AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Ovation Roundback Acoustic Guitars 2026
The top pick is Ovation CE44 Celebrity Elite ($517). Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 37 models, 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 width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Frets20 frets
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This Custom Balladeer is a serious instrument, built for stage and studio work. The Lyrachord back gives it a unique voice, and that pickup system is fantastic for live performance. It's ideal for singer-songwriters and players who need a comfortable, amplified acoustic with a modern edge.
Pros
- Solid Sitka top provides excellent clarity and projection.
- Lyrachord bowl back enhances acoustic resonance and comfort.
- OCP-1K pickup delivers a powerful, studio-ready amplified tone.
Cons
- Roundback design isn't universally preferred; lacks traditional acoustic feel.
- Honey Burst finish might not appeal to players seeking a more understated look.
51AudioFu
Index↓ 7.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$2,024 · Aug 17$1,868 now$1,868€1,660 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47.6 mm (1.87")
- Scale643 mm (25.31")
- Strings12-string
- FingerboardPau ferro fingerboard
This guitar uses a solid spruce top to push sound out well. The deep Lyrachord body gives it a rich, unusual voice that stands apart. It feels like a solid choice if you want a 12-string with built-in electronics. The exotic fingerboard is nice but might need some getting used to.
Pros
- Solid Sitka spruce top drives strong projection
- Lyrachord GS body creates unique deep resonance
- Scalloped bracing adds complex tonal depth
Cons
- Deep body shape may feel bulky for some players
- Exotic Pau ferro fingerboard can be slippery
49AudioFu
Index↓ 4.2%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,050 · Aug 17$1,006 now$1,006€894 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 width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale642 mm (25.28")
- Frets20 frets
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
The Ovation 1516PBM-G is a solid choice for players who want a unique acoustic voice with reliable amplified output. The Lyrachord back gives it a distinctive look and surprisingly loud projection, and the thermo-treated spruce top offers a pleasant warmth. This guitar is perfect for singer-songwriters or gigging musicians who need a dependable, versatile instrument.
Pros
- Thermo-treated spruce top delivers a surprisingly warm, focused tone.
- Lyrachord back provides excellent projection and a unique aesthetic.
- OCP-2000 pickup system offers clear amplified sound with built-in tuner.
Cons
- Roundback design might feel less 'traditional' for some acoustic guitar players.
- Metallic UV lacquer can be prone to fingerprints and smudging.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$697 now$697€619 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale642 mm (25.28")
- Frets20 frets
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
This Ultra 1516DTD-G is a solid choice if you need a stage-ready acoustic with a unique vibe. The roundback gives it a distinctive amplified voice, and the electronics are surprisingly good for the price point. It’s perfect for gigging singer-songwriters or anyone wanting that iconic Ovation sound.
Pros
- Thermo-treated spruce top offers surprisingly warm and responsive projection.
- Lyrachord back delivers Ovation's signature amplified presence and sustain.
- OCP-2000 pickup system provides clear, usable amplified tones with minimal feedback.
Cons
- The roundback design isn't for everyone; it affects the acoustic resonance.
- Thermo-treated spruce, while stable, might lack the complexity of aged tonewoods.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$730 now$730€649 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale642 mm (25.28")
- Frets20 frets
- FingerboardPau ferro fingerboard
This St. Elite is a solid choice for players who want a comfortable, amplified acoustic with a distinctive look. The spruce top gives you a balanced tone, while the pickup system is fantastic for stage work. It's ideal for gigging musicians needing a reliable, easy-to-play instrument with a modern aesthetic.
Pros
- Solid spruce top delivers clear, articulate projection and warmth.
- Deep Contour body offers excellent comfort and resonance, unique feel.
- OCP-1K pickup system provides versatile amplified tones with built-in tuner.
Cons
- Roundback design lacks the traditional acoustic projection of a flat-top.
- Pau Ferro fingerboard can feel slightly less smooth than ebony to some players.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$1,124 now$1,124€999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 37 roundback acoustic guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-VB-GOvation47Stable$1,779€1,581$1,779€1,581Check ↗
- 12
Ovation Custom Balladeer 2762BL-5-GOvation47Stable$1,968€1,749$1,968€1,749Check ↗
- 13
Ovation Celebrity Tradition CS-24-5-GOvation44Stable$500€444$500€444Check ↗
- 14
Ovation Celebrity Traditional CS24-1-GOvation44Stable$505€449$505€449Check ↗
- 15
Ovation Celebrity Tradition CS-24-4-GOvation44Stable$512€455$512€455Check ↗
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Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-1-GOvation44Stable$517€459$517€459Check ↗
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Ovation Celebrity Trad. LH CS24L-5G-GOvation44Stable$528€469$528€469Check ↗
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Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-5-G BLSOvation44Stable$573€509$573€509Check ↗
- 19
Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-1-G VSBOvation44Stable$584€519$584€519Check ↗
- 20
Ovation Celebrity ElitePlusCE44P-8TQ-GOvation44Stable$595€529$595€529Check ↗
- 21
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE48P-KOAB-GOvation44Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 22
Ovation Celebrity Elite PlusCE48P-RG-GOvation44Stable$607€539$607€539Check ↗
- 23
Ovation Celebrity Deluxe CDX40-PB-G PBOvation44Stable$611€543$611€543Check ↗
- 24
Ovation Celebrity El. Plus CE44LX-1R-GOvation44Stable$625€555$625€555Check ↗
- 25
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE48P w/bagOvation44Stable$663€589$663€589Check ↗
- 26
Ovation Celebrity Elite PlusCE4 w/BagOvation44Stable$663€589$663€589Check ↗
- 27
Ovation CelebrityElitePlusCE44P-FKOA-GOvation44Stable$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 28
Ovation Celebrity Elite Deluxe CDX40POvation44Stable$764€679$764€679Check ↗
- 29
Ovation Ultra 1526PBM-G Pitch BlackOvation44Stable$898€798$898€798Check ↗
- 30
Ovation Ultra 1526VRM-G Vampira RedOvation44Stable$898€798$898€798Check ↗
- 31
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE48-1-GOvation41Stable$539€479$539€479Check ↗
- 32
Ovation Pro Series Elite 1868TX-5-GOvation41Stable$899€799$899€799Check ↗
- 33
Ovation Pro Series 2771AX-CCB-G SBalOvation41Stable$1,068€949$1,068€949Check ↗
- 34
Ovation Pro Series 2771AX-5-G Std BallOvation41Stable$1,090€969$1,090€969Check ↗
- 35
Ovation Pro Legend 1767-4S-G USAOvation41Stable$2,587€2,299$2,587€2,299Check ↗
- 36
Ovation Pro Elite 1768-4S-G USAOvation41Stable$2,689€2,390$2,689€2,390Check ↗
- 37
Ovation Pro Series Elite 2078TX-5-GOvation38Stable$955€849$955€849Check ↗
Roundback Acoustic Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 64 models we track, not a sample.
Median $625 — 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
Body Shape & Construction
The iconic roundback isn't just for looks. It's engineered for increased volume and projection, often at the expense of that traditional acoustic 'warmth'. This makes them surprisingly versatile for genres needing clarity.
Lyrachord Rosette
This synthetic material replaces the traditional wood rosette. It's more resistant to cracking and humidity changes, which is a huge plus for gigging musicians, but some purists dislike the lack of wood resonance.
Pickup Systems
Ovation's integrated pickups are a defining feature. While early versions could be harsh, modern systems like the MultiSound and UltraTalkbox offer surprisingly natural acoustic voicing and impressive headroom - important for recording and live use.
Neck Profile & Playability
Ovations often have a wider, flatter neck profile than many traditional acoustics. This can be a love-it-or-hate-it thing, but it often makes them easier to play for players with larger hands or those coming from an electric guitar background.
Sustain & Articulation
The roundback design and often-lighter bracing contribute to exceptional sustain and a clear, articulate tone. You'll hear every note ring out, which is fantastic for fingerstyle playing and complex chord voicings, but can also expose sloppy technique.
Buying guide
Let's be honest, Ovation roundbacks get a bad rap sometimes. People think they're just for cheesy 80s ballads, but that's a massive oversight. These guitars offer a unique blend of acoustic projection and electric-like sustain that's genuinely useful - especially when you need to cut through a loud band or record a clean, articulate part. I've gigged with them for years, and I'm here to tell you why they're still relevant.
Don't expect an Ovation to sound like a Martin. They have a distinct character - a brighter, more focused tone with incredible projection. Older models (especially pre-2000) can have brittle bracing and lackluster pickups, so play before you buy.
Spending a bit more for a newer model with a MultiSound or UltraTalkbox pickup system is generally worth it, as the pickup voicing has improved dramatically.
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 40 roundback acoustic guitars from the Thomann catalogue (of 64 in the category). 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
Are Ovation guitars really as loud as people say?
Yes, they are. The roundback design and the often-thinner bracing contribute to significant acoustic volume. They'll cut through a band without needing a mic, which is a huge advantage.
Are Ovation guitars 'un-acoustic'?
They definitely have a different acoustic character. You lose some of that traditional acoustic warmth and complexity, but gain projection and sustain. It's a trade-off, not a lack of acoustic qualities.
What's the deal with the Lyrachord material?
It's a synthetic material designed to replace the wooden soundhole rosette. It's durable and resistant to cracking, which is great for touring, but it doesn't resonate like wood.
Are Ovation necks uncomfortable?
The neck profile can be wider and flatter than many traditional acoustics. Try before you buy to see if it suits your hand size and playing style. It's not inherently uncomfortable, just different.
Are Ovation guitars good for recording?
Absolutely, especially newer models with upgraded pickup systems. The clarity and articulation are a real asset, though you might need to EQ to tame the brightness depending on the recording context.
