Ovation Adamas II 1681-8, manufactured in 1981

Ovation / 1981 Adamas II 1681-8

Today, we’re featuring a 1981 Adamas II 1681-8.

Looking back at Ovation’s history, records show that the Adamas II was officially launched in early 1982.
This means that 1981—the year this instrument was manufactured—was the dawn of the series, just before its official release. It can be said that this is one of the very earliest models, assembled by craftsmen with near-prototype-level passion as they staked their professional reputations on it.

The essence of the Adamas—Ovation’s flagship model—lies in the fusion of an ultra-thin carbon-graphite top, born from aerospace technology, and the unique Deep Bowl Lyra-Code body.

The soundboard, astonishingly thin by conventional acoustic guitar standards, instantly transforms the vibrations of the strings into beautiful acoustic energy.When you strum a
chord, a deep, rich bass range—so deep it seems to crawl along the ground—shakes the body in a way that no modern guitar can replicate, while crystal-clear treble that pleasantly pierces the ears fills the space.
This overwhelmingly fast attack and the unique sense of compression—which never breaks down no matter how hard you pick—are truly one-of-a-kind characteristics exclusive to the Adamas of this era.

And perhaps the greatest highlight for lovers of the vintage Adamas is the wooden volume and tone knobs—commonly known as the “Wood 2-Knob” configuration—mounted on the side of the body.

Unlike the graphic equalizers (such as the OP preamp) found in later models, the discrete FET preamp featured in this earliest model boasts a surprisingly thick and organic tone, free of any unnecessary coloration.

Capable of both mono and stereo output, this circuit delivers a sound that sends the warmth and overwhelming sense of space—as if it were passing through a high-quality tube amp—directly to the line.
The moment you plug in, the legendary tone that the masters of yesteryear etched into the grooves of their records is brought back to life with stunning vividness on modern stages and in recording studios.

In terms of aesthetics, the Adamas represents the pinnacle of design.

Its beautiful “Reverse Blue Burst” finish, which gradually brightens toward the edges, shifts its appearance depending on the viewing angle and exudes a breathtaking presence under stage lights.
The silhouette created by the Adamas’ signature multi-soundhole (epaulet) design transcends the boundaries of a mere instrument, making it a true work of art.

Once on stage, its overwhelming presence and exceptional sound projection are sure to captivate the eyes and ears of fellow performers and the audience alike.

[Specs/Included Case]
TOP: Carbon Graphite
BACK/SIDES: Lyrachord
FINGERBOARD/BRIDGE: Walnut
NECK: Mahogany, Maple, Walnut (5-piece)
NUT WIDTH: 43.0 mm
SCALE: 640 mm
Electronics: FET Preamp
CASE: Original Hard Shell Case

[Repair/Modification History / Replaced Parts / Cosmetic Condition, etc.]
*Please note that as this is a used/vintage item, the information provided is based on our inspection.
- The tuning
pegs show slight discoloration, but the instrument is otherwise in good overall condition.

[Playing Condition]
- String action at the 12th fret: 2.5 mm on the 6th string side, 1.8 mm on the 1st string side
- The electronics are in good working order and the guitar plays without any issues. - There are no playing issues such as
buzzing or muffled tones.

[Peace of Mind Warranty: 6 Months]

[Mail-Order Assurance Service]
Since we are unable to offer customers the opportunity to try out the instrument when purchasing via mail order, we provide a 6-day trial period after the product arrives. Please take your time to try out the product
at home, and if you are not satisfied,
we will refund the purchase price. *The customer is responsible for round-trip shipping costs.