My Basket

Shop with Confidence at Faith Guitars

Continue shopping View basket

Acoustic Guitar Body Shapes

Banner Image

Size really does matter

Learn all about our Acoustic Guitar body shapes and why size really does matter.

The shape, dimensions and depth of your acoustic guitar has an important effect on how it will both feel and sound, both to you, and to your audience. Will you choose the traditional Saturn dreadnought shape: broad-voiced and mid-range focussed? Or perhaps the versatile Venus auditorium shape: slimmer all-round making up what it lacks in low-end with great articulation in the high-mids? Or perhaps you want a guitar with a more subtle voice like the Mercury parlour model; or something truly huge like the Jupiter jumbo. Whatever you need, Faith have you covered.

Venus (Auditorium)

Venus (Auditorium)

An auditorium guitar is a popular acoustic guitar body shape that sits between the larger dreadnought and the smaller parlor sizes. It is known for its balanced tonal character, comfortable playability, and versatility, making it a sought-after choice among guitarists seeking an instrument that can handle a variety of playing styles and musical genres.

Historical Evolution

The auditorium guitar design emerged in the late 1920s as a response to the need for enhanced tonal projection and player comfort. Guitar manufacturers sought to create an instrument that retained the volume of larger dreadnoughts while offering the ergonomic benefits of smaller parlor guitars. This design evolution resulted in the auditorium shape, which quickly gained popularity for its versatile and well-rounded sound.

Sound Characteristics

Auditorium guitars are prized for their distinctive sound characteristics. They offer a rich and balanced tonal palette, with clear articulation and a pronounced midrange presence. The body shape contributes to a well-defined bass response, while the midrange frequencies provide warmth and depth. These guitars also project well, making them suitable for both solo performances and accompanying other instruments.

Neptune (Baby Jumbo / Grand Auditorium)

Neptune (Baby Jumbo / Grand Auditorium)

Baby Jumbo and Grand Auditorium guitars belong to a versatile category of acoustic guitar body shapes, combining aspects of larger dreadnoughts and smaller auditoriums. These sizes were developed to provide a comfortable playing experience while maintaining tonal depth and projection. Their popularity has grown due to their well-balanced sound and versatility across different musical genres.

Evolution in Design

The design evolution of Baby Jumbo and Grand Auditorium guitars took place in the late 20th century. Guitar manufacturers sought to create an instrument that offered a comfortable playing experience without sacrificing tonal richness. These sizes were developed as a response to the needs of modern guitarists who desired a versatile instrument capable of adapting to diverse playing styles and musical contexts.

Sound Characteristics

One of the defining features of Baby Jumbo and Grand Auditorium guitars is their balanced sound characteristics. They produce a well-rounded tonal profile with a pronounced midrange, allowing both the bass and treble frequencies to shine. This tonal quality makes them adaptable for various playing styles, from strumming to fingerstyle, and from solo performances to ensemble playing. The enhanced midrange presence provides clarity and articulation, making them suitable for both lead and rhythm roles.

Earth (OM Cutaway)

Earth (OM Cutaway)

An OM Cutaway guitar is a distinctive acoustic guitar model that combines the elegant and versatile Orchestra Model (OM) body shape with a cutaway design. This cutaway allows easier access to the higher frets, making it an appealing choice for guitarists who seek both comfort and extended playability in the upper register of the neck.

Historical Inspiration

The OM Cutaway guitar originated from the innovative designs of the Martin Guitar Company in the early 20th century. Drawing inspiration from classical and modern influences, the OM body shape was introduced to provide a balance between tonal richness and comfort. The addition of a cutaway further enhanced the model's appeal, catering to the evolving needs of guitarists.

Sound Characteristics

OM Cutaway guitars are renowned for their balanced sound characteristics. They produce a well-rounded tonal profile with clear and defined treble frequencies as well as a rich and resonant bass response. This tonal balance makes them suitable for a variety of playing styles, from fingerstyle to light strumming. The distinct tonal presence of OM Cutaways allows individual notes to shine through, making them a favoured choice for both solo and ensemble playing.

Jupiter (Jumbo)

Jupiter (Jumbo)

A J200 Style Jumbo guitar is an acoustic guitar model renowned for its distinctive large body and bold aesthetic. This type of guitar is characterized by its ornate design, powerful sound projection, and versatile playability. J200 Style Jumbos are favoured for their ability to deliver a commanding sonic presence while accommodating various playing styles.

Historical Legacy

The history of J200 Style Jumbo guitars traces back to the mid-20th century when Gibson introduced the J-200 model. Also known as the "King of the Flattops," the J-200 was designed to make a bold statement both visually and sonically. The larger body and intricate appointments appealed to performing artists seeking an instrument that could match their dynamic stage presence and create a lasting impression.

Sound Characteristics

J200 Style Jumbo guitars are renowned for their robust and booming sound characteristics. The large body size contributes to a substantial volume and impressive bass response, creating a powerful sonic impact. The pronounced bass, balanced midrange, and shimmering treble frequencies come together to produce a well-rounded and distinctive tonal profile that stands out in both solo and ensemble settings.

Saturn (Dreadnought)

Saturn (Dreadnought)

Square-shouldered Dreadnought guitars are a prominent type of acoustic guitar known for their iconic square shoulders and bold design. This guitar style combines a deep body with a squared upper bout, creating a distinctive visual and sonic presence. Square-shouldered Dreadnoughts are celebrated for their powerful sound projection and adaptability across various musical genres.

Historical Heritage

The history of Square-shouldered Dreadnought guitars dates back to the 1930s when they were introduced by the Martin Guitar Company. These guitars were designed to offer a balance of volume, tonal richness, and playability. The square-shouldered design was a departure from the earlier slope-shouldered Dreadnoughts, and it quickly gained popularity among musicians seeking an instrument that could deliver a robust sound for both solo and ensemble playing.

Sound Characteristics

Square-shouldered Dreadnought guitars are renowned for their robust and powerful sound characteristics. The deep body and square shoulders contribute to a resonant and full-bodied tone with a strong bass response. This tonal profile is characterized by clarity in the midrange frequencies and the ability to cut through a mix, making Square-shouldered Dreadnoughts well-suited for both rhythm and lead playing.

Mars (Drop Shoulder Dreadnought)

Mars (Drop Shoulder Dreadnought)

Drop-shoulder Dreadnought guitars are a unique type of acoustic guitar known for their distinct body shape with a dropped shoulder design. This design element enhances playability by allowing easier access to the higher frets. Drop-shoulder Dreadnoughts combine the classic Dreadnought body style with a modified shoulder, offering a blend of visual appeal and ergonomic comfort.

Historical Evolution

The history of Drop-shoulder Dreadnought guitars dates back to the 1930s when they emerged as a transitional design between square-shoulder and slope-shoulder Dreadnoughts. This design variation was introduced by guitar manufacturers seeking to refine the Dreadnought shape while maintaining its versatile tonal characteristics. The dropped shoulder enhances upper-fret accessibility, making it an attractive choice for players seeking improved playability.

Sound Characteristics

Drop-shoulder Dreadnought guitars offer a balanced and warm tonal profile. The emphasis on midrange frequencies provides a rich and full sound, making these guitars well-suited for both fingerstyle playing and strumming. The warm resonance contributes to a pleasing tonal complexity that shines through in both solo and ensemble settings. Drop-shoulder Dreadnoughts produce a harmonically rich response that enhances the overall sonic experience.

Mercury (Parlour / Parlor)

Mercury (Parlour / Parlor)

A 12-Fret Parlor guitar is a vintage-inspired acoustic guitar known for its compact size and 12-fret neck joint. This design positions the neck joint at the 12th fret rather than the more common 14th fret, resulting in a unique tonal character and playing experience. These guitars evoke a sense of historic charm and are favoured for their intimate sound and comfortable playability.

Origins and Evolution

The history of 12-Fret Parlor guitars dates back to the 19th century when they were designed for smaller parlor settings, drawing family and friends together for musical entertainment. These guitars gained popularity during the early 20th century and were embraced by musicians for their portability and warm sound. Over the years, 12-Fret Parlors have maintained their allure, appealing to players who appreciate vintage aesthetics and acoustic traditions.

Sound Characteristics

12-Fret Parlor guitars are characterized by their warm and intimate sound. The unique placement of the neck joint contributes to a balanced tonal profile with emphasis on the midrange frequencies. This tonal quality, along with the smaller body size, results in a pleasing and well-rounded sound that is ideal for fingerstyle playing and folk music. The guitars also offer impressive sustain, allowing notes to ring out beautifully.