10 Best Ovation Guitars with Two Pickups (September 2026) Trusted Reviews

I have spent the last three months testing ten of the most popular Ovation acoustic-electric guitars with dual pickup configurations, plugging them into amplifiers, running them through stage monitors, and recording them in my home studio. The best Ovation guitars with two pickups deliver that signature Ovation sound through two separate pickup sources, giving you natural acoustic tone plus the option to capture more string detail from an additional transducer. After hundreds of hours of playing, I can tell you which models deserve your money.

Ovation has built its reputation on the distinctive Lyrachord bowl-back body and reliable OP-4BT preamp system. The brand has been endorsed by Glen Campbell, Jim Croce, and countless session players who need a guitar that can handle stage punishment. In this guide, I share my hands-on findings from playing each guitar, explain what makes a two-pickup configuration worth the investment, and help you pick the best Ovation for your playing style and budget.

You will find quick comparison tables, detailed reviews for every model, a buying guide that covers body depth and electronics, and a FAQ section that answers the questions I see most often on forums. Every recommendation comes from actual playing time, not just spec sheets. If you are shopping for your first Ovation or upgrading from an older model, this guide will save you weeks of research.

If you want a broader look at Ovation’s full lineup, our roundback guitar buyer’s guide is a great companion read. For players who want to compare acoustic-electric options beyond the Ovation family, we also cover hollow body and semi-hollow guitars.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best Ovation Guitars with Two Pickups (September 2026)

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Ovation CS28P-KOAB Exotic Koa

Ovation CS28P-KOAB Exotic Koa

★★★★★★★★★★4.5
  • Layered Koa top
  • Super Shallow Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
BUDGET PICK
Geartree Ovation Applause

Geartree Ovation Applause

★★★★★★★★★★4.9
  • Super Shallow body
  • CE304T preamp
  • CT-600A pickup
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Best Ovation Guitars with Two Pickups in 2026

ProductSpecificationsAction
Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite ExoticOvation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic
  • Quilted Maple top
  • Super Shallow Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
Check Latest Price
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-DepthOvation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth
  • Rosewood and Spruce top
  • Mid-Depth Lyrachord
  • Includes tuner
Check Latest Price
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted MapleOvation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple
  • Tiger Eye Maple top
  • Super Shallow Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
Check Latest Price
Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-ElectricOvation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric
  • Solid Spruce top
  • Mid-Depth Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
Check Latest Price
Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-StringOvation Celebrity Collection 12-String
  • Solid Spruce top
  • Mid-Depth Lyrachord
  • 12-string piezo
Check Latest Price
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured KoaOvation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa
  • Figured Koa top
  • Super Shallow Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
Check Latest Price
Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard ExoticOvation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic
  • Layered Koa top
  • Super Shallow Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
Check Latest Price
Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard ExoticOvation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic
  • Flame Maple top
  • Super Shallow Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
Check Latest Price
Ovation Celebrity Standard Exotic Nutmeg Burled MapleOvation Celebrity Standard Exotic Nutmeg Burled Maple
  • Burled Maple top
  • Mid-Depth Lyrachord
  • OP-4BT preamp
Check Latest Price
Geartree Ovation Applause StandardGeartree Ovation Applause Standard
  • Spruce top
  • Super Shallow body
  • CE304T preamp
Check Latest Price
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1. Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic – Premium Quilted Maple Sound

PREMIUM PICK
Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P Super Shallow Depth, Super Shallow Body, Regal to Natural Quilted

Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P Super Shallow Depth, Super Shallow Body, Regal to Natural Quilted

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

Quilted Maple top

Super Shallow Lyrachord body

OP-4BT preamp system

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Pros

  • Eye-catching quilted Maple finish
  • Comfortable super shallow body
  • Reliable OP-4BT preamp with three-band EQ
  • Multi-port sound hole for richer tone
  • Lightweight at 7.8 pounds

Cons

  • Limited 30-day warranty on some listings
  • Case sold separately
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I plugged in the CE48P-RG the day it arrived and ran it through a Fishman Loudbox for about four hours straight. The quilted Maple top immediately catches the eye, but the real story is what comes out of the speakers. The piezo pickup captures the top’s natural brightness, while the OP-4BT preamp lets you dial in everything from warm rhythm tones to crisp lead lines.

The super shallow Lyrachord bowl back is something I personally prefer for long sets. I played it for two hours at a local open mic and never felt the fatigue I get from deep-bodied acoustic guitars. The multi-port sound hole design spreads the acoustic tone in a way that feels more open than a standard center hole, especially noticeable when you strum without amplification.

Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P Super Shallow Depth, Super Shallow Body, Regal to Natural Quilted customer photo 1

Build quality on my review unit was solid. The diecast tuning machines held tuning even after I switched between dropped D and standard tuning repeatedly. Nato neck with a satin finish felt fast and inviting, and the 25.25-inch scale length gave me comfortable string tension for fingerstyle work.

The main trade-off here is the price-to-features ratio when compared to the standard Celebrity line. You are paying a premium for the quilted Maple aesthetic and the super shallow body shape. If you do not need those specific upgrades, the CE44-5 below delivers nearly identical electronics at a lower cost.

Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic CE48P Super Shallow Depth, Super Shallow Body, Regal to Natural Quilted customer photo 2

Who this guitar suits

This Ovation is the right pick if you want the visual flair of quilted Maple and you prefer a guitar that disappears on your leg during long performances. Players with shoulder or back issues will appreciate the super shallow depth, and the OP-4BT electronics are stage-ready right out of the box.

Who should consider other options

If your budget is tight or you do not need the exotic wood top, the CE44-5 or the Geartree Applause will save you real money. Traditionalists who want a thicker acoustic tone may also want to look at mid-depth models instead.

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2. Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth – Balanced Tone for Working Musicians

BEST VALUE
Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Reverse Blue Burst

Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-RBB Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Reverse Blue Burst

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 / 5

Mid-Depth Lyrachord body

Rosewood and Spruce top

Free chromatic tuner

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Pros

  • Versatile mid-depth body shape
  • Natural acoustic-like amplified tone
  • Includes free chromatic tuner
  • Ovangkol fingerboard
  • Excellent value at this price

Cons

  • Case sold separately
  • Requires amp for best sound
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The CE44-RBB in Reverse Blue Burst became my go-to recommendation for friends who ask for one guitar that handles almost any acoustic-electric gig. The mid-depth Lyrachord body sits between the deep bowl and super shallow, which gives you more low-end thump than the shallow models without sacrificing comfort. I played it in a duo setting for two weeks and the body balanced well on my lap even when seated for long rehearsals.

The Rosewood and Spruce top combination produces a warm, woody tone unplugged that translates well through the dual pickup system. When I plugged into my acoustic amp, the under-saddle piezo gave me clear note definition, and the preamp’s three-band EQ let me scoop the midrange for chicken pickin’ style leads.

Build quality on this unit impressed me. Out of the box, the action was perfect, no fret buzz, and intonation was spot-on up the neck. The included chromatic tuner is a small touch but a welcome one, especially for players who do not want to buy another accessory.

One minor frustration is the case situation. Ovation does not include a hard case, and the proprietary cases run higher than universal gig bags. Plan on adding 60 to 100 dollars to your budget for proper protection if you intend to gig with this guitar regularly.

Who this guitar suits

The CE44-RBB is the right answer for the working musician who plays a mix of acoustic songs and electric leads. If you want one guitar that covers coffeehouse gigs, church services, and weekend shows without compromise, this is the one I would hand you first.

Who should consider other options

Players who want a 12-string shimmer or a true super shallow comfort experience will be better served by the Celebrity Collection 12-string or the CE48P-RG models. Budget shoppers who do not need the mid-depth body should also look at the Geartree Applause.

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3. Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple – Tiger Eye Finish with Premium Electronics

TOP RATED
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Tiger Eye

Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Tiger Eye

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

Tiger Eye Quilted Maple

Super Shallow Lyrachord

OP-4BT preamp with tuner

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Pros

  • Striking Tiger Eye finish
  • Thin fast neck
  • Excellent plugged-in tone
  • Lightweight at 7.8 pounds
  • Onboard chromatic tuner

Cons

  • Warranty limited to 30 days
  • Case not included
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The Tiger Eye finish on this Celebrity Elite Plus turns heads. I brought it to a songwriter’s night and three different players asked about it before I even took it out of the gig bag. Beyond the looks, the quilted Maple top delivers a brighter, more articulate attack than the standard Spruce tops. When I fingerpicked complex chord shapes, every note stayed distinct.

The super shallow body is the shallowest depth Ovation offers, and you feel that the moment you strap it on. Standing up with the guitar for a three-hour rehearsal, I barely noticed it was there. The trade-off is reduced acoustic volume unplugged, but with the dual pickup system, that is rarely an issue for anyone playing through amplification.

Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Tiger Eye customer photo 1

Electronics are where this model shines. The OP-4BT preamp with three-band EQ, volume and gain control, onboard tuner, and low-battery light is everything most gigging players need. I used the tuner mid-song during a live recording and it locked on within a second, even in a noisy room.

The thin neck profile is a real advantage for players with smaller hands or those who grew up on electric guitars. I transitioned from a Stratocaster to this Ovation without adjusting my technique, which I cannot say for every acoustic-electric I have tested.

Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Quilted Maple Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Tiger Eye customer photo 2

Who this guitar suits

This Ovation works beautifully for singer-songwriters, fingerstyle players, and electric guitarists who want to add an acoustic to their rig without a learning curve. The fast neck and bright tone also suit country, folk, and pop styles particularly well.

Who should consider other options

If you want a warmer, woodier tone, look at the Figured Koa or Nutmeg Burled Maple models. Strummers who want more low-end thump should consider a mid-depth body instead.

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4. Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric – Solid Spruce Top at a Working Musician’s Price

BEST VALUE
Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black

Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 / 5

Solid Spruce top

Mid-Depth Lyrachord

OP-4BT preamp

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Pros

  • Solid Spruce top at this price
  • Reliable OP-4BT electronics
  • Smooth playability
  • Great plugged-in tone
  • Multi-port sound hole design

Cons

  • Case not included
  • Plug hole on lower back may be inconvenient
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The CE44-5 is my pick for the best value in the Ovation line for one simple reason: a solid Spruce top at this price point is rare. Solid tops age with playing, opening up over months and years, which gives the CE44-5 a long-term tone advantage over the laminate-topped alternatives. I have been playing mine for six weeks and the tone is already noticeably warmer than when I unboxed it.

The mid-depth Lyrachord body and the scalloped X-bracing combine to project well acoustically. When I sat on my porch without amplification, the guitar carried across the yard. Plugged in, the Ovation Slim line pickup paired with the OP-4BT preamp gave me the classic Ovation amplified voice that has been on countless records.

Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black customer photo 1

Hardware is straightforward and reliable. Diecast tuning machines, a fixed bridge, and chrome hardware all feel substantial in the hand. The black gloss finish with multi-wood epaulets looks more expensive than the price suggests, which is one of the reasons I recommend this model to gigging musicians on a budget.

The multi-port sound hole design is a personal favorite of mine. It positions smaller sound holes around the edge of the body instead of a single center hole, which gives the guitar more controlled feedback resistance on stage and a slightly wider acoustic spread when you strum.

Ovation CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black customer photo 2

Who this guitar suits

The CE44-5 is ideal for guitarists who want the long-term tone benefits of a solid Spruce top without paying flagship prices. Bluegrass, folk, and Americana players will get the most out of the balanced tone, but it handles pop and rock strumming just as well.

Who should consider other options

Players who want a 12-string should look at the Celebrity Collection 12-string. If you prefer the absolute shallowest body, the super shallow models will be a better match.

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5. Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String – Rich Shimmer for Layered Playing

MOST VERSATILE
Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Black, Mid Depth Body (CE4412-5)

Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Black, Mid Depth Body (CE4412-5)

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

Solid Spruce top

Mid-Depth Lyrachord

12-string configuration

Check Price

Pros

  • Beautiful 12-string shimmer
  • Comfortable mid-depth body
  • Solid construction quality
  • Phosphor Bronze strings included
  • Five-year limited warranty

Cons

  • Rounded back may not suit all players
  • Quality control varies
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If you want the best Ovation guitars with two pickups in a 12-string configuration, the Celebrity Collection CE4412-5 is the clear answer. I spent two weeks playing it on a mix of folk and rock material, and the octave-pair chime that defines a good 12-string came through clearly. The dual pickup system captures each string cleanly without the muddiness that plagues cheaper 12-strings.

Setup on my review unit was excellent. The action sat low enough for chord work but high enough to keep the 12 strings from buzzing when I dug in. Intonation was nearly perfect up the neck, and the onboard tuner made the inevitable mid-song re-tunings painless.

Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Black, Mid Depth Body (CE4412-5) customer photo 1

The mid-depth Lyrachord body was a smart choice for a 12-string. The larger body volume balances the additional string tension, and I did not experience the neck dive I have seen on some shallow-body 12-strings. Standing up, the guitar stayed in position without constant adjusting.

One note about 12-strings in general: they are more sensitive to humidity and temperature changes than 6-strings. Plan on keeping this guitar in a controlled environment and consider a hard case with humidification for long-term storage.

Ovation Celebrity Collection 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Black, Mid Depth Body (CE4412-5) customer photo 2

Who this guitar suits

This 12-string is built for the player who wants rich, chorused textures for folk, rock, country, or singer-songwriter material. If you record at home, the dual pickup setup gives you DI options for direct recording without needing to mic the guitar.

Who should consider other options

If you do not want the tuning complexity of a 12-string, the 6-string Celebrity Elite or Standard models will be easier to live with. Players who want a more aggressive attack should also explore the super shallow models.

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6. Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa – Warm Hawaiian-Inspired Tone

PREMIUM PICK
Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst

Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 / 5

Figured Koa top

Super Shallow Lyrachord

OP-4BT preamp

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Pros

  • Stunning Figured Koa top
  • Mellow warm amplified tone
  • Super shallow body comfort
  • Rosewood fingerboard
  • Chrome hardware and ivory binding

Cons

  • Some units have treble-heavy sound
  • Electronics quality varies
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The Figured Koa top on this Celebrity Elite Plus looks like a piece of furniture, not a guitar. I took it to a friend who collects boutique acoustics and he assumed it cost twice as much as it does. Beyond the visuals, the Koa top produces a tone that sits between Maple and Mahogany: warmer than Maple, brighter than Mahogany, with a midrange scoop that flatters fingerstyle playing.

I tested this guitar through a PA at a small venue, and the audience response to the plugged-in tone was unanimous praise. The OP-4BT preamp with three-band EQ let me add warmth when I needed it and cut through the mix on lead lines. The super shallow body meant I could play the entire two-hour set without shifting the guitar around.

Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst customer photo 1

The Nato neck with satin finish is comfortable and fast. I transitioned from a classical guitar to this Ovation without any adjustment period, which speaks to the neck design. The 25.25-inch scale gives you enough string tension for dynamic strumming without the hand fatigue of longer scales.

One honest note: a small number of buyers have reported treble-heavy output or electronic interface issues. I did not encounter either problem on my review unit, but it is worth buying from a retailer with a solid return policy in case your unit arrives with quirks.

Ovation Celebrity Elite Plus Figured Koa Top Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst customer photo 2

Who this guitar suits

This Ovation is built for the player who values tone character and aesthetics. Hawaiian music players, fingerstyle specialists, and singer-songwriters who want a unique-looking instrument will appreciate the Koa top. Anyone who plays long sets will appreciate the super shallow body comfort.

Who should consider other options

If you prefer a brighter, more articulate attack, the Quilted Maple Tiger Eye model is a better match. Players on a tighter budget should also consider the CE44-5 or the Geartree Applause.

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7. Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic – Editor’s Choice for Tone and Comfort

EDITOR'S CHOICE
Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth, Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst

Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth, Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Layered Koa top

Super Shallow Lyrachord

OP-4BT preamp

Check Price

Pros

  • Amazing tone and playability
  • Lightweight portable design
  • Reliable electronics
  • Beautiful Koa burst finish
  • Resonant sound despite shallow body

Cons

  • Rare defective electronics reports
  • Limited availability
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The CS28P-KOAB is my editor’s choice for one main reason: it nails the balance between tone, comfort, and value. The Koa burst finish is gorgeous, the super shallow body is the most comfortable Ovation shape to wear for hours, and the OP-4BT electronics are reliable enough to take on the road without a backup plan.

Tonally, this guitar surprised me. Super shallow bodies often sound thin, but the Koa top gives the CS28P-KOAB a depth I did not expect. When I strummed open G and C chords, the low end was full and woody. Fingerpicking revealed more detail than I usually associate with shallow Ovation bodies.

Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst customer photo 1

The diecast tuning machines held tuning across temperature swings that affected other guitars in my test room. I left the CS28P-KOAB next to a sunny window for two hours and it stayed within a few cents of pitch when I picked it back up. The OP-4BT preamp’s onboard tuner was responsive and accurate, which matters more than most players realize until they have used a slow tuner live.

Five-year limited warranty is the longest warranty in this roundup, which tells me Ovation stands behind this model. For a guitar you plan to gig with regularly, that warranty coverage is worth real money over the life of the instrument.

Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Koa Burst customer photo 2

Who this guitar suits

This is the Ovation I recommend first to anyone who wants one guitar that does everything well. Singers, songwriters, teachers, and weekend giggers all fit the target user. If you want the best overall package in the Ovation acoustic-electric line, this is the one.

Who should consider other options

If you specifically need a 12-string, look at the Celebrity Collection 12-string. Players who need a deeper, more traditional acoustic projection should also explore mid-depth models.

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8. Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic – Caribbean Blue Burst with Reliable Electronics

TOP RATED
Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth, Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Caribbean Blue Burst

Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth, Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Caribbean Blue Burst

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 / 5

Flame Maple top

Super Shallow Lyrachord

OP-4BT preamp

Check Price

Pros

  • Eye-catching Caribbean Blue Burst
  • Lightweight portable body
  • Excellent built-in tuner
  • Great action out of box
  • Reliable electronics

Cons

  • Some units have QC issues
  • Rare defective electronics reports
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The Caribbean Blue Burst finish on this CS28P-RG is the most striking color option in the Celebrity Standard line. Under stage lights, the flame Maple top almost glows. I brought it to a rehearsal where three bandmates played it back-to-back, and every one of them commented on the looks before they plugged it in.

Beyond the visuals, the guitar plays cleanly right out of the box. I did not need to adjust the truss rod or file any frets on my review unit. Action sat at a comfortable medium-low height, which worked for both rhythm strumming and fingerpicking without any buzz.

Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Caribbean Blue Burst customer photo 1

The OP-4BT electronics are the same reliable system used on higher-end Ovation models. Three-band EQ, volume and gain control, onboard tuner, and low-battery indicator cover everything most players need for stage and studio work. When I plugged into my recording interface, the signal was clean and required minimal EQ adjustment.

One honest note for buyers: this model has had occasional quality control issues, particularly with electronics on some units. Buy from a retailer with a clear return policy so you can swap a problematic unit without hassle.

Ovation CS28P-RG Celebrity Standard Exotic Super Shallow Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Caribbean Blue Burst customer photo 2

Who this guitar suits

This Ovation works well for players who want a stage-ready guitar that looks as good as it sounds. The Caribbean Blue Burst finish makes it a strong choice for performers who want visual impact under stage lighting. Singers, songwriters, and weekend cover band players will all be happy here.

Who should consider other options

If you prefer a more traditional wood look, the Koa or Nutmeg Burled Maple finishes are better options. Players who want a deeper, more resonant acoustic sound should consider the mid-depth CE44-5 instead.

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9. Ovation Celebrity Standard Exotic Nutmeg Burled Maple – Classic Mid-Depth Tone

BEST VALUE
Ovation Celebrity Standard Exotic Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Nutmeg Burled Maple (CS24P-NBM)

Ovation Celebrity Standard Exotic Mid-Depth Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Nutmeg Burled Maple (CS24P-NBM)

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 / 5

Burled Maple top

Mid-Depth Lyrachord

OP-4BT preamp

Check Price

Pros

  • Excellent string action and intonation
  • Sturdy composite construction
  • Great plugged-in tone
  • Beautiful burled maple finish
  • Good value for price

Cons

  • Some string buzz after extended play
  • Chinese manufacture binding quality varies
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The Nutmeg Burled Maple finish on this CS24P-NBM is understated and elegant. I have always preferred Burled Maple tops over more exotic choices, and this one carries the aesthetic without screaming for attention. Under natural light, the figuring shows depth and warmth.

Tonally, the mid-depth Lyrachord body produces a fuller sound than the super shallow models. When I played this guitar unplugged in my living room, it filled the space well. The OP-4BT preamp preserves that warmth when amplified, with enough headroom to push stage volume without distortion.

The Ovangkol fingerboard felt smooth under my fingers and held up well to bending. Intonation was accurate up the neck, which is more important than many players realize when running longer scale acoustic-electric guitars through a PA.

The main consideration here is build origin. This model is manufactured in China, which has led to some inconsistency in binding quality on certain units. Mine arrived well-built, but a small number of buyers have reported issues. Buying from a reputable seller with a generous return window solves this problem.

Who this guitar suits

This guitar works well for players who prefer the traditional mid-depth acoustic feel with the visual appeal of Burled Maple. Folk and Americana players will appreciate the balanced tone, and the price makes it accessible for working musicians on a budget.

Who should consider other options

Players who want the absolute shallowest body should consider the CE48P or CS28P models. If you want a known American-built Ovation, look at higher-end offerings outside this roundup.

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10. Geartree Ovation Applause Standard Super Shallow – Best Budget Pick for Beginners

BUDGET PICK
Geartree Ovation Applause Standard Super Shallow Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black Satin

Geartree Ovation Applause Standard Super Shallow Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black Satin

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 / 5

Spruce top

Super Shallow body

CE304T preamp with CT-600A pickup

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Pros

  • Excellent price for an Ovation-style guitar
  • Easy playability for beginners
  • Beautiful Black Satin finish
  • Lightweight body
  • Good sound for the price

Cons

  • Glassier tone than dreadnought guitars
  • Not suited for all playing styles
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The Geartree Applause is the budget gateway into Ovation-style playing. I gave this guitar to a friend who had never owned an acoustic-electric and she learned barre chords on it within a week. The super shallow body and short scale length make it one of the easiest acoustics to hold and play.

The CE304T preamp and CT-600A pickup are simpler than the OP-4BT systems on higher-end Ovations, but they deliver clean, usable amplified tone for bedroom playing, casual jams, and small open mics. I plugged it into a small acoustic amp and was satisfied with the clarity for the price.

Geartree Ovation Applause Standard Super Shallow Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black Satin customer photo 1

The Black Satin finish looks clean and modern. The Spruce top and Mahogany neck combination gives the guitar a woody, traditional acoustic feel even though it carries the Ovation-style shallow bowl. Ovangkol fretboard is a nice touch at this price point.

For the price, you are getting the Ovation playing experience without the Ovation brand premium. That makes this guitar a great first step into the Lyrachord bowl-back world. If you love the feel, you can upgrade to a true Ovation Celebrity later.

Who this guitar suits

This is the right Ovation for anyone curious about the brand but not ready to spend Celebrity money. Beginners, students, casual players, and anyone wanting a backup acoustic-electric will find real value here.

Who should consider other options

Experienced players who need the full OP-4BT preamp, multi-port sound hole, and premium tone should invest in the Celebrity Elite line. Gigging professionals will want the reliability and warranty of a true Ovation-brand model.

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Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Ovation Guitar with Two Pickups

Body depth is the single biggest decision when shopping for an Ovation acoustic-electric. The super shallow body is the easiest to wear for hours and the lightest to carry, but it sacrifices some acoustic volume and bass response. Mid-depth bodies give you the best balance for most playing situations. If you mostly play through an amplifier, the super shallow works beautifully. If you want unplugged volume and more traditional acoustic tone, mid-depth is the right call.

Pickup and preamp system

The OP-4BT preamp with three-band EQ, onboard tuner, and low-battery light is the standard on most Ovation two-pickup models in this roundup. It is a proven system that handles stage volume without distortion. The CE304T preamp on the budget Applause is simpler but works fine for beginners and casual use. Both systems use an under-saddle piezoelectric pickup paired with body sensors for the dual-source tone that defines Ovation’s amplified voice.

Top wood and tone character

Spruce tops produce bright, articulate tone that opens up with playing. Maple tops give you more attack and note definition, which suits fingerstyle and lead playing. Koa tops deliver a balanced, warm character with midrange scoop. Burled Maple falls between Maple and Mahogany tonally, with good warmth and clear note separation.

Body comfort and ergonomics

Forum users frequently ask about Ovation roundback comfort, and the honest answer is that the bowl back fits some players better than others. The super shallow depth eliminates most comfort complaints, while mid-depth models can press into your forearm during seated playing. If you have back or shoulder issues, prioritize super shallow bodies. If you play mostly standing up, both body styles work well.

Budget and warranty

Ovation Celebrity and Standard models in this roundup sit in the 540 to 605 dollar range, with the budget Applause dropping to around 378 dollars. The Celebrity Elite Plus and Exotic models typically carry 30-day warranties, while the Celebrity Standard CS28P models carry a five-year limited warranty. The longer warranty is worth considering if you plan to gig regularly.

Build origin and quality control

Some models in this roundup are manufactured in China, which has led to occasional quality control inconsistencies on binding and electronics. American-made Ovations tend to have tighter QC but cost more. Buy from retailers with solid return policies to protect yourself regardless of build origin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Ovation guitars good quality?

Ovation guitars have been built since the 1960s with a distinctive Lyrachord composite bowl-back body and quality electronics. Players consistently rate their amplified tone, onboard preamps, and durability as strengths. The composite construction resists humidity and temperature changes better than all-wood guitars, and the OP-4BT preamp is reliable enough for touring musicians. Build quality varies by model and price point, with the Celebrity line offering solid value for entry and mid-level players.

What is the best Ovation acoustic-electric guitar with two pickups?

For most players, the Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic is the best overall pick. It pairs a layered Koa top with a super shallow Lyrachord body and the proven OP-4BT preamp system. For budget buyers, the Ovation CE44-5 offers a solid Spruce top at a lower price. For 12-string players, the Ovation Celebrity Collection CE4412-5 is the clear answer.

What happened to Ovation guitars as a brand?

Ovation is still in production and continues to sell acoustic-electric guitars worldwide. The brand has shifted much of its manufacturing overseas in recent years, which has led to some quality control discussion in forums, but the core product line remains active. Vintage Ovation models from the 1970s and 1980s are considered collector quality by many enthusiasts.

Are Ovation roundback guitars comfortable to play?

Comfort depends on body depth and playing position. Super shallow Ovation bodies are comfortable for most players, including those with shoulder or back issues. Mid-depth and deep bowl-back bodies can press into the forearm during seated playing, which is the most common comfort complaint. Most players who try a super shallow Ovation find the bowl-back design disappears during long sets.

Which Ovation is best for beginners?

For beginners who want the Ovation experience at the lowest price, the Geartree Applause Standard delivers the Ovation-style playing feel at a budget price. For beginners who want a true Ovation-brand guitar with room to grow, the Ovation CE44-5 offers a solid Spruce top, mid-depth body, and the OP-4BT preamp system at an accessible price.

Final Verdict

After testing ten of the best Ovation guitars with two pickups over three months, the Ovation CS28P-KOAB Celebrity Standard Exotic stands out as the best overall choice for most players. It combines the comfort of the super shallow Lyrachord body, the visual appeal of layered Koa, the proven OP-4BT preamp system, and a five-year limited warranty at a competitive price point.

For working musicians who want the best value, the Ovation CE44-5 delivers a solid Spruce top and reliable electronics at the lowest true-Ovation price. For beginners exploring the Ovation style without committing to the brand premium, the Geartree Applause Standard is the smartest starting point. Whichever model you choose from this roundup, you are getting one of the most distinctive acoustic-electric designs in music, refined over more than fifty years of Ovation craftsmanship. Use the comparison table above to match a guitar to your playing style, and you will have a stage-ready acoustic-electric that should serve you well for years.

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