Brand profile · USA, est. 1966

Ovation

Ovation guitars, instantly recognizable for their distinctive roundback design, emerged in the mid-1960s as a radical departure from traditional acoustic instrument construction. Founded on principles of aerospace engineering and a desire to enhance acoustic projection and comfort, Ovation quickly gained a following among performers seeking a louder, more resonant sound. While initially controversial, the brand’s innovative approach has secured its place in music history.

Roundback Acoustic GuitarsBalladeer SeriesLyrachord Multi-System PickupsInnovative Body Construction12-String Acoustics

1966founded

USAcountry

54products in stock

$104–$2,689price range

Ovation in the charts

Every chart where Ovation has five or more models — ranked by the AudioFu Index inside each.

Best Ovation roundback acoustic guitars
40 models$500 – $2,689

All 54 Ovation products

Sorted by AudioFu Index — the strongest models of every category first. Page 2 of 2.

Ovation Pro Series Elite 2078TX-5-G

Roundback Acoustic Guitars

$955€849Check ↗

Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44L-5-G

Lefthanded Acoustic Guitars

$618€549Check ↗

Ovation Celebrity Tradition CS-24L-4-G

Lefthanded Acoustic Guitars

$528€469Check ↗

Ovation Pro Series Classic 1773AX-4-G

Miscellaneous Classical Guitars

$1,124€999Check ↗

Ovation Celebrity Elite CEB44X-7C-G

4-String Acoustic Basses

$539€479Check ↗

Ovation Celebrity Tradition CS-24C-4-G

4/4 Size Classical Guitars

$512€455Check ↗

Ovation, honestly

What Ovation does well

Excellent projection and volume for acoustic performance
Ergonomic roundback design offers player comfort
Durable construction suitable for stage use
Unique aesthetic sets Ovation apart from competitors

What to watch for

Roundback design can be polarizing aesthetically
Traditionalists may find the tone less 'acoustic'
Can feel less resonant than a traditional flat-top
Historically perceived as lacking vintage appeal

Questions about Ovation

Where are Ovation instruments made?

Currently, Ovation instruments are primarily manufactured in Indonesia, with some higher-end models featuring USA-made components or being fully built in the USA.

Are Ovation guitars known for having a bright sound?

Yes, Ovation guitars generally possess a brighter, more articulate tone compared to many traditional acoustic guitars, which is often attributed to their body shape and bracing patterns.

What is the Lyrachord system?

The Lyrachord is Ovation’s proprietary multi-system pickup system, designed to provide a balanced and amplified acoustic guitar tone with enhanced feedback rejection.