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Martin vs Ovation Guitars: A Comprehensive Comparison
In the world of acoustic guitars, two brands stand out for their rich history, innovative designs, and exceptional sound quality: Martin and Ovation. Both companies have made significant contributions to the music industry, each with its unique approach to guitar craftsmanship. This in-depth comparison will explore the similarities, differences, and distinctive features of Martin and Ovation guitars, providing guitar enthusiasts and potential buyers with valuable insights to make an informed decision.
Company History and Heritage
Martin Guitars, founded in 1833 by Christian Frederick Martin, boasts nearly two centuries of guitar-making expertise. The company’s long-standing tradition of craftsmanship has made it a cornerstone of American guitar manufacturing. Martin’s commitment to quality and innovation has resulted in numerous iconic models that have shaped the sound of popular music for generations.
Ovation Guitars, on the other hand, is a relatively younger company, founded in 1965 by Charles Kaman. Despite its shorter history, Ovation quickly made a name for itself with its revolutionary round-back design and use of synthetic materials. The company’s innovative approach to guitar construction has earned it a loyal following among musicians who appreciate its unique sound and playability.
Design Philosophy and Construction
Martin Guitars adheres to a more traditional approach in guitar design and construction. The company is renowned for its use of high-quality tonewoods and time-honored building techniques. Martin’s guitars typically feature a solid wood top, back, and sides, with variations in wood types depending on the model. The company’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship is evident in its hand-fitted dovetail neck joints, hand-scalloped bracing, and meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of construction.
Ovation Guitars, in contrast, is known for its innovative and unconventional design philosophy. The most distinctive feature of Ovation guitars is their round-back design, which utilizes a synthetic bowl-shaped body instead of traditional wooden back and sides. This unique construction, known as the Lyrachord bowl, is made from a proprietary glass fiber composite material. Ovation guitars often feature a solid wood or composite top, combined with the synthetic bowl, creating a hybrid design that aims to blend the best of both worlds.
Tonewoods and Materials
Martin Guitars primarily uses traditional tonewoods in their instruments. Common top woods include Sitka spruce, Adirondack spruce, and cedar, each chosen for its specific tonal characteristics. Back and sides are often made from rosewood, mahogany, or maple. Martin’s commitment to sustainability has also led to the use of alternative woods and materials in some models, such as High-Pressure Laminate (HPL) and Richlite.
Ovation Guitars, while using solid wood tops in many models, distinguishes itself with its synthetic materials. The Lyrachord bowl, made from layers of glass fiber and resin, provides durability and consistent sound quality across different environmental conditions. Ovation also uses a variety of top woods, including spruce and cedar, and has experimented with carbon fiber and other composite materials in some models.
Sound Characteristics
Martin Guitars are celebrated for their rich, warm tone with excellent balance across the frequency spectrum. The all-wood construction contributes to a full-bodied sound with strong fundamentals and complex overtones. Martin guitars are known for their powerful bass response, clear midrange, and sparkling highs. The sound of a Martin guitar is often described as “woody” and “organic,” with excellent projection and sustain.
Ovation Guitars produce a distinctive sound that sets them apart from traditional acoustic guitars. The combination of a wood or composite top with the synthetic bowl creates a bright, clear tone with enhanced sustain and projection. Ovation guitars are known for their balanced sound across all strings, with a slightly emphasized midrange. The synthetic bowl construction also contributes to reduced feedback when amplified, making Ovation guitars popular among performing musicians.
Playability and Comfort
Martin Guitars offer a familiar and comfortable playing experience for most guitarists. The traditional body shapes, such as the dreadnought and orchestra model, provide a balanced feel whether playing seated or standing. Martin’s attention to neck profiles and fretwork ensures smooth playability across their range. However, some players may find the larger body sizes of certain Martin models less comfortable, particularly when playing for extended periods.
Ovation Guitars are designed with player comfort in mind. The round-back design allows the guitar to sit closer to the player’s body, potentially reducing fatigue during long playing sessions. The smooth, synthetic bowl also makes it easier for the guitar to slide against clothing, which can be advantageous for stage performances. Ovation guitars often feature a slightly narrower neck profile, which some players find more comfortable, especially for intricate fingerstyle playing.
Electronics and Amplification
Martin Guitars offers a range of models with built-in electronics, typically featuring undersaddle piezo pickups and discreet preamp systems. These systems are designed to capture the natural acoustic tone of the instrument when amplified. Martin has partnered with Fishman Electronics to develop pickup systems that complement the tonal characteristics of their guitars. While effective, some players prefer to use external microphones or aftermarket pickup systems for the most authentic amplified sound.
Ovation Guitars has long been at the forefront of acoustic-electric guitar technology. The company’s proprietary pickup and preamp systems are integral to the Ovation sound and design philosophy. Many Ovation models feature sophisticated onboard electronics with multiple sound-shaping options, including built-in tuners, EQ controls, and even effects. The combination of the Lyrachord bowl and advanced electronics results in excellent feedback resistance and a consistent amplified sound across various playing environments.
Model Range and Versatility
Martin Guitars offers an extensive range of models catering to various playing styles and preferences. From the iconic D-28 dreadnought to the smaller 00 and 000 body sizes, Martin provides options for virtually every type of player. The company’s lineup includes both traditional designs and modern interpretations, with variations in tonewoods, appointments, and price points. Martin also offers signature models developed in collaboration with renowned artists.
Ovation Guitars, while offering a diverse range of models, focuses more on variations within its unique design philosophy. The company provides different bowl depths, top materials, and electronic configurations to suit various playing styles and preferences. Ovation’s model range includes both traditional-looking instruments and more modern designs, often incorporating innovative features and materials. The brand also offers signature models that showcase its ability to cater to specific artist requirements.
Price Range and Value
Martin Guitars are generally positioned in the mid to high-end price range, reflecting their premium materials, craftsmanship, and brand reputation. Entry-level Martin guitars typically start around $500 for the X Series, with prices ascending to several thousand dollars for high-end and limited-edition models. While the initial investment can be significant, Martin guitars are known for their excellent resale value and potential to appreciate over time.
Ovation Guitars offer a broader price range, with entry-level models starting at a more accessible price point. The brand’s diverse lineup includes affordable options for beginners and intermediate players, as well as high-end instruments for professionals. Ovation’s use of synthetic materials in some models allows for more consistent pricing across different environmental conditions. While Ovation guitars may not have the same collector’s appeal as some vintage Martin models, they offer excellent value for players seeking innovative design and reliable performance.
Durability and Maintenance
Martin Guitars, being primarily constructed of wood, require careful maintenance to ensure longevity. Proper humidity control is essential to prevent issues such as cracking or warping. However, when well-maintained, Martin guitars are known for their durability and ability to improve sonically with age. The all-wood construction also allows for easier repairs and restoration, contributing to the instruments’ long-term value.
Ovation Guitars, with their synthetic bowl construction, offer enhanced durability and resistance to environmental changes. The Lyrachord bowl is less susceptible to humidity-related issues, making Ovation guitars popular choices for touring musicians or those living in areas with fluctuating climate conditions. The synthetic materials used in Ovation guitars also contribute to their resistance to physical damage, although repairs to the proprietary components may require specialized expertise.
Cultural Impact and Artist Adoption
Martin Guitars have played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music across various genres. Countless legendary musicians have relied on Martin guitars, including Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and John Mayer. The distinctive Martin sound has become synonymous with American folk and country music, while also finding its place in rock, blues, and other genres. The company’s long history and association with iconic performances have cemented its status as a cultural icon.
Ovation Guitars, despite their shorter history, have made a considerable impact on the music industry. The brand’s innovative design and reliable amplified performance have made it a favorite among many professional musicians, particularly in live settings. Notable Ovation players include Al Di Meola, Melissa Etheridge, and Glen Campbell. The unique sound and appearance of Ovation guitars have become particularly associated with the folk-rock movement of the 1970s and 1980s, contributing to the brand’s distinctive place in music history.
Environmental Considerations
Martin Guitars has made significant strides in addressing environmental concerns related to tonewood sourcing. The company has implemented sustainable forestry practices and has been at the forefront of using alternative materials in guitar construction. Martin’s commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in their use of FSC-certified woods, recycled materials, and the development of guitars made from sustainable or reclaimed wood sources.
Ovation Guitars, by virtue of their synthetic bowl design, have a different environmental footprint. While the use of synthetic materials reduces reliance on rare tonewoods, the production of these materials has its own environmental considerations. Ovation’s approach to sustainability focuses on the durability and longevity of their instruments, as well as the consistent quality achievable with synthetic materials, which can reduce waste in the manufacturing process.
Conclusion
Both Martin and Ovation Guitars have made significant contributions to the world of acoustic guitars, each with its unique approach to design, sound, and playability. Martin’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship and use of premium tonewoods has resulted in instruments that are revered for their rich, warm tone and excellent resale value. Ovation’s innovative design and use of synthetic materials have created guitars that offer unique tonal characteristics, enhanced durability, and excellent amplified performance.
The choice between a Martin and an Ovation guitar ultimately depends on personal preferences, playing style, and intended use. Players seeking a traditional acoustic sound and feel may gravitate towards Martin, while those looking for innovation, durability, and reliable amplified performance might prefer Ovation. Both brands offer high-quality instruments that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire musicians around the world.
FAQ
Which brand is better for beginners, Martin or Ovation?
Both Martin and Ovation offer options suitable for beginners. Martin’s X Series provides more affordable entry points to the brand, while Ovation’s lineup includes several beginner-friendly models. Ovation guitars may have a slight edge for beginners interested in amplified playing, thanks to their built-in electronics and comfortable design. However, the choice ultimately depends on the individual’s preferences and budget.
How do Martin and Ovation guitars compare in terms of resale value?
Martin guitars generally have higher resale values, particularly for vintage models and high-end instruments. The brand’s long history and reputation contribute to strong demand in the used market. Ovation guitars, while holding their value reasonably well, may not appreciate to the same extent as some Martin models. However, certain vintage Ovation models and limited editions can command premium prices among collectors.
Can I achieve a similar sound with an Ovation guitar as I would with a Martin?
While both Martin and Ovation produce high-quality acoustic sounds, their tonal characteristics are distinct. Martin guitars typically offer a more traditional, woody acoustic tone with rich harmonics. Ovation guitars produce a brighter, more focused sound with enhanced projection. While skilled players can achieve a wide range of tones with either brand, the fundamental character of each will remain unique. It’s best to play both to determine which sound aligns more closely with your preferences.