Have you ever heard of a “parlor” acoustic guitar? If you haven’t, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Parlor guitars are a small body style of acoustic guitar that are not as popular as their larger counterparts, such as dreadnoughts and concert body styles.
But what exactly sets a parlor guitar apart, and why should you consider owning one? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the parlor guitar and explore what makes it unique.
What is a Parlor Guitar?
A parlor guitar is a small-bodied acoustic guitar that was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They were originally designed to be played in small parlors or living rooms during the Victorian era, where the larger guitars of the time were too large and boisterous.
Parlor guitars typically have a body that is smaller than a dreadnought or concert style guitar, and their sound is more focused and intimate. They also have a shorter scale length than most guitars, which makes them easier to play and great for fingerstyle playing.
Parlor guitars fell out of fashion in the mid-20th century, but have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. Many modern guitar manufacturers now offer parlor guitars as part of their lineup, and they are favored by many musicians for their unique tonal qualities and portability.
What Sets Parlor Guitars Apart?
One of the most notable things about a parlor guitar is its small size. The body of a parlor guitar is typically around 13 to 14 inches wide at the lower bout, and the overall length of the guitar is much shorter than that of a dreadnought or concert style.
This smaller size translates into a more intimate and focused sound. Parlor guitars are known for their clarity and articulation, and their smaller size allows them to produce a unique tonal balance that is difficult to replicate with larger guitars.
In addition to their unique sound, parlor guitars are also great for fingerstyle playing. The shorter scale length and smaller body size make them easier to play than larger guitars, and their intimate sound is perfect for quiet, introspective playing.
What is the Difference Between a Dreadnought and a Concert Body Style?
While the parlor guitar is a unique and distinct body style, it’s worth taking a closer look at some of the other popular body styles in the acoustic guitar world. Specifically, what’s the difference between a dreadnought and concert body style?
A dreadnought is a large-bodied guitar that was popularized by Martin in the 1930s. They typically have a wide, deep body that produces a powerful, booming sound. Dreadnoughts are favored by many flatpickers and bluegrass musicians for their volume and projection.
A concert body style, on the other hand, is smaller than a dreadnought but larger than a parlor guitar. They typically have a narrower waist and a more rounded bottom, which gives them a more balanced sound compared to a dreadnought. Concert guitars are popular among fingerstyle players and are favored for their versatility.
So, how do you choose between a dreadnought, concert, or parlor guitar? It ultimately comes down to personal preference. Each body style has its own unique tonal qualities and playing characteristics, so it’s worth trying out a few different guitars to see which one feels and sounds the best to you.
How Does the Wood Used in a Guitar Affect the Sound?
Aside from body style, the type of wood used in a guitar is one of the most important factors that influences its sound. Different woods have different tonal characteristics, which affect everything from the guitar’s brightness and projection to its sustain and warmth.
Some of the most common types of woods used in acoustic guitars include:
– Spruce: Spruce is a popular top wood for acoustic guitars. It has a bright, clear sound that provides great projection and sustain. Sitka spruce is the most commonly used type of spruce in guitar making.
– Mahogany: Mahogany is a popular choice for back and sides on acoustic guitars. It has a warm, midrange tone that provides a nice balance to brighter top woods like spruce.
– Rosewood: Rosewood is another popular choice for back and sides on acoustic guitars. It has a deep, rich tone with a lot of harmonics and overtones. Brazilian rosewood is considered one of the most desirable tonewoods for acoustic guitars.
– Maple: Maple is a bright, articulate tonewood that provides great clarity and definition. It is often used for necks and bodies on electric guitars, but can also be used on acoustic guitars for a unique sound.
These are just a few examples of the many types of woods used in guitar making. Different combinations of woods can produce dramatically different sounds, and it’s worth experimenting with different types of woods to find the sound that you like the best.
In addition to the type of wood used, the quality of the wood is also important. High-quality, well-seasoned woods will produce a better sound than lower-quality woods, so it’s worth investing in a well-made guitar with high-quality materials if you want the best sound possible.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a new acoustic guitar, don’t overlook the parlor guitar. While they may not be as popular as dreadnoughts or concert body styles, they offer a unique and intimate sound that is perfect for fingerstyle playing and quiet, introspective music.
When choosing a guitar, it’s important to consider both the body style and type of wood used. Each guitar has its own unique sound, and the right combination of body style and tonewood can produce a sound that is perfect for your playing style and musical preferences.
So whether you choose a parlor guitar, dreadnought, or concert body style, make sure you take the time to try out a few different guitars and find the one that feels and sounds the best to you. With the right guitar, you’ll be able to create music that truly speaks to you and your listeners.
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