1994 1860 Custom Balladeer

🔽Now is the time to deeply explore the 'Ideal Acoustic' Ovation has pursued!

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Ovation / 1994 1860 Custom Balladeer

A rounded body back, materials distinct from wood, and an exceptionally unique look.
It may seem far removed from the "traditional acoustic image" of Martins or Gibsons, and some may find it jarring.
Yet, there's a reason why once you fall for Ovation, it's hard to go back.
It's because this guitar was built from the ground up with a philosophy distinct from that of a "wooden box guitar."

This time, we introduce the 1860 Custom Balladeer.
The first thing that catches your eye is undoubtedly the lyra-shaped body and resin construction.
Viewed as an acoustic guitar, you might wonder, "What's going on here?" But when you actually play it, its purpose becomes crystal clear.
The way the sound spreads isn't "spatial" but "three-dimensional."
The resonance doesn't just circulate inside the box; it feels like it's projecting forward like a beam.

The density of the midrange is particularly unique, possessing a piercing presence rarely found in other acoustics.
This isn't about whether it resonates or not; the very character of the sound image is fundamentally different.
Even when playing chords, the contours remain sharp; in arpeggios, each individual note emerges distinctly.
I believe this is one reason Ovation has continued to be favored by musicians.

And then there's the look.
The rounded back alone is intriguing, but this singular presence becomes an incredible asset.
The body reflecting light, the silhouette completely different from a standard acoustic guitar.
It commands attention wherever it goes.

The 1860 Custom Balladeer is the model that most clearly embodies that quintessential Ovation character.
Super Shallow body for excellent playability, FET-3 preamp delivering Ovation's signature Electric Acoustic sound.

And above all, "the moment you play it, you know it sounds different."
This acoustic guitar is perfect for those who want to express their individuality through tone.

[Staff Comment: Mochizuki]
First off, the sunburst Ovation is incredibly cool and stylish.
The thin body and cutaway give it an electric guitar-like feel when playing.
I imagine playing it with thin gauge strings would feel great too—it's fun just thinking about how to use it.

[Specs/Case Included]
BODY: Super Shallow
TOP: Sitka Spruce
BACK/SIDES: Lyrachord
NECK: Mahogany
PRE-AMP: FET-3
SCALE: 640mm
Nut Width: 42.0mm
CASE: Original Hard Shell Case

[Repairs/Modifications/Replaced Parts/Appearance Condition, etc.]
※As this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection.
Please be aware of this beforehand.
-Regarding exterior condition: There is tarnish on the tuning pegs, playing scratches/impact marks on the top, and scratches on the neck.

[Playing Condition]
- String height at the 12th fret: 6th string side 2.6mm, 1st string side 2.0mm
- Saddle clearance: approx. 2.5mm to 3.5mm
- The electronics function properly and can be used without issue.
-No issues affecting playability, such as buzzing or muffled notes.