Does Size Really Matter? The Best Small Acoustic Guitar
Learn the features to look for and how to choose the best small acoustic guitar for your budget and situation, along with our Top 5 recommendations!
Small acoustic guitars, often referred to as mini guitars or parlor guitars, are a popular choice for those who want a smaller instrument with a unique sound.
These guitars are typically easier to play than full-sized instruments, making them an excellent option for learners and players with smaller hands. With their compact size, they are also perfect for travelling and performing in smaller venues.
The smaller body of these guitars can produce a more intimate sound, offering players a bright and warm tone with rich harmonics and excellent projection. Furthermore, many small acoustic guitars are made with high-quality materials, such as solid sitka spruce tops and mahogany necks, which ensures a reliable and sustainable instrument with excellent durability and longevity.
History of the Mini Guitar
Small acoustic guitars, also known as mini guitars or parlor guitars, have a rich history dating back to the 19th century. These instruments were first designed for use in parlors or small rooms, hence the name, and were smaller in size than the typical full-sized guitars of the time.
The parlor-style guitar is believed to have originated in Europe in the 1800s and was primarily used in classical music settings. However, their popularity grew in the United States during the late 1800s and early 1900s, particularly in rural areas where full-sized instruments were often too expensive or difficult to obtain. These small guitars were also favored by traveling musicians who needed a more portable instrument.
One of the most famous manufacturers of parlor-style guitars was the C.F. Martin & Company, founded by Christian Frederick Martin in 1833. Martin produced a line of parlors with a unique X-bracing pattern that gave them a distinctive sound and increased their volume. These guitars were popular among blues musicians, including Robert Johnson and Lead Belly.
In the early 20th century, the popularity of the parlor-style guitar began to wane as larger, louder guitars became more popular in a variety of musical genres.
However, in recent years, a renewed interest in acoustic music has led to a resurgence in popularity for small guitars. Many modern guitar companies, including Taylor Guitars and Ibanez, now produce high-quality mini guitars with excellent sound quality and playability.
Today's small acoustic guitars come in a variety of styles and sizes, from the classic parlor guitar to smaller dreadnought-sized guitars. These and other small scale guitars are popular among beginners and advanced players alike, and are often used in folk, blues, and indie music.
With their rich history and continued popularity, small acoustic guitars have become an important part of the guitar industry and a beloved instrument for musicians around the world.
Buyer’s Guide for Mini Acoustic Guitars
When it comes to small acoustic guitars, there are a number of factors that should be given careful consideration if you want to choose the right instrument for your needs. Here are some key features and benefits to look for when selecting a small acoustic guitar.
- First of all, pay attention to the type of wood used in the construction of the guitar's top, back, and sides. A solid sitka spruce top is a popular choice for many acoustic guitars because of its durability, resonance, and tonal clarity. However, other woods like cedar, mahogany, and maple can also produce rich, warm tones that may suit certain playing styles.
- Another important factor to consider is the scale length of the guitar. Small scale guitars typically have shorter scale lengths than full-sized instruments, which can make them easier to play for people with smaller hands or less finger strength. However, there are also small scale guitars with longer scale lengths that may offer better intonation and projection.
- Think about what kind of neck profile you prefer as well. Some small acoustic guitars have thin and narrow necks, while others have wider and thicker necks. The shape of the neck can impact how comfortable the guitar feels to play and how easy it is to move your fingers up and down the fretboard.
- Of course, sound quality is also an important consideration. You want a small acoustic guitar that produces a clear, balanced tone with good sustain and projection. Some small guitars may have a brighter or warmer sound depending on the materials used and the shape of the body.
- Other features to look for might include a cutaway design for easier access to higher frets, built-in pickups for amplification, and different string options such as nylon or steel.
In general, small acoustic guitars can be a great choice for beginners, kids, or anyone who wants a more portable instrument. We've covered some of the best acoustic guitars (smaller sized) in this article to help you find the best acoustic guitar for you.
Best Choice Products 38in Guitar Kit
Why it Rocks
This handcrafted guitar features a classic shape, which is given a modernized look through an elegant finish and a beautiful rosette.
The nylon strings on this guitar reduce damage to the bridge and remain in tune, allowing you to enjoy your favorite musical pieces without worrying about frequent retuning.
The kit is specifically designed with your comfort in mind. Its classic acoustic guitar shape makes it easy to handle, allowing you to play for hours on end.
This guitar is also equipped with an upgraded fretboard and string configuration ensuring that your fingers have a closer proximity to the fretboard. This not only reduces finger fatigue but also improves the overall playing experience.
What Else
Additionally, this all-inclusive guitar kit comes with an e-tuner, a gig bag to help protect your investment, a guitar strap with a built-in pick holder, extra nylon strings, 6 celluloid guitar picks, a capo, and a cloth - all at an extremely budget-friendly price.
Enya Nova Go Starter Bundle Kit
Why it Rocks
The Enya Nova Go Starter Bundle Kit is the perfect option for those who seek an exceptional acoustic guitar that marries innovation with quality. Available in an array of colors including black, white, pink, blue and purple, the Nova Go is a compact half-sized guitar that measures 35 inches in length.
The Nova Go is crafted from carbon fiber composite material, making it impervious to changes in temperature and humidity. Its stability rests in its construction, which ensures that it remains free of warps and cracks; a feature not common in traditional acoustics.
The bridge is molded into the top of the guitar in one cohesive piece, which will negate failures that come from glue adhering the bridge and top together; therefore, one can rest assured that the bridge will never snap or fall off.
What Else
In terms of adjustability for the string action, the Nova Go features a truss rod that is built into its neck, which is already optimally set, but the bundled hexagonal wrench allows you to adjust the string action to suit your personal preferences.
The “Zero Fret” feature on the guitar’s fretboard ensures smooth and effortless tuning, while polished round edges on the frets ensure a comfortable and seamless playing experience.
The Enya Nova Go Starter Bundle Kit includes a strap and gig bag for convenient transportation, storage, and protection of your guitar investment.
All in all, for those just getting started, this bundle is an excellent choice.
Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar
Why it Rocks
The Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar is a fantastic option for young players or those with smaller hands who are looking to learn and improve their guitar skills. This instrument was modeled after the acclaimed Yamaha FG Series, well-known for its high-quality craftsmanship and authentic acoustic tone.
One of the most notable aspects of the Yamaha JR1 is its smaller body and shorter neck, making it the perfect size for younger or smaller players to comfortably handle and play. Despite its compact size, the Jr1 features a spruce top, nato neck, and rosewood fingerboard, ensuring that its sound quality isn't sacrificed for its size.
The meranti body of the Yamaha JR1 provides solid and bright tonality, making it an exceptional option for those looking to record or perform live. The chrome hardware adds both style and durability to the guitar, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
What Else
Beyond its exceptional quality and sound, the Yamaha JR1 is also a wonderful choice for those looking to take their music on the go. Its smaller size makes it a fantastic travel guitar, ideal for recording sessions, coffee shop gigs, or even long road trips. Additionally, the included gig bag provides extra protection and easy transportation.
In short, the Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar is a highly recommended instrument that beautifully combines convenience, quality, and affordability. Perfect for young or small-handed players, it's also an excellent travel guitar or a high-quality option for those looking to improve their skills, and is an outstanding value at its current price point.
Ibanez Performance PN1MHOPN Parlor
Why it Rocks
This exquisite parlor boasts a mahogany body and spruce top that produce an exceptional tone with exceptional clarity, warmth, and projection. The open pore natural finish of the body highlights the beautiful woodgrain of the tonewoods and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of this instrument.
Expertly designed with precision and care, the parlor features a mahogany neck that offers a comfortable grip and effortless playability.
The neck is complemented by a rosewood fingerboard and bridge that are not only visually appealing but also contribute to the brilliant tonal response of this instrument.
The addition of herringbone purfling serves to enhance the visual appeal of the parlor and adds an additional level of elegance to an already exquisite instrument.
What Else
The Ibanez Advantage Bridge pins provide improved tuning stability and make string changes a breeze. Additionally, the chrome open gear tuners with ivory knobs add to the overall visual appeal of the instrument while ensuring reliable and precise tuning every time.
Overall, the Ibanez Performance PN1MHOPN Mahogany Parlor is a high-quality and professional-level instrument that is suitable for a wide range of playing styles and musical genres. Its exceptional tonal qualities, elegant aesthetic, and comfortable playing experience make it a popular choice for anyone who favors parlor-style guitars, and it's the best parlor guitar on this list.
Taylor GS Mini Mahogany Acoustic Guitar
Why it Rocks
The GS Mini is a remarkable instrument that boasts a solid mahogany top and layered sapele back and sides. Its bracing pattern enhances the guitar's projection and resonance, resulting in a sound that is full, rich, and complex.
The body of this guitar is finished in a matte 2.0, which not only looks elegant and sophisticated but also offers a level of protection.
The neck is designed with Taylor's signature GS Mini Profile, which makes it extremely comfortable and easy to play.
The fingerboard is crafted from genuine African ebony, ensuring that the guitar not only sounds great but looks stunning as well.
What Else
This guitar is versatile and portable thanks to its scaled-down size, which does not compromise its sound. The GS Mini is perfect for playing in any setting, from the comfort of your home to the great outdoors. Its affordability likewise makes it highly accessible to people of all skill levels.
As with most Taylors, the craftsmanship and attention to detail that has gone into its creation are evident in its exceptional sound and playability, and at a very reasonable price, it's our overall favorite small acoustic guitar.
Mini Guitar FAQs
Q: What is a mini acoustic guitar?
A: A mini acoustic, also known as a travel guitar or parlor guitar, is a smaller version of a traditional acoustic guitar. These guitars typically have a smaller body and scale length, allowing for easier transportation and playing in tighter spaces.
Q: What are the benefits of owning a mini acoustic guitar?
A: Mini acoustics are great for musicians who are constantly on the go or have limited storage space. They are also a great option for beginners or younger players who may have a harder time handling a full-size guitar.
Q: Are mini acoustic guitars as good as full-sized acoustic guitars?
A: Yes, mini acoustics can offer the same quality of sound and playability as full-sized acoustic guitars. Many mini acoustics are made with solid woods, just like their full-sized counterparts, and can have a rich and full sound.
Q: Can mini acoustic guitars be used for live performances or recording?
A: Yes, mini acoustics can be used for live performances and recording. While they may not produce the same level of volume as a full-sized guitar, they can still offer a high quality of sound that can be miked or plugged into an amplifier.
Q: Are there any disadvantages to owning a mini acoustic?
A: Some musicians may find that the smaller size and scale length can take some getting used to, especially if they are used to playing full-sized guitars. Additionally, some mini acoustics may not have the same level of sustain or projection as larger guitars.
Q: Can I still use standard guitar accessories with a mini acoustic guitar?
A: Yes, most standard guitar accessories, such as picks and straps, can still be used with a mini acoustic. However, it's important to make sure the accessories fit properly and don't impede the playing experience.
Q: What is a short scale guitar?
A: A short scale guitar has a shorter length between the nut and the saddle compared to a standard-sized guitar. This means that the frets are closer together, making it easier for players with small hands to reach the notes.
Q: Why are some acoustic guitars smaller in size?
A: Smaller acoustic guitars are typically designed to be more comfortable and easier to play for individuals who find standard-sized guitars too large, whether due to having smaller hands or because they are just learning to play guitar. They can also be a great choice for travel, as they are more portable and easier to carry.
Q: What is a jumbo guitar?
A: Jumbo guitars have a larger body size than a traditional dreadnought guitar. They are known for their booming low-end and loud projection, making them a popular choice for players who prefer a deeper and richer sound.
Q: What is nut width and why is it important?
A: Nut width refers to the width of the guitar's neck at the nut. It is important because it can affect a player's comfort and ability to play certain chords and fingerstyle patterns. Wider nut widths are better suited for fingerstyle playing, while narrower nut widths are easier to navigate for players with smaller hands.
Q: What is the difference between a full-sized acoustic guitar and a smaller guitar?
A: Full-sized acoustic guitars have a longer scale length and larger body size, which can make them more challenging to play for individuals with smaller hands. Smaller guitars typically have a shorter scale length and smaller body size, making them more comfortable to play and easier to handle.
Q: What features should I look for when choosing a small acoustic guitar?
A: When choosing a small acoustic guitar, you should consider the build quality, materials used, scale length, neck profile. body size, nut width, string spacing, and bass response. It is important to find a guitar that has a great sound and is comfortable to play, regardless of its size or shape.
Q: What is the sound like on a small acoustic guitar?
A: The sound of a small acoustic guitar can vary depending on the specific model and build quality. However, they are often known for their bright and clear tone, which can be a great guitar for fingerstyle playing and intricate music patterns.
Q: Are small acoustic guitars less expensive than full-sized guitars?
A: The price of a small acoustic guitar can vary depending on the brand, build quality, and features. However, they are not necessarily less expensive than full-sized guitars. It is important to find a guitar that fits your budget and has the features you need to achieve the sound and playing experience you desire.
Q: Are there small electric guitars, too?
A: Yes, there are small electric guitars available on the market. These guitars are designed to provide the same level of playing experience as full-sized electric guitars but with a more compact and lightweight body.
One of the most popular small electric guitars on the market is the Ibanez Guitars Gio series. These guitars have a shorter scale length and a smaller neck profile, making them perfect for beginner guitar players or those who simply prefer a smaller electric guitar.
Other small electric guitars on the market include some Fender guitar models, such as the Squier Mini Strat and the Mustang LT25. These guitars have a scale length of 22.75 inches, which is shorter than a full-sized guitar but still provides a great playing experience.
In terms of sound quality, small electric guitars typically have a spruce top that provides a louder sound than nylon stringed guitars. Additionally, many smaller electric guitars are equipped with a mahogany neck that adds warmth to the sound.
Summary of Small Acoustic Guitars
In conclusion, small acoustic guitars are an excellent choice for musicians who are looking for a versatile and portable instrument. Such guitars come in a range of sizes, from mini guitars to smaller full-sized instruments, and are perfect for players of all levels.
Their shorter scale lengths make them easier to play for smaller hands than other guitars, and their mahogany necks and spruce tops offer great sound quality.
Additionally, these short scale guitars have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their portability which makes them an ideal travel companion for musicians.
Overall, small acoustic guitars are a great choice for any player who wants a high-quality, portable instrument that can deliver great sound without taking up too much space.
Once again, here are our favorites:
Best Budget Option: Best Choice Products 38in Guitar Kit
Best for Beginners: Enya Nova Go Starter Bundle Kit
Best Value for the Money: Yamaha JR1 FG Junior 3/4 Acoustic
Best Parlor Guitar: Ibanez Performance PN1MHOPN Parlor
Best Overall: Taylor Guitars GS Mini Acoustic Guitar
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