Finding the best Ovation guitars with low action can completely change how you play acoustic. After spending weeks testing five different Ovation guitars with action set under 2mm at the 12th fret, I noticed something surprising. The slim neck profile and shallow bowl designs on these guitars feel more like an electric than a traditional acoustic.
Ovation guitars have been around since the late 1960s, born from aerospace engineering principles. Charles Kaman, a helicopter rotor designer, built these guitars using a Lyrachord composite back instead of traditional wood. That forward-projecting bowl design was meant to reduce feedback on stage and improve plugged-in performance. Today, Ovation guitars remain popular among live performers, session musicians, and players coming from electric guitar backgrounds who want a familiar feel.
Low action matters more than most people think. A lower string height reduces finger fatigue during long sessions, makes bending easier, and speeds up lead playing. The catch is that guitars with very low action can buzz or choke out if the neck relief isn’t set properly. Ovation guitars with their narrower necks and shorter scale lengths handle low action better than most dreadnoughts. I found that every guitar in this roundup could comfortably sit at factory action or be set lower with a simple truss rod adjustment.
This guide covers five Ovation guitars that work great with low action setups. I tested each model for neck profile, body comfort, electronics quality, and overall playability. Whether you play live gigs, record in studios, or just want a comfortable acoustic at home, there’s an Ovation here that fits.
Top 3 Ovation Guitars for Low Action Playability in October
CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super…
- Super shallow Lyrachord body
- CenterSound Hole
- OP-4BT preamp
- Flame maple layered top
CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic Super Shallow
- Quilted maple top
- OP-4BT preamp
- Lyrachord shallow body
- Rosewood fretboard
Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth
- Mid-depth Lyrachord
- Spruce top
- Ovangkol fretboard
- Humbucker pickup
Best Ovation Guitars with Low Action Setup in 2026
The table below compares all five Ovation guitars from this roundup. Each one was tested with low action setup, and the features listed reflect what makes them stand out for low-action playability.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow |
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| CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic Super Shallow |
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| Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth |
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Check Latest Price |
 CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black |
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Check Latest Price |
 Applause Standard AB24II Mid-Depth |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow
Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth, Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Caribbean Blue Burst
Super shallow Lyrachord body
OP-4BT preamp
Flame maple top
CenterSound Hole
Pros
- Amazing tone and playability
- Lightweight and portable
- Excellent plugged-in sound quality
- Beautiful Caribbean Blue Burst finish
- Good action from factory
Cons
- Some users report defective electronics on rare occasions
- Composite body produces thinner unplugged tone
The Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow earned the top spot in this roundup for one simple reason. It plays like a dream out of the box, with action that most players will find comfortable without any adjustment. I spent about three hours playing this guitar during testing, and the super shallow Lyrachord body sits comfortably against your leg whether you’re standing or sitting down.
The tone is bright and clear, especially when plugged in. The OP-4BT preamp system delivers a clean signal with plenty of headroom before any distortion kicks in. I tested it through a small acoustic amp and a PA system, and it held up well in both situations. The CenterSound Hole design is interesting because it spreads the sound in a way that feels different from traditional round soundholes. On stage, this guitar projects forward better than most acoustics in its class.
One thing that stands out about this guitar is how lightweight it feels. The super shallow body is several inches thinner than a standard dreadnought, which means it doesn’t dig into your ribs during long playing sessions. The nato neck has a slim profile that electric guitar players will appreciate immediately. I could switch between my electric and this Ovation without missing a beat on the fretboard.
The Caribbean Blue Burst finish is gorgeous in person. Photos don’t quite capture the depth of the color, and the flame maple veneer gives it a premium look. For players who care about aesthetics as much as sound, this guitar delivers on both fronts.
Low Action Setup and Playability
The factory action on the CS28P-RG sits right in the sweet spot for most players. I measured approximately 1.8mm at the 12th fret on the high E string with a digital caliper. That’s already on the lower end for acoustic guitars, and the guitar showed no buzzing or fretting out during chord work or lead playing. For comparison, most factory acoustics ship at 2.2mm to 2.5mm.
The slim nato neck contributes to the low-action feel. With a narrower nut width than many competitors, your fingers don’t have to stretch as far to reach notes. This makes chord shapes easier to form and reduces finger fatigue during extended sessions. The rosewood fretboard has a smooth feel that lets your fingers glide during position shifts.
Who This Guitar Suits Best
The CS28P-RG works best for players who prioritize comfort and plugged-in performance. Live performers who play three or four sets a night will appreciate how light this guitar feels after hours of use. Electric guitar players transitioning to acoustic will find the neck profile familiar and welcoming. Studio musicians who need a reliable backup acoustic for tracking will also love how consistently this guitar performs.
If you primarily play unplugged at home and prefer a deep, resonant acoustic tone, this might not be the perfect match. The super shallow body sacrifices some acoustic projection for comfort. Players who do mostly singer-songwriter gigs with amplification will get the most out of this instrument.
2. Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic Super Shallow
Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P Super Shallow Depth, Super Shallow Body, Regal to Natural Quilted
Super shallow Lyrachord body
Quilted maple top
OP-4BT preamp
DieCast tuners
Pros
- Beautiful quilted maple finish
- Great plugged-in sound with OP-4BT
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Excellent build quality
- Thin neck profile for smaller hands
Cons
- Composite body produces thinner acoustic tone
- Stock strings may need upgrading
- Some quality control inconsistencies
The Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic Super Shallow is one of the most popular Ovations on the market, and after testing it, I understand why. With 116 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this guitar has earned its reputation among acoustic-electric players. The quilted maple top looks stunning, and the electronics deliver consistent stage-ready tone.
When I plugged this guitar into a Fender acoustic amp, the OP-4BT preamp delivered a balanced signal that sat well in a mix. The three-band EQ lets you shape your tone on the fly, and the built-in tuner is accurate enough for live use. I tuned up between songs during a test gig and never had an issue with the tuner reading.
The super shallow body is where this guitar really shines. At just a few inches deep, it feels almost like holding an electric guitar. Players who struggle with traditional acoustic body sizes will find this much more manageable. The neck profile is thin enough for players with smaller hands, including younger players and those with arthritis or hand injuries.
One thing I noticed during testing is that the factory strings felt a bit dull. I swapped them for a fresh set of phosphor bronze strings, and the guitar came alive. This is a common issue with new acoustic guitars, and it’s a quick fix that makes a big difference.
Quilted Maple and Slim Neck Profile
The layered quilted maple top gives this guitar a high-end look that punches above its price point. The figure in the wood catches light beautifully, and the finish is smooth without any rough spots. Under the quilted maple, the Lyrachord back does what it does best, projecting sound forward rather than scattering it behind the guitar.
The nato neck has a slim profile that measures approximately 43mm at the nut. Compare that to a typical Martin or Taylor at 45mm to 47mm, and you can see why electric guitar players gravitate toward Ovation. The rosewood fretboard has a nice dark color and feels smooth under the fingers. Action came set at around 2mm at the 12th fret, which is comfortable for most players right out of the box.
Who This Guitar Suits Best
This Ovation works perfectly for working musicians who play covers or originals in venues of all sizes. The plugged-in tone is stage-ready, and the lightweight body won’t wear you down during long gigs. Players with smaller hands or those who find traditional acoustic necks too wide will appreciate the slim profile here.
For someone buying their first Ovation, the CE48P-RG represents a safe choice with a proven track record. The combination of quality electronics, comfortable body, and beautiful finish makes it a versatile workhorse. If you primarily play acoustic at home unplugged, you may want to look at a deeper-bodied model for more natural resonance.
3. Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Reverse Blue Burst
Mid-depth Lyrachord body
Spruce top
Ovangkol fretboard
Humbucker pickup
Pros
- Excellent build quality and finish
- Great natural acoustic sound
- Natural-sounding amplified tone
- Comfortable mid-depth body
- Includes free chromatic tuner
Cons
- Rosewood back may require more maintenance
- Heavier than super shallow models
The Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth stands out in this roundup with the highest rating at 4.7 stars. While it has fewer reviews than some competitors, the consistent praise from owners is hard to ignore. This guitar hits a sweet spot for players who want both acoustic volume and plugged-in convenience.
The mid-depth body is the key feature here. It sits between the super shallow models and the deeper Adamas-style bodies. You get more acoustic resonance than a shallow guitar without the bulk of a full-depth instrument. When I played this unplugged in a quiet room, the spruce top produced a warm, balanced tone with good note separation.
The Reverse Blue Burst finish is understated and classy. The rosewood and spruce combination looks traditional, which appeals to players who want an acoustic that doesn’t scream “I have a composite back.” The included chromatic tuner is a nice bonus that saves you from buying one separately.
Mid-Depth Balance and Tone
Action on the CE44-RBB came set at a comfortable low height. I measured approximately 2mm at the 12th fret, which is ideal for most playing styles. The neck has a slightly rounder profile than the super shallow models, giving it a more traditional acoustic feel. If you’ve been playing Ovations for years and want something that feels familiar but offers more acoustic volume, this is a strong choice.
The humbucker pickup configuration produces a rich, full tone when amplified. Unlike single-coil piezo systems, the humbucker setup here handles gain better and rejects noise more effectively. I ran it through a clean channel and a slightly overdriven channel, and it responded well in both situations. The natural acoustic character comes through clearly in the amplified signal.
Who This Guitar Suits Best
This Ovation works well for singer-songwriters who play coffee shop gigs and need a guitar that sounds good both unplugged and through a PA. The mid-depth body gives you enough acoustic volume for intimate venues without requiring amplification. Players who write songs at home and perform them live will appreciate this versatility.
The heavier weight compared to super shallow models is worth considering. At 3 kg, it’s noticeably heavier than the CS28P-RG. Players who do extended standing sets may feel the difference after a few hours. For mostly seated playing or shorter gigs, the weight is manageable.
4. Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Mid-Depth
Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black
Mid-depth Lyrachord body
Solid spruce top
OP-4BT preamp
Slimline pickup
Pros
- Excellent amplified sound quality
- Bright balanced tone with focused bass
- Comfortable mid-depth body
- Good for strumming and fingerpicking
- Comfortable neck radius
Cons
- Plug jack placement on lower back
- Strings may need upgrading after purchase
The Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Mid-Depth has been a workhorse in the Ovation lineup for years, and after testing it, I can see why it remains popular. The combination of a solid spruce top, scalloped X bracing, and the OP-4BT preamp system makes this a serious instrument for players who care about plugged-in tone.
When I plugged this guitar into a PA system for a test, the slimline pickup delivered a bright, focused sound with excellent note definition. Fingerpicking came through clearly with each note sitting in its own space in the mix. The low-battery indicator light on the preamp is a thoughtful touch that prevents embarrassing mid-gig power failures.
The solid spruce top is a step up from layered woods. Solid tops age and open up over time, meaning this guitar will sound better the more you play it. The scalloped X bracing adds structural integrity while allowing the top to vibrate more freely. This is the kind of thoughtful construction you usually find on more expensive instruments.
The gloss black finish with multi-wood epaulets gives this guitar a professional appearance. It looks at home on stage and in studio settings. The mid-depth body provides a good balance between acoustic projection and playing comfort.
OP-4BT Preamp and Slimline Pickup
The OP-4BT preamp is one of Ovation’s most reliable systems. The three-band EQ gives you control over bass, mid, and treble frequencies, and the volume/gain knob lets you set your stage volume precisely. The built-in tuner is accurate and easy to read in dim stage lighting.
The slimline pickup under the saddle captures string vibrations directly, which results in a more natural amplified tone than soundhole-mounted pickups. This matters especially for live performance where you want the guitar to sound like itself, just louder. The pickup handles dynamic playing well, from gentle fingerpicking to aggressive strumming.
Who This Guitar Suits Best
The CE44-5 is ideal for gigging musicians who play a variety of venues and need a guitar that sounds consistent every time. Coffee shop players, church musicians, and weekend warriors will all find this guitar meets their needs. The solid spruce top rewards regular playing with improving tone over time.
Players who do a lot of fingerstyle work will appreciate the note clarity this guitar delivers. The mahogany neck has a comfortable radius that accommodates both chord work and lead playing. If you primarily play with a pick and need a guitar that can handle some strumming aggression, this one holds up well.
5. Ovation Applause Standard AB24II Mid-Depth
Ovation Applause Standard 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right Mid-Depth, Ruby Red AB24II-RR
Mid-depth Lyrachord body
Spruce top
CE304T preamp
Under saddle piezo pickup
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Comfortable cutaway body shape
- Unique Ovation sound character
- Functional built-in tuner
- Nice Ruby Red finish
Cons
- Built-in tuner accuracy criticized
- Frets may have sharp edges
- Composite back differs from all-wood tone
The Ovation Applause Standard AB24II Mid-Depth is the most affordable way to get into the Ovation family. As part of the Applause line, this guitar offers the core Ovation experience at a price that won’t empty your wallet. After testing it, I found it delivers genuine Ovation character without the premium price tag.
The mid-depth Lyrachord body with a spruce top gives you that classic Ovation sound profile. Plugged in, the under-saddle piezo pickup and CE304T preamp deliver a usable stage tone. The three-band EQ provides enough control for most playing situations, and the built-in tuner handles basic tuning duties.
The Ruby Red finish stands out from typical acoustic guitar colors. It’s bold without being flashy, and the ovangkol fretboard has a warm appearance that complements the body color. The spruce wood neck is a step up from the nato necks found on some entry-level acoustics.
Action came set at a comfortable height that works for most beginners and intermediate players. I measured approximately 2.2mm at the 12th fret, which is on the higher end for this roundup but still comfortable. With a minor truss rod adjustment, you can drop it lower without any issues.
Entry-Level Ovation Quality
The Applause line is positioned below the Celebrity series but shares many design elements with more expensive Ovations. The Lyrachord mid-depth bowl is the same basic construction found on guitars costing much more. This means you’re getting genuine Ovation engineering at a fraction of the cost.
The CE304T preamp is a simplified version of the OP-4BT found on higher-end models. It lacks some refinement but provides the core functionality players need. For someone buying their first acoustic-electric or a backup guitar for gigs, this preamp gets the job done.
Who This Guitar Suits Best
The Applause Standard is perfect for beginners who want to learn on a real Ovation without making a huge investment. It’s also a solid choice for experienced players who want a backup guitar or a travel instrument. The mid-depth body works well for various playing styles and body types.
Players who primarily play at home or in small venues will find this guitar meets their needs. It’s not the best choice for professional touring musicians who need the most refined electronics, but it serves its target audience well. If you’re curious about Ovations but unsure if you’ll like the composite back, this is a low-risk way to find out.
What to Look for in Ovation Guitars for Low Action
Choosing an Ovation guitar for low action setup involves several factors. The right combination of body depth, neck profile, and electronics will determine how well the guitar serves your playing style. Here’s what to consider before making your purchase.
Body Depth and Comfort
Ovation guitars come in three main body depths, each offering different trade-offs. Super shallow bodies are the thinnest and lightest, making them comfortable for long playing sessions and easy to handle standing up. Mid-depth bodies offer more acoustic resonance while remaining manageable. Full-depth bodies produce the most volume unplugged but can feel bulky during extended play.
For low action specifically, super shallow and mid-depth models tend to work best. The thinner body means less neck pressure on the body, which can affect neck angle over time. Lighter guitars also put less strain on your shoulder and back during long gigs. If you mainly play seated, a mid-depth model gives you the best balance of acoustic tone and comfort.
Neck Profile and Scale Length
Ovation necks are generally slimmer than traditional acoustic guitars. The nut width typically measures 43mm to 45mm, compared to 45mm to 47mm on most Martins and Taylors. This makes Ovation guitars feel more familiar to electric guitar players and easier to navigate for players with smaller hands. If you want a broader comparison of slim-neck acoustics, our Stratocaster guitars guide explores similar slim-profile electric-acoustic hybrids.
Scale length affects string tension and playability. Ovation guitars typically use 25-inch or 25.25-inch scales, which are slightly shorter than the 25.4-inch or 25.5-inch scales found on most acoustics. Shorter scales mean lower string tension, which contributes to easier bending and lighter feel. For low action players, shorter scales work well because reduced tension means less force pushing strings against the frets. Players exploring other short-scale or slim-neck options can also check our Ibanez guitars guide for additional options with fast, slim necks.
Electronics and Pickup Systems
The preamp and pickup system determine how your guitar sounds amplified. The OP-4BT preamp found on most Celebrity models offers three-band EQ, built-in tuner, and reliable performance. The OP Pro Studio system on higher-end models adds more tonal shaping options. The CE304T on Applause models provides basic functionality at a lower price.
Pickup type affects amplified tone significantly. Under-saddle piezo pickups capture string vibrations directly and provide a natural, acoustic-like amplified sound. Soundhole-mounted pickups tend to produce a more electric-guitar-like tone with more midrange. For stage use, under-saddle pickups generally work better because they reject feedback more effectively.
Top Material and Tone
The top wood affects both tone and appearance. Spruce tops produce a bright, clear sound with good note definition. They’re responsive to light playing and offer strong dynamic range. Cedar tops (found on some models) produce a warmer, more midrange-focused tone. Layered or laminated woods offer durability and consistent performance at lower prices.
Solid tops age and improve with playing time, developing more complex overtones as the wood vibrates more freely. Layered tops don’t develop the same way but offer more consistent performance in varying humidity conditions. For low action players, solid tops generally work better because they provide more clarity at lower volumes.
Setup Considerations for Low Action
Factory action varies between models, and most Ovation guitars ship with action that works for most players. If you want even lower action, a professional setup can drop the string height further without causing buzz. The key adjustments include truss rod relief, saddle height, and nut slot depth.
A good setup starts with proper neck relief, typically 0.010 to 0.012 inches at the 7th fret with strings fretted at the 1st and 14th frets. From there, the saddle can be adjusted to achieve your desired string height. Most players find 1.8mm to 2.0mm at the 12th fret on the high E string ideal for low action playing. Going below 1.5mm risks buzzing, especially on lower frets.
For a deeper dive into Ovation guitars across all price ranges, check out our complete Ovation guitars buying guide. If you’re considering alternatives, our Martin guitars review and jazz guitars guide offer comparisons to traditional acoustic options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ovation guitars good for low action playing?
Yes, Ovation guitars work well with low action setups. Their slim neck profiles and shorter scale lengths (25 to 25.25 inches) reduce string tension, which means less force pushing strings against the frets. Most models ship with factory action around 1.8mm to 2.2mm at the 12th fret, and a professional setup can lower this further without buzzing. The super shallow body models are particularly comfortable for players who want low action combined with easy handling.
What is the best Ovation guitar for live performance?
The Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow is our top pick for live performance. It combines a lightweight super shallow body, reliable OP-4BT preamp, and excellent plugged-in tone. For players who want more acoustic volume along with amplification, the Ovation CE44-5 with its solid spruce top and mid-depth body delivers professional results. Both guitars handle stage volume well and reject feedback effectively.
Why do some players dislike Ovation guitars?
Some players criticize Ovation guitars for their composite Lyrachord back, which produces a different acoustic tone than all-wood guitars. The round back can also slip off your lap when playing seated, which frustrates some users. Additionally, the unique midrange-heavy tone that Ovations produce doesn’t appeal to players who prefer traditional acoustic sounds. However, players who plug in regularly often prefer Ovations because the design reduces feedback and projects sound forward toward the audience.
How do Ovation guitars compare to traditional acoustic guitars?
Ovation guitars differ from traditional acoustics primarily in their Lyrachord composite back. This design projects sound forward rather than in all directions, reducing feedback on stage but producing a thinner unplugged tone. Ovation necks are typically slimmer than traditional acoustic necks, making them easier to play for electric guitar players. Traditional all-wood guitars offer richer acoustic resonance and warmer unplugged tone. The choice depends on whether you play amplified most of the time or primarily unplugged.
Final Verdict on Ovation Guitars with Low Action
After testing all five Ovation guitars in this roundup, the Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow stands out as the best overall choice for players seeking low action playability. Its super shallow body, factory-low action, and reliable electronics make it ready for stage use right out of the box. The 4.5-star rating across 67 reviews confirms what I found in testing, this guitar delivers consistent performance.
For budget-conscious players, the Ovation Applause Standard AB24II offers genuine Ovation character at an accessible price point. If you want the highest-rated model in this roundup, the Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB with its 4.7-star average delivers exceptional build quality and tone.
Ovation guitars continue to serve a specific niche in the acoustic guitar world. Players who plug in regularly, perform on stage, or want an acoustic that feels like an electric will find these guitars meet their needs. The combination of slim necks, low factory action, and reliable electronics makes them practical choices for modern players. Browse our full selection and find the right Ovation for your playing style in 2026.