Acoustic Guitar Body Comparation: Dreadnought Vs Grand Auditorium

Acoustic Guitar Body: Dreadnought or Grand Auditorium

When talking about acoustic guitar body, we are often asked about which is better: D (dreadnought) guitar body or GA (grand auditorium) acoustic body.

So, we are glad to write about a small piece to explain our understanding. And hope to help those to decide which type of acoustic guitar to buy.

But we can tell that you can always find a good acoustic guitar, no matter it is designed with dreadnought guitar body or GA body. The thing is, they are different in shape, size, scale, etc., which can change the sound. So, you may need to decide based on what style of sound you prefer.

Also, the tone wood configuration is related to this. So, we will discuss it, too.

What is Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Body?

Till now, the dreadnought guitar body has more than 100 years of history. As we all know, it is invented by Martin in around 1916. Since then, it is a standardized model of the industry.

Normally, the D guitar body is used to build the 41 inch acoustic guitar. And now, there is also smaller size with this shape. However, because of the bigger space of the body, the acoustic guitar normally plays greater volume.

Besides, no matter all solid acoustic guitar or solid top guitar, if equipped with dreadnought acoustic body, the guitar fits for playing blues, jazz, country and many other types of fast-rhythm styles. Therefore, the acoustic guitar with D body often to be considered as a versatile instrument.

Grand Auditorium Acoustic Body

The Grand Auditorium (GA for short) body came later than Dreadnought. Also invented by Martin in 1920.

The shape of the acoustic guitar body shows that there is narrow waist which allows players to sit comfortably to play for a long time. GA body combines the characteristics of resonance of dreadnought.

Especially, this type of guitar body is very friendly for those who love warm sound. Between the mid and high ranges, the bass blends very well, too. Thus, this type of acoustic guitar fits for both flatpicking and fingerstyle. Besides, it is an ideal choice for folk music.

Inevitable Question: Which is Better?

It is almost inevitable to be asked about which type of acoustic guitar body is better. We don’t think there is a quick and standard answer for this one.

It depends on the music style you prefer and the sound you are looking for, etc.

The player may feel the acoustic guitar with dreadnought body plays strong and loud sound, but not everyone prefers to handle big instrument. Another player may find that GA acoustic guitar is warm and comfortable, but feel it is a bit weaker in resonance. So, to determine which type is more comfortable for you is a core to make the decision, too.

Many acoustic guitar beginners also rush to find out the answer. In our opinion, it is not the time for beginners to make the choice. The most important thing for beginners is to find out an acoustic guitar with good playability and beautiful sound. Besides, to practice with a right sized instrument that fits for himself.

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