Have you ever wondered, “What is the real difference between the grand concert vs grand auditorium guitar body styles?”
Whether you’re a casual strummer or a seasoned guitarist, the right guitar body style can significantly influence your playing experience.
As you delve into guitars, you will find that both the Grand Concert and Grand Auditorium body styles are popular.
These two variants share several similarities but some subtle differences too.
We will unpack those similarities and differences below.
Grand Concert Vs Grand Auditorium: Preview
Even though grand concert guitars are smaller in size, they can still have a powerful sound.
Grand concerts are often the go-to choice for fingerstyle players since their size allows better maneuverability without compromising too much volume.
Conversely, the slightly larger grand auditorium presents a more balanced output, making it a versatile instrument.
So, which one suits your style and needs better between the grand concert and the grand auditorium?
We’ll tackle this shortly.
Acoustic Guitar Body Shapes and Sizes Explained
The world of acoustic guitars may appear relatively straightforward at first glance.
However, there’s actually quite a bit of nuance related to the size of the instrument.
For anyone on their guitar journey, it can be helpful to understand that there are multiple guitar body shapes with unique qualities.
Many credit Martin Guitars with these instruments’ modernized and (semi-)standardized sizing.
And although the classifications vary a bit between manufacturers, it can still be helpful to understand these general size differences.
In the vast realm of acoustic guitar body shapes and sizes, some of the primary categories include:
- Dreadnaught / Dreadnought Guitar
- 0 (pronounced as the letter “o,” often referred to as “concert”)
- 00 (double-o or “grand concert”)
- 000 (triple-o)
- OM (or “orchestra model”) or even the larger Grand Orchestra
- M (or 0000, less common)
- Parlor Guitar
- Auditorium and Grand Auditorium
- Jumbo
- Classical Guitar or “Spanish,” a common choice for flamenco players
- Travel Guitars
Decoding Guitar Classifications: Beyond Aesthetics, the Impact on Sound and Performance
These classifications aren’t always consistent.
For example, some guitar enthusiasts and luthiers may categorize OM and 000 as the same type due to their identical body sizes, despite the varying scale lengths and nut widths.
Exploring every shape in intricate detail would require numerous articles considering the differences in bout sizes, overall body sizes, body depth, width, and other measures.
And Martin has significantly influenced these standards.
The importance of these bodies and shapes extends beyond aesthetics.
They influence the guitar’s bass, volume, and tone – impacting the sound you’ll get if you fingerpick a gentle melody or strum a powerful rhythm.
While the tonewood certainly plays a role, altering the body’s dimensions can transform the instrument’s sound too.
Furthermore, the body size and shape can affect your performance and comfort level.
Singer-songwriters, for instance, may prefer a specific body type that complements their playing style and offers the desired sound clarity.
From the intimacy of the Grand Concert to the more pronounced, balanced tone of the Grand Auditorium, or even the voluminous sound of the Grand Symphony (GS), the choice largely depends on individual preference.
So as you continue your guitar journey, remember that the body shape and size are as much an artistic choice as an acoustic one.
Grand Concert Vs Grand Auditorium: Understanding the Differences
For guitar enthusiasts navigating the diverse world of guitar body shapes, deciding between the Grand Concert and Grand Auditorium models can be pretty daunting.
In this insightful article, we’re placing a spotlight on these two unique body shapes, taking a closer look at their design, tonality, and overall playability.
Delving into the specific features of the Grand Concert vs Grand Auditorium guitars, we will explore the implications of the design elements like a wider waist, rounder shape, or large body for the guitar’s sound and handling.
Let’s embark on this guitar journey!
The Grand Concert: A Mid-Sized Legend
The Grand Concert shape, widely known as the 00 (double-o), is not your typical full-sized guitar.
An innovative concept brought to life by C.F. Martin & Company, this model has roots in the 19th century.
It is also referred to as the S-size guitar by some enthusiasts.
From the early 1930s and onwards, models like the 00-18 or 00-42 have secured their place in the pantheon of legendary guitar models.
Despite its rounder and somewhat smaller shape, these mid-sized guitars come with a full-sized waist.
The body length clocks in just below 19 inches, while the width measures around 14.3 inches, and the depth is approximately 4.1 inches.
Complete with a 24.9-inch scale, these 00 guitars stand out for their unique dimensions.
The Grand Concert guitar’s smaller body produces a slightly brighter or thinner tone, veering towards the treble side.
Yet, the instrument retains a robust projection, creating a unique balance.
Its smaller size also makes it more ergonomic for some players.
If you prefer a compact guitar that doesn’t compromise on the scale length like a ¾-size student guitar, the 00 is a viable choice.
You’ll find its body feels a bit different compared to a standard-size guitar but offers a refreshing variation.
A significant advantage of the Grand Concert guitars is their versatility when comparing Grand Concert Vs Grand Auditorium.
They adapt effortlessly across genres and serve both lead and rhythm sections with aplomb.
In my view, this guitar body style is an excellent choice for acoustic solo sections.
The Grand Concert lineup also includes the 00L body variant, which bears close similarities to the original but is slightly larger, thanks to some strategic modifications.
Check out the Taylor 312 V-Class Grand Concert Acoustic Guitar from Guitar Center (featured in the video above):
Grand Auditorium: A Younger Contender
Contrary to its grandiose name, the Grand Auditorium is a mid-sized guitar body.
Its genesis can be traced back to Taylor Guitars, representing the company’s classic design introduced in 1994 by founder Bob Taylor.
Despite being much younger, this design has quickly carved out its place in the guitar landscape.
The Grand Auditorium exhibits some resemblance to Dreadnaught guitars, albeit with a smaller frame and a narrower waist.
The large body size results in a wider waist than Grand Concerts, offering a compromise between Concert and Dreadnaught guitars.
This mid-sized body guitar boasts a 20-inch length, with a width of 16 inches and a depth of about 4.6 inches.
While it’s slightly smaller than a regular guitar, such dimensions deliver a strikingly balanced tone.
In the Grand Concert vs Grand Auditorium debate, the Grand Auditorium shines with its remarkable versatility.
Its popularity spans across finger pickers and pick users alike, making it a go-to choice for a wide range of musicians.
Its large body and unique design result in an excellent tonal balance, making it stand out in the arena of guitar body shapes.
Want to own a grand auditorium acoustic guitar? Get this Martin 00-28 Standard Grand Auditorium Acoustic Guitar from featured in the video above from Guitar Center:
How Do They Compare?
When it comes to the discussion of grand concert vs grand auditorium guitars, understanding the intricacies is paramount.
As an enthusiast, it’s essential to know that neither size holds the mantle as being superior or inferior.
Instead, these two guitar sizes present a spectrum of distinct features tailored to a musician’s specific needs.
So, how do they really stack up against each other?
And more importantly, which one should be your instrument of choice?
Nuanced Differences
As you delve into the grand concert vs grand auditorium debate, you’ll find that the differences, while subtle, can significantly impact the music you create.
Both guitar types boast mid-sized bodies, offering a comfortable hold and playability.
However, upon close inspection, you’ll notice that the Grand Auditorium marginally outstrips the Grand Concert in size.
The Tone: Bright vs Balanced
This slight size disparity translates into a contrast in tonal qualities.
When comparing the grand concert vs grand auditorium, the former is renowned for its bright tone.
This characteristic makes the Grand Concert particularly adored among finger pickers, resonating with the style’s delicate touch.
On the other hand, the Grand Auditorium is celebrated for its more balanced tone.
The versatile sound palette of the Grand Auditorium means it comfortably straddles various genres and playing styles, positioning it as a true multi-purpose instrument.
Versatility and Projection
In my experience as a guitar player, the Grand Auditorium exhibits a higher degree of versatility due to its balanced tone.
Yet, with its distinctive bright tone, the Grand Concert model has an uncanny ability to cut through the mix effortlessly.
This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for lead sections, allowing your performance to stand out amidst the harmonic blend.
When considering the grand concert vs grand auditorium, understanding these subtle differences will inform your decision, shaping your music, performance, and overall playing experience.
Each guitar size offers unique attributes that cater to different playing styles and sonic preferences, ensuring every guitarist can find their perfect match.
Here’s an interesting comparison of the two models done by the guys from Taylor Guitars:
Grand Concert vs Grand Auditorium: Summary
Performance and Versatility
When it comes to the grand concert vs grand auditorium debate, their performance and versatility are crucial talking points.
The Grand Concert is known for its fingerpicking-friendly bright tone, making it a go-to choice for guitarists who adore delicate, articulate sounds.
Its size lends itself well to a cozy, intimate playing experience, perfect for solo performers or those who play in smaller ensembles.
On the flip side, the Grand Auditorium is lauded as a multi-purpose tool suitable for fingerpicking and strumming.
It showcases a balanced tone that sits comfortably across various musical genres, and its slightly larger size delivers a fuller, more robust sound.
When performing in larger groups or needing a bit more “oomph” from your guitar, the Grand Auditorium comes into its own.
Ultimately, the choice between the two will likely hinge on your personal playing style and the musical contexts you find yourself in most often.
Aesthetics and Design
In the grand concert vs grand auditorium face-off, we must not overlook aesthetics and design.
After all, a guitar isn’t just a musical instrument; it’s also an extension of the musician’s personality.
With its smaller frame, the Grand Concert tends to have a more traditional, classical look.
Its design lends itself to easy maneuverability, making it a joy to hold and play, particularly for those with a smaller build or those who prefer to play seated.
With its slightly larger size, the Grand Auditorium offers a more contemporary feel.
Its unique hourglass shape enhances not only the guitar’s tonal quality but also its visual appeal.
The design also impacts the instrument’s performance and sound production.
The larger body size allows for a more resonant, full-bodied sound, especially strumming.
In essence, while both the Grand Concert and Grand Auditorium guitars have their unique charm, the decision will ultimately rest on your aesthetic preferences, performance needs, and the sound you’re chasing.
After all, each guitarist has a unique sound and style, and choosing the right guitar is a personal journey, a thrilling ride in the grand concert vs grand auditorium debate.
Striking the Final Chord: Grand Concert vs Grand Auditorium
Wrapping up this harmonious journey through the grand concert vs grand auditorium debate, I hope this post has struck a chord and clarified which guitar size hits the right note for you.
Each of these guitars, with unique size and tonal characteristics, offers a world of potential to explore.
Remember, the beauty of music lies in its diversity, and your choice of instrument is an extension of your unique musical expression.
I’d be thrilled to hear your insights and experiences about the grand concert and grand auditorium guitars.
Hit the comments section, and let’s keep the conversation strumming!
Eager to learn more about other guitar sizes?
That’s the spirit!
Feel free to browse through our other articles, where we delve into the fascinating world of guitars.
Check out the article about 00 Vs 000.
Remember, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, finding the right instrument is an exciting journey, much like composing your own symphony.
So take your time, explore, and ultimately, let your heart (and ears) guide you in the grand concert vs grand auditorium debate.
