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Average Price: $1,100

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

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High-end

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Description

Discover the Ovation Deacon, a solid body electric guitar that marries classic design with modern functionality. Renowned for its innovative build, the Deacon features a striking double-cutaway body that offers both aesthetic appeal and enhanced playability. The guitar's solid mahogany body and set neck construction ensure rich, resonant tones that are perfect for any music style, from rock to blues.

This iconic instrument is equipped with a trio of powerful pickups, offering a versatile tonal range that can handle both searing leads and smooth rhythms with ease. The Deacon also boasts a sleek, fast-playing rosewood fingerboard that makes it a joy for both beginners and seasoned players alike. Its intuitive controls provide precise tone shaping, allowing musicians to craft their unique sound effortlessly.

The Ovation Deacon is more than just an instrument; it's a testament to craftsmanship and innovation. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, this guitar delivers performance and reliability that you can count on.

Key Features:

  • Solid mahogany body with double-cutaway design
  • Set neck construction for enhanced sustain
  • Trio of pickups for versatile tonal range
  • Rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Intuitive control layout for easy tone shaping
  • Ideal for diverse music styles, including rock and blues

Product specs

Brand Ovation
Model Deacon
Finish Natural, Red, Sunburst
Year 1972 - 1980
Made In United States
Body Material Mahogany
Body Shape Single Cutaway
Body Type Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type Top-Load
Color Family Brown, Natural, Red
Finish Pattern Sunburst
Fretboard Material Ebony
Neck Construction Bolt-On
Neck Material Mahogany
Number of Frets 24
Number of Strings 6-String
Nut Width 1.6875"
Offset Body Offset Body
Pickup Configuration HH
Right / Left Handed Right Handed
Scale Length 24.75"

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Ovation Deacon best suited for?

The Ovation Deacon, with its dual humbucker pickups and mahogany body, is versatile and well-suited for rock, blues, and jazz, offering rich, warm tones and a robust sound.

How does the neck profile of the Ovation Deacon affect playability?

The Ovation Deacon features a bolt-on mahogany neck with an ebony fretboard, providing a smooth playing experience and easy access to all 24 frets, making it ideal for fast, intricate playing styles.

What is the scale length of the Ovation Deacon, and why does it matter?

The Ovation Deacon has a 24.75" scale length, which offers a slightly shorter reach and lower string tension, facilitating easier bending and a warmer tone.

Does the Ovation Deacon handle effects pedals well?

Yes, the Ovation Deacon's solid body and humbucker pickups make it compatible with a wide range of effects pedals, handling overdrive and distortion particularly well.

What are the finish options available for the Ovation Deacon?

The Ovation Deacon is available in Natural, Red, and Sunburst finishes, allowing players to choose a look that suits their personal style.

Reverend Guitar Man

Reverend Guitar Man

Ovation Deacon (Breadwinner) 1973-1975 demo - for sale

Video thumbnail for Ovation Deacon (Breadwinner) 1973-1975 demo - for sale by Reverend Guitar Man

Ovation Deacon (Breadwinner) 1973-1975 demo - for sale

Reverend Guitar Man

Reverend Guitar Man

Video thumbnail for Guitars With Jon Way Ep. 9 Ovation Deacon by Guitars With Jon Way

Guitars With Jon Way Ep. 9 Ovation Deacon

Guitars With Jon Way

Guitars With Jon Way

Video thumbnail for Ovation Deacon by accordoTV

Ovation Deacon

accordoTV

accordoTV

Video thumbnail for 1974 Ovation Deacon by Oscar Guitars

1974 Ovation Deacon

Oscar Guitars

Oscar Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1974 Ovation Deacon (NOT Breadwinner) - Demo & Review by Shice Squad

1974 Ovation Deacon (NOT Breadwinner) - Demo & Review

Shice Squad

Shice Squad

Video thumbnail for Ovation Deacon (Breadwinner) demo by mropeel

Ovation Deacon (Breadwinner) demo

mropeel

mropeel

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ovation Deacon.

Features and functionality

  • The Ovation Deacon is noted for its two 9V batteries, making it one of the earliest active electric guitars available.

    Source
  • The Deacon's design is frequently praised for its unique and striking aesthetic, distinguishing it from other models even when not in vogue.

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  • The Deacon features a unique bridge design and a mono jack that accommodates pedals well due to the low impedance through its preamp.

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  • The pickup selector offers a distinctive "quacky" tone when set to put pickups out of phase, and includes a two-way midscoop switch.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Vintage Ovation electrics can sometimes be more affordable than modern reissues, with past sightings of Ovation Preachers at pawn shops for surprisingly low prices.

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Comparisons

  • Collectors often regard original Ovation models as superior in craftsmanship compared to reissue attempts by brands like Eastwood.

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  • Enthusiasts often compare the Deacon to the Breadwinner, suggesting both are highly sought-after models for collectors and players alike.

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  • The Deacon is described as an "upgraded" version of the Breadwinner, offering enhanced features and aesthetics.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners report that the Ovation Deacon’s unique tonal capabilities are attributed to its solid mahogany body, offering a distinct sound profile.

    Source
  • Some owners consider the Deacon 12-string a rare find, implying limited availability and desirability among vintage guitar enthusiasts.

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  • One owner described the Deacon as weighing 8lb 8.0oz, which some might find heavy compared to other models.

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Build quality

  • The saddles on the Ovation Deacon are made of nylon, a material choice shared with some Gibson models from the 50s and 60s.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The Deacon's original toroidal pickups are mounted via shock-resistant foam, which may degrade over time, requiring vacuuming and replacement.

    Source

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Artist usage

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See how Peter Ham uses Ovation Deacon

Peter Ham

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Badfinger

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A trade advertisement for Sunn amplifiers features Badfinger and highlights Peter Ham playing the Ovation Deacon guitar.

Genre Usage

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