A Brief History of the Dreadnought
The dreadnought body shape was introduced by Martin Guitars in 1916, named after the British battleship HMS Dreadnought. It was designed to produce a louder sound that could project over other instruments in ensemble settings, making it ideal for the booming American folk and bluegrass scenes of the early 20th century. The dreadnought’s success was undeniable, and it quickly became the gold standard for acoustic guitars, favored by legendary musicians for its powerful voice.
The Dreadnought Dilemma
For decades, the dreadnought body shape has been the go-to choice for guitarists seeking big, bold sound. Its large body and deep resonance have made it a staple in the world of acoustic guitars. However, this iconic shape is not without its drawbacks. While the dreadnought delivers impressive volume, it often sacrifices comfort and tonal nuance in the process.
The sheer size of the dreadnought can make it cumbersome to play, especially for those with smaller frames or anyone looking for a more ergonomic experience. Its boxy shape can dig into the player’s body during long sessions, leading to discomfort and fatigue. Additionally, the emphasis on volume doesn’t always equate to superior sound quality. The booming bass can overshadow the midrange and treble, resulting in a less balanced and articulate tonal profile.
The Birth of the Concerto
Breedlove introduced the Concerto body shape in 2017, aiming to address the limitations of the dreadnought while enhancing its strengths. The design process involved extensive research and development, including input from musicians and acoustic engineers. The goal was to create a guitar that offered superior sound quality and playability. The Concerto quickly gained acclaim for its ability to produce a rich, full-bodied tone that maintains clarity and balance across all frequencies.
Sound: Bigger and Better
One of the most remarkable achievements of the Concerto is its ability to produce a sound that’s not just big, but better. Breedlove’s meticulous design process has ensured that the Concerto delivers a rich, full-bodied tone that maintains clarity and balance across all frequencies. The low end is powerful yet controlled, the midrange is warm and inviting, and the treble sings with crystal-clear precision.
The enhanced sound chamber and optimized bracing patterns work together to produce a guitar that resonates beautifully and projects effortlessly. Whether you’re strumming chords or fingerpicking intricate melodies, the Concerto responds with a dynamic range and sensitivity that surpasses the traditional dreadnought.
Try a Concerto and Experience the Difference Firsthand!
The Breedlove Concerto body shape is a game-changer for acoustic guitarists. It addresses the inherent issues of the dreadnought, offering a more comfortable playing experience without compromising on sound quality. In fact, it enhances it. If you’re a guitarist who has longed for the big sound of a dreadnought but struggled with its bulky nature, the Concerto is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Visit your local Breedlove dealer and ask to demo a Concerto for yourself. Experience firsthand how this innovative design can elevate your playing and redefine your expectations of an acoustic guitar. View all Concerto guitars here.
