Electro-Acoustic Guitars

About electro-acoustic guitars

Electro-acoustic guitars are much more suitable for live shows than regular acoustics. That's because they feature electronics and a preamp, allowing them to be connected to a PA or amp. At the same time, they can be played acoustically as well, so they're very versatile.

There're actually many different types of electric acoustic guitars, from classicals like the Deluxe Classical Electro-acoustic, to steel stringed models like the Hartwood Prime. Some, like the Sonata-FX, have a single cutaway shape, meaning that part of the body has been carved out so that your hand can reach the upper frets, which is great for soloing.

The body shapes also vary, from large dreadnoughts which produce a full, powerful, projected sound to the smaller, punchier parlour electro-acoustic guitars which have a brighter voicing.

Preamps of electric acoustic guitars tend to have some very useful features, including built-in tuners and tone dials. This means you can have a good degree of control over your sound, and can make changes on the fly.

They're powered by a 9V battery, and are usually connected to an undersaddle pickup or a built-in microphone, both of which pick up the string vibrations. These electronics are specifically designed for the electro-acoustic, as they help to preserve their natural tone and send it to an acoustic amp.

Electro-acoustic guitar FAQs

What is an electro-acoustic guitar?

An electro-acoustic guitar is an acoustic guitar with a preamp, jack, and piezo pickup or microphone fitted. This allows it to be amplified through a PA or acoustic guitar amp, which makes it well suited to live performances, where more volume is needed.

Do I need an amp with an electro-acoustic guitar?

You do not need an amp to use an electro-acoustic guitar. They can be played acoustically, and their natural tone is identical to a regular acoustic. You will need an amp if you want to use their built-in electronics, though. These also allow you to tweak your tone further using the amp and preamp.

Is an electro-acoustic guitar loud?

Electro-acoustic guitars are only as loud as you want them to be. When you're using one plugged in, you can turn it up as loud as you like - and that can generate some serious volume! The size and power of your acoustic amp can also have a big impact. Unplugged, they're only as loud as an acoustic.