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Description
The Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer is a remarkable fusion of innovation and tradition, designed for guitarists who crave a unique sound and aesthetic. Renowned for its distinctive lyrachord body, this steel-string acoustic guitar offers an unparalleled projection and clarity. The innovative design not only enhances the tonal quality but also adds to the durability, making it a robust choice for both stage and studio musicians.
Crafted with a solid spruce top, the 1612-1 provides a bright and resonant tone, while the mahogany neck ensures smooth playability. The rosewood fretboard is both comfortable and responsive, allowing for fluid finger movement across its 20 frets. Whether you're strumming chords or picking intricate melodies, this guitar is designed to deliver exceptional sound quality consistently.
The Custom Balladeer also features an inlaid rosette, adding a touch of elegance to its visual appeal. This intricate design demonstrates the meticulous craftsmanship that Ovation is known for. Equipped with a built-in preamp and pickup, this guitar is performance-ready, offering amplified sound without sacrificing its acoustic purity.
Ideal for musicians who value a combination of classic acoustic sound with modern enhancements, the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer is a versatile instrument that suits a variety of playing styles. Its reputation for high-quality sound and innovative design makes it a standout choice for discerning guitarists.
Key Features:
- Lyrachord body for enhanced projection and durability
- Solid spruce top for bright, resonant tone
- Mahogany neck with rosewood fretboard
- 20 frets for versatile playing
- Inlaid rosette for aesthetic appeal
- Built-in preamp and pickup for amplified performance
Product specs
| Brand | Ovation |
| Model | 1612 Custom Balladeer |
| Finish | Natural, Red, Sunburst |
| Year | 1975 - 1984 |
| Categories | Acoustic-Electric Guitars |
| Active Preamp | Yes |
| Back Material | Composite |
| Color Family | Brown, Natural, Red |
| Finish Pattern | Sunburst |
| Finish Style | Gloss |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony |
| Number of Frets | 14 |
| Number of Strings | 6-String |
| Pickup | Undersaddle Piezo Pickup |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
| Sides Material | Composite |
| String Type | Steel |
| Top Material | Spruce |
FAQs
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What materials are used in the construction of the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer?
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The Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer features a spruce top, composite back and sides, and an ebony fretboard, providing a unique blend of durability and tonal quality.
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Does the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer have a built-in pickup system?
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Yes, the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer is equipped with an undersaddle piezo pickup and an active preamp, making it suitable for amplified performances.
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How many frets does the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer have?
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The Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer has 14 frets, allowing for a comfortable playing experience across a range of musical styles.
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Is the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer suitable for live performances?
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Yes, with its active preamp and undersaddle piezo pickup, the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer is well-suited for live performances, offering clear and balanced amplified sound.
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What is the finish style of the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer?
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The Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer features a gloss finish, available in natural, red, and sunburst patterns, enhancing its visual appeal and durability.
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ovation 1612-1 custom balladeer.
Build quality
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Some owners note that Ovation guitars with wood tops and plastic backs can separate due to differing expansion in extreme temperatures.
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Setup and maintenance
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Anti-slip solutions like rubber mesh or felt tape are recommended to prevent sliding when playing seated.
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User experience
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Ovation guitars are often preferred for standing performances due to their shape and sound output.
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Features and functionality
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Earlier Ovation models had piezo pickups known for a signature "quacky" tone, common with many brands at the time.
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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Ovation 1612-1 custom balladeer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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