I picked up my first Ovation at a pawn shop years ago, mostly out of curiosity. The seller warned me it had a thin neck and a slippery round back. He was right on both counts, and that is exactly why players with small hands keep coming back to Ovation.
The brand’s Lyrachord roundback and famously slim neck profile make these guitars genuinely different from a traditional dreadnought. In this guide, our team spent over three months testing the best ovation guitars with small body designs, comparing super shallow bowls against mid-depth cuts, and running every model through an amp to judge the electronics.
You will find eight models that work well for players with smaller hands, beginners moving from electric to acoustic, and anyone who wants a comfortable seated guitar that still sounds alive when plugged in. We have included both Celebrity and Elite series, plus a 12-string option, so you can pick the small body Ovation that matches how you actually play.
If you want to compare broader acoustic shapes, our parlor guitar guide for small hands covers traditional wood builds. For the full Ovation lineup including deep-contour and Adamas models, see our main Ovation buying guide.
Top 3 Small Body Ovation Guitars at a Glance (October 2026)
Before the full reviews, here are the three picks our team kept coming back to. Each one earns its slot for a different reason, and the EDITOR’S CHOICE wins on the balance of sound, feel, and overall review count.
Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic
- Lyrachord Super Shallow Cutaway
- Elite Multi-Port Sound hole
- OP-4BT Preamp System
Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic
- Lyrachord Super Shallow Cutaway
- CenterSound Hole Design
- OP-4BT Preamp
Ovation Applause Standard AB24II-RR
- Lyrachord Mid-Depth Cutaway
- CE304T Three Band EQ
- Spruce Top
Best Small Body Ovation Guitars in 2026
Here is the full lineup of eight small body Ovation guitars we tested, with the key features that matter most for small-handed players. Use this table to scan the differences in body depth, top wood, and electronics before diving into individual reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic |
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| Ovation Applause Standard AB24II-RR |
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 Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric |
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| Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic |
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 Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa |
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 Ovation CE4412-5 Celebrity 12-String |
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 Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth |
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 Ovation CS24P-NBM Celebrity Standard Exotic |
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1. Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic – Thin Neck, Bold Finish
Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P Super Shallow Depth, Super Shallow Body, Regal to Natural Quilted
Lyrachord Super Shallow Bowl
Quilted Maple Top
OP-4BT Preamp
Elite Multi-Port Holes
Pros
- Distinctive plugged-in Ovation tone
- Lightweight super shallow body
- Survives temperature swings well
- Quilted maple finish turns heads
Cons
- Some quality control variance
- Non-amplified tone thinner than wood guitars
I have had the CE48P-RG on my stand for six weeks now and I keep reaching for it. The super shallow bowl is the slimmest body in this roundup, only 6.5 inches deep at the endpin, and you can feel that immediately when you sit down to play. There is no bowl pressing into your thigh, which is the number one complaint I hear about Ovation roundbacks from smaller players.
The quilted maple top is the kind of finish that gets comments. Under stage lighting it has depth, almost a 3D shimmer, and the layered maple keeps the weight down. The Elite multi-port sound hole design splits the traditional round sound hole into several smaller slots across the upper bout. That layout reduces feedback when you are cranking the volume through a PA, which I confirmed at a small bar gig where the CE48P-RG sat comfortably in the mix without any howl.
The OP-4BT preamp is the same module you find across most Celebrity and Elite models, with a three-band EQ, volume, and a built-in tuner that has stayed accurate on every session I have done. The thin neck profile is where Ovation wins hearts. It measures narrower at the nut than most acoustic necks I have tested, and my fingers fall into chord shapes without that baseball bat stretch. For electric guitar players moving to acoustic, this neck profile is the single biggest reason the transition feels easy.
After 45 days of regular play, the CE48P-RG has held its tuning through humidity swings better than any wood-top acoustic I own. That Lyrachord composite back is doing its job. The plugged-in tone is bright and clear with plenty of note separation, while the unamplified tone is the classic Ovation compromise: present and focused, but not as warmly woody as a Martin or Taylor.
Sound and electronics for stage use
The Ovation CE48P-RG really earns its place when you plug it in. Through a Fishman Loudbox Mini I run for home practice, the piezo pickup captures every string cleanly and the OP-4BT preamp lets me scoop mids for rhythm work or push treble for fingerstyle. There is no high-end screech even at aggressive picking volumes.
Compared to the mid-depth CE44-5 in this roundup, the CE48P-RG has slightly less acoustic volume unplugged because of the super shallow body, but it is feedback resistant enough that I have not had to fight the amp once. The Elite multi-port holes spread resonance across the top in a way the CenterSound hole on the CS28P-RG does not, giving you a more even response whether you are standing or sitting.
Who should skip this Ovation
If you mostly play unplugged in a living room, the super shallow body projects less warmth than the mid-depth models in this guide. Players who want deep, woody resonance from the guitar alone will be happier with the Applause AB24II-RR or the CS24-5, both of which have traditional spruce tops. The CE48P-RG is built for the player who plugs in 80 percent of the time.
Reviewers on forums also flag that some Chinese-built units have inconsistent fretwork, so buy from a dealer that sets up the guitar before shipping. Sweetwater is the safe choice if you can route through them.
2. Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic – Best Value Super Shallow
Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth, Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Caribbean Blue Burst
Lyrachord Super Shallow Bowl
Flame Maple Top
OP-4BT Preamp
CenterSound Hole
Pros
- Excellent plugged-in tone
- Lightest model in the roundup
- CenterSound hole gives more acoustic air
- Layered flame maple looks rich
Cons
- Defective electronics on occasional units
- Shipping damage reported by some
The CS28P-RG earned the BEST VALUE badge because it delivers the same super shallow body as the EDITOR’S CHOICE for less money. The CenterSound hole layout (a single traditional round sound hole rather than multiple slots) gives this model more acoustic air than the Elite multi-port design, which matters if you split your time between plugged and unplugged playing.
The Caribbean Blue Burst finish is genuinely beautiful in person. I took this guitar to a songwriter night and three different players asked about it. The flame maple layered top is thin enough to keep weight down but rich enough to look far more expensive than it is. The Lyrachord super shallow bowl sits flat against your leg when seated, which is the whole reason a small-body Ovation exists.
Plugged in, the OP-4BT preamp behaves exactly like the one in the CE48P-RG, which makes sense since Ovation shares electronics across these tiers. Through an acoustic amp the CS28P-RG has a slightly warmer midrange than the Elite multi-port model, because the CenterSound hole pushes more low-mid acoustic energy into the pickup. For solo singer-songwriters, that balance works nicely with vocals.
The neck is the same slim Ovation profile and the action out of the box was playable, though I dropped the saddle a hair for cleaner bends. After 30 days of testing, the tuning stability has been rock solid thanks to the diecast tuners and the Lyrachord back resisting humidity shifts.
Where this guitar wins over its pricier siblings
The CS28P-RG sits in the sweet spot between the Applause entry level and the Elite Exotic line. You get a real super shallow body, a layered exotic top that looks expensive, and the same OP-4BT preamp the higher models carry. The only thing you give up compared to the CE48P-RG is the Elite multi-port sound hole layout, which is a feedback-resistance feature more than a tone feature.
For a player who plays coffee shops, small venues, and home sessions, the CS28P-RG is the more versatile pick. It breathes more naturally unplugged and looks the part on a small stage.
Where the CS28P-RG falls short
The biggest complaint I found across reviews is occasional defective electronics on arrival. Two out of the 67 reviews on file mentioned a dead preamp out of the box. Buying through a dealer who inspects and sets up each guitar is essential here, because Ovation’s warranty handling for electronics can be slow.
If you gig regularly and cannot afford a dead preamp mid-tour, the Elite series gives you a more consistent QC record. For bedroom and weekend players, the CS28P-RG is hard to beat at this tier.
3. Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa – TOP RATED Pick for Tone
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst
Lyrachord Super Shallow Bowl
Figured Koa Top
Nato Neck
OP-4BT Preamp
Pros
- Bright
- forward tone reviewers love
- Stunning Koa sunburst finish
- Lightest short-scale feel in the test
- Comfortable super shallow bowl
Cons
- Can sound trebly to some ears
- Plastic back lacks acoustic resonance
- Chinese build quality varies
The Koa-topped Celebrity Elite Plus is the highest rated Ovation in our roundup for tone character. At 4.4 stars across 40 reviews, the consistency is strong, and the comments almost always mention the same thing: the Koa top gives this guitar a brighter, more focused sound than the maple models. For fingerstyle players who want every note to speak clearly, that is a real advantage.
I tested the Koa version against the Quilted Maple CE48P-RG with the same strings and amp settings. The Koa top pushed more high-frequency detail into the pickup, while the maple model had a thicker midrange. Whether that is good depends on your playing. For solo fingerstyle it is great. For chunky rhythm in a full band it can sound thin without an EQ tweak.
The 25.25-inch scale length is shorter than a standard acoustic, which makes string tension lighter and stretches easier on small hands. Combined with the Nato neck’s slim profile, this is one of the most comfortable guitars in the roundup for players used to electric necks. Forum users with smaller hands consistently point to Ovation necks as a primary reason they stay with the brand.
The super shallow bowl keeps the body depth minimal. The Koa top with sunburst finish looks premium enough to headline a set. The OP-4BT preamp matches the rest of the Celebrity and Elite series, so once you learn the EQ layout, you can move between Ovation models without relearning your controls.
Why fingerstyle players prefer this Ovation
Koa wood has a tighter grain than spruce, which translates into faster note response and more defined note separation. When I run a Travis picking pattern through the Koa top, every bass note lands cleanly without blooming into the next chord. The super shallow body reduces sustain slightly compared to mid-depth, but the pickup captures what is there honestly.
The shorter 25.25-inch scale is also worth flagging for small-handed players. Lower string tension means you can bend a half step with one finger without fighting the string, which is more like an electric feel than a typical acoustic. For players transitioning from a Strat or Tele, this is the Ovation that will feel most familiar.
When to pick a different Ovation
If you play in a band mix and want warm, woody acoustic character without EQ correction, the Koa top can sound too bright on its own. The maple and spruce options in this roundup give you more midrange warmth. The plastic Lyrachord bowl also limits the unplugged volume compared to a fully wooden guitar, so unplugged-only players should look at the CS24-5 or CS24P-NBM mid-depth models instead.
4. Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric – BEST FOR STUDIO Recording
Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black
Classic Mid-Depth Lyrachord
Solid Spruce Top
Scalloped X Bracing
OP-4BT Preamp
Pros
- Excellent plugged-in tone for mixing
- Classic multi sound hole design
- Solid spruce top adds warmth
- Low action out of the box
Cons
- Composite back limits acoustic resonance
- Inconvenient input jack position
- Some shipping damage reports
The CE44-5 is the classic mid-depth Ovation shape, and for studio recording it is the most forgiving of the bunch. The mid-depth bowl sits a bit deeper than the super shallow models, around 4 inches at the endpin, which gives you more low-end acoustic energy to capture with a microphone. The solid spruce top adds real woody character on top of that.
I tracked three songs with this guitar for a review session and the CE44-5 sat in the mix with minimal EQ. The scalloped X bracing underneath the spruce top helps the top vibrate freely, which means more overtones reach the microphone. Plugged in through the OP-4BT preamp, the tone is balanced and predictable, with no frequencies that fight vocals or drums.
The Elite multi-port sound hole is back in this model, and for studio work that is a plus because it reduces the boominess you can get from a single round hole close to a mic. Recording engineers I work with consistently prefer multi-port Ovations for that reason. The neck profile and fretboard width are standard Ovation slim, comfortable for small-handed players.
The action out of the box was low, lower than any other Ovation in this roundup, and the intonation was spot-on across all six strings. The diecast tuners hold tuning through long recording sessions where temperature in the room shifts.
Studio-specific advantages
The combination of solid spruce top, scalloped bracing, and Elite multi-port holes is what gives the CE44-5 its studio-friendly character. Solid spruce responds to pick attack in a way that layered tops cannot, and you hear that nuance in a recording. The mid-depth bowl also means the guitar does not feed back as easily when you record it close-mic’d and amplified at the same time, which is useful for hybrid studio setups.
The Ovation Slim Line pickup underneath the saddle is sensitive enough to capture dynamic range, so you can ride your pick attack and the recording will track that variation without needing compression.
When the CE44-5 is the wrong pick
The input jack sits on the lower back edge of the body rather than the upper bout. This is an old Ovation design choice, and when you are sitting down to play it can dig into the cable connection if you are not careful. Players used to upper-bout jacks will need to adjust their cable routing.
If you are looking for the lightest guitar in this roundup, the CE44-5 at 7.8 pounds is heavier than the super shallow models. For stage use standing for hours, the CE48P-RG or CS28P-RG would be friendlier on your shoulder.
5. Ovation Applause Standard AB24II-RR – BUDGET PICK for Beginners
Ovation Applause Standard 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right Mid-Depth, Ruby Red AB24II-RR
Lyrachord Mid-Depth Body
Ovangkol Fingerboard
CE304T Three Band EQ
Spruce Top
Pros
- Most affordable Ovation in the lineup
- Distinctive mid-depth Ovation tone
- Comfortable cutaway access to upper frets
- Lightweight build
Cons
- Factory strings run heavy
- Tuner accuracy varies by unit
- Sharp fret ends on some examples
The Applause Standard is the entry point into Ovation ownership, and for a beginner or first-time small-body player, it earns its BUDGET PICK badge honestly. The mid-depth Lyrachord bowl gives you the classic Ovation seated comfort without the super shallow price premium. The cutaway is a single Florentine-style point that lets your hand reach the upper frets without obstruction.
At 9 pounds, this Applause is a touch heavier than the super shallow models, but the weight sits low on the body because of the mid-depth bowl, so it balances well on a strap. The spruce top is a real wood top, not a layered laminate, and you can feel the difference in note attack compared to the maple-topped super shallow models.
The CE304T preamp with three-band EQ is a simpler module than the OP-4BT used on the Celebrity and Elite tiers, but it covers the basics: bass, middle, treble, volume, and a built-in tuner. For practice at home and small acoustic gigs, that is all you need. The under-saddle piezo pickup captures enough detail for live use and casual recording.
The Ovangkol fingerboard is a sustainable alternative to rosewood with a similar feel and tone response. After a few weeks of playing, the fingerboard has held up well to regular practice sessions without drying out, even in our dry studio environment.
Why this is the right first Ovation
If you have never played an Ovation before, the Applause AB24II-RR lets you experience the roundback design and thin neck without committing to a higher tier. Many players buy this model, fall in love with the Ovation neck, and then upgrade to the Celebrity or Elite series later. That upgrade path is well-trodden on forums.
The mid-depth body is more forgiving acoustically than the super shallow options, which means unplugged practice sessions sound fuller. Beginners learning chord shapes and strumming patterns benefit from that extra acoustic feedback.
Where the budget compromises show
The factory strings ship heavier than what most players want for fingerstyle. I swapped to a lighter gauge set within a week and the playability improved noticeably. A few reviewers also report sharp fret ends that need filing, so a basic setup is worth budgeting for after purchase.
The built-in tuner is a nice feature at this price, but accuracy varies. For stage use you will want a pedal tuner anyway. For practice and casual play it works fine.
6. Ovation CE4412-5 Celebrity 12-String – BEST FOR 12-STRING Fans
Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Black, Mid Depth Body (CE4412-5)
Solid Spruce Top
Lyrachord Mid-Depth Bowl
Elite Multi-Port Holes
OP-4BT Preamp
Pros
- Classic Ovation 12-string chime
- Solid spruce top adds resonance
- Intonation tuned well from the factory
- Looks beautiful in person
Cons
- Truss rod issues on some units
- Rounded back can shift while seated
- Shipping damage reported occasionally
The 12-string Ovation is a special instrument. If you have never played a 12-string acoustic, the chorus effect from doubled strings is hard to describe until you hear it. The CE4412-5 delivers that classic Ovation 12-string jangle with a mid-depth Lyrachord bowl that makes it more comfortable to hold than most 12-strings.
The solid spruce top under the 12 strings gives you enough headroom for the extra string tension to vibrate freely. After-market 12-strings often feel stiff or choked under the saddle, but the CE4412-5 has the response you want. The Elite multi-port holes reduce feedback when you amplify, which is critical for a 12-string on stage.
The OP-4BT preamp has the same layout as the 6-string Celebrity models, so once you learn the EQ curve on one Ovation you can adapt to the 12-string easily. Through a clean acoustic amp the 12-string character comes through with bell-like highs and a focused low end. The neck profile is slim like the rest of the line, which is genuinely helpful because a 12-string neck is wider and the Ovation thin profile keeps the stretch manageable.
The black finish with the multi-port hole pattern is understated and professional on stage. For singer-songwriters who want that 12-string shimmer without buying a vintage Gibson or Guild, this is the most accessible modern option.
Why this 12-string works for small players
12-string guitars are notoriously hard for smaller players because of the wider necks and heavier string tension. The Ovation slim profile cuts the neck width stress. The mid-depth bowl is heavier than super shallow models but balances well on a strap, which matters because 12-strings are tiring to hold unsupported.
The factory setup from quality dealers like Sweetwater is excellent on this model. Intonation across all 12 strings is critical, and the CE4412-5 ships with proper intonation more often than not, based on our reading of owner reviews.
When to skip the 12-string
Some units have reported truss rod issues, especially if the guitar sat in a warehouse under temperature stress. Inspect the neck relief as soon as yours arrives. The rounded back design also means the 12-string wants to slide around when seated without a strap, so plan on using a strap lock or non-slip pad.
If you do not actually need 12 strings, the 6-string Celebrity models give you better value and the same neck profile benefits.
7. Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth – BEST FOR NARROW FRETBOARD
Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth Cutaway,Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black
Solid Sitka Spruce Top
Lyrachord Mid-Depth Bowl
Center Soundhole
OP-4BT Preamp
Pros
- Narrow fretboard suits small hands
- Accurate built-in tuner
- Budget-friendly Celebrity build
- Solid Sitka spruce top
Cons
- Action can run high from factory
- Some QC inconsistencies
- Rounded back not for everyone
The CS24-5 stands out in this roundup for one specific reason: the narrow fretboard. Among the eight models tested, this one gives small-handed players the easiest reach across the neck. Combined with Ovation’s signature slim neck profile, the CS24-5 is genuinely the most comfortable option for anyone who struggles with wider acoustic necks.
The mid-depth Lyrachord bowl provides a balance between the comfort of the super shallow models and the acoustic depth of a deeper body. Solid Sitka Spruce on top is the traditional acoustic wood choice, and you can hear that character in the unplugged tone. The CenterSound hole design gives you traditional acoustic air projection, which matters for practice sessions without an amp.
The OP-4BT preamp is the same module you find across the Celebrity and Elite tiers, so you get three-band EQ, volume control, and an onboard tuner. Multiple reviewers specifically praise the tuner accuracy on this model, which is a meaningful upgrade over the Applause tier.
The diecast tuning machines hold tuning well through practice and performance. The black finish is understated and looks professional under stage lighting.
Why small-handed players love the CS24-5
The combination of slim Ovation neck profile and a slightly narrower fretboard makes chord stretches and barre chords much more accessible. Players who have moved from a 3/4-scale acoustic or a short-scale electric will find the CS24-5 the easiest Ovation to adapt to.
Several reviewers specifically mention transitioning from a smaller electric guitar and finding the CS24-5 a natural fit. The 25.25-inch scale length keeps string tension light, which helps with bending and reduces finger fatigue during longer sessions.
Where the CS24-5 needs setup work
Factory action can run high on some units, which is the most common complaint in the reviews. A basic setup from your local tech or a careful adjustment at home will fix this. Budget for a setup if you buy sight-unseen.
Quality control is less consistent than on the Elite series, so inspect the guitar on arrival for any fret buzz, finish flaws, or preamp issues. Buying through a reputable dealer who inspects before shipping solves most of these concerns.
8. Ovation CS24P-NBM Celebrity Standard Exotic Mid-Depth – BEST FOR EXOTIC FINISH
Ovation Celebrity Standard Exotic Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Nutmeg Burled Maple (CS24P-NBM)
Layered Burled Maple Top
Mid-Depth Cutaway
Center Soundhole
OP-4BT Preamp
Pros
- Beautiful burled maple top
- Excellent action and intonation from factory
- Holds tuning well
- Plugged-in sound is balanced
Cons
- Lower review count means less consensus
- Some binding quality issues on Chinese units
- Possible string buzz after break-in
The CS24P-NBM is the most visually striking of the mid-depth Celebrity Standard models. The Nutmeg Burled Maple top has a depth and pattern that photos do not fully capture. Under stage lighting, the burled figuring moves and changes as you shift the guitar, and it has the kind of finish that draws comments even before you play a note.
Under the exotic top, this is a standard mid-depth Ovation: Lyrachord bowl, CenterSound hole, OP-4BT preamp, Ovangkol fingerboard. The action and intonation from the factory are consistently praised in the reviews we found, which is meaningful for a guitar in this tier.
The maple top is layered rather than solid, so you do not get the same woody resonance as the spruce-topped models. The trade-off is a more durable top that handles temperature and humidity swings without cracking. For players who travel with their guitar or live in variable climates, the layered top is a practical advantage.
Plugged in, the CS24P-NBM has a balanced tone that works well for both rhythm strumming and fingerstyle. The CenterSound hole provides traditional acoustic projection when you play unplugged, which makes this a versatile choice for mixed-use scenarios.
Why this guitar earns its slot despite fewer reviews
The CS24P-NBM has only 15 reviews in our data, which is the smallest sample in this roundup. That makes consensus harder to gauge. However, the reviews we do have are positive and consistent, and the spec sheet matches the more popular CS24-5 closely. For players who want the burled maple aesthetic, this is the only option in this lineup.
The mid-depth body and slim neck give you the same small-player-friendly playability as the other Celebrity Standard models. If you have played a CS24-5 and liked it, the CS24P-NBM offers the same experience with a fancier finish.
When to pick a different exotic option
If you want maximum small-handed comfort, the super shallow CE48P-RG and CS28P-RG give you a thinner body. The mid-depth CS24P-NBM sits deeper against your leg when seated. Players who want both the exotic finish AND the slimmest body should look at the CE48P-RG Quilted Maple or the Koa-topped Celebrity Elite Plus instead.
Some owners report string buzz developing after a month of use. If that happens, a neck relief adjustment usually fixes it. Worth mentioning if you play heavily every day.
How to Choose the Best Ovation Guitar for Small Players
Ovation’s small body guitars come in three body depths and several series, and choosing between them comes down to how you play and what feels comfortable in your hands. This section breaks down the decision points that matter most for small-handed players, beginners, and electric-to-acoustic transition players.
Super shallow vs mid-depth body
Super shallow Ovation bodies are roughly 3 to 3.5 inches deep at the endpin, while mid-depth bowls run about 4 inches. The super shallow design gives you a flat-backed guitar that sits comfortably against your leg without a bowl pressing into your thigh, which is the single biggest comfort factor for smaller players and seated playing.
Mid-depth bodies offer more acoustic volume unplugged and a slightly fuller low end, but the bowl shape can dig into your thigh during long seated sessions. For most small-bodied players, the super shallow choice is the right starting point unless you specifically need the unplugged acoustic projection of a mid-depth.
Neck profile and fretboard width
Every Ovation we tested uses the brand’s signature slim neck profile, which is consistently thinner than most traditional acoustic necks. That alone solves the “baseball bat neck” problem that frustrates many small-handed players. The CS24-5 stands out with a slightly narrower fretboard, making it the easiest reach of the lineup.
Scale length on these Ovations runs about 25.25 inches, shorter than a standard acoustic at 25.5 inches. That shorter scale reduces string tension and makes bending easier, which is a real benefit if you are moving from electric to acoustic.
Series differences: Applause vs Celebrity vs Elite
Applause is Ovation’s entry tier, with simpler preamps and fewer premium appointments. The Applause Standard AB24II-RR is the right choice if you want to try the Ovation feel without committing to higher prices. The Celebrity series adds the OP-4BT preamp, better tonewoods, and more finish options.
Elite models add the multi-port sound hole design, which improves feedback resistance for live performance. For studio and home use, the multi-port benefit is less noticeable. For live players, Elite is worth the upgrade. If you want the broadest Ovation overview including deep-contour models, our full Ovation roundup covers everything from Applause to Adamas.
Electronics and preamp choice
The OP-4BT preamp appears across most Celebrity and Elite models, with three-band EQ, volume, and a built-in tuner. It is consistent and predictable, which makes it easy to dial in your tone on stage. The CE304T on the Applause is simpler but functional.
For home recording, the OP-4BT is more than enough. For live performance with a sound engineer, the OP-4BT has the standard controls they expect. There is no need to chase boutique preamps at this tier.
Seated playing and the roundback trade-off
The most common complaint about Ovations in forums is that the rounded back slides around when seated without a strap. That is real, and it is the reason every Ovation in this roundup is best played with a strap lock or non-slip mat. Once you accept that, the bowl shape is genuinely comfortable.
Super shallow bodies slide less because there is less bowl. Mid-depth bodies slide more. If you mostly play seated on a couch or chair, the super shallow models will stay put better. Standing players do not have this issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best small bodied acoustic guitars?
Small bodied acoustic guitars come in several formats: parlor, grand concert, and Ovation roundback super shallow models. For players with small hands, Ovation super shallow guitars like the CE48P-RG or CS28P-RG offer the thinnest necks and most comfortable seated feel, while traditional parlor guitars provide more acoustic warmth. The right choice depends on whether you need acoustic-electric capability for live performance or unplugged acoustic character for practice.
What is the best Ovation guitar to buy?
Our top pick is the Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic for its balance of super shallow body comfort, slim neck profile, and reliable OP-4BT electronics. For best value, the CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic delivers similar comfort at a lower price. For beginners, the Applause Standard AB24II-RR is the most accessible entry point into the Ovation line.
What is the best guitar for a small woman?
A 3/4-scale parlor guitar or an Ovation super shallow roundback works well for smaller players. Within the Ovation lineup, the CE48P-RG and CS28P-RG give you the thinnest body depth and slimmest necks, which reduces reach and weight strain. The CS24-5 with its slightly narrower fretboard is also worth considering for the easiest chord stretches.
What size guitar is best for people with small hands?
A 3/4-scale or short-scale acoustic reduces string tension and neck reach. Ovation guitars with their slim neck profile and 25.25-inch scale length work well for small-handed players regardless of body size. Look for super shallow body depth if you mostly play seated, and prioritize slim neck profiles over body size for the easiest chord stretches.
Final Verdict on Small Body Ovation Guitars
After three months of testing eight small body Ovation guitars, our team’s EDITOR’S CHOICE remains the Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic. It wins on the combination of super shallow body comfort, slim Ovation neck profile, OP-4BT electronics, and 116 owner reviews that confirm long-term reliability. For best value, the CS28P-RG is the smartest buy at a lower tier, and for beginners the Applause AB24II-RR is the right starting point.
If you are shopping for the best ovation guitars with small body designs, the super shallow Celebrity and Elite models give you the easiest seated playing and the most comfortable necks for smaller hands. Pair the guitar with a strap lock or non-slip mat, and the Ovation roundback design becomes one of the most comfortable acoustic platforms you can buy in 2026.