm. It still sounds better than all solid-top/laminate body guitars in the $500-$1000 range that I've played. It definitely resonates better than the laminate tops. It does not sound better than my solid body acoustic, but that cost 5 times as much. The Ovation did develop the characteristic finish crack behind the bridge, but it still sounds great.
I still play my Ovation that I purchased in 1984. Still sounds Great and plays very well! Made in the USA at that time.
Yes, they are different. Not better, not worse, than a traditional acoustic. I was 21 years old at the time when I purchased my Ovation. I couldn't picture myself playing a traditional acoustic. They just looked too old and not enough rock n' roll for me . Now.....with age., a Martin or Taylor acoustic is very much appreciated. Back in 1984 a lot of big bands were using Ovation. I remember seeing Mick Jagger playing an Ovation in concert. Nice video!
I have 3 Ovations and like them all. Growing up I really liked Bob Dylan and I have taken a lot of flack because Bob doesn't have that awesome voice but I love his tone and I love the tone of the Ovation but we get flack from people that just don't understand them. I even saw one video where the guy couldn't understand the head and it is a thought out piece of great engineering with the V type shape that allows for easy stringing and where the strings run in an orderly fashion. I love my Ovation guitars and have recently purchased an African Chen Chen Exotic Woods version # C2078AXP an awesome guitar.
I own a Lefty Applause (The Import line) with a central sound hole and a deep back that I bought early on when I started to learn (at the time lefties were hard to come by). After I got more expensive acoustics I fell out of love with it, but 20 years later during lockdown I tried to use all my guitars and found the Applause has a sound that really stands out in a mix against other instruments- it also has phosphor bronze strings that makes a difference. It isn’t a warm thick sound like traditional wood guitars, but it really good to use for shimmery motifs and single note stuff. It’s unique, and that adds another audio crayon colour to paint songs with.
They are great for finger picking songs. Each note rings clearly and especially through a decent acoustic amp.
Guitars fanatics are similar to car fanatics. Ford over Chevy, Chevy over Ford. I have owned many, many guitars over the years. I'm 75. I've had Gretch, Gibson, Washburn Ibanez and Ovation. I keep coming back to Ovation because of the sound and feel. When I am performing with Acoustic. the Ovation is the ticket for me.
I have a 94 collector series I play on a regular basis. Still beautiful and sounds amazing. The necks on Ovations are the most comfortable of any guitar.
I had the applause made by ovation along time ago. It was a great travel guitar. I was an OTR truck driver so I needed a rugged guitar and the Ovation/ Applause were definately rugged.
I have two ovations, one 6 six string and a 12 string. I love them. Great for gigs never any feedback issues.
Thanks as always Jack for an instructive, illuminating video. I've had an Ovation Celebrity Deluxe, one of the affordable Korean-made models, since the early 2000s. I honestly don't like the look of it all that much but considered its soft sound and playability the major incentive for the second-hand purchase. About a year ago, I bought a Sigma SJ-200 which is vastly superior in all aspects except playability, where the Ovation just shades it. I've got Nashville Strings on the Ovation now and it sounds great, just how I want a guitar to sound for that particular configuration. All else aside, I've never had a pick fall into the soundhole so that's something
When Glen Campbell did an hour with the Boston Pops Orchestra and his Ovation, they created the best sounding TV show ever!
Really nice video. I just picked up my guitar after many years of it being idle, and it's a '75 Legend I purchased from a friend in the '80s. I love it. I had a great guitar tech go over it before I started playing again, and he didn't have to do much and it sounds superb. I lost a chunk of my left middle finger two years ago so relearning to play has been challenging. But a find the Ovation to be a very friendly teacher and I love the sound when I get something right. Oh, and as someone else mentioned, it seems to stay in tune really well. Thanks again of this video. I shall now subscribe, and greetings from a fellow NE resident.
Hi, Jack! Love your program! Ovation? I recall when they were new. A classmate, circa 1968, had one. The rounded back is the deal breaker for me. And I just like a more trad appearance. Happy with my Guild and two Epis. That said, I'm glad they're still being manufactured. I guess after nearly sixty years, they have their own "trad" thing!
I bought a black Ovation "Tangent" (Asymmetrical headstock, fewer, but larger sound holes in the upper bout than the one Jack is playing) in 2008 as a "closeout" from an online retailer. I still have it, and still play it, though it has to share its time in my spotlight with several other purely electric guitars. It's a "super-shallow" body, and has a more sophisticated preamp than most of the low and mid-level Ovations I've seen. I think mine sounds a little thin as a pure acoustic because of that super-shallow body, but I very much like its tone when plugged in. Even being kept in an Ovation case when not being played, the finish has not held up well over 15 years - doesn't affect the sound or playability, but it doesn't look great. I generally play sitting down, and always play with a strap because the super-shallow bowl body does exactly what Jack described - it tends to slide from the near-vertical to the near-horizontal, which makes it uncomfortable to play sometimes, at least temporarily. I had to replace the preamp several years ago, and was surprised that a replacement was even available. It has otherwise been trouble-free mechanically. Finally, compared to my half-dozen electrics, the Ovation's body seems BIG, even with a super-shallow configuration. I like mine just fine, have learned to adapt to its quirks, and have no plans to sell or trade it.
I own a 1985 Anniversary Edition acoustic and find that the Super Shallow sits comfortably on my lap as opposed to the deeper bowls that slide off. the deeper bowls sound wonderful when playing without amplification and the Super Shallow gets its kudos from plugging into various amps. either way, it plays well & sounds pretty damn good.
I took up guitar in the mid 1960s. Ovation came out a short time later. I remember watching Glenn Campbell playing his round back guitar on tv and was always fascinated by them. I finally bought on in 2022, a tiger eye Celebrity. Elite, medium bowl. I was surprised by the volume, though it's not as much as my Martin. It sounds great however and I love the neck and fretboard. As far as looks, no other brand can match the beautiful headstock and the exotic wood grape leaves on the top are so unique. Given its reasonable price, it's one-of-a-kind appearance, the built-in electronics and the interesting material, I personally think it's a no-brainer. But on the other hand, Ovation seems to be a guitar you either hate or you love. Thanks for the video.
I have gigged with my Ovation Elite Super Shallow full time for over 12 years. This is a guitar made to be plugged in. There is nothing else like it with the comfort, feel and sound. I almost consider it a hybrid.
That's a model I'm looking into, but can't seem to find them in any local shops to try, so I'm going to have to order from an online retailer but I was wondering what the neck carve/shape feel like (ie Chuncky C, Slim 60's taper etc)?
You are holding up the exact model Ovation that I bought for myself back in '92 after years of suffering cheap acoustic and electric pawn shop guitars.
My daughter has had it now for over ten years and refuses to give it back.
I've always liked these guitars because of Glen Campbell and many others playing them in the 70's. And also because the necks are shaped more like an electric style than acoustics, something that many acoustic builders have adopted.
Mine had a spruce top, a rosewood fingerboard and top notch tuners and bridge set up.
Sadly, what appealed to players 30 - 40 years ago won't pass the "Authentic, vintage, classic", cork sniffers tests today.
When I talk to other acoustic players, they act like if you don't have a Martin or a Taylor, you are somehow dumpster diving for your gear. I currently play an Epiphone acoustic from the Masterbilt series.
I see these Ovations all the time on Craigslist for under 300 and at that price they are a real bargain. I might pick up another one just to have in the stand, next to me in the living room.
Awesome Jack🎸《☆》Nancy Wilson comes to mind as well. My Brother in Law has that same model in Lefty configuration. I own a Takamine which is not as loud acoustically due to the big electronic box taking up space in the sound chamber👍🏾🤳Nice Jamz & discussion Brother✌😎☮
Since the mid of the 1990s I have an Ovation. It is built like a tank. The tuners are great, the build quality is awesome. These are stahe guitars, so standing up, they never slip, and this is what they are designed to do. Clear, great sound, and beautiful looks. They are classic too now
Hi Jack! I have an American Ovation Legend and I’m absolutely fine with it. Once you understand that the Ovation is a whole different universe, you just gotta love it. I like the fact of it’s “stable behaviour” in live performance situations like no tuning issues and even a lower tendency to get feedbacks. Yet I can confirm all that criticism towards the body shape and how it can be uncomfortable to play. But the pros are definitely over the cons for me. I play mine through an AER Compact 60 and it’s just wonderful:)))
I bought my first Ovation (second hand) 40 years ago and loved it. Today I have a Martin D28, Boucher and a couple other gems. This week, I bought two Ovation Celebritys for $800.00. Couldn't resist!! They are a fine guitar with a deadly neck and never seem to have to be set up.
Thank you Jack for such an honest review!!!
What do mean by a “deadly neck”? I have not heard of that term. Thanks.
Great size, smooth texture
Have an Ovation and it was my first ever guitar. I love playing it. I agree the back is really, really annoying at first. It slides and it takes some getting used too. I still use a strap just in case.
Ovation is a beautiful guitar with a warm sound. I was in a guitar store in Chicago and they just dismissed the guitar. I was really surprised.
I love my Standart Balladeer and my Custom Legend... The Sound is unique and I can tell an Ovation out of all other Guitars. There the right tools for my Jobs and my soul ❤
I used to have one in the 80,s and last year I wanted another one and I found that the company had been bought and relaunched.
I used to have the full bowl model before and went for a mid this time and it stays much better in place when sitting.
I always really liked the neck profile and being mainly an electric guitar player for me it just suits me nicely.
I now have a new 2022 ovation exotic top and it’s actually a great guitar.
I remember back in the 80s 90s the Tin pot band used to play in O'Neils bar on Thursday night Darlington uk guy in the band had one with it duck taped on the underside of it as an amp fell on it and cracked it, but it still did the job well and constantly turned up with it...Great sound and vid dude
Very interesting. I've never really had the opportunity to really try one but I'm thinking someday......
Ovations were really popular in late 80s and very early 90s with people I knew who were playing live. I was just learning about guitar at that time so I associate them most with late 80s rock scene from my experience.
I used an Ovation Custom Balladeer, Deep Bowl for some 20 years starting in the early '80's. As you mentioned, the electronics were the prime reason for their rise in popularity as the availability of decent Acoustic pickups was very limited and the quality of the available selection was quite poor. Ovations were, and still are, great live stage guitars since they produce a very consistent sound so they are quite easy to manage in a mix. My biggest complaint, besides not being a big fan of the unplugged sound, is the constant sliding and movement of the guitar while seated and/or standing. The company has tried to address that issue over the years by reshaping the bowl a bit but I have not noticed much of a change. Anyway, I still play one occasional and do enjoy the plugged in sound...especially the 12 String models.
I own one. Its from 1984, Custom Balladeer, deep bowl. It sounds good, plays well. And it's indestructible, which might be its strongest feature. Weather doesn't effect it much, so its great for playing outside stages. However, it doesn't sound like an all-wood guitar. It has a unique sound which is enhanced a great deal when plugged in.
It doesn't hold a candle to my Martin or my Eastman, sound-wise, but I will take it places that i won't take the other two, and it sounds good, if not like a D28 or and Eastman all- mahogany guitar. I like it, and it fills a specific need. Oh, and acoustically, it's amazingly loud!
I have a '76 Ovation Balladeer, the old one : deep bowl, no cutaway, round soundhole, no pickup, made in USA. I also own other nice acoustic guitars, including a '02 Larrivée, a '80 Fender (MIM) and a '57 parlor. But the one I mostly play is the Ovation. I like the deep and rich basses (I suspect that the deep bowl makes that - mine has way more basses and warmth than the one on the video), and less midrange than a Martin. To me it sounds kinda close to a Gibson, regarding to the frequency spectrum. But the Ovation sounds kinda cold in the treble, that's the only problem really. I suspect that bone nuts should help, I'm planing to do this mod very soon. Otherwise it's really a great guitar.
I own an Ovation 1769 Al Di Meola II signature. It has a big round back. Sounds beautifully rich and round. Bought it just for the warm tones. Comes with ebony bridge and fretboard. Neck is Matt six piece mahogany. Gold tuners. Lovely instrument.
I have 2, a 75 custom balladeer and a early 2000 cedar cutaway, I don't gig the old one any longer, family hand me down, I am still playing the other every week, I've tried many other guitas over the years and keep coming back to the Ovation, My older brother got me hooked on em, Glenn Campbell era guy, I'll keep on playing it, btw Most of the guys who can't play em sitting generally say that round bellys a new round guitars don't mix. Lol. I was glad to hear Ovation is back in Conneticut,
I have an Ovation Elite contour that i love ,yes, it sounds different than other acoustics....( Not as good ) ,its when its plugged in that it shines .super easy playability too,thats key .
They were popular in the 70s because they had a decent pick up design for the time. Them and Takamini were ahead of all the others as far as having good pick up designs. They are also known for having a thin and comfortable neck.
Unplugged, though they are thin and bright sounding. Not what you would normally want for a classic acoustic sound. Acoustic pick up development has progressed to the point that you can play a classic wooden acoustic guitar and have it sound great plugged in. No need for specialized brands that were basically one trick ponies.
"They were popular in the 70s because they had a decent pick up design for the time."
That's modern group-think revisionist history and not really why they were popular in the 1970s. Jim Croce and Maury Muehleisen used them extensively and played them into microphones, not plugged in. A lot of others did back then, too.
"Unplugged, though they are thin and bright sounding. Not what you would normally want for a classic acoustic sound."
More modern group-think revisionist history. Tony Rice was a very well-known flat-picker in acoustic music circles and he used an Ovation for most of his first three albums. He managed to get a "classic acoustic sound" with them and he wasn't the only one able to do so.
"No need for specialized brands that were basically one trick ponies."
Agreed. But the Ovation guitar is far removed from being a one-trick pony. Tony Rice wasn't playing the same style of music Al Di Meola does, but both are known for playing Ovations at key phases in their respective careers.
@@jerroldshelton9367
I don’t think it’s “revisionist history” at all. They were cutting edge instruments in the 70s AND 80s. From the 90s forward other companies started catching up with the different features that made them cutting edge such as their electronics, alternative materials for the back, and electric guitar like playability.
@@charlesbolton8471 Well, of course you don''t think patrickhunter5505 is engaging in revisionist history when he writes "Unplugged, though they are thin and bright sounding. Not what you would normally want for a classic acoustic sound," given that you didn't mention a single one of the instrument's acoustic capabilities in your response.
It isn't electronics that made Ovation "cutting edge." Baldwin had the Prismatone pickup before Ovation offered on-board electronics. It isn't electric guitar playing feel, either , as Gibson had that going on with the Hummingbird in 1960, long before the first Ovation prototype was made.
Rather, what really made Ovation "cutting edge" were things like even volume and sustain response up, down, and across the fingerboard. Given the same string excitation, and Ovation will generally have less than 4db of difference between the lowest note and the highest. Name another acoustic guitar that can make that claim. We'll wait.
Then there is long sustain coupled with excellent note separation.
Martin has yet to build a D-WHatever that will match a standard-bowl Balladeer for sheer acoustic volume and nobody makes an acoustic guitar having the projection of a standard bowl Elite.
Then there's the tone. I don't know where this notion of "thin" comes from, but they wouldn't have found the favor with lead players that they did if that were true.
It is their performance envelope as acoustic instruments that made them "cutting edge" in 1966 and even here on the eve of 2024, one would be hard-pressed to find another make of guitar that can do everything acoustically that Ovations have been doing since 1966.
I have played off and on for decades, own 7 guitars, and the last one I bought was a used, but near mint Ovation Celebrity in Koa. Besides being a beautiful instrument, it sounds wonderful. I will probably lower the action a little, since i play mostly electrics. It has completed my collection, and I vividly remember being intrigued seeing them at a very young age played by Glen Campbell on variety television shows. Everyone has an opinion, but most are never based on facts...
i have a 1980 usa ovation acoustic electric,it plays great
I bought mine in the mid 90’s and it was my go to acoustic until I got my Martin 6 years ago. I still love it and it has a great sound.
Ovation also made several top-notch electric guitars as well as mandolins. Even some basses as well. The pick ups and electronics were cutting edge and of very good quality. The Breadwinner begat the Deacon which was innovative and forward thinking. Compare the shape of the Deacon to "new" designs by Abasi and Strandberg, and it's easy to see the influence and innovation that ovation carries. The company was ahead of its time.
The first guitar I bought for myself when I was in high school was a 1975 Ovation Artist(shallow bowl) it still sounds great. I recently went from bronze
to nylon strings and it sounds beautiful. That’s why the bridges are made with pull through holes instead of pegs. A very durable
instrument. I also have a peacemaker 12 string still sounds beautiful.👍
Good presentation, balanced and honest in my opinion. I have just bought a Legend Plus with a Koa sunburst, looks awesome !!! Plays like a dream !!! Sounds amazing !!!Interestingly, about the comfort issues, this one has a full but contoured back, not the usual round back, and it is comfortable sitting or standing. The guitar is a beauty, and I’m so glad to own one. Give them a try, you may be surprised.
I have owned several and currently have an Al di Meola signature model and a double neck, both are amazing. I first saw one being played by Glenn Cambell... and Cat Stevens... then later when I saw Al di Meola live... I knew I had to get my own. Cost was the only factor,... I have been playing since 1970 (I was twelve then)... and since I lived near the old Fender factory, my first guitars were Fender... but as I became more aware of Ovation and on stage more often, the Ovation acoustic was the way to go since it didn't have the feedback properties of normal acoustic guitars.
I bought my 1st Ovation because it wasn't a traditional looking guitar . I agree the round back was slippy and awkward to play at first but after getting used to it I came to really like it . And like others mentioned , they stay in tune ! I appreciate the good review 👍
A very interesting video, thank you. I have wondered about this Ovation question myself. I've never owned one so I can't really offer any informed comments except to say that I think some players think along the lines of "why would I want to own a plastic guitar?".
Also, just for some useless information, Kaman is a very old helicopter company. I had no idea the boss was into guitars. The company name is pronounced sort of like the word "command".
I used to have 2 of them...running into a Marshall AS50R was FANTASTIC!
After owning a Taylor nothing compares. But back in the day my ovation was a great guitar. Especially for a beginner.
I have had several different brands of acoustics and I have an Ovation Elite LX that I bought about 20 years ago. I often get compliments about how good it looks and especially how good it sounds. Mine has the bigger bowl and it makes it a bit more challenging to play standing but while sitting I use a tack cloth or micro fiber cloth on my leg to keep it from sliding, which is highly annoying when not using the cloth. But tonally it sounds great!
My first guitar was an Applause made in Korea circa 1990. At that time, all my electric guitar heroes would have at least been seen holding an Ovation. When I returned to acoustic live performing around 2004-2005, I went for a somewhat more traditional Taylor. I just sat down and played my Dad's USA Ovation Balladeer and was so impressed with the feel and playability for someone like me who mostly plays electric. My Taylor plays exceptionally well, but an Ovation is as close to electric feeling as it gets.
I have a friend who is a fantastic guitar player, he's classically trained but can play anything well. I have a beat up Applause (cheap Ovation) and gave it to him to play. Man, the sounds he got out of it were incredible! He had never heard of or knew about Ovations, but his verdict was that it was a good guitar.
Just acquired a 1982 Glen Campbell 1627 and love it!
I've had an Ovation acoustic guitar for nearly three years now. Mainly unplugged though I've been using an amp with it recently. It has a lovely sound and I've improved significantly in the time I've had it.
I love these Adamis Ovations..they sound and look great..❤
My buddy from Vietnam was a budding guitar player. In 1973 we were both just out of the service and he wanted an Ovation . He bought a 12 string, and it was very cool. He banged away on that thing , charming the ladies and generally being cool. It was that guitar man. I recently bought one as part of my collection and really enjoy playing it. They do sound unique.
I own a 1978 Electric Balladeer. Back then there was no alternative if you wanted to play an acoustic guitar in a loud electric band. The pickup is very quacky, but with good EQing it worked out in a band context. 20 years ago I switched to electrified Taylors and Takamines, and the Ovation took a sleep in it's case for decades. Just two weeks back now I have changed strings, did minor setup fixes and played it for the first time in almost 20 years in order to test it with my new impulse response preamp (NUX Optima Air). I was quite surprised as the playability and acoustic sound were far better than I had remembered. Electric use with with Taylor, Gibson and Martin IR profiles brings an overwhelming enhancement of sound quality which will make it a very decent backup guitar I will take for gigging now.
I have the same Ovation model and color CE48-1-G as is shown in this video. It is kept in a Ovation hard case with the humidity pack . I've had it for one year to thr date. I play it a couple hours each day, and sometimes more than that.
It was set-up by a lutier to get an easy action without any buzz. Needless to say, I'm all in, and I have advanced my skills a great deal better. Playing and singing covers of 60's and 70's with an apprecation for any and all fingerpickers.
My retirement is enrichened having this endeavor of self-teaching and ear training with such pleasure.
In 1985 I attended a one week guitar course in US with Robert Fripp where he was previewing his New Standard Tuning. I took my S. Yairi Parlour which was fine but he recommended to people to grab the recent slim-line Ovation that had a composite 'plastic-ish' back because the body and neck would hold up well with the tension of the tuning. So I bought one! It has stayed in my office more or less since then - it's the one I pick up when I need to figure out a part from a keyboard track or whatever. My workhorse and I love it. That said - I would seldom take it into the studio - prefer my 1978 S. Yairi, 1992 Taylor 'Dreadnought' and my recent K. Yairi for acoustic recording. TBH the Ovation sounded a bit 'rubbery' when plugged into an amp or the desk - not a fan of 'plug in acoustics'.
The 1867. You confirmed what I was told by someone you probably met/know
from that course: they can take the tension of the tuning, even in the early days when people would retune using standard string sets. I've also heard the reason why there were so many pros playing them is because they sounded fine live and they could take the abuse of the road.
I had mine setup to get the action low and to adjust the intonation for New Standard Tuning and the string gauges I was using. I've since experimented with several different tunings and gauges, and the neck has always been near perfect. Of course I've had to adjust the truss rod a few times, but that's to be expected. It is indeed a workhorse and rock solid.
Im from CT originally and have a Korean 1768 for almost 20 years- I always loved that it was different - people get so opinionated with guitars in particular- great review
Ovation appeared at roughly the same time as piezo pickups. Before that, the best we had were soundhole magnetic pickups or setting a mic in front of it.
Piezos were far better than previous pickups and you weren't tied to a mic stand.
Personally, I think they deserve a place in our history of acoustic tone. Without piezos, we'd be stuck in the stone age maybe. And Ovation deserves a place right next to piezos.
I had an Applause in the 80s that gave great service and sounded good.
I no longer own it or an Ovation because we have far better technology now.
But if you like that tone, they are great instruments.
😊😊😊