AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Roundback Acoustic Guitars for Intermediate 2026
The top pick is Ovation CE44 Celebrity Elite ($536). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 52 models across 4 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 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
111 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale641 mm (25.24")
- Frets20 frets
You get a solid spruce top, a Lyrachord body, and an Ovation pickup with a built-in preamp and tuner, so it is ready to plug in. It suits you if you want an acoustic-electric with a rounded C neck and a mid-depth cutaway that gives you easy reach up the neck.
Pros
- Solid spruce top is a classic tonewood choice for steel-string guitars
- Ovation slimline pickup and OP-4BT preamp with built-in tuner make it easy to plug in
- Rosewood fretboard and bridge (Dalbergia latifolia) add a durable, traditional look and feel
Cons
- Lyrachord body is a different build from a traditional wooden acoustic guitar
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Ovation CE44P Celebrity Elite Plus
Celebrity El. Plus CE44P-TGE-G · Ovation
55 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets20 frets
You get a cutaway acoustic with a built-in pickup, preamp and tuner, so you can plug it into an amp and tune up without extra gear. The quilted maple top and ovangkol fingerboard give it a distinctive look, and the cutaway makes the upper frets easy to reach. It suits you if you want an acoustic you can plug in and play, and you will need to bring your own amp.
Pros
- Selected quilted maple top gives the guitar a distinctive figured look
- Ovation CP-100 slimline pickup with OP-4CT preamp and built-in tuner
- Cutaway body gives easy access to the upper frets
Cons
- No case or bag is included with the guitar
66AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$579 now$579€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ovation CE48P Celebrity Elite Plus
Celebrity Elite CE48-RR-G · Ovation
37 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets23 frets
This is a steel-string guitar with a solid spruce top, a cutaway, and a built-in pickup and tuner, so you can plug it in and play with an amp. It suits you if you want an acoustic-electric guitar you can tune right on the instrument. The Lyrachord body and roundback shape make it a different build from a standard wood acoustic.
Pros
- Solid spruce top, a sound-producing wood many players prefer
- Ovation slimline pickup with OP-4CT preamp lets you plug in and play through an amp
- Built-in tuner in the preamp lets you tune up without a separate clip-on tuner
Cons
- Lyrachord Super Shallow body is a different build than a standard wood body
63AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$557 now$557€499 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Ovation CE44C-4A Celebrity Elite Nylon Mid-Depth
Celebrity Elite CE44-4-G · Ovation
13 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale641 mm (25.24")
- Frets17 frets
You get a cutaway acoustic with a solid spruce top, a rosewood fretboard and bridge, and a built-in Ovation Slimline pickup with a tuner. It suits you if you want to play acoustic and plug in when you need to be heard. The cutaway lets you reach the upper frets more easily.
Pros
- Solid spruce top gives this guitar a solid tonewood foundation
- Ovation Slimline pickup with OP-4BT preamp and integrated tuner for plugging in
- Cutaway body gives you easier access to the upper frets
55AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$506 now$506€453 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43.2 mm (1.7")
- Scale642 mm (25.28")
- Frets20 frets
You get a flamed maple top, a Lyrachord body, and a built-in Ovation pickup with a tuner. This one suits you if you want a plugged-in acoustic with a comfortable neck. The Rounded C profile and 642 mm scale make it an easy guitar to hold and play.
Pros
- Flamed maple top gives this guitar a figured look
- Ovation slimline pickup with OP-4BT preamp and integrated tuner
- Optimised X-bracing supports the body construction
Cons
- Lyrachord body is a different build than a solid-wood guitar
48AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$501 now$501€449 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets20 frets
This guitar feels solid in hand with a fancy spalted maple top that looks great. The cutaway shape lets you reach the highest frets without bending your arm. It has a built-in tuner and a slim pickup system, but you won't find extra knobs to tweak the sound. It's a nice all-in-one choice for players who want a premium feel without hunting for separate gear.
Pros
- Spalted maple top adds unique visual grain and resonance
- Ovankol fingerboard provides stable tuning and smooth playability
- Cutaway design reaches high frets easily
Cons
- Lyrachord body may add noticeable weight
- Preamp lacks external EQ controls for tone shaping
45AudioFu
Index↓ 1.9%since Oct 31 · lowest so far$591 · Oct 31$579 now$579€519 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets23 frets
The Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-PB-G PB is a really interesting hybrid – it gets you that familiar Ovation roundback feel and distinct sound, but with a solid top and a surprisingly well-equipped electronics package. It's a great choice for gigging singer-songwriters or players who want a stage-ready acoustic with a unique vibe and a comfortable playing experience.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers a surprisingly bright and articulate tone.
- Lyrachord body offers unique resonance and comfortable ergonomics.
- CP-100 Slimline pickup provides clean amplified sound with minimal feedback.
Cons
- Roundback design limits some of the traditional acoustic projection and warmth.
- Ovangkol fingerboard can feel a touch dense for some players' preferences.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 2.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$606 · Aug 17$591 now$591€529 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$496 now$496€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$501 now$501€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$508 now$508€455 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 52 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 Elite CE44-1-GOvation44Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 12
Ovation Celebrity Trad. LH CS24L-5G-GOvation44Stable$524€469$524€469Check ↗
- 13
Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-5-G BLSOvation44Stable$568€509$568€509Check ↗
- 14
Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-1-G VSBOvation44Stable$579€519$579€519Check ↗
- 15
Ovation Celebrity ElitePlusCE44P-8TQ-GOvation44Stable$591€529$591€529Check ↗
- 16
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE48P-KOAB-GOvation44Stable$602€539$602€539Check ↗
- 17
Ovation Celebrity Elite PlusCE48P-RG-GOvation44Stable$602€539$602€539Check ↗
- 18
Ovation Celebrity El. Plus CE44LX-1R-GOvation44Stable$620€555$620€555Check ↗
- 19
Applause Elite AE44-4SApplause · 2 finishes42Stable$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 20
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE48-1-GOvation41Stable$535€479$535€479Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton HBO-850NT w/CaseHarley Benton · 10 finishes61Stable$222€199$222€199Check ↗
- 22
Applause Elite AE48-1Applause36↑ 7.2%$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 23
Applause Traditional AB24-4SApplause32↑ 20.1%$334€299$334€299Check ↗
- 24
Applause Traditional AB28-5SApplause37↑ 4.0%$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 25
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-HB-GOvation51↓ 7.7%$1,853€1,660$1,853€1,660Check ↗
- 26
Adamas MD80-NWT Mid-Depth ContourAdamas · 2 finishes51↓ 14.9%$4,130€3,699$4,130€3,699Check ↗
- 27
Adamas 1687-AG-G 50th Anni DNC LTDAdamas48↓ 15.9%$5,135€4,599$5,135€4,599Check ↗
- 28
Ovation Ultra 1516PBM-G Pitch BlackOvation47Stable$691€619$691€619Check ↗
- 29
Ovation Ultra 1516DTD-G Dusk till dawnOvation47Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 30
Ovation Pro Series 2778AX-5-G St.EliteOvation47Stable$1,115€999$1,115€999Check ↗
- 31
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-VB-GOvation47Stable$1,765€1,581$1,765€1,581Check ↗
- 32
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-5-GOvation47Stable$1,953€1,749$1,953€1,749Check ↗
- 33
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE48P w/bagOvation44Stable$658€589$658€589Check ↗
- 34
Ovation Celebrity Elite PlusCE4 w/BagOvation44Stable$658€589$658€589Check ↗
- 35
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE44P-FKOA-GOvation44Stable$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 36
Ovation Celebrity Elite Deluxe CDX40POvation44Stable$758€679$758€679Check ↗
- 37
Ovation Ultra 1526PBM-G Pitch BlackOvation44Stable$891€798$891€798Check ↗
- 38
Ovation Ultra 1526VRM-G Vampira RedOvation44Stable$891€798$891€798Check ↗
- 39
Ovation Pro Series Elite Gus G SigOvation44Stable$1,194€1,069$1,194€1,069Check ↗
- 40
Ovation Pro Legend 1767-4S-G USAOvation43↓ 4.4%$2,455€2,199$2,455€2,199Check ↗
- 41
Ovation Pro Series Elite 1868TX-5-GOvation41Stable$892€799$892€799Check ↗
- 42
Ovation Pro Series 2771AX-CCB-G SBalOvation41Stable$1,060€949$1,060€949Check ↗
- 43
Ovation Pro Series 2771AX-5-G Std BallOvation41Stable$1,082€969$1,082€969Check ↗
- 44
Ovation Pro Elite 1768-4S-G USAOvation41Stable$2,668€2,390$2,668€2,390Check ↗
- 45
Adamas 156SP-5-G Evolution DeepAdamas41Stable$3,921€3,512$3,921€3,512Check ↗
- 46
Adamas 1687GT-9-G RevBrownBurstAdamas41Stable$4,911€4,399$4,911€4,399Check ↗
- 47
Adamas 1687GT-8 RBBAdamas41Stable$5,022€4,498$5,022€4,498Check ↗
- 48
Adamas 1687GT-2 RRBAdamas41Stable$5,023€4,499$5,023€4,499Check ↗
- 49
Adamas 1687GT-5 BKAdamas41Stable$5,023€4,499$5,023€4,499Check ↗
- 50
Ovation Pro Series Elite 2078TX-5-GOvation38Stable$948€849$948€849Check ↗
Roundback Acoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 66 models we track, not a sample.
Median $591 — half of all roundback acoustic guitars here cost less.
median of 64 models · 42.8 mm (1.69")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 64 models · 641 mm (25.24")–650 mm (25.59")
median of 54 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 66 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.





