An acoustic guitar is a modern version of a classical guitar. In general, it is strung with steel rings, whereas the classical variety has strings made from catgut or nylon. This feature gives it a variant name: steel-stringed guitar. Acoustic guitars give a louder, clearer sound compared to that of a classical. This calls for added tension, which is accomplished using much heavier construction than that used for other varieties. To play an acoustic guitar, one uses one or more guitar picks, or plectra, which are small plates of hard plastic or other material. Players strike or strum the strings. Most players use a flat pick held between the thumb and index finger, while some use fingerpicks, worn on the thumb and three fingers. Players who use fingerpicks or their bare fingers or fingernails to strum and strike individual notes are called finger style players. The price of acoustic guitars depends on the material used in and the type of construction. Guitars with solid wood tops, sides and backs are more expensive than those with solid tops and laminated backs and sides. The wood used in the solid type is generally Indian rosewood, maple, or mahogany. The simplest acoustic guitars are usually made with laminated wood. Fingerboards and necks are made of denser wood, such as ebony and cedar. The combination of various woods is what defines the guitars tone. However, many of the best guitar manufacturers are experimenting with alternatives to wood that are less expensive and more readily available. Some have also started using plastic or graphite. The 12-string guitar is a variation on the standard acoustic guitar. It has an additional doubling string for each of the traditional six strings. Celebrated artists like Huddie Leadbetter and Leo Kottke helped make the 12-string guitar popular. Guild Taylor, Gibson and Martin are among the premium makers of acoustic guitars in America. |
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