Acoustic Guitars
The modern acoustic guitar is an evolution of the Spanish,
or Classical guitar. It has a larger body than its predecessors and
uses steel, rather than nylon strings. This combination gives it a louder,
brighter sound than its old world cousins. A more narrow neck also allows
for easier play.
Acoustic guitars are all constructed from the same basic parts; a neck,
bridge, soundboard, body and strings. The soundboard and body are commonly
made of pine or maple, but are often made of more exotic woods for both
varying the sound properties as well as aesthetics. Necks are generally
made from maple but often have much harder rosewood fretboards for durability.
Acoustic guitars vary greatly in design and price. Mass-produced models,
while often less expensive, do not generally produce as high a quality
sound as those made by a skilled craftsman. Materials are also an important
variation that affects the personality of the instrument as well its
cost.