Tommy Pick is a blues guitarist and a record producer. He has been playing the guitar for more than 25 years and has produced albums for several blues bands. Tommy enjoys writing about the history of blues music and advanced guitar techniques.
Hey there! If you're considering an OM sized acoustic guitar as your primary instrument, you're in for a treat. The OM, or Orchestra Model, is a versatile and balanced guitar that offers a unique playing experience. As an experienced guitarist, I'm here to guide you through the key differences you'll need to adapt to when choosing an OM sized acoustic guitar.
First off, let's talk about the size. The OM guitar typically falls between a dreadnought and a concert-sized guitar. It has a smaller body, which means it's more comfortable to hold and play for extended periods. This can be a game-changer if you're used to larger guitars and want something that's easier on your body during long practice sessions or performances.
Now, the smaller body size does have an impact on the sound. OM guitars are known for their balanced tone, with a clear and defined midrange. They offer a sweet and articulate sound that's perfect for fingerstyle playing, but they can also handle strumming and flatpicking with ease. The smaller body size also contributes to a quicker response, allowing for greater dynamic range and tonal expressiveness.
When it comes to adapting your playing style, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the shorter scale length of an OM guitar can make it feel a bit different under your fingers. The shorter scale length means the frets are closer together, which can make certain chord shapes and stretches easier to play. It's a great choice if you have smaller hands or if you're looking for a guitar that's more forgiving on your fingers.
Another aspect to consider is the string tension. Due to the smaller body size, OM guitars tend to have slightly lower string tension compared to larger guitars. This can affect the feel and responsiveness of the instrument. It might take a little time to adjust to the lighter touch required, but once you do, you'll find that it opens up new possibilities for nuanced playing and expressive techniques.
Lastly, the tonal balance of an OM guitar means that you might need to adjust your playing technique to bring out the best in the instrument. With its emphasis on the midrange, you'll want to pay attention to your picking and strumming dynamics to ensure that the notes are well-articulated and balanced. Experiment with different picking angles and hand positions to find the sweet spot that brings out the richness of the guitar's tone.
In conclusion, choosing an OM sized acoustic guitar as your primary instrument offers a comfortable playing experience and a balanced, articulate tone. Adapting to the smaller body size, shorter scale length, and lower string tension might take a little time, but it's well worth the effort. So go ahead, explore the world of OM guitars, and let your playing soar to new heights!
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