Find out the typical weight of an acoustic guitar and case, including different materials and sizes. Compare options to find the best fit for your needs.
When embarking on the musical journey of learning to play the acoustic guitar, many people wonder how much it weighs and what the extra load of a guitar case adds to that. It’s important for musicians to know the weight of their instrument, especially if they’re planning on taking it to practices, jam sessions, or gigs.
The truth is, guitars come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each contributing to different weights.
Additionally, the type of guitar case also plays a role in the total weight that you’ll be carrying around. In this article, we will explore the weight range of acoustic guitars and cases, helping you understand the factors that contribute to the overall weight of your instrument.
By understanding these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose a guitar and case that suit your preferences and needs, making your musical journey more enjoyable and comfortable.
What factors affect the weight of an acoustic guitar?
Type of wood
The type of wood used to make a guitar can affect its weight. For instance, guitars made from lightweight woods such as spruce or cedar will weigh less than guitars made from heavier woods like mahogany or rosewood.
Type of guitar
The type of guitar can also impact its weight. For example, a dreadnought guitar is generally larger and heavier than a concert or grand concert guitar.
Pickup
If the guitar has a pickup, this can also add to its overall weight. Pickups are usually installed to amplify the sound of the guitar and are commonly found in acoustic-electric guitars.
How heavy is an acoustic guitar?
Average weight
The average weight of an acoustic guitar is around 2.2 kg (about 5 lbs). However, the weight of a guitar can vary depending on factors such as the materials used, the size of the guitar, and the type of acoustic guitar.
Weight of the guitar
The weight of an acoustic guitar can range from about 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) to over 6 kg (13 lbs), depending on the type and size of the guitar. A full-size guitar is usually heavier than a smaller guitar, such as a travel guitar.
Type of acoustic guitar
Different types of acoustic guitars can also have different weights. A dreadnought guitar is usually heavier than a concert or grand concert guitar. Additionally, a guitar with a cutaway design may weigh slightly more than one without a cutaway.
What is the weight of an acoustic guitar case?
Type of case
The weight of an acoustic guitar case can vary depending on the type of case. A hard case will generally weigh more than a gig bag, which is made from lightweight materials. A flight case, which is designed for traveling, can also be heavier than a regular hard case.
Hardshell case vs gig bag
A hardshell case will typically weigh between 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) and 6 kg (13 lbs), while a gig bag will weigh less than 2 kg (4.5 lbs).
Weight of the case
The weight of the case can depend on the type of wood used, the overall design, and the size of the case. Some cases are also lined with padding to protect the guitar, which can add to the overall weight.
How does the weight of an electric guitar compare to that of an acoustic guitar?
Difference in weight
Electric guitars are generally lighter than acoustic guitars. This is mainly due to the fact that electric guitars are made from thinner materials and do not require a sound hole, which can add to the weight of an acoustic guitar.
Type of electric guitar
The weight of an electric guitar can vary depending on the type of electric guitar. For example, solid-body electric guitars are typically lighter than hollow-body or semi-hollow-body electric guitars.
Weight of the electric guitar case
The weight of the case for an electric guitar is similar to that of an acoustic guitar case and will depend on the type of case and materials used.
How can a lighter guitar be achieved?
Materials used
One way to achieve a lighter guitar is to use materials such as carbon fiber or aluminum instead of traditional wood. These materials are lightweight and can also provide additional benefits, such as increased durability and resistance to temperature changes.
Dreadnought vs Concert and Grand Concert
Choosing a smaller guitar, such as a concert or grand concert guitar, can also result in a lighter guitar. These guitars are generally lighter than larger dreadnought guitars.
The Fender acoustic guitar is a lighter alternative
Fender makes a line of acoustic guitars called the Fender Acoustasonic series, which are designed to be lightweight and comfortable to play. These guitars feature a unique blend of traditional acoustic guitar and digital modeling technology.
FAQ
Q: How much does an acoustic guitar weigh?
A: The weight of an acoustic guitar varies depending on its size, type of wood, and construction, but on average, an acoustic guitar weighs around 4-5 lbs (1.8-2.3 kg).
Dreadnought and jumbo guitars can be slightly heavier, while concert and grand concert guitars tend to be lighter.
Q: How much does a guitar case weigh?
A: A guitar case’s weight depends on its type and materials. Gig bags, which are made of lightweight materials like nylon, typically weigh around 2-3 lbs (0.9-1.4 kg).
Hard cases, providing more protection, can weigh between 8-12 lbs (3.6-5.4 kg), depending on the size and construction material.
Q: What factors affect the weight of a guitar?
A: The guitar’s weight is influenced by its size, type of wood, construction, and hardware. Larger guitars like dreadnoughts and jumbos may weigh more than smaller, concert, and grand concert guitars.
Additionally, some woods like mahogany are heavier than woods like spruce or cedar, which can also affect the guitar’s weight.
Q: How can I determine my acoustic guitar’s weight?
A: You can weigh your guitar by placing it on a scale and noting the measurement. Please ensure the scale is correctly calibrated and set to zero before placing the guitar on it. The weight of the guitar may vary slightly depending on its construction, materials, and hardware.
Q: Is there a difference between the weight of an acoustic guitar and an electric guitar?
A: Yes, electric guitars are usually heavier than acoustic guitars due to their solid body construction and the weight of the pickups, tuners, and other hardware.
Electric guitars typically weigh between 7-10 lbs (3.2-4.5 kg), while acoustic guitars average between 4-5 lbs (1.8-2.3 kg).
Q: How much does a bass guitar weigh?
A: Bass guitars are generally heavier than acoustic guitars, with electric bass guitars weighing around 8-12 lbs (3.6-5.4 kg). The weight of a bass guitar depends on its body, wood type, and hardware.
Acoustic bass guitars can weigh between 5-8 lbs (2.3-3.6 kg), with some variation based on size and construction.
Q: Does the weight of an acoustic guitar affect the tone?
A: The weight of an acoustic guitar can have an impact on the tone and resonance of the instrument. Heavier woods generally provide a warmer, more resonant tone, while lighter woods may produce a brighter, crisper sound.
The construction, materials, and shape of the guitar also contribute to the overall tone.
Q: What is the average combined weight of an acoustic guitar and its case?
A: The total weight of an acoustic guitar and its case depends on the individual guitar and case type. On average, an acoustic guitar weighs around 4-5 lbs (1.8-2.3 kg), while a gig bag adds approximately 2-3 lbs (0.9-1.4 kg) and a hard case adds 8-12 lbs (3.6-5.4 kg).
Therefore, the total weight can range from 6-17 lbs (2.7-7.7 kg).
Q: Are there any lightweight acoustic guitars available?
A: Yes, many manufacturers offer lightweight acoustic guitars designed for easy transport and comfortable playing. Concert and grand concert guitars are generally lighter than dreadnought or jumbo guitars.
Additionally, some brands utilize lighter wood species or construction techniques to reduce the overall weight.
Q: Does the type of case, gig bag, or hard case, affect the weight of my guitar setup?
A: Yes, the type of case you use will affect the total weight of your guitar and case. Gig bags, made from lightweight materials like nylon, add only 2-3 lbs (0.9-1.4 kg) to your guitar’s weight.
In contrast, hard cases, which offer more protection, generally weigh between 8-12 lbs (3.6-5.4 kg) and will increase the total weight of your setup.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the weight of an acoustic guitar can vary depending on factors such as the type of wood used, the type of guitar, and whether or not it has a pickup. Similarly, the weight of a guitar case can vary depending on the type of case and materials used. It is possible to achieve a lighter guitar by choosing smaller guitars, using lightweight materials, or opting for guitars designed specifically to be lightweight and comfortable to play.