AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Roundback Acoustic Guitars for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Ovation CE44 Celebrity Elite ($517). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 50 models across 4 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Ovation CE44 Celebrity Elite
Celebrity Elite CE44-RRB-G · Ovation
117 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale641 mm (25.24")
- Frets20 frets
The CE44-RRB-G is a solid choice for players seeking a comfortable, amplified acoustic. Its unique roundback body and easy-to-play neck make it ideal for gigging musicians and those wanting a versatile instrument that cuts through a mix. The built-in tuner is a handy bonus for quick setups.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a bright, articulate tone with good projection.
- Ovation’s Lyrachord body provides a unique, resonant, and comfortable playing experience.
- Slimline pickup and OP-4BT preamp offer a usable amplified sound with a built-in tuner.
Cons
- Roundback design may not appeal to players preferring traditional acoustic body shapes.
- Nato neck, while stable, isn't as tonally rich as mahogany or maple.
82AudioFu
Index↓ 8.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$562 · Aug 17$517 now$517€459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ovation CE44P Celebrity Elite Plus
Celebrity El. Plus CE44P-TGE-G · Ovation
56 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets20 frets
The CE44P-TGE-G is a solid choice if you want an amplified acoustic with a distinctive look and feel. It’s surprisingly versatile for strumming, rhythm, and even some lead work—great for gigging singer-songwriters or players who need a reliable stage-ready instrument without breaking the bank. The unique roundback and maple top give it a bright, modern voice.
Pros
- Quilted maple top delivers a bright, articulate tone with surprising warmth.
- The CP-100 pickup system offers a usable, clean amplified sound for stage work.
- Lyrachord body provides a comfortable, ergonomic playing experience, unique to Ovation.
Cons
- Ovangkol fingerboard can feel slightly harder than rosewood for some players.
- Roundback design limits acoustic projection compared to traditional acoustic guitars.
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$584 now$584€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ovation CE48P Celebrity Elite Plus
Celebrity Elite CE48-RR-G · Ovation
33 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets23 frets
The CE48-RR-G is a solid choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable, amplified acoustic. Its comfortable roundback and easy-to-play neck make it great for beginners or players who prioritize stage-ready functionality over traditional acoustic tone. It’s a versatile, affordable option that delivers a distinctive sound and a lot of convenience.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a bright, articulate voice with surprising projection
- Lyrachord back provides unique acoustic resonance and comfortable ergonomics
- Slimline pickup and OP-4CT preamp offer convenient amplified performance with tuner
Cons
- Lyrachord back, while comfortable, lacks the traditional acoustic depth of all-wood designs
- Ovangkol fingerboard can feel slightly harder than rosewood for some players
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$562 now$562€499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ovation CE44C-4A Celebrity Elite Nylon Mid-Depth
Celebrity Elite CE44-4-G · Ovation
11 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale641 mm (25.24")
- Frets17 frets
The CE44-4-G is a solid choice for gigging musicians or players who want a comfortable, amplified acoustic. Its roundback design and Ovation electronics give it a distinctive voice, perfect for singer-songwriters and those needing a stage-ready instrument without the premium price tag. It's surprisingly versatile, handling strumming and fingerpicking well.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers clear, articulate projection and warmth
- Lyrachord body offers a unique, resonant tone with surprising sustain
- Slimline pickup and OP-4BT preamp provide a usable, amplified signal with tuner
Cons
- Roundback design might not appeal to players preferring a traditional acoustic feel
- Multi-wood epaulette can sometimes introduce unwanted overtones if not carefully voiced
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$510 now$510€453 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43.2 mm (1.7")
- Scale642 mm (25.28")
- Frets20 frets
The CS-24P-TBB is a solid choice for players wanting a distinctive roundback acoustic with amplified capabilities. Its bright tone and comfortable neck make it accessible, while the onboard electronics are genuinely useful for stage or recording. This is a great all-around instrument, especially suited for singer-songwriters and players who appreciate a unique aesthetic.
Pros
- Flamed maple top delivers a bright, articulate voice with good sustain
- Lyrachord body provides a unique, resonant tone and comfortable feel
- Slimline pickup system with OP-4BT offers clear amplified sound and tuner
Cons
- Lyrachord body can lack the tonal complexity of all-wood construction
- Ovangkol fingerboard, while attractive, isn’t as tonally vibrant as ebony
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$505 now$505€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43.2 mm (1.7")
- Scale642 mm (25.28")
- Frets20 frets
The Celebrity Tradition CS-24-5-G is a solid choice for gigging musicians or students who want amplified acoustic tone and a comfortable feel. Its unique roundback design and slim neck make it easy to play, and the built-in tuner is a real convenience. It's a budget-friendly way to get a recognizable Ovation sound and stage-ready electronics.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers bright, articulate tone with good projection
- Lyrachord body provides unique resonance and comfortable roundback feel
- Slim, rounded C neck profile facilitates fast, easy playing for many
Cons
- Lyrachord body lacks the traditional acoustic warmth of all-wood construction
- Nato neck, while stable, isn’t as premium as mahogany or maple
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$500 now$500€444 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets20 frets
The Celebrity Traditional CS24-1-G is a solid, versatile instrument perfect for gigging singer-songwriters and players who want a comfortable, amplified acoustic. The roundback design offers a distinctive look and feel, and the onboard electronics are surprisingly good for the price point – a great all-rounder for stage or studio.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a bright, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- CP-100 Slimline pickup and OP-4CT preamp offer clean amplified sound with built-in tuner.
- Rounded C neck profile provides comfortable playability, especially for intermediate players.
Cons
- Lyrachord body, while unique, can lack the resonant complexity of a traditional acoustic.
- Nato neck, while stable, isn't as tonally rich as mahogany or maple.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$505 now$505€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43.2 mm (1.7")
- Scale642 mm (25.28")
- Frets20 frets
The Celebrity Tradition CS-24-4-G is a solid choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable amplified acoustic. The flamed maple top provides a lively, modern sound, and the comfortable neck makes it easy to play for extended periods. It's a great option for singer-songwriters or anyone wanting a stage-ready acoustic without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Flamed maple top delivers a bright, articulate tone.
- Lyrachord body offers unique resonance and projection.
- Slimline pickup system provides clear amplified sound and tuner.
Cons
- Lyrachord body can feel less 'acoustic' than traditional wood bodies.
- Ovangkol fingerboard might feel slightly harder than rosewood to some.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$512 now$512€455 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale641 mm (25.24")
- Frets20 frets
The CE44-1-G is a surprisingly versatile acoustic-electric, blending Ovation's signature roundback resonance with solid wood construction. It's a great option for gigging musicians needing a reliable amplified sound and comfortable neck. If you want a distinctive look and a bright, clear voice, this is a solid choice.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a bright, articulate tone with good projection.
- Ovation’s Lyrachord body offers a unique, resonant sound with enhanced bass response.
- Slimline pickup system provides a clean, amplified signal ideal for stage or recording.
Cons
- Roundback design may not appeal to players preferring a traditional acoustic feel.
- Ovangkol fingerboard, while attractive, can feel slightly harder than rosewood.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$517 now$517€459 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets20 frets
The Celebrity Trad is a solid choice for left-handed players wanting a distinctive acoustic sound with amplified options. The spruce top gives it a bright, clear voice, while the Lyrachord back adds a unique warmth. It’s a budget-friendly option ideal for gigging musicians or students who appreciate a comfortable neck and a stage-ready pickup system.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a bright, articulate tone with surprising projection.
- Lyrachord back provides a unique, resonant character absent in traditional acoustic guitars.
- CP-100 Slimline preamp offers convenient amplified performance with a built-in tuner.
Cons
- Roundback design may feel less familiar or 'traditional' to some players.
- Mid-depth body offers less low-end resonance compared to full-size acoustic guitars.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$528 now$528€469 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 50 roundback acoustic guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-5-G BLSOvation44Stable$573€509$573€509Check ↗
- 12
Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-1-G VSBOvation44Stable$584€519$584€519Check ↗
- 13
Ovation Celebrity ElitePlusCE44P-8TQ-GOvation44Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 14
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE48P-KOAB-GOvation44Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 15
Ovation Celebrity Elite PlusCE48P-RG-GOvation44Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 16
Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-PB-G PBOvation44Stable$611€543$611€543Check ↗
- 17
Ovation Celebrity El. Plus CE44LX-1R-GOvation44Stable$625€555$625€555Check ↗
- 18
Applause Elite AE44-4SApplause · 2 finishes42Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 19
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE48-1-GOvation41Stable$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton HBO-850NT w/CaseHarley Benton · 10 finishes61Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 21
Applause Elite AE48-1Applause35↑ 7.2%$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 22
Applause Traditional AB24-4SApplause31↑ 20.1%$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 23
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-HB-GOvation51↓ 7.7%$1,868€1,660$1,868€1,660Check ↗
- 24
Adamas MD80-AG-G 50th Anni MDC LTDAdamas · 2 finishes50Stable$4,905€4,359$4,905€4,359Check ↗
- 25
Ovation 1758-1-G 12 String Pro EliteOvation49↓ 4.2%$1,006€894$1,006€894Check ↗
- 26
Ovation Ultra 1516PBM-G Pitch BlackOvation47Stable$697€619$697€619Check ↗
- 27
Ovation Ultra 1516DTD-G Dusk till dawnOvation47Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 28
Ovation Pro Series 2778AX-5-G St.EliteOvation47Stable$1,124€999$1,124€999Check ↗
- 29
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-VB-GOvation47Stable$1,779€1,581$1,779€1,581Check ↗
- 30
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-5-GOvation47Stable$1,968€1,749$1,968€1,749Check ↗
- 31
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE48P w/bagOvation44Stable$663€589$663€589Check ↗
- 32
Ovation Celebrity Elite PlusCE4 w/BagOvation44Stable$663€589$663€589Check ↗
- 33
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE44P-FKOA-GOvation44Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 34
Ovation Celebrity Elite Deluxe CDX40POvation44Stable$764€679$764€679Check ↗
- 35
Ovation Ultra 1526PBM-G Pitch BlackOvation44Stable$898€798$898€798Check ↗
- 36
Ovation Ultra 1526VRM-G Vampira RedOvation44Stable$898€798$898€798Check ↗
- 37
Ovation Pro Series Elite 1868TX-5-GOvation41Stable$899€799$899€799Check ↗
- 38
Ovation Pro Series 2771AX-CCB-G SBalOvation41Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 39
Ovation Pro Series 2771AX-5-G Std BallOvation41Stable$1,090€969$1,090€969Check ↗
- 40
Ovation Pro Legend 1767-4S-G USAOvation41Stable$2,587€2,299$2,587€2,299Check ↗
- 41
Ovation Pro Elite 1768-4S-G USAOvation41Stable$2,689€2,390$2,689€2,390Check ↗
- 42
Adamas 156SP-5-G Evolution DeepAdamas41Stable$3,952€3,512$3,952€3,512Check ↗
- 43
Adamas 1687GT-9-G RevBrownBurstAdamas41Stable$4,950€4,399$4,950€4,399Check ↗
- 44
Adamas 1687GT-8 RBBAdamas41Stable$5,062€4,498$5,062€4,498Check ↗
- 45
Adamas 1687GT-2 RRBAdamas41Stable$5,063€4,499$5,063€4,499Check ↗
- 46
Adamas 1687GT-5 BKAdamas41Stable$5,063€4,499$5,063€4,499Check ↗
- 47
Adamas 1687-AG-G 50th Anni DNC LTDAdamas41Stable$6,154€5,469$6,154€5,469Check ↗
- 48
Ovation Pro Series Elite 2078TX-5-GOvation38Stable$955€849$955€849Check ↗
- 49
Adamas 2087GT-2 RRBAdamas38Stable$5,288€4,699$5,288€4,699Check ↗
- 50
Adamas 2087GT-9-G RevBrownBurstAdamas35Stable$5,895€5,239$5,895€5,239Check ↗
Roundback Acoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 64 models we track, not a sample.
Median $607 — half of all roundback acoustic guitars here cost less.
median of 62 models · 42.8 mm (1.69")–43.2 mm (1.7")
median of 62 models · 641 mm (25.24")–650 mm (25.59")
median of 52 models · 20–24
most common · 17 models
How to choose the best roundback acoustic guitars
Playability (Neck Profile & Action)
As an intermediate player, you need a neck that feels comfortable and allows for cleaner execution. A chunky, slow neck will hinder your progress; look for something with a moderate 'C' or 'D' profile. Action that's not brutally high but still allows for some string buzz is key - too low and you'll get fret rattles, too high and your fingers will ache.
Tone (Midrange Focus & Bass Response)
Roundbacks often have a more focused midrange, which is great for cutting through a band. However, a complete lack of low-end can make them sound thin. You want a balance - enough thump to feel the groove, but not so much that it muddies the midrange.
Construction & Materials (Bracing & Tonewoods)
Solid tops are essential for any serious player; laminate backs and sides are acceptable for the price point, but a solid wood back will improve resonance and sustain. Pay attention to the bracing pattern - it significantly impacts the guitar's responsiveness and tone.
Electronics (Pickup Voicing & Headroom)
If you plan on plugging in, the pickup system is crucial. Cheap pickups often sound brittle and lifeless. Look for systems that offer a natural, balanced voicing and enough headroom to handle a little gain without fizzing out - you'll want to be able to get a decent clean tone and a usable overdrive.
Body Size & Comfort (Gig-ability & Ergonomics)
Roundbacks are generally smaller than dreadnoughts, which is great for comfort. But consider how it sits against your body - a poorly shaped roundback can be just as uncomfortable as a large body. Think about how it'll feel after a 2-hour set.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're past the beginner stuff, you're working on fingerpicking patterns and maybe even trying your hand at some basic strumming with a band. Roundback acoustics can be a sweet spot - they offer a different vibe than a traditional dreadnought, often with a more focused tone and a comfortable body shape. But not all roundbacks are created equal, especially when you're looking for something that'll hold up to gigging and recording. Let's find you something that won't leave you wanting more.
Don't chase the looks; prioritize playability and tone. Often, the cheapest options will skimp on the neck joint or use overly bright pickups. Spending a bit more for a solid top and a decent pickup system is a worthwhile investment.
Be wary of guitars with incredibly low prices - there's usually a compromise somewhere, and it's often in the quality of the materials or construction.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 64 roundback acoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a roundback and a grand auditorium?
A roundback has a more rounded back, which often leads to a more focused, less boomy tone. A grand auditorium is wider and deeper, offering more projection and a fuller sound, but can be less comfortable to hold.
Are roundbacks good for fingerstyle?
Absolutely! Their focused midrange and balanced tone often lend themselves well to fingerpicking. Just make sure the action isn't too low, or you'll get fret buzz when you dig in.
Can I use a roundback for gigging?
Definitely, but consider the volume. They generally aren't as loud acoustically as a dreadnought, so you might need a pickup system for louder gigs. A decent preamp will help immensely.
What's a reasonable price range for an intermediate roundback?
Expect to spend between $300 and $800. Below that, you're likely to be sacrificing on materials and construction. Above that, you're getting into higher-end instruments with more refined features.
My roundback sounds 'boxy' - what's wrong?
That's often a sign of laminate back and sides. Solid wood backs resonate more and avoid that boxed-in feel. Also, check the bracing pattern; a poorly designed bracing system can contribute to a less-than-ideal tone.





