Ovation S868 Elite Special

$799.00 Price Tier: Standard

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Page last updated Oct 09, 2025

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated October 7, 2025.

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Price

$799.00 1 available Used

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Average Price: $799

Standard/Professional

$200

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Acoustic-Electric Guitars category, Ovation S868 Elite Special is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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High-end

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Description

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Experience the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation with the Ovation S868 Elite Special, a standout in the world of acoustic-electric guitars. Designed for musicians who crave versatility and reliability, this guitar offers a rich sound that resonates with both clarity and depth. Its unique multi-soundhole design not only adds a distinctive visual flair but also enhances the acoustic performance by ensuring balanced tone distribution across all frequencies.

The Lyrachord composite body is a hallmark of Ovation's craftsmanship, providing durability and stage-ready resilience without compromising on tone. The S868 is equipped with an OP-24+ preamp system, offering easy-to-use controls for shaping your sound, whether you're performing in an intimate setting or on a grand stage. Its slim neck profile and smooth fretboard make for effortless playability, catering to both seasoned pros and aspiring musicians alike.

The guitar's attention to detail extends to its elegant finish and precise craftsmanship, making it not just an instrument, but a work of art. Whether you're strumming chords or picking intricate solos, the Ovation S868 Elite Special promises a performance that is rich, dynamic, and unforgettable.

Key Features:

Multi-soundhole design for enhanced sound projection
Lyrachord composite body for durability and improved tone
OP-24+ preamp system for versatile sound control
Slim neck profile for comfortable playability
High-quality fretboard for smooth, precise playing

Product specs

Brand	Ovation
Model	S868 Elite Special
Year	2000 - 2001
Categories	Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Active Preamp	Yes
Back Material	Composite
Color Family	Natural, Red
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Satin
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Neck Material	Mahogany
Number of Frets	22
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 type of preamp does the Ovation S868 Elite Special use?: The Ovation S868 Elite Special features an active preamp system, which enhances the guitar's amplified sound quality and provides greater control over tonal adjustments.
What materials are used in the construction of the Ovation S868 Elite Special?: The Ovation S868 Elite Special has a spruce top, composite back and sides, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fretboard, combining to offer a unique tone and durability.
How does the Ovation S868 Elite Special's pickup system work?: The Ovation S868 Elite Special is equipped with an undersaddle piezo pickup, which captures the guitar's natural acoustic sound and translates it effectively when amplified.
Is the Ovation S868 Elite Special suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Ovation S868 Elite Special is ideal for live performances due to its active preamp and undersaddle piezo pickup, offering reliable amplification and tonal control.
What finish options are available for the Ovation S868 Elite Special?: The Ovation S868 Elite Special is available in a satin finish with color options in natural and red sunburst, providing a visually appealing look.

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ovation S868 Elite Special.

Build quality

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Ovation's round back design can cause the guitar to slip off laps, especially for larger players, but applying anti-slip materials like velcro tape can mitigate this issue.
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Features and functionality

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The deep contour back of some Ovation models offers improved stability compared to traditional round backs, enhancing comfort during play.
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Mods and upgrades

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Users suggest applying skateboard grip tape to the guitar's back to prevent slipping during seated play.
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Use cases and applications

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Ovations are noted for their durability and are favored by gigging musicians for their ability to withstand rough handling.
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User experience

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Some owners report that Ovation guitars are more comfortable to play while standing, and using a strap can help stabilize the guitar even when seated.
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Setup and maintenance

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Older Ovation models are prone to issues with expanding and contracting wood tops separating from plastic bodies, particularly in environments with rapid temperature changes.
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