What is a Big Guitar Called? Exploring the World of Oversized String Instruments

When it comes to musical instruments, size often matters. The guitar, a beloved instrument across genres, has its own variations in size, each offering unique tonal qualities and playing experiences. But what exactly is a big guitar called? The answer is not as straightforward as one might think, as the term “big guitar” can refer to several different instruments, each with its own characteristics and uses. In this article, we will delve into the world of oversized string instruments, exploring their history, design, and the roles they play in music.

The Acoustic Bass Guitar: A Deep Resonance

One of the most common interpretations of a “big guitar” is the acoustic bass guitar. This instrument is essentially a larger version of the standard acoustic guitar, designed to produce lower frequencies. The acoustic bass guitar typically has four strings, tuned to E1, A1, D2, and G2, which are an octave lower than the standard guitar. The larger body and longer scale length contribute to its deep, resonant sound, making it a popular choice for bassists who prefer the acoustic feel over the electric bass.

The acoustic bass guitar is often used in folk, jazz, and world music, where its warm, natural tone complements the acoustic environment. However, it can also be found in rock and pop settings, where it adds a unique texture to the overall sound. The instrument’s size and weight can make it challenging to play for extended periods, but for those who appreciate its rich, full-bodied sound, the effort is well worth it.

The Baritone Guitar: Bridging the Gap

Another contender for the title of “big guitar” is the baritone guitar. This instrument is larger than a standard guitar but smaller than a bass guitar, with a scale length typically ranging from 27 to 30 inches. The baritone guitar is tuned lower than a standard guitar, usually to B1, E2, A2, D3, F#3, and B3, which gives it a deeper, more resonant sound.

The baritone guitar is often used in genres like country, jazz, and metal, where its unique tonal qualities can add depth and complexity to the music. It is also a popular choice for guitarists who want to explore lower registers without switching to a bass guitar. The baritone guitar’s versatility makes it a valuable addition to any musician’s arsenal, offering a wide range of sonic possibilities.

The Harp Guitar: A Fusion of Strings

For those who are looking for something even more unique, the harp guitar might be the answer. This instrument combines the standard guitar with additional unfretted strings, typically located above the main neck. These extra strings can be plucked or strummed to produce harmonic overtones, creating a rich, layered sound that is unlike anything else.

The harp guitar has a long history, dating back to the 19th century, and has been used in a variety of musical styles, from classical to folk. Its complex design and playing technique make it a challenging instrument to master, but for those who are willing to put in the effort, the harp guitar offers a truly unique musical experience.

The Double Neck Guitar: Two Instruments in One

Another fascinating variation of the “big guitar” is the double neck guitar. This instrument features two necks, each with its own set of strings, allowing the player to switch between different tunings or even different types of guitars (e.g., six-string and twelve-string) without having to change instruments. The double neck guitar is often used in rock and progressive music, where its versatility can be a major asset.

The double neck guitar’s size and weight can make it difficult to handle, but for musicians who need the flexibility it offers, the trade-off is worth it. The instrument’s unique design also makes it a visually striking addition to any stage setup, adding an extra layer of spectacle to live performances.

The Resonator Guitar: A Metallic Twist

The resonator guitar is another type of “big guitar” that stands out due to its distinctive sound. This instrument uses one or more metal cones (resonators) to amplify the sound of the strings, giving it a bright, metallic tone that is particularly well-suited to blues, bluegrass, and slide guitar playing.

The resonator guitar comes in several different designs, including the single-cone “biscuit” style and the tri-cone “spider” style. Each design offers its own unique tonal characteristics, making the resonator guitar a versatile instrument that can be used in a variety of musical contexts. The resonator guitar’s unique sound and appearance have made it a favorite among guitarists looking to add a touch of vintage flair to their music.

The Archtop Guitar: A Jazz Icon

The archtop guitar is another type of “big guitar” that has carved out a niche for itself in the world of jazz. This instrument features a curved, arched top and back, which gives it a distinctive look and sound. The archtop guitar is typically equipped with a floating bridge and tailpiece, which contribute to its bright, articulate tone.

The archtop guitar is often used in jazz, where its clear, resonant sound is well-suited to both rhythm and lead playing. It is also a popular choice for fingerstyle guitarists, who appreciate its responsiveness and dynamic range. The archtop guitar’s elegant design and rich tonal qualities have made it a favorite among guitarists for over a century.

The Extended-Range Guitar: Pushing the Boundaries

For those who are looking to push the boundaries of what a guitar can do, the extended-range guitar might be the answer. This type of guitar features more than six strings, typically seven, eight, or even nine, allowing the player to explore a wider range of notes and chords. Extended-range guitars are often used in metal and progressive music, where their additional strings can be used to create complex, layered compositions.

The extended-range guitar’s larger size and additional strings can make it challenging to play, but for those who are willing to put in the effort, the instrument offers a wealth of creative possibilities. The extended-range guitar’s unique design and capabilities have made it a favorite among guitarists who are looking to explore new musical horizons.

The Acoustic-Electric Guitar: The Best of Both Worlds

Finally, the acoustic-electric guitar is another type of “big guitar” that combines the best of both worlds. This instrument is essentially an acoustic guitar that has been equipped with pickups and electronics, allowing it to be amplified and played through a PA system or amplifier. The acoustic-electric guitar is a popular choice for musicians who need the versatility of an electric guitar but prefer the natural sound of an acoustic.

The acoustic-electric guitar’s design allows it to be used in a wide range of musical settings, from intimate acoustic performances to large-scale concerts. Its ability to be amplified without losing its natural tone makes it a valuable tool for any guitarist, offering the best of both acoustic and electric worlds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the term “big guitar” can refer to a variety of instruments, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. From the deep resonance of the acoustic bass guitar to the metallic twang of the resonator guitar, these oversized string instruments offer a wide range of tonal possibilities. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast, a metalhead, or a folk musician, there’s a “big guitar” out there that’s perfect for your musical needs. So the next time someone asks, “What is a big guitar called?” you’ll have a wealth of information to share.

Related Q&A

Q: What is the difference between a baritone guitar and a standard guitar? A: A baritone guitar is larger than a standard guitar and is tuned lower, typically to B1, E2, A2, D3, F#3, and B3. This gives it a deeper, more resonant sound compared to the standard guitar.

Q: Can a harp guitar be used in modern music? A: Yes, the harp guitar can be used in modern music. Its unique sound and design make it a versatile instrument that can add a distinctive touch to various genres, including folk, jazz, and even rock.

Q: What are the advantages of using a double neck guitar? A: The double neck guitar allows the player to switch between different tunings or types of guitars (e.g., six-string and twelve-string) without having to change instruments. This versatility can be a major asset in live performances and studio recordings.

Q: How does a resonator guitar produce its unique sound? A: A resonator guitar uses one or more metal cones (resonators) to amplify the sound of the strings. This gives the instrument a bright, metallic tone that is particularly well-suited to blues, bluegrass, and slide guitar playing.

Q: What genres are archtop guitars commonly used in? A: Archtop guitars are commonly used in jazz, where their clear, resonant sound is well-suited to both rhythm and lead playing. They are also popular among fingerstyle guitarists.

Q: What is the benefit of using an extended-range guitar? A: An extended-range guitar, with its additional strings, allows the player to explore a wider range of notes and chords. This can be particularly useful in metal and progressive music, where complex, layered compositions are common.

Q: Can an acoustic-electric guitar be used without amplification? A: Yes, an acoustic-electric guitar can be used without amplification, just like a standard acoustic guitar. However, its built-in pickups and electronics allow it to be amplified when needed, making it a versatile choice for various performance settings.