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Average Price: $327

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$1001+

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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

What materials are used in the construction of the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer?

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.

Does the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer have a built-in pickup system?

Yes, the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer is equipped with an undersaddle piezo pickup and an active preamp, making it suitable for amplified performances.

How many frets does the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer have?

The Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer has 14 frets, allowing for a comfortable playing experience across a range of musical styles.

Is the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer suitable for live performances?

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.

What is the finish style of the Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer?

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

  • Some owners note that Ovation guitars with wood tops and plastic backs can separate due to differing expansion in extreme temperatures.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Anti-slip solutions like rubber mesh or felt tape are recommended to prevent sliding when playing seated.

    Source

User experience

  • Ovation guitars are often preferred for standing performances due to their shape and sound output.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • Earlier Ovation models had piezo pickups known for a signature "quacky" tone, common with many brands at the time.

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Comparisons

  • Ovation's deep bowl models are noted for better bass response compared to other guitars under $2,000.

    Source

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Britney Spears uses Ovation 1612-1 custom balladeer

Britney Spears

Singer

Innosense

...
Verified via Getty Images

In 1999, Britney Spears was photographed in Germany with an Ovation 1612-1 custom balladeer, as documented by Getty Images.

See how Paul Chapman uses Ovation 1612-1 custom balladeer

Paul Chapman

Guitarist

UFO

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "UFO - Mystery Train," Paul Chapman can be seen playing an Ovation 1612-1 Custom Balladeer guitar.

See how Phil Judd uses Ovation 1612-1 custom balladeer

Phil Judd

Singer

Split Enz

...
Verified via YouTube

The the official video for the Split Enz song 'Sweet Dreams', Phil Judd can be seen playing an Ovation Custom Balladeer. To be more specific it appears to be a 1612-1 Custom Balladeer (produced 1972-80s) due to its features and the time period.

Genre 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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