When choosing a guitar, one of the most important decisions a player will face is what size to get. The two most common sizes are dreadnought and concert, and each has its own unique characteristics that make them ideal for certain styles and players. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between dreadnought and concert size guitars and help you decide which one is right for you.
First, let’s define what we mean by dreadnought and concert sizes. Dreadnought guitars are larger, with a width of around 15-16 inches at the lower bout and a depth of around 4.5-5 inches. They typically have a fuller, louder sound than concert guitars due to their larger size. Concert guitars, on the other hand, are smaller, with a width of around 13-14 inches at the lower bout and a depth of around 3.5-4 inches. They have a more balanced tone than dreadnoughts, with clearer highs and mids.
Now that we know the basic definitions of dreadnought and concert sizes, let’s dive into the differences between them.
1. Sound
The first and most obvious difference between dreadnought and concert size guitars is the sound. Dreadnoughts are known for their powerful, booming sound, with plenty of bass and volume. They are especially well-suited for strumming and flatpicking, as they can cut through the mix in a band setting. However, if you’re looking for a guitar that can handle fingerstyle playing, a dreadnought might not be the best choice, as the bass can sometimes overpower the delicate nuances of fingerpicked melodies.
Concert guitars, on the other hand, are known for their balanced and clear tone, with plenty of definition in the highs and mids. They tend to have less bass than dreadnoughts, which can make them a better choice for fingerstyle playing. However, this doesn’t mean that concert guitars lack volume – they can still pack a punch when played with a little bit of aggression.
2. Comfort
Another factor to consider when choosing between dreadnought and concert sizes is comfort. Dreadnought guitars can be quite large, especially for players with smaller frames. They can be heavy and cumbersome, making them difficult to play for extended periods of time. Additionally, dreadnoughts can be quite loud and overwhelming in certain settings, such as small rooms or quiet solo performances.
Concert guitars, on the other hand, are generally more comfortable to play, especially for smaller players. They are lightweight and easy to hold, making them ideal for extended practice sessions or performances. Additionally, their balanced tone can be more forgiving in smaller, quieter settings, as they won’t overpower the room like a dreadnought might.
3. Style
The style of music you play is another important factor to consider when choosing between dreadnought and concert sizes. Dreadnoughts are often associated with country, bluegrass, and other genres that rely on powerful, strumming rhythms. They can also be a great choice for rock or pop music, as their big sound can cut through the mix.
Concert guitars, on the other hand, are often associated with classical, folk, and fingerstyle music. Their balanced tone and delicate fingerpicking responsiveness make them perfect for intricate melodies and subtle chord progressions. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t play other styles of music on a concert guitar – it all comes down to personal preference.
4. Projection
The final factor to consider when choosing between dreadnought and concert sizes is projection. Dreadnoughts are known for their ability to project sound to a larger audience, which makes them a great choice for live performances or outdoor settings. They can also fill a larger room with sound, making them ideal for bands or ensembles.
Concert guitars, on the other hand, are not as powerful as dreadnoughts in terms of projection. However, they excel in quieter, more intimate settings, where their balanced tone and subtle nuances can be appreciated by a smaller audience. They are also a great choice for recording, as their clear and defined sound can be captured more easily.
So, which size is right for you? Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and the style of music you play. If you’re looking for a guitar that can handle strumming and flatpicking with plenty of volume, a dreadnought might be the right choice for you. If you’re more interested in fingerstyle playing or playing in smaller, quieter settings, a concert guitar might be the better option. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these are generalizations – there are plenty of dreadnoughts that are great for fingerstyle playing, and plenty of concerts that can handle aggressive strumming.
In conclusion, both dreadnought and concert guitars have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and it’s up to you to decide which one is right for your playing style and needs. We hope that this blog post has helped you understand the differences between these two sizes and that you’ll be able to make an informed decision when choosing your next guitar. Happy playing!
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