Joined:
December 2002
Posts: 29
| . . . or are they about the same?
I'm thinking about getting another "O". I think I want a mid-bowl for better acoustic sound. I like the looks of the Custom Elite 778. I also see the Collectors' editions have the mid-bowl. Is there much of a sound difference between these models? I realize they have different soundwood tops. Is there much of a difference with the various tops or is all the variance attributable to the bowl, itself? I have a vintage Artist Balladeer and a late-model Balladeer 12-string currently (both with fairly deep bowls). I'd consider the Adamas, but I have a hard time with the carbon-fiber top. It's hard enough to accept the space-age bowl. Does it really sound that good unplugged? The sound I'm looking for is similar to the Taylor 514ce (bright on the highs, but warm through the mids and lows), for those familiar with it. Taylor accomplishes this via a cedar top and mahogany body. |
Joined:
March 2003
Posts: 555
Location: Wooster, Ohio | If you are looking for sound and value. I would try the used market in the Collectors Series. The reality is that Ovations are just bargains on the the used market, and they are made structurally sound so they don't get screwed up as much by age and possible abused. In the Collectors you are getting extra value and on the used market not paying for it. For sound you need to pick the right one. I only wanted spruce tops. The beautiful hardwood tops are marketing not sound. The curly redwood top is the exception, check that one out if you have a chance. I just bought a used 1993 Collectors on ebay for $650 which was very close to mint. The 1993 is really designed for sound and it shows. It is acoustically one of the best ovations I have played. The mid-bowl is what I wanted and I know that the deep bowl guys will be all over me, but I just like the feel and look of that depth the best (take your shots guys). The 1993 has a thin bridge angled for sound. Thinner mat finish which even makes it look like it should sound better. Plain ebony finger board and elite soundhole configuration.
Good luck sometimes on the used market that is what you need.
Steve |
Which sounds better unplugged?
