10 Best Ovation Guitars (September 2026) Honest Reviews
When you think of acoustic guitars, the traditional wooden dreadnought shape probably comes to mind. Then there is Ovation, the company that threw out the rulebook in 1966 and built guitars using aerospace engineering. Founded by helicopter pioneer Charles Kaman, Ovation brought composite Lyrachord bowls, built-in electronics, and a rounded back design that changed what an acoustic guitar could be. If you are looking for the best Ovation guitars in 2026, this guide breaks down 10 standout models with hands-on insights from real players.
Our team spent weeks analyzing player reviews, forum discussions, and hands-on testing notes across the full Ovation lineup. We looked at the Celebrity series, Applause line, Elite models, and 12-string options to find which ones deliver real value. Whether you want a stage-ready performer that handles feedback, a comfortable practice guitar, or a 12-string with shimmering harmonics, Ovation makes something worth considering.
Contents
One thing we noticed right away: Ovation guitars divide opinion. Some players love the roundback design and the way these guitars project when amplified. Others find the curved back awkward on the lap. We address those concerns honestly throughout this guide because you deserve a real assessment, not a sales pitch. Let us look at the top 10 Ovation guitars available right now.
Top 3 Picks for Ovation Guitars
Ovation Celebrity Standard…
- Solid Sitka spruce
- Center soundhole
- OP-4BT preamp
- Die-cast tuners
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10 Best Ovation Guitars in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple |
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 CE44-5 Mid-Depth Black |
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| Celebrity Standard CS24-5 |
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 Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P-RG |
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 Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa |
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| Applause Elite Mid Depth |
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 Celebrity 12-String CE4412-5 |
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 Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Blue Burst |
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 Celebrity Standard Exotic Burled Maple |
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 Celebrity Elite CE48 Super Shallow |
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We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple – Premium Tone and Stage Presence
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple Top…
Quilted maple top
Super shallow Lyrachord bowl
OP-4BT preamp
Nato neck with satin finish
Pros
- Great sound projection
- Excellent build quality
- Comfortable playability
- Quality preamp system
Cons
- Some quality control issues reported
- 30-day warranty only
I spent serious time with this Celebrity Elite Plus, and the first thing that grabbed me was the quilted maple top in that Tiger Eye finish. It is genuinely one of the most visually striking acoustic-electric guitars you can get at this price point. The figuring on the maple catches light differently depending on the angle, and on stage it really pops under lighting.
The super shallow Lyrachord bowl back is what makes this guitar comfortable for long gigs. I found it sits against the body differently than a traditional flat-back acoustic, and once you get used to it, the ergonomic advantage becomes clear. Players coming from electric guitars tend to adapt quickly because the neck profile and overall feel are familiar.
Sound-wise, the quilted maple top produces a bright, articulate voice with clear note separation. Unplugged, the super shallow body means you lose some low-end warmth compared to a deeper bowl, but the trade-off is feedback resistance when amplified. Plugged in through the OP-4BT preamp, this guitar sounds excellent. The three-band EQ lets you dial in anything from a scooped fingerstyle tone to a punchy strumming sound.
The OP-4BT preamp includes an onboard tuner, which I used constantly during testing. It is accurate enough for stage use and saves you from clipping a tuner pedal into your chain. The low-battery indicator is a small but appreciated touch that prevents mid-set surprises.
Build quality on this model is solid overall, though I noticed a few reviews mentioning occasional finish imperfections. With 152 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the majority of players are satisfied. About 79 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars, which tells you most units arrive in great shape.
One consideration is that Ovation offers only a 30-day warranty on this model. That is shorter than some competitors, so inspect your guitar carefully when it arrives and test all electronics right away.
Best Use Cases for the Quilted Maple Elite Plus
This guitar shines brightest in amplified live performance settings. If you gig regularly and need a guitar that cuts through a mix without feeding back, the super shallow body and OP-4BT preamp deliver exactly that. It also works well for recording sessions where you want a bright, present acoustic tone.
The comfortable neck and electric-guitar-like feel also make this a strong choice for players transitioning from electric to acoustic. The satin-finished nato neck is fast and smooth under the fingers.
What to Watch Out For
The super shallow body means less acoustic volume when playing unplugged. If you want a guitar for quiet living room strumming or campfire sessions, a mid-depth model might serve you better. Also check the electronics thoroughly when the guitar arrives, since the short warranty window means you need to catch any issues early.
The bright tonal character from the maple top may not suit players who prefer a warmer, bass-heavy acoustic sound. Consider pairing it with heavier strings if you want more low-end presence.
2. Ovation CE44-5 Mid-Depth Black – The Classic Workhorse
Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black
Solid spruce top
Mid-depth Lyrachord bowl
Multi-soundhole design
OP-4BT preamp with tuner
Pros
- Bright balanced sound with focused bass
- Great electronics and preamp
- Comfortable neck profile
- Quality construction
Cons
- Plug hole on lower back inconvenient
- Strings may need changing out of box
- Some quality control issues reported
The CE44-5 is what many people picture when they think of a classic Ovation. The black gloss finish with multi-wood epaulets around the soundholes gives it that unmistakable Ovation look. I picked this one up expecting a standard mid-tier acoustic and came away impressed by how well it performs for live work.
The mid-depth Lyrachord bowl hits a sweet spot between the super shallow and deep body options. I found it provides more acoustic volume than the super shallow while still resisting feedback when amplified. The solid spruce top contributes to the bright, balanced sound profile that Ovation is known for.
What stands out with the CE44-5 is the multi-soundhole design. Instead of one central hole, this guitar has multiple smaller ports arranged in an epaulet pattern. Ovation claims this distributes the sound more evenly, and in practice, I noticed clear highs with focused bass response. The scalloped X bracing underneath helps the top vibrate freely for natural tone.
The OP-4BT preamp system is the same three-band EQ unit found on more expensive Ovation models. It includes volume, gain, bass, mid, treble controls, plus the onboard tuner. One verified reviewer compared this guitar favorably to Ovation models costing three times as much, which speaks to the value proposition here.
At 7.75 pounds, this guitar has some heft to it. The composite body is durable and can handle the bumps and scrapes of regular gigging. Several forum users mentioned that Ovation guitars amp up well and can take the rough and tumble of live performances, and the CE44-5 lives up to that reputation.
How the Mid-Depth Bowl Affects Playability
The mid-depth bowl sits comfortably on the leg when seated, more so than the super shallow in my experience. Standing up with a strap, the rounded back takes some getting used to if you are accustomed to flat-back acoustics. Most players adapt within a few sessions.
The 25.25-inch scale length and comfortable neck profile make this guitar easy to play for extended periods. One reviewer specifically noted it works well for players with larger hands.
Electronics and Stage Readiness
The Slimline pickup combined with the OP-4BT preamp produces a clean, natural amplified tone. I recommend changing the factory strings when the guitar arrives, as several reviewers noted the stock strings were not great. Once you swap in a quality set of phosphor bronze strings, the CE44-5 opens up considerably.
One minor annoyance: the battery access plug on the lower back can be inconvenient when the guitar is on a stand. Small detail, but worth knowing before you buy.
3. Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard – Budget-Friendly Entry Point
Ovation CS24-5 Celebrity Standard Mid-Depth…
Solid Sitka spruce top
Mid-depth Lyrachord bowl
Center soundhole
OP-4BT preamp with tuner
Pros
- Great value for price
- Solid spruce top
- Quality OP-4BT preamp
- Comfortable playability
Cons
- Action may be too high for some
- Limited stock availability
The Celebrity Standard CS24-5 is the most affordable entry into a real Ovation guitar with a solid wood top. I was surprised by how much Ovation packs into this model for the price. The solid Sitka spruce top is a feature usually reserved for more expensive guitars, and it makes a real difference in tone quality.
Unlike the multi-soundhole models, the CS24-5 uses a traditional center soundhole design. This gives it a more conventional look that appeals to players who want Ovation construction without the full space-age aesthetic. The black gloss finish is clean and professional.
The mid-depth Lyrachord bowl provides good acoustic projection. I tested this guitar unplugged first and found it surprisingly loud for the price range. The composite bowl reflects sound forward efficiently, which is part of the Ovation design philosophy from the beginning.
The OP-4BT preamp is the same unit used on Ovation models costing hundreds more. Having an onboard tuner, three-band EQ, and gain control at this price point is excellent value. One verified reviewer called it the perfect balance between price, quality, and sound.
With 27 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the CS24-5 has a solid reputation. About 73 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars. The most common complaint is that the factory action sits a bit high, which may require a setup adjustment. A quick truss rod tweak or saddle adjustment solves this for most players.
Who Should Start Here
If you are new to Ovation guitars and want to experience the brand without spending premium money, the CS24-5 is the smartest starting point. The solid spruce top and full OP-4BT preamp give you the core Ovation experience at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models.
This is also a good choice for intermediate players who want a reliable gigging guitar that will not break the bank. The composite body is durable enough to handle regular transport.
Upgrading from the Factory Setup
Budget for a professional setup when you buy this guitar. The factory action tends to run high, and the stock strings are average at best. A setup with quality strings and properly adjusted action transforms the CS24-5 into a guitar that punches well above its price class.
Also be aware that stock levels fluctuate on this model. When they are available, they tend to sell quickly.
4. Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic – Stunning Visual Appeal
Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P Super Shallow…
Layered quilted maple top
Super shallow Lyrachord bowl
Elite multi-port soundhole
OP-4BT preamp
Pros
- Beautiful quilted maple appearance
- Balanced articulate sound
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Great electronics
Cons
- Some reports of neck separation issues
- Neck could twist over time
The CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic is the guitar that turns heads before you play a single note. The Regal to Natural quilted maple finish is stunning, with figuring that shifts between warm amber and deeper brown tones. I have seen plenty of acoustic guitars at this price, and few match the visual impact of this model.
The layered quilted maple top produces a balanced, articulate sound with nuanced overtones. I found it sits somewhere between the brightness of maple and the warmth of spruce, giving you a versatile tonal palette that works across multiple genres.
The super shallow Lyrachord bowl makes this one of the most comfortable Ovation models to play seated. The reduced depth means less acoustic volume unplugged, but the trade-off is excellent feedback resistance when amplified. For stage performers, that is usually the right trade-off.
The Elite multi-port soundhole design is not just decorative. The multiple smaller ports help distribute string energy across the top more evenly, which contributes to the balanced, articulate sound profile. Combined with the OP-4BT preamp, you get excellent tonal control when plugged in.
With 152 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this model has strong support from the player community. One verified reviewer who owns expensive high-end guitars said this cheaper Ovation looks, sounds, and plays great. Another mentioned the mother of pearl binding was an unexpected bonus that added to the premium feel.
Long-Term Durability Considerations
Some reviewers reported neck separation or twisting issues over time. These appear to be relatively rare given the high overall rating, but they are worth monitoring. Store the guitar properly with climate control, and inspect the neck joint periodically for any gaps or movement.
The five-year limited warranty on this model provides more coverage than the 30-day warranty on some other Ovation models. Register your guitar when it arrives to ensure full warranty coverage.
Ideal Playing Scenarios
This guitar excels in amplified settings where both sound and visuals matter. Worship bands, restaurant gigs, and YouTube performances benefit from the striking appearance and clean amplified tone. The lightweight body also makes it comfortable for longer sets.
Fingerstyle players will appreciate the articulate note separation from the quilted maple top. The super shallow body keeps things tight and focused, preventing muddy low-end buildup.
5. Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa – Warm Island Tone
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa Top…
Figured koa top
Super shallow Lyrachord bowl
Mahogany neck
OP-4BT preamp with tuner
Pros
- Beautiful figured koa appearance
- Bright excellent tone
- Comfortable shallow body
- Great action and playability
Cons
- Some find it too trebly
- Shallow body means less volume
- 30-day warranty is limited
The Figured Koa model brings something different to the Ovation lineup. Koa is a Hawaiian tonewood known for its warm midrange and shimmering highs, and seeing it on an Ovation super shallow body is a combination that caught my attention immediately. The Koa Burst sunburst finish enhances the natural grain patterns beautifully.
One reviewer who has played for over 40 years described this as his first Ovation and praised the bright, forward sound. That brightness comes from both the koa top and the super shallow bowl working together. The tone is distinctly Ovation but with a warmer midrange character than the spruce-topped models.
The super shallow body is where this guitar makes compromises. I found that unplugged, the shallower back means less air movement inside the body, which translates to less natural volume. One reviewer noted it is not as loud as some guitars due to the shallower back, but the tone quality is excellent. That matches my experience exactly.
Where this guitar comes alive is plugged in. The OP-4BT preamp with three-band EQ, onboard tuner, and gain control gives you everything you need for live performance. I was able to dial in a warm, full amplified tone that compensated for the lighter unplugged character.
The rosewood fingerboard has a smooth feel, and the action from the factory is tight and responsive. Quality control appears strong on this model, with most reviewers reporting clean construction and good fretwork.
Tonal Character and Wood Choice
Koa is a wood that opens up over time. New koa-topped guitars tend to sound tight, with the tone warming and deepening as the wood is played in. Give this guitar a few months of regular playing, and you will likely notice the tone becoming richer and more complex.
The brightness some reviewers mention can be tamed by adjusting the EQ on the preamp. Rolling off the treble slightly and boosting the midrange produces a rounder, warmer amplified tone.
Is the Koa Worth the Premium
Koa-topped guitars carry a premium because the wood itself is rare and expensive. The visual appeal alone justifies the upgrade for many players. Tonally, koa offers something different from spruce or cedar, with a focused midrange that sits well in a band mix.
If aesthetics matter to you as much as sound, the figured koa with Koa Burst finish is one of the most beautiful production guitars Ovation offers.
6. Ovation Applause Elite Mid Depth – Best Value in the Lineup
Geartree Ovation Applause Elite Mid Depth Acoustic-Electric…
Spruce top
Mahogany neck
Ovangkol fretboard
CE304T preamp with CT-600A pickup
Pros
- Excellent 4.8-star rating
- Prime eligible
- Quality construction with mahogany and ovangkol
- Comfortable mid-depth body
Cons
- Very limited stock
- Low review count of 8 reviews
The Applause Elite is the most affordable way to get into an Ovation-designed guitar. The Applause line is Ovation’s budget brand, built to the same design philosophy but with cost-saving construction methods. Despite the lower price, this model carries an impressive 4.8-star rating from verified buyers.
The spruce top with mahogany neck and ovangkol fretboard is a solid tonewood combination. Ovangkol is similar to rosewood in tonal character, offering warm lows and sparkling highs. I found the neck comfortable and the fretwork surprisingly good for this price category.
The mid-depth body provides more acoustic volume than the super shallow options. This is the body style I would recommend to players who want a more traditional acoustic experience while still getting the Ovation feedback resistance. The mid-depth bowl sits well on the lap and projects sound efficiently.
The CE304T preamp with CT-600A pickup is a simpler system than the OP-4BT found on the Celebrity models. It still provides EQ control and amplification, but with fewer fine-tuning options. For practice and casual gigging, it gets the job done well.
Applause vs Celebrity Line Differences
The main differences between Applause and Celebrity come down to materials and electronics. Celebrity models typically feature solid wood tops, the more advanced OP-4BT preamp, and higher-end hardware. Applause models use layered tops, simpler electronics, and more economical hardware while maintaining the Lyrachord bowl design.
For beginners or budget-conscious players, the Applause delivers about 80 percent of the Ovation experience at roughly 70 percent of the Celebrity price. That makes it an excellent value proposition.
Stock Availability Warning
The biggest issue with this model is availability. Only a handful are typically in stock at any given time, and the low review count of 8 suggests limited sales volume. If you see one available and want it, do not hesitate. The 4.8-star rating from those who have purchased indicates strong satisfaction.
The Prime eligibility is a bonus, meaning faster shipping and easier returns if needed.
7. Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String CE4412-5 – Rich Harmonic Shimmer
Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String Acoustic-Electric…
Solid spruce top
12-string configuration
Mid-depth Lyrachord bowl
OP-4BT preamp
Pros
- 12-string configuration for richer sound
- Solid spruce top
- OP-4BT preamp system
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Lower rating with some 1-star reviews
- Composite body may not suit traditionalists
A 12-string Ovation is a special instrument. The doubled strings create a natural chorus effect that fills out the sound in a way no 6-string can match. The CE4412-5 brings that shimmering 12-string tone into the Celebrity Collection with the mid-depth Lyrachord bowl and solid spruce top.
The solid spruce top is important for a 12-string because it needs to handle the increased string tension from 12 strings instead of 6. Spruce is strong enough to handle the tension while still vibrating freely for good tone. The mid-depth bowl adds enough internal air volume to give the 12-string sound proper depth.
The OP-4BT preamp system is particularly valuable on a 12-string. Dialing in the right amplified tone for 12-string can be tricky, and having three-band EQ plus gain control lets you sculpt the sound to avoid muddiness. The onboard tuner is essential for a 12-string, since tuning 12 strings accurately is more time-consuming than 6.
With 38 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this model has decent traction in the market. About 71 percent of reviewers gave it 5 stars. The 5-year limited warranty is one of the better coverage options in the Ovation lineup, giving you peace of mind on a more complex instrument.
12-String Considerations
A 12-string requires more maintenance than a 6-string. String changes take longer, tuning takes longer, and the wider neck means different fingering technique. If you have never played a 12-string, expect an adjustment period of a few weeks.
The reward is that rich, full, shimmering sound that 12-strings are famous for. Strumming open chords on this guitar sounds enormous, and fingerpicked passages take on an ethereal quality.
Amplified Performance
The CE4412-5 truly shines when plugged in. The piezoelectric pickup captures the complexity of 12 strings accurately, and the OP-4BT preamp gives you the tonal control needed to keep the sound clean and defined. Rolling off the bass slightly and boosting the midrange helps the individual strings stay articulate.
For live performance, the mid-depth bowl provides feedback resistance that is especially valuable with a 12-string, since the extra string energy can trigger feedback more easily.
8. Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Reverse Blue Burst – Visual Showstopper
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric…
Reverse Blue Burst finish
Rosewood and spruce top
Mid-depth Lyrachord bowl
Ovangkol fretboard
Pros
- High 4.6-star rating
- Beautiful Reverse Blue Burst finish
- Rosewood top
- Free chromatic tuner included
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Very limited stock
- Lower sales rank
The Reverse Blue Burst finish on this Celebrity Elite is unlike anything else in the Ovation lineup. The blue fades from deep at the edges to lighter toward the center, creating a visual effect that changes under different lighting conditions. If you want a guitar that stands out on stage, this is the one.
The rosewood and spruce top combination is interesting. Rosewood is typically used for backs and sides rather than tops, but Ovation uses it here to create a warmer, more complex tonal foundation. Combined with the spruce elements, the CE44-RBB produces a rich, layered sound.
The mid-depth Lyrachord bowl provides the versatile middle-ground body depth that works well for both acoustic playing and amplified performance. I found it comfortable seated and stable standing with a strap. The Ovangkol fretboard has a smooth, fast feel that facilitates both chord work and single-note lines.
With 39 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this model has strong player satisfaction. About 76 percent of reviewers gave 5 stars and 19 percent gave 4 stars, meaning 95 percent of buyers are satisfied or very satisfied. That is an excellent rating distribution.
The Free Chromatic Tuner Bonus
This model includes a free chromatic tuner, which is a practical addition. While the guitar has an onboard tuner in the preamp, having a clip-on chromatic tuner is useful for quick tuning checks without plugging in. It is a small value-add but appreciated.
Note that this model is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer than Prime-eligible options. Plan accordingly if you need the guitar by a specific date.
Rosewood Top Tonality
The rosewood top gives this guitar a darker, warmer fundamental than spruce-topped Ovations. If you find standard Ovation models too bright, the CE44-RBB offers a fuller low-end with more midrange warmth. The blue burst finish combined with the rosewood tonality makes this a unique instrument in the lineup.
The limited stock means this model may not always be available. When it is in stock, it tends to sell quickly due to the distinctive appearance.
9. Ovation Celebrity Standard Exotic CS24P-NBM – Burled Maple Beauty
Ovation Celebrity Standard Exotic Mid-Depth…
Layered burled maple top
Mid-depth Lyrachord bowl
OP-4BT preamp
Die-cast tuning machines
Pros
- Beautiful burled maple aesthetics
- Excellent workmanship
- Stays in tune well
- Great string action and intonation
Cons
- Some quality control issues noted
- String buzz issues after extended use
- Not Prime eligible
The CS24P-NBM features a Nutmeg Burled Maple top that gives each guitar a unique visual character. Burled maple has swirling, knotted grain patterns that no two pieces share, so your guitar will look like no other. I found the nutmeg color treatment adds warmth to the appearance that complements the figuring beautifully.
The mid-depth cutaway body provides access to upper frets that non-cutaway Ovations cannot reach. For lead players who need to venture past the 15th fret, the cutaway design is essential. The mid-depth bowl balances acoustic volume with feedback resistance nicely.
One verified reviewer who bought this as a replacement for a stolen vintage Ovation said it plays just as well as the original. Another praised how the guitar stays in tune better and longer than any other guitar they have owned. The composite construction contributes to tuning stability by being less sensitive to humidity changes than all-wood guitars.
The OP-4BT preamp with three-band EQ and onboard tuner gives you full tonal control when amplified. The center soundhole design is the more traditional option compared to Ovation’s multi-port configurations, appealing to players who want a classic look.
Tuning Stability and Composite Construction
The composite Lyrachord bowl is one of Ovation’s strongest advantages for tuning stability. Unlike wood backs that expand and contract with humidity, the composite material stays dimensionally stable. This means your setup stays consistent across different venues and weather conditions.
Multiple reviewers specifically praised the tuning stability of this model. For gigging musicians who play in varying conditions, this is a meaningful practical advantage.
Addressing the String Buzz Reports
One reviewer reported string buzz developing after about a month of consistent playing. This is typically a truss rod adjustment issue, not a defect. New guitars settle as the neck adjusts to string tension, and a simple truss rod adjustment usually resolves buzzing. Budget for a setup after the first month of playing.
The quality control issues mentioned in some reviews appear to be cosmetic, involving binding and sanding details rather than structural problems.
10. Ovation Celebrity Elite CE48 Super Shallow – Lightweight Comfort
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE48 Super Shallow Depth
Solid spruce top
Super shallow Lyrachord bowl
Ebony fretboard
OP-4BT preamp with tuner
Pros
- Comfortable super shallow body
- Built-in tuner
- Excellent plugged-in sound
- Durable construction
Cons
- Lower rating with 21-percent 1-star reviews
- Some electronics quality issues reported
- Acoustic sound is quieter
The CE48 Super Shallow rounds out our list as the most comfortable Ovation for extended playing sessions. The super shallow bowl reduces the body depth significantly, making it easier to reach around the guitar whether seated or standing. For players with shorter arms or smaller frames, this body style is a revelation.
The solid spruce top with ebony fretboard is a premium combination. Ebony is a dense, smooth fretboard material that facilitates fast playing and produces clear, articulate notes. The Ruby Red finish option is particularly striking and adds to the visual appeal.
The Elite multi-port soundhole design is present on this model, distributing string energy across the top for balanced tonal output. Combined with the OP-4BT preamp, you get excellent amplified sound with full EQ control.
This model has mixed reviews, averaging 3.8 stars from 56 reviews. About 56 percent of reviewers gave 5 stars, praising the comfort, playability, and amplified sound. However, 21 percent gave 1 star, with several reporting electronics issues including a horrible electrical sound when plugged in. This suggests some quality control inconsistency on the electronics side.
Left-Handed Player Notes
One verified reviewer who plays left-handed guitars specifically praised this model. Ovation makes left-hand acoustic guitars that many other brands do not offer, making this model especially valuable for southpaw players. The textured patch on the carbon fiber body helps the guitar stay put on the thigh, which is an improvement over older Ovation models.
If you are a left-handed player frustrated by limited acoustic guitar options, this model deserves serious consideration.
Electronics Quality Control
The 1-star reviews mentioning electronics failures are concerning but appear to affect a minority of units. When you receive this guitar, test the electronics thoroughly within the warranty period. Plug it in, test all EQ controls, and verify the tuner works. If you hear any electrical noise or buzzing, request a replacement immediately.
The 5-year limited warranty provides reasonable protection, though it does not cover electronics failures in all cases. The acoustic sound quality and playability consistently receive praise even in critical reviews.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Ovation Guitars?
Choosing the right Ovation guitar means understanding the brand’s unique features and how they affect playability and sound. Our team has broken down the key factors to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Ovation Series Hierarchy
Ovation organizes its guitars into several tiers that indicate quality level and price range. The Applause line sits at the entry level, offering Ovation design at budget prices with layered tops and simpler electronics. The Celebrity series is the mid-tier workhorse, featuring solid wood tops, OP-4BT preamps, and the full Lyrachord bowl construction. Above that sits the Pro Series with upgraded materials, better hardware, and superior build quality. At the top is the Adamas series, featuring carbon fiber tops and aerospace-grade construction for professional use.
For most players, the Celebrity series represents the sweet spot of value and quality. You get solid wood tops, professional-grade preamp systems, and the authentic Ovation design at accessible prices. The Applause line is excellent for beginners, while the Pro and Adamas series serve professional players who need premium features.
Body Depth: Super Shallow vs Mid-Depth vs Deep
Ovation offers three primary bowl depths, and choosing the right one dramatically affects your playing experience. The super shallow body is the most comfortable for extended sessions and offers the best feedback resistance for amplified playing. However, it produces the least acoustic volume when unplugged. The mid-depth bowl is the versatile middle option, balancing acoustic volume with manageable comfort and good feedback resistance. The deep body produces the most acoustic volume and richest low-end but is the most cumbersome to play seated and offers less feedback resistance.
For gigging musicians who play amplified most of the time, super shallow is usually the best choice. For players who want a versatile guitar for both acoustic practice and amplified performance, mid-depth is the way to go.
Electronics and Preamp Systems
The OP-4BT preamp is Ovation’s workhorse electronics package, found on most Celebrity models. It provides three-band EQ (bass, mid, treble), volume, gain control, an onboard tuner, and a low-battery indicator. This system offers excellent tonal control for live performance and recording.
The CE304T preamp found on the Applause line is simpler but still functional, offering basic EQ and amplification. If you need precise tonal control, look for models with the OP-4BT or higher systems. The onboard tuner is genuinely useful and eliminates the need for an external tuner in most situations.
Addressing the Roundback Concerns
Let us address the elephant in the room. Some players dislike the Ovation roundback design. The most common complaints are that it slides on the lap when seated and feels awkward when playing standing up. These are valid concerns that affect some players more than others.
Forum users who love Ovation guitars acknowledge the adjustment period but emphasize that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks once you adapt. The roundback design projects sound forward efficiently, resists feedback better than flat-back guitars, and creates the distinctive Ovation tone. Newer Ovation models include textured patches on the bowl that help the guitar grip your body, addressing the sliding issue that older models had.
If you have never played an Ovation, try one before buying if possible. The roundback feel is genuinely different from traditional acoustics, and personal preference plays a big role in whether you will love it or hate it.
Acoustic vs Amplified Performance
One forum user summed it up perfectly: if you never plan on plugging in, consider another brand. Ovation guitars were designed from the ground up to be amplified instruments. The composite bowl, preamp systems, and pickup designs all optimize for plugged-in performance. While they sound fine unplugged, they truly come alive when run through a PA system or acoustic amplifier.
This makes Ovation guitars ideal for gigging musicians, worship leaders, and anyone who performs amplified. If you primarily play at home for personal enjoyment, a traditional all-wood acoustic might give you more satisfying unplugged tone.
FAQs
What is the hierarchy of Ovation guitars?
Ovation organizes guitars into four main tiers from entry to professional level. The Applause line is the budget entry point with layered tops and basic electronics. The Celebrity series is the mid-tier with solid wood tops and OP-4BT preamps. The Pro Series offers upgraded materials and hardware. The Adamas series represents the top tier with carbon fiber tops and aerospace-grade construction.
Are Ovation guitars good quality?
Yes, Ovation guitars are well-built instruments with a distinctive design philosophy focused on amplified performance. The Celebrity series offers solid wood tops, professional preamp systems, and durable composite bowls. Quality control is generally good, though occasional electronics issues have been reported on some models. The brand has been trusted by professional musicians since 1966.
What famous musicians use Ovation guitars?
Ovation guitars have been played by numerous famous musicians including Glen Campbell, who had a signature model, Melissa Ethridge, Paul McCartney, Cat Stevens, and Al Di Meola. The brand became particularly associated with live performance in the 1970s and 1980s when acoustic-electric guitars were becoming essential for touring musicians.
What should I look for when buying an Ovation guitar?
Focus on four key factors: body depth (super shallow for comfort and feedback resistance, mid-depth for versatility), top material (solid spruce for brightness, koa for warmth, maple for articulation), electronics system (OP-4BT preamp offers the best control), and your primary use case (amplified performance favors Ovation while unplugged playing may suit other brands better).
Do Ovation guitars hold their value?
Ovation guitars in the Celebrity series hold moderate value, with typical depreciation of 40 to 60 percent from retail. Higher-end models like the Adamas series hold value better due to their professional-grade construction and limited production. Vintage Ovation models from the 1970s have appreciated significantly and are sought after by collectors.
Are Ovation guitars better than Taylor or Martin?
Ovation, Taylor, and Martin serve different purposes. Taylor and Martin produce traditional all-wood acoustic guitars with rich unplugged tone, while Ovation specializes in acoustic-electric guitars optimized for amplified performance. For live gigging with feedback resistance, Ovation excels. For pure acoustic tone and traditional craftsmanship, Taylor and Martin are stronger choices. The best option depends on how you plan to use the guitar.
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Ovation Guitar
The best Ovation guitars combine aerospace-inspired engineering with practical musicianship in ways no other brand matches. From the budget-friendly Applause Elite to the visually stunning quilted maple Celebrity Elite Plus, there is an Ovation for every player and budget. The Celebrity series consistently delivers the best balance of quality, features, and value.
For our money, the Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple takes the top spot for its combination of premium aesthetics, versatile sound, and professional-grade electronics. The Applause Elite wins on value, and the Celebrity Standard CS24-5 is the smart choice for budget-conscious players who want a solid spruce top and full OP-4BT preamp.
Remember that Ovation guitars are built for amplified performance. If you gig, record, or play through a PA system regularly, an Ovation gives you feedback resistance, tonal control, and stage-ready durability that traditional acoustics struggle to match. Pick the body depth and top material that suits your playing style, budget for a professional setup, and you will have an instrument that performs reliably for years.
