What is a 3/4 Guitar?
The first thing you’ll need to do is find a barre chord diagram, which should be printed on a sheet of paper. Then, all you have to do is tune your guitar to the first string open. That will make it tuned in an open G tuning.
As well as being a great way to learn about guitar, 3/4 guitars are a classic way of playing a song by a band called The Beatles. This technique was used to play the beginning of “In My Life” from the “Rubber Soul” album. Another classic song that uses this technique is “Yesterday”.
Before moving onto location 3, I need to point out that it’s really difficult to play the guitar in an open G tuning. In fact, it can be very tricky at first.
Therefore, when playing in this tuning, you need to play very slowly. This way you can focus on where your fingers are placed when playing each string.
The video below goes into much more detail about how to play a 3/4 guitar. It also tells you about where the 3/4 guitar was invented and provides some examples of artists who have used it.
Types of 3/4 Guitar
The 3/4 guitar, also known as the “four-four” guitar, is one of the most popular types of guitars in use today. It is valued for its versatility; with a 12-string built into the body, it can be tuned to play scordatura or offer up unique tunings like drop D tuning.
Characteristics
The 3/4 guitar has six strings and typically has 4 courses per string. The four-string gives the instrument a wider range of timbres.
The term “quarter” style is not unique to the 3/4 guitar; its predecessor, the 1/2 guitar, had 3 courses per string. The compact, flat shape, and deep cutaway are reminiscent of a viola or cello, and it is often used as a substitute for one. It has also been popularly used as a guitar for classical and baroque enthusiasts and students.
Specification
The guitar is an instrument with six strings.
The guitar has a wooden, rectangular body with two arms extending from the ends at right angles.
At the top of the body is a long, flat surface called a sound box that contains one or more sound holes running across it.
The strings run over metal frets stuck on the inside of the sound box and are stopped by metal-covered points on their underside called tuners. The sharp points of each string are tied to large steel rectangles in these tuners.
What is Full-Size Guitar?
Tired of buying entry-level guitars that don’t perform as well as you’d like? Now there’s a better way to get the real deal. In this article, we’ll discuss what full-size guitar is and why it’s important for your practice and performance. We will also go over some of the best full-size digital guitars on the market that are sure to not disappoint!
Best practices include a closer look at key features that set these models apart from other similar entries. We start the discussion with the Gibson Les Paul Custom, Epiphone Masterbilt EJ-200S, and Epiphone ej200s.
The Gibson Les Paul Custom is a great choice for players looking for both performance and comfortability. The lightweight body of this guitar fits comfortably in most players’ hands. The solid mahogany top gives you lots of sustain, while the carved maple cap gives you even more bite. The 496R and 500T pickups give you a lot of flexibility sonically, and the coil tap function allows you to tailor your tone even further.
The Epiphone Masterbilt EJ-200S is another excellent full-size guitar that offers players a wide range of sound options. The spruce top combined with the maple body gives this guitar a bright and lively tone. The classic sunburst finish lets everyone know that you’re playing a traditional Les Paul, and the gold hardware gives it that high-end look.
Types Of Full-Size Guitar
There are four types of guitars available today: acoustic guitars, electric guitars, bass guitars, and classical guitars. The most common of these is the acoustic guitar. It produces sound solely through natural vibrations that come from its strings which are plucked by hand or with a plectrum (pick). Brass strings may also be present to create different sounds which are better for some folk music.
The electric guitar is used for producing sound through electrical output. This is done by turning the metal screws on its front to adjust the tightening of the strings which then vibrates onto its wood body to produce sound. It may also be played with a plectrum or fingers. Some electric guitars are made solely for creating sounds while others may play one string each time it is activated through either an amplifier or directly connected to another instrument like a computer, iPod, etc…
Specification
The term “Full-Size Guitar” is a widely-used marketing term to describe a guitar that has a size roughly equivalent to the body shape of a dreadnought classical guitar. The term is typically used in reference to guitars manufactured by Gibson, Fender, and other ‘major’ manufacturers, which are generally fitted with much larger bodies intended for use in rock music styles.
The Differences of 3/4 Guitar Vs Full Size
The full-size guitar has around 22 frets, while 3/4 sizes have 16. The full-size guitar is larger in every dimension with a slightly longer body, bigger neck, and a deeper body. A 3/4 size guitar is smaller in most dimensions with a slimmer body, shorter neck, and shallower body.
This means that they are often played by people shorter than 6 feet tall without feeling uncomfortably hunched over the instrument’s 24-inch scale length. Because of this, 3/4 guitars are designed to be easily played sitting down. In addition, the 3/4 size guitar’s smaller scale length makes it easier to play chords and lead melodies.
In general, people who play full-size guitars use a standard open tuning – usually DGDGBD. The body style is simple and straightforward because there isn’t much wood around the nut to weigh it down. A 3/4 guitar is much more geared towards playing chords, so the neck is significantly wider, making it faster to move the fingers up and down between chord changes.
If all open tuning guitars were 3/4 size or smaller, then tuning would be a breeze, but the DGDGBD tuning requires more pressure on the strings to hold their tune because of its small size.
Amp of 3/4 Guitar Vs Full Size
Ever wonder what the difference is between an amp of 3/4 guitar and a full-size guitar? This blog post will discuss the differences as well as relate some good examples of both.
Since many people are unsure what the difference is between an amp of 3/4 guitar and a full-size guitar, this blog post discusses these two different types. It begins by defining what each type normally looks like, before revealing how they work in comparison to each other.
Which is Best?
Both of these models are excellent guitars and we can’t think of a clear winner. The important thing is to find the one that is the best fit for your hands and needs. It might be worth checking out our different options for Acoustic Guitars, electric guitars, or bass guitars depending on what you are looking for. We also have advice on how to choose an acoustic guitar if you need help narrowing down your choice.
Conclusion
- A 3/4 guitar can be played like a full size, but not vice versa
- The advantage of the 3/4 guitar is that it is easier to travel with
- The disadvantage of the 3/4 guitar is that it has less volume than a full size.
The three-quarter-sized guitars are becoming much more popularly used in recent years, due to fewer restrictions on baggage weight for passengers.
FAQ’s
What is the difference between a full-size guitar and a 3/4 size?
A 3/4 sized guitar is reallyaround 7/8 in size compared to a full-sized guitar. The point to remember here is that the names are just trying to simplify the different options. They don’t actually match the size of the guitars.
What are some of the benefits of a 3/4 sized guitar?
The advantage to a 3/4 guitar is usually thatit’s easier for a younger or smaller person to play. The guitar being set up properly is important, since it will be easier to play. There is no correlation between price and setup.
What size guitar is best?
Generally, adults are comfortable with full size guitars (40” Concert size and 41” Dreadnought in acoustic guitars). If you are small in stature consider a 40” Concert size guitar or smaller. If your are very tall consider a 41” Dreadnought size guitar.
Are 3/4 guitars easier?
We got a 3/4 steel string guitar for my kids a few years ago. I think it is the perfect thing to learn. Itis much easier to play…the strings are easier on the fingers and the frets are closer together. Even though it’s small, an adult can play it fine.
FAQ:
Q: What is the best size guitar?
A: An affordable Taylor that sounds way beyond its price point. Scale: 25.5” Taylor’s American Dream series of guitars,although one of their lowest priced offerings,is far from cheap. An innovative acoustic,with unbeatable playability. … A faithful recreation of an Epiphone icon. … A slimmed down jumbo that won’t break the bank. …
Q: What are the best 3 4 guitars?
A: Quick Answers – The Best Traveling Guitars The Best Traveling Guitars Mega-List: Acoustics,electrics,and a few bass guitars because why not? The Best Travel Acoustic Guitars Best Travel Electric Guitars The Best Folding Guitar for Travel Time for Some Other Stringed Travel Instruments Traveling with a Guitar – What to Look For
Q: What are the measurements of a full size guitar?
A: – Body length: 15″ – Body width: 11″ – 12″ – Body depth: Same as full
Q: What is the length of a 3 – 4 guitar?
A: 3/4 guitars have an overall length of about 36″ (91.4 cm) and a scale length of 23″ (58.4 cm). Compared to a standard full-sized guitar, the 3/4 guitars are about 2″ (5 cm) smaller than the smallest parlor full-sized guitar and about 5″ (12.7 cm) smaller than a full-sized dreadnought guitar.
Related Posts:
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- Ukulele vs Guitar – What's the Difference? Find Out
- Best 8-String Guitars On The Market In 2023 (All Budgets)
FAQs
The verdict: Are ¾ guitars better than full size guitars
If the person who will be playing the guitar is shorter than 5 feet, then a ¾ guitar will be easier to handle. What is this? On the other hand, players taller than 5 feet usually find playing a full size guitar much more comfortable.
Do I need a 3 4 or full size guitar? ›
The verdict: Are ¾ guitars better than full size guitars
If the person who will be playing the guitar is shorter than 5 feet, then a ¾ guitar will be easier to handle. What is this? On the other hand, players taller than 5 feet usually find playing a full size guitar much more comfortable.
Is a 3 4 size guitar for adults? ›
Are 3/4 Size Guitars Good for Adults? Adults of all ages and sizes can absolutely use 3/4 size guitars. For the same reason as children using these reduced size guitars, smaller adults, and particularly those with shorter arms and smaller hands will enjoy the improved ergonomics of a smaller guitar.
What age is a 3 4 size guitar for? ›
3/4 guitars are aimed at students aged 10-13 years with a height of approx. 130-150 cm.
Does Ed Sheeran use a 3 4 size guitar? ›
In summary, Ed Sheeran uses 3/4 size guitars, most notably the Martin LX1 series, with which he has a variety of signature models including the new Martin Ed Sheeran Divide Signature Edition Guitar. Sheeran is not just one of the biggest names in music right now - he's also one of the most influential.
Do any professionals play 3 4 guitar? ›
Even professional musicians use 3/4 guitars sometimes. One of the most famous examples is Ed Sheeran, who uses a 3/4 guitar most of the time he is playing. He says that he prefers the tone of the smaller body and thinks it suits his songs better than a normal guitar.
Should I get a 3 4 guitar if I have small hands? ›
Consider buying a ¾ size guitar
There are a ton of ¾ or “travel” sized guitars currently on the market and they are perfect for people with smaller hands. Popular models include the Little Martin, Ed Sheeran's signature Martin, the Baby and Big Baby Taylor, and Fender's Travel acoustic guitars.
Is a 3 4 size guitar a parlor? ›
So what's the difference between a parlor guitar vs 3/4 guitar? A parlor guitar has the same size parts as a standard guitar except for its body. On the other hand, every part of a 3/4 guitar is smaller than a standard-size guitar.
What is the standard guitar size for adults? ›
The most standard scale for full-sized guitars is 25.5 inches (with an overall length of 40 inches) and can be found on most of the major guitar types such as Stratocasters and Telecasters.
What size guitar is best for me? ›
What Size Acoustic Guitar Should You Buy?
| Age | Height | Guitar Size |
|---|
| 5 - 12 years | 100 - 120cm | 3/4 Size |
| 12 - 15 years | 120 - 165cm | Small Body |
| 15+ years | 165cm + | Full Size |
2 more rowsAt around age 12, most children are grown enough to start using the full size guitar. Some manufacturers also offer a 1/4, 1/8 and 7/8 size guitars, but there are not very common and the sizes described here are entirely suitable and even preferable alternatives.
How to choose guitar for 12 year old? ›
Some 10 to 12 year olds are comfortable with a full size adult classical. A petite 14 or 16 year old would be more comfortable with a 3/4 classical kid size or a 3/4 classical adult (concert size).
What is the best size guitar for a 14 year old? ›
| Age | Height (cm) | Recommended Size |
|---|
| 5 - 12 | 100 - 120 | 3/4 Size - See LSP34 |
| 12 - 15 | 120 - 165 | Small Body - See LSPS |
| 15+ | 165 + | Full Size - See LSP |
Dec 1, 2016
Our favorite guitar for Taylor Swift fans is her signature model Baby Taylor acoustic guitar. The guitar is 3/4 size which makes it easy to play and a great guitar to write songs on and practice. In fact, Taylor Swift has been quoted as saying that she would play her baby taylor while on tours, using it to write tunes!
What size guitar does Taylor Swift use? ›
This ¾ size Baby Taylor is one of Taylor's favorites. She had been using this type of guitar since she was still an aspiring songwriter, but in 2009, Taylor Guitars issued this signature model, especially for Swift.
Why does Ed Sheeran play a tiny guitar? ›
Why is Ed Sheeran's Guitar So Small? Ed Sheeran's guitars are so small because he prefers the feel and sound of 3/4 size guitars compared to full-size guitars. The smaller body creates a different type of guitar tone which suits Ed Sheeran's style of music.
What is hardest to play in guitar? ›
Many consider Recuerdos to be the hardest piece ever written for the guitar. It contains an almost continuous tremolo, a technique that requires a guitarist to repeatedly and rapidly pluck the same note.
Are 3 4 guitars quieter? ›
Differences in Sound of 3/4 vs Full Size Guitars
They are also slightly quieter than their full size counterparts (though I doubt your roommates will notice much difference). This makes them great for use in the studio or in a live band where you want to cut through a mix.
What is the easiest guitar to play? ›
Electric guitars are generally the easiest to play: the strings are usually thinner, the 'action' is lower and therefore the strings are easier to press down. The necks are generally narrower too which can help in the early stages.
Did Kurt Cobain have small hands? ›
Kurt Cobain had small hands and was short, but he was spectacular.
Classical Guitar
Classical guitars are traditionally played with nylon strings, which are by far the easiest type of string material on your fingers.
What height should a 3 4 guitar be? ›
3/4 Guitar
This 3/4 size guitar would be a suitable for an average age of 8 though 12, or anyone that is between 4'6” and 4'11” tall. Note: Any individual under 6' tall may also prefer a smaller size guitar. In this case, someone closer to 5' tall might prefer a 3/4, or even a 7/8 size guitar.
What is a 3 4 guitar called? ›
3/4 size guitars are for young students between 8 and 11 years. They are also called 36 inch guitars. This guitar size and 1/2 size guitars are the most sold student guitars for kids and youth. Most kids and youth start learning guitar between 6 and 10 years at school or with a private guitar teacher.
Why is it called parlor guitar? ›
The name parlor guitar comes from the performances in small venues such as home parlors during the early 1900s. These guitars have historically been used for music genres such as folk and the blues, but their versatility can stretch into any genre requiring an acoustic guitar.
What is the most popular guitar size? ›
41" Full Size Dreadnought:
The most popular guitar size in the world. If you want bass, volume & power the full size dreadnought delivers the best overall combination of comfort, playability and sound quality.
Does guitar size affect sound? ›
The common accepted view on the impact of size to the tonal qualities of an acoustic guitar will tell you that the smaller the body the more treble response and brightness the instrument will have while the larger you go will give more potential for bass response.
What is the most popular acoustic guitar size? ›
Dreadnought (D) – Buy a dreadnought if: You want the most standard and popular acoustic guitar size, with more projection, bass and wider range than smaller sizes (1).
What size guitar is best for fingerstyle? ›
Small-bodied acoustics
It's almost impossible to qualify what 'small-bodied' means because standards differ from one manufacturer to another, but a popular size is 000. Alternatively, Grand Auditorium, Auditorium, Grand Concert, Concert and 00 guitars can all make excellent fingerstyle instruments.
What size guitar for a woman? ›
Most women guitar players prefer Parlor guitars as it sits low on the knee and possesses a lovely tone. The size of these guitars ranges from 36 inches to 38 inches. The auditorium guitar is a large guitar similar to Dreadnoughts but curvier and less thick.
What size is a youth guitar? ›
Pick the right guitar size for your child
| Guitar Size | Overall Length | Age |
|---|
| 1/4 | ~ 30" | 4-6 years |
| 1/2 | ~ 34" | 5-8 years |
| 3/4 | ~ 36" | 8-11 years |
| 7/8 | ~ 39" | from 10 years |
1 more rowWhile it's true that learning new things and new concepts gets harder as you get older, it's almost always possible to learn guitar, even into your 60s and 70s. For seniors, the biggest issue will likely be having the physical mobility in their hands necessary to play, primarily as it relates to your flexor tendons.
Is 70 too old to learn guitar? ›
One of the most common questions I am asked is: am I too old to learn guitar? You are never too old to learn guitar. You can start learning guitar at any age. While younger people tend to learn faster, you are still capable of learning guitar as a beginner whether you are 30, 40, 60, or even 70.
Can a beginner start on a 12 string guitar? ›
Get Started With Learning 12-String Guitar
If you already know how to play a standard 6-string guitar, learning the 12-string can take your music to a whole new level. Pick one up today and see for yourself just how beautiful it sounds!
Is 15 years old too late to learn guitar? ›
It's never too late to learn guitar! While there are definite advantages to learning the guitar at an early age, all it really takes is the desire to learn and the motivation to practice.
Should a beginner get a 12 string guitar? ›
It depends on the instrument they want to learn, but a six-string standard guitar will be easier for beginners to learn. If you want to learn how to play a guitar, it's best to stick to a 12-string model. A 12 string is required in order to play some of your favorite classics.
Does guitar size matter? ›
Guitars are not one-size-fits-all! Picking the correct size is most important because if you are uncomfortable playing something too large for you then you will have less motivation to pick it up to play.
What size guitar should a beginner use? ›
As a beginner, you would want the 38-inch guitar if you're a small person for the following reasons: Smaller guitars can have thinner fretboards–this means it will be easier to reach from the top of the fretboard to the bottom (something that's extremely necessary to do while making chords).
Can a 9 year old play a full size electric guitar? ›
Electric guitars are typically played by children between the ages of eight and eleven. 3/4 guitars are the most commonly used. Children who are 5'3 tall or older should begin playing an electric guitar with a full size.
Will a 3 4 guitar fit in a full size case? ›
No, a 3/4 guitar will not fit in a standard case. A 3/4 guitar is a smaller guitar, usually meant for children or people with smaller hands. They are typically about 3/4 the size of a full-sized guitar. Standard guitar cases are made to fit full-sized guitars, so a 3/4 guitar will not fit inside one.
What size guitar should a 5 3 person get? ›
You can generally expect a full-sized guitar to be 40 inches in length, a size that is best fitted to people over the height of five feet and three inches. For adults smaller than this height, the slightly smaller ⅞ size might be more appropriate.
Pick the right guitar size for your child
| Guitar Size | Overall Length | Age |
|---|
| 1/2 | ~ 34" | 5-8 years |
| 3/4 | ~ 36" | 8-11 years |
| 7/8 | ~ 39" | from 10 years |
| 4/4 | ~ 40" | from 12 years |
1 more rowWhy is Ed Sheeran's Guitar So Small? Ed Sheeran's guitars are so small because he prefers the feel and sound of 3/4 size guitars compared to full-size guitars. The smaller body creates a different type of guitar tone which suits Ed Sheeran's style of music.
Do 3 4 guitars have smaller necks? ›
Neck Dimensions
Some full-size and 3/4 versions of the same guitar model will have the same neck specifications in terms of fretboard width, neck depth and overall shape. Some 3/4 versions however will have slimmer feeling necks with a narrower nut width. Let's take the Martin Dreadnoughts as an example.
Should kids learn on full size guitar? ›
At around age 12, most children are grown enough to start using the full size guitar. Some manufacturers also offer a 1/4, 1/8 and 7/8 size guitars, but there are not very common and the sizes described here are entirely suitable and even preferable alternatives.
What is the best guitar size for adults? ›
Generally, adults are comfortable with full size guitars (40” Concert size and 41” Dreadnought in acoustic guitars). If you are small in stature consider a 40” Concert size guitar or smaller. If your are very tall consider a 41” Dreadnought size guitar.
What size guitar for a 14 year old? ›
Some 10 to 12 year olds are comfortable with a full size adult classical. A petite 14 or 16 year old would be more comfortable with a 3/4 classical kid size or a 3/4 classical adult (concert size).
Who is a 3 4 size guitar for? ›
3/4 size guitars are generally for ages 7-11. However, many adult players love them too! At 3/4 size we recommend steel string, unless playing or focusing on classical music. With the 3/4 size, because the body of the guitar is a bit bigger, you are going to feel more volume and body come through the instrument.
