Steelstring guitars for every musician - Unleash your sound
Discover our collection of high quality acoustic guitars to suit every playing style and musical genre. Hand-picked for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, each guitar is carefully inspected and adjusted for optimum performance.
Whether you're an aspiring artist or a seasoned performer, our selection includes renowned brands such as Guild, Martin and Gibson as well as unique boutique models. Handselected models made of fine woods such as rosewood or mahogany, some with pickups, solid top and optimal string action - new or as a vintage acoustic guitar with history.
Immerse yourself in our wide range of acoustic guitars - available online with guaranteed quality and personal service.
Steelstring guitars - powerful sound & robust construction for real guitarists
What is an acoustic guitar and what makes it special?
An acoustic guitar is an acoustic guitar that is characterized by the use of steel strings instead of nylon strings. These strings give the guitar a brighter, louder sound that is particularly well suited to musical styles such as folk, country and singer-songwriter. The powerful tone of the acoustic guitar makes it possible to play both rhythmic accompaniments and melodic solos impressively.
Another significant difference to the classical guitar lies in the construction: Western guitars typically have a larger body, which ensures better sound projection. The strings and neck are also tighter, which influences the playing style. While classical guitars are mainly equipped with nylon strings and offer a softer, warmer sound, the acoustic guitar is known for its clear and penetrating sound. These characteristics make the acoustic guitar a popular instrument for many musicians looking for a versatile and powerful sound.
Construction & materials - the ingredients for the typical acoustic guitar sound
The construction and materials of an acoustic guitar are decisive for its characteristic sound. Typical body shapes such as dreadnought and jumbo offer great sonority and volume, making them ideal for different styles of music. The top is often made of spruce or sometimes cedar, which are known for their excellent sound characteristics, while the back and sides are often made of rosewood or mahogany, which gives the sound depth and makes it warmer and fuller.
Additional details such as the truss rod are crucial for the stability of the neck and the playability of the guitar. The fingerboard, usually made of rosewood or ebony, ensures a pleasant feel and longevity. Many acoustic guitars are also equipped with pickups that enable electric amplification and optimize the sound in live situations. This careful selection and processing of materials contributes to the unique sound quality and playability of the acoustic guitar.
Vintage acoustic guitar - For lovers with a feel for sound history
Vintage acoustic guitars are particularly attractive to lovers of sound history and traditional craftsmanship. Used models offer numerous advantages, including an authentic look and a well-rehearsed tone that often only comes with time. These guitars have many years of experience behind them and deliver a tonal richness that newer instruments often lack. They are also collector's items and investments.
The tradition of renowned manufacturers such as Martin and Gibson has given these vintage models their special status. These brands stand for quality and innovation in guitar making, which is reflected in the longevity and sound of their instruments.
At Vintage-Guitar-World, we guarantee that every guitar is carefully checked and made ready to play before it goes on sale. Our luthier ensures that these treasures are not only in perfect condition visually, but also acoustically, so that you can enjoy the full sound potential.
Western guitar vs. classical guitar - The most important differences
The design is a key difference between acoustic guitars and classical guitars. Western guitars usually have a larger body, which provides a louder and brighter sound, while classical guitars have a smaller, rounder shape, which is known for a softer and warmer tone.
Western guitars are equipped with steel strings, which offer a higher tension, while classical guitars use nylon strings, which are softer to play. This also influences the playing feel: acoustic guitars are ideal for folk and rock, while classical guitars are ideal for classical music.
For folk and singer-songwriter enthusiasts, the acoustic guitar is often the best choice, while classical guitarists opt for the classical guitar. Also discover our selection of Acoustic Guitars and Spanish guitars.
Frequently asked questions about the acoustic guitar
Question
Answer
What is special about an acoustic guitar?
Western guitars are characterized by their steel strings and larger body shape, which produce a bright, loud sound. They are ideal for genres such as folk, country and rock.
What is the difference between an acoustic guitar and an acoustic guitar? classical guitar?
The main difference lies in the strings: Western guitars use steel strings, while classical guitars have nylon strings. This has a considerable influence on the sound and feel.
Where does the name acoustic guitar come from?
The name "Western guitar" is derived from the popularity of these instruments in the Western music scene, especially in the USA, where they are used in folk and country music.
Who developed steel-string guitars?
The development of the steel-string guitar is often attributed to the American luthier C.F. Martin, who began making these instruments in the 1850s.
How are acoustic guitars anchored in US-American culture?
Western guitars are a central element of the American musical tradition, especially in folk, country and blues, and embody the lifestyle of the American West.
Did the acoustic guitar evolve from Spanish guitar making?
Yes, the acoustic guitar has its roots in Spanish guitar making, but it was further developed in the USA in the 19th century to produce a more powerful sound.
