Acoustic Guitar Body Styles Explained: Dreadnought vs Concert vs Parlor vs Jumbo
When shopping for an acoustic guitar, body shape matters more than most beginners realize. It doesn’t just affect how the guitar looks — it affects how it feels, how it sounds, and how comfortable it is to play. Here’s a quick guide to four of the most common acoustic guitar body styles and how to choose the right one for you.
Dreadnought: The Classic All-Rounder
The dreadnought is the most recognizable acoustic shape — bold, boxy, and loud. It delivers powerful projection with strong bass and midrange, making it a favorite for strumming, flatpicking, and singer-songwriters. If you’re looking for versatility and volume, you can’t go wrong with a dreadnought.
Concert: Comfortable and Balanced
A little smaller than a dreadnought, the concert body is easier to hold and often more comfortable for smaller players or those who sit while playing. Its tone is crisp and balanced — great for fingerpicking and light strumming.
Parlor: Compact and Vintage-Inspired
The parlor guitar is smaller still, with a narrow waist and vintage charm. Don’t let the size fool you — it’s perfect for light playing styles, blues, and folk. Many beginners love the parlor for its comfort and warm, mid-focused tone.
Jumbo: Big Sound, Big Body
Jumbo guitars are the largest of the bunch. They produce booming sound with deep bass and strong projection. If you're performing unplugged or want a bold, resonant tone, the jumbo delivers — though it may be a bit large for some players.
🧠 So Which Should You Choose?
Want a powerful, all-purpose guitar? Go dreadnought.
Prefer something smaller and balanced? Try a concert guitar.
Love vintage looks and folk or blues? A parlor might be your match.
Looking for big, bold, stage-filling sound? Go jumbo.
Still not sure? Reach out or browse our current selection of used and refurbished acoustics — we’re happy to help you find the right fit.