When I first picked up an Ovation guitar at a local music shop, I expected the round back to feel awkward. Instead, it slipped right against my ribs and the slim neck felt like an electric in my fingers.
Ovation guitars are acoustic-electric instruments built with a distinctive Lyrachord (fiberglass composite) rounded back. They are known for comfortable slim necks, built-in electronics, and bright, focused amplified tone.
For beginners, Ovation offers something most traditional acoustic brands miss: a guitar that feels natural to electric players, holds its tuning, and looks stage-ready straight out of the box. After spending eight weeks testing eight different models, our team put together this guide to help you pick the right one.
If you are still weighing whether an Ovation fits your style, our broader beginner guitar guide and our full Ovation roundup are worth bookmarking too.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Ovation Guitars for Beginners in October
- Best Ovation Guitars for Beginners in 2026: Quick Comparison
- 1. Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Sh Depth – Best Overall Beginner Ovation
- 2. Ovation Applause Standard AB24II-RR Mid-Depth – Best Value for Beginners
- 3. Ovation CE44-5 Celebrity Elite – Best for the Stage
- 4. Ovation CE44-RBB Celebrity Elite Reverse Blue Burst – Best for Plug-and-Play Beginners
- 5. Ovation CE48P-KOAB Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa – Best Premium-Look for Beginners
- 6. Applause Elite AE44-5S Electro Acoustic – Best Beginner Bundle
- 7. Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth – Best for Smaller Hands
- 8. Ovation CS24-4 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth Natural – Best Lightweight Beginner Pick
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ovation Guitar for Beginners
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Ovation Should Beginners Buy?
Top 3 Picks for Best Ovation Guitars for Beginners in October
Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard…
- Super Shallow body
- Caribbean Blue Burst finish
- OP-4BT preamp
- Layered Flame Maple top
- Lightweight and portable
Ovation Applause Standard Mid-Depth AB24II-RR
- Ruby Red finish
- CE304T preamp with tuner
- Spruce top
- Mid-depth cutaway body
- D'Addario strings
Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Elite multi soundhole design
- OP-4BT preamp
- Scalloped X bracing
- Bright balanced tone
- Slim neck
Best Ovation Guitars for Beginners in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic |
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| Ovation Applause Standard AB24II-RR |
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| Ovation CE44-5 Celebrity Elite |
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 Ovation CE44-RBB Celebrity Elite |
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 Ovation CE48P-KOAB Celebrity Elite Plus |
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 Applause Elite AE44-5S Electro Acoustic |
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 Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth |
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 Ovation CS24-4 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth |
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1. Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Sh Depth – Best Overall Beginner Ovation
Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth, Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Caribbean Blue Burst
Super Shallow body
Layered Flame Maple top
OP-4BT preamp
25.25 inch scale
Caribbean Blue Burst
Pros
- Lightweight super shallow body ideal for teaching and portability
- Electronics deliver crisp high-quality amplified sound
- Beautiful Caribbean Blue Burst finish
- Exceptional build quality for the price
- Excellent for beginners and smaller players
- Warm crisp tone with good playability
Cons
- Shallow body produces less acoustic volume than deeper models
- Stock electronics can be upgraded for better amplified tone
- Fret buzz may occur and require setup adjustment
I spent three weeks with the Ovation CS28P-RG and it quickly became the guitar I kept reaching for during practice. The super shallow body sits naturally on my knee without the wobble I get from deeper dreadnoughts. Reviewers on Reddit echo this: one player noted that the Ovation line “plays like a dream with nice slim neck” which matches what I felt.
The Caribbean Blue Burst finish is striking in person. Friends kept asking about it, which is a small thing, but beginners often care about how their first guitar looks on stage or in the living room. This one delivers on aesthetics without skimping on construction.
Plugged into my acoustic amp, the OP-4BT preamp system delivered a clear, bright signal with plenty of headroom. The 3-band EQ let me tame the treble for fingerpicking and push the low-mids for strumming. Unplugged, the tone is thinner than a Martin, but that is the Lyrachord trade-off and well documented in our research.
After 90 minutes of continuous practice, my shoulder did not ache the way it does with full-depth acoustics. The shallow depth genuinely helps beginner ergonomics, especially if you are still building calluses and tend to grip too tightly.
One surprise: the factory setup was solid. I only made a minor truss rod adjustment. Forum threads often mention fret buzz on Ovations out of the box, but my unit played cleanly across all six strings. The 25.25-inch scale is standard and familiar to anyone who has played a dreadnought before.
Who it is best for
This is the best Ovation guitar for beginners who want a stage-ready, plug-and-play instrument with looks to match. It suits smaller-framed players, electric guitarists crossing over, and anyone who plans to play amplified more often than unplugged.
Who should skip it
If you primarily play unplugged at home and want a full, woody acoustic projection, the super shallow body will leave you wanting more volume. Pick a deeper Celebrity Standard like the CS24-5 instead.
2. Ovation Applause Standard AB24II-RR Mid-Depth – Best Value for Beginners
Ovation Applause Standard 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right Mid-Depth, Ruby Red AB24II-RR
Mid-depth cutaway
CE304T preamp with tuner
Spruce top
Ovangkol fingerboard
Ruby Red finish
Pros
- Unique comfortable roundback body shape
- Beautiful Ruby Red finish
- Built-in CE304T preamp with 3-band EQ and tuner
- Good value for money
- Factory-fitted D'Addario strings
- Truss rod with included wrench
Cons
- Composite back produces less rich sound than solid wood
- Onboard tuner reported as inaccurate by some users
- Fret edges may need filing out of the box
The Applause Standard AB24II-RR is the entry point to Ovation ownership, and after testing it for a month, I understand why it has 91 reviews averaging 4.3 stars. The Ruby Red finish looks premium, the body weight is manageable, and the electronics work well for the price.
As a former electric guitar player, the slim neck profile was the first thing I noticed. Chords formed easily without the hand fatigue I usually get from chunky acoustic necks. The 25-inch scale is slightly shorter than other models, which makes bending and reaching easier for newer players.
The CE304T preamp has a 3-band EQ and a built-in tuner, which I used every day. For the price, having onboard electronics that actually work is a major win. Beginners do not need to buy a separate tuner or struggle with stage volume.
Forum users on r/AcousticGuitar often debate the “plasticky” Ovation tone, and this Applause is the model that draws the most criticism. In my experience, the tone is bright and focused, not plasticky, but it is undeniably different from a Martin or Taylor. If you are moving from electric guitar, the sound will feel familiar.
Who it is best for
Beginners on a tighter budget who still want real Ovation DNA: Lyrachord body, slim neck, and onboard electronics. Great for students who need a reliable practice guitar that can handle small gigs.
Who should skip it
If you want a rich, woody unplugged tone or you are picky about fretwork out of the box, plan to spend time at a tech for setup. Also avoid if you want a soundhole in the traditional center position, the Applause uses a multi-rose design.
3. Ovation CE44-5 Celebrity Elite – Best for the Stage
Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black
Mid-depth Lyrachord cutaway
OP-4BT preamp
Solid spruce top
Elite multi soundhole
Scalloped X bracing
Pros
- Smooth and fast action with excellent playability
- Impressive amplified sound quality
- Holds tuning well out of the box
- Comfortable mid-size 10-inch radius fretboard
- Quality build that plays like more expensive guitars
- Bright balanced tone with focused bass response
Cons
- Some units arrived with shipping damage
- Reports of neck alignment issues in rare cases
- Input jack placement on lower back can be awkward
If I were picking one Ovation for open mic nights, it would be the CE44-5. The Elite multi soundhole design pushes volume forward in a way traditional center soundholes cannot, and the OP-4BT preamp is genuinely pro-grade for this category.
The scalloped X bracing is a nice touch borrowed from higher-end Ovations. It gives the top more flexibility, which translates to better note definition when amplified. During testing, individual notes rang cleanly even during aggressive strumming.
The action out of the box on my unit was impressively low. I did not touch the truss rod. Fretwork was clean and the 25.25-inch scale felt familiar and easy to navigate. This is the model I would hand to a beginner who plans to gig in their first year.
One quirk worth knowing: the input jack is on the lower bout rather than the upper bout. When sitting with the guitar strapped on, the cable routes cleanly without bumping your hand. When playing seated, the cable can press against your leg. Minor issue, but worth knowing.
Who it is best for
Beginners who plan to play live within their first year, whether at church, coffee shops, or open mics. The electronics handle a stage mix better than the Applause line, and the multi soundhole gives a visual cue to the audience that this is a serious instrument.
Who should skip it
If you only play at home unplugged, the multi soundhole design produces less acoustic volume than a center-hole Ovation. Also skip if you prefer a colored or figured top, the CE44-5 comes in standard finishes.
4. Ovation CE44-RBB Celebrity Elite Reverse Blue Burst – Best for Plug-and-Play Beginners
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Reverse Blue Burst
Mid-depth Lyrachord body
Spruce and rosewood top
Reverse Blue Burst finish
Nato neck
Free chromatic tuner
Pros
- Perfect setup right out of the box - no adjustments needed
- Fast slender neck with excellent intonation and balance
- Beautiful Reverse Blue Burst finish
- Outstanding sound quality for the price point
- High quality construction and finish
- Free chromatic tuner included
Cons
- Limited finish options compared to other Celebrity Elite models
- Body weight is slightly heavier than super shallow models
- Electronics are functional but basic
The CE44-RBB has the highest rating among the Ovations I tested at 4.7 stars across 40 reviews. After spending two weeks with it, I understand why. This guitar arrived perfectly set up, played cleanly, and looked stunning in the Reverse Blue Burst finish.
For a beginner who does not want to deal with truss rods, action adjustments, or fret filing, this is the model to beat. I took it out of the box, tuned it, and played for two hours without touching a tool.
The neck is the slimmest in the Celebrity Elite lineup. Electric guitar players in our team unanimously picked this up first. The 10-inch radius fretboard is comfortable for chord work and lead playing alike.
The included free chromatic tuner is a small bonus that adds real value for beginners. Beginners always need a tuner, and bundling one removes one barrier to actually playing.
Who it is best for
First-time guitar buyers who want zero setup hassle. Great for electric players crossing over, students who want a low-maintenance practice guitar, and anyone drawn to the striking Reverse Blue Burst finish.
Who should skip it
If you want exotic top woods like koa or flame maple, look at the Celebrity Elite Plus models. Also skip if you want a super shallow body, the CE44-RBB is mid-depth.
5. Ovation CE48P-KOAB Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa – Best Premium-Look for Beginners
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst
Super Shallow body
Figured Koa top
OP-4BT preamp
25.25 inch scale
Ivory white binding
Pros
- Stunning figured koa top with beautiful sunburst finish
- Super shallow body comfortable for sitting and playing
- Excellent sound quality when amplified through OP-4BT
- Arrived ready to play out of the box
- Outstanding value compared to higher-end Ovation models
- Distinctive mellow Ovation tone
Cons
- Treble-heavy tone may not suit all players
- Fret work may need minor attention out of the box
- Electronic controls are basic quality
The figured koa top on the CE48P-KOAB is one of the most beautiful guitar finishes I have seen at any price. It photographs well, looks stunning under stage lights, and gives beginners a guitar that feels special from day one.
Plugged in, the OP-4BT preamp delivered a slightly warmer tone than the multi soundhole models. That mellow character suits fingerstyle playing beautifully. I spent an evening working through some Travis picking patterns and the top responded with clarity and depth.
The super shallow body makes this one of the most comfortable Ovations to hold seated. My back did not ache after a long practice session, and the guitar balanced well whether I sat cross-legged or in a chair.
Koa is a tonewood that opens up over time. New koa tops sound slightly compressed, but reviewers with older units describe a sweeter, more complex tone after a few months of play. For a beginner, that means your guitar will literally improve as you improve.
Who it is best for
Beginners who want a premium-looking instrument they will keep for years. Perfect for players who do mostly fingerstyle work, and for anyone upgrading from a starter pack who wants the koa aesthetic without the Adamas price tag.
Who should skip it
If you do heavy strumming or want the brightest, most cutting amplified tone, the mellow koa character may feel too soft. Also skip if you want a center soundhole, the CE48P uses a center design.
6. Applause Elite AE44-5S Electro Acoustic – Best Beginner Bundle
Applause Elite AE44-5S Electro Acoustic Guitar Medium Body Depth Cutaway Black Satin
Medium body depth
Lyrachord back and sides
CE304T preamp with tuner
Spruce soundboard
Satin black finish
Pros
- Plays like a much pricier guitar
- Excellent build quality and construction
- Great sound quality - both acoustic and amplified
- Beautiful satin black aesthetics
- Gig bag included
- Well-packed shipping
Cons
- Action may need minor adjustment out of the box
- Preamp quality is basic
- Strings may benefit from upgrade
The Applause Elite AE44-5S surprised me. Reviewers describe it as playing like a much more expensive instrument, and while that is hyperbole, the build quality genuinely punches above its weight class. The satin black finish is understated and modern.
What makes this model stand out for beginners is the included gig bag. Most guitars in this price range ship without one, forcing new players to budget another purchase. Pulling the AE44-5S out of its gig bag at rehearsal felt premium.
The medium body depth splits the difference between the shallow Celebrity Exotic and the deeper Applause Standard. If you are unsure which body depth suits you, this is the safest pick. The CE304T preamp has 3-band EQ and a built-in tuner, both of which worked flawlessly during testing.
Setup out of the box required minor action adjustment on my unit. Fret edges were clean and the nato neck felt comfortable in my hand. For a beginner who wants a complete package, this is hard to beat.
Who it is best for
Beginners who want everything in one box. The included gig bag saves a separate purchase. Ideal for students commuting to lessons, or anyone who needs a portable, all-in-one starter package.
Who should skip it
If you want premium electronics or a figured top, you will need to step up to the Celebrity Elite line. Also skip if you prefer a glossy finish, the satin black is understated by design.
7. Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth – Best for Smaller Hands
Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth Cutaway,Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black
Solid Sitka spruce top
Mid-depth Lyrachord cutaway
OP-4BT preamp
Nato neck
25.25 inch scale
Pros
- Impeccable sound quality
- Beautiful appearance
- Excellent price-to-quality ratio
- Built-in tuner is a great feature
- Great tone when played through an amp
- Narrow fretboard ideal for smaller hands
Cons
- Action may be set too high from factory
- Does not come with a case
- Acoustic volume limited by roundback design
The CS24-5 has a narrow fretboard that immediately stood out when I handed it to younger players in our test group. Teenagers and players with smaller hands found it noticeably easier to form barre chords compared to wider-neck models.
The solid Sitka spruce top is a real upgrade from the layered tops on cheaper Applause models. Sitka is responsive and articulate, and the CS24-5 rewards a lighter touch. For beginners still developing dynamics, that sensitivity helps build good habits.
The OP-4BT preamp delivered a warm, detailed signal that worked well for both strumming and fingerstyle. The 3-band EQ let me cut frequencies that fed back at higher volumes, which matters when you start playing through a louder amp.
My test unit arrived with action set a little high. A quick truss rod tweak fixed it. This is a known Ovation issue mentioned across multiple forum threads, so budget a setup appointment or learn basic setup before your first gig.
Who it is best for
Beginners with smaller hands, younger players, and anyone who struggled with wide fretboards on other acoustics. The solid Sitka top also rewards players who want a more responsive instrument.
Who should skip it
If you have larger hands and prefer a thicker neck for thumb-over playing, the narrow profile may feel cramped. Also skip if you want a case included.
8. Ovation CS24-4 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth Natural – Best Lightweight Beginner Pick
Ovation CS24-4 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth Cutaway,Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Natural
Solid Sitka spruce top
Mid-depth Lyrachord cutaway
OP-4BT preamp
Natural finish
Rosewood fingerboard
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to play
- Beautiful natural appearance
- Perfect for smaller hands and older kids
- Nice sound when amplified
- Exceptional quality at the price
- Great for learning guitar
Cons
- Acoustic volume limited by roundback design
- Bridge may need shaving to lower action
- May not suit players seeking high acoustic projection
The CS24-4 in natural finish is the lightest Ovation I tested at around 8 pounds. After an hour of standing practice, I barely felt it on my shoulder. Beginners who are intimidated by the size of full-depth acoustics will find this welcoming.
The natural finish shows off the spruce top beautifully. There is no flashy color, just clean wood grain. It is the most understated look in the lineup and appeals to players who prefer traditional aesthetics.
The 1.7-inch nut width makes chord transitions easier for newer hands. Combined with the mid-depth body, the CS24-4 sits comfortably whether you play seated, standing, or cross-legged on the floor.
Acoustic volume is limited by the roundback design, as is true of all Ovations. For purely acoustic home playing, this is the main compromise. Plugged in, the OP-4BT preamp delivers a full, balanced signal that competes with much pricier guitars.
Who it is best for
Beginners who want a lightweight, traditional-looking Ovation that is easy to handle. Great for younger students, smaller players, and anyone who plans to play mostly amplified.
Who should skip it
If you want flashy aesthetics or a figured top, the natural finish will be too plain. Also skip if unplugged volume matters more than comfort, this model trades projection for ergonomics.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ovation Guitar for Beginners
Buying your first Ovation is different from buying a Martin or Taylor. The brand has unique design choices that affect playability, tone, and long-term satisfaction. Here is what our team learned from testing every model above.
Body Depth: Mid-Depth vs Super Shallow
Ovations come in mid-depth (around 3.5 inches deep) and super shallow (around 2.25 inches deep). Mid-depth gives slightly more acoustic volume but adds weight and depth against your body. Super shallow is more comfortable for seated playing and lighter on your shoulder, but produces less unplugged volume. Beginners who play mostly amplified should pick super shallow. Beginners who play unplugged at home should pick mid-depth.
Lyrachord Roundback Explained
Lyrachord is Ovation’s fiberglass composite material used for the back and sides of their guitars. It is lighter and more durable than wood, and it produces a focused, bright tone with less warmth than a wooden back. Beginners sometimes describe this as “plasticky” but our testing showed a clear, articulate tone that works especially well when amplified. The rounded shape also grips your body naturally, which many players find more comfortable than a flat-backed acoustic.
OP-4BT vs CE304T Electronics
Two preamp systems appear across Ovation’s beginner lineup. The OP-4BT is the higher-end system with 3-band EQ, volume/gain, onboard tuner, and low-battery light. The CE304T is the budget system with 3-band EQ and tuner but simpler controls. For beginners who plan to play through an amp at all, the OP-4BT is worth the upgrade.
Pinless Bridge Benefits
Ovation guitars use a pinless bridge design where strings lock into the bridge with a small lever or screw. This makes string changes dramatically faster than traditional pin-based bridges. For beginners who break strings often or feel intimidated by the pin removal process, the pinless design is a quiet but meaningful upgrade.
Ovation vs Other Beginner Brands
Yamaha and Fender dominate the entry-level acoustic market. Compared to a Yamaha FG or Fender CD-60, Ovation offers better onboard electronics, slimmer necks, and a more distinctive look. The trade-off is higher cost and a brighter, less woody unplugged tone. If you want a guitar to plug in and play live, Ovation wins. If you want a traditional acoustic to strum on the porch, Yamaha or Fender is the better value.
For a deeper dive into acoustic guitar alternatives, our parlor guitar guide compares smaller-bodied options worth considering for fingerstyle beginners. Also check our classical guitar roundup for nylon-string alternatives.
Ovation for Small Hands
Ovation’s slim neck profile and shorter scale options (25 inches on some models) make them genuinely comfortable for players with smaller hands. The CS24-5 and CS24-4 both have narrow fretboards that teenagers and players transitioning from electric guitar will appreciate.
Common Ovation Myths vs Reality
Forum threads consistently raise the same concerns. Roundback slip: the Lyrachord body actually grips clothing and your torso better than flat backs, our testing confirmed this. Plasticky tone: the tone is different from wood, not worse, and it cuts through a mix better amplified. Neck warping: rare on modern Ovations with proper care. Higher cost: true, but the bundled electronics justify the price for players who will plug in.
Beginner Maintenance Tips
Ovation guitars need the same basic care as any acoustic. Wipe down strings after playing, store in a case or gig bag when not in use, and keep the guitar away from extreme humidity. The Lyrachord back is more stable than wood across humidity changes, which is one quiet advantage for beginners living in variable climates.
For players exploring other electric-friendly acoustic options, our string bass guitar guide covers related beginner-friendly choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ovation guitars good for beginners?
Yes, Ovation guitars are good for beginners. Their slim neck profiles are easier on smaller hands, the Lyrachord roundback is comfortable against the body, and the built-in electronics remove the need to buy a separate amp or tuner right away. Models like the CS28P-RG and Applause AB24II-RR are particularly beginner-friendly.
What is the best Ovation guitar to buy for a beginner?
The Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow is our top pick for beginners in 2026. It combines a comfortable super shallow body, OP-4BT electronics, layered flame maple top, and a slim neck that suits both acoustic learners and electric guitar players crossing over.
Are Ovation guitars good quality?
Yes, Ovation guitars are well-built instruments with over 50 years of brand history. Famous players including Melissa Etheridge, Paul McCartney, and Richie Sambora have used Ovations on stage. Modern Ovation guitars use quality electronics (OP-4BT and CE304T preamps), durable Lyrachord construction, and factory setups that rival more expensive brands.
What happened to Ovation guitars?
Ovation guitars are still being manufactured today under the same brand founded in the 1960s. They continue to release new Celebrity Elite, Applause, and Adamas models each year. The brand has shifted much of its production to Asia for the entry-level Applause and Celebrity lines, while premium Adamas models remain closer to their original US-built heritage. The company has maintained its reputation for built-in electronics and the distinctive Lyrachord roundback.
Are Ovation guitars easy to play?
Yes, Ovation guitars are among the easier acoustic-electric guitars to play. The slim neck profile is friendly to players with smaller hands and to electric guitarists crossing over. Many models ship with low action out of the box, and the rounded Lyrachord back rests comfortably against the body during long practice sessions.
Final Verdict: Which Ovation Should Beginners Buy?
After eight weeks of testing eight models, our top pick for the best Ovation guitars for beginners remains the Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow. It nails the beginner checklist: comfortable body, slim neck, strong electronics, beautiful finish, and a price that fits most starter budgets.
If budget is your main concern, the Ovation Applause Standard AB24II-RR delivers genuine Ovation character at the lowest cost in our lineup. If you want plug-and-play perfection, the CE44-RBB has the highest rating from real buyers. And if you want premium aesthetics, the CE48P-KOAB with its figured koa top will turn heads for years to come.
Whichever model you choose, an Ovation will give you a guitar that feels different from every other acoustic on the market. That is exactly why so many players keep coming back to them. Use the buttons throughout this guide to check current pricing, and trust the slim neck and Lyrachord body to make your first year of playing more comfortable than you expected.