When it comes to acoustic guitars, everyone has their preferences when it comes to sound. Some like it bright and crisp; others prefer a warm and mellow tone.
But what if you’re after something a little more substantial? Something that packs a bit more of a punch? Something that sounds deep and resonant, like you’re playing in a cathedral or a redwood forest? So, can I make an acoustic guitar sound deeper?
Well, you’re in luck! It’s entirely possible to make an acoustic guitar sound more profound and powerful, and in this article, we will show you how.
But before we dive into the nitty-gritty of how to make your guitar sound like a bass, let’s first take a look at what factors affect an acoustic guitar’s sound.
Factors That Affect An Acoustic Guitar Sound
The Shape, Size, and Materials of the Guitar
First and foremost, the shape and size of the guitar play a massive role in determining its sound. A dreadnought guitar, for example, will generally have a deeper and more powerful sound than a parlor guitar. This is because a dreadnought is a more prominent guitar with a bigger soundbox, which gives the sound more room to resonate.
Similarly, a guitar made of a denser wood, like rosewood or mahogany, will usually have a more pronounced low end than a guitar made of lighter wood, like spruce or cedar.
The Strings and Their Tension
Another factor that affects an acoustic guitar’s sound is the strings and their tension. Heavier gauge strings (thicker) will produce a more profound and powerful sound than lighter gauge strings.
This is because they put more tension on the soundboard and the neck, making the sound more resonant. An excellent way to go is to use a set of phosphor bronze strings with a 12-53 gauge.
The Sound Hole and its Positioning
The sound hole, the hole in the top of the guitar through which the sound comes out, also plays a role in determining the guitar’s sound.
The size and position of the sound hole can affect the sound, and if you move it a bit to change its position and orientation, you could have a different sound.
So, now that we have a better understanding of the factors that affect an acoustic guitar’s sound, let’s look at some methods for making an acoustic guitar sound deeper.
Methods for Making an Acoustic Guitar Sound Deeper
Using Different Types of Strings
As mentioned earlier, heavier gauge strings can help make an acoustic guitar sound deeper. Phosphor bronze strings with a 12-53 gauge are an excellent option for a deeper sound, as they are known for their rich, warm tone.
Some guitarists recommend using coated or specialty strings to achieve a more subtle, deeper effect.
Adjusting the Action and Truss Rod
A guitar’s action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. The higher the action, the more tension is placed on the strings, resulting in a deeper, resonant sound.
Adjusting the truss rod, which is the rod that runs through the neck of the guitar, can also affect the action and, therefore, the sound of the guitar.
Sound Hole Inserts, Pickups, and Amplifiers
You can try using a soundhole insert if you’re looking for an even deeper sound. These are small devices that you place inside the guitar’s sound hole, and they work by reflecting the sound into the guitar’s body, making the sound more resonant.
Some guitarists also opt for an under-saddle pickup, which captures the guitar’s sound, amplifies it, and gives you control over the tone.
String Dampening Techniques
Sometimes, the depth of the sound you’re trying to achieve requires a bit of experimentation. One technique that many guitarists use to make their acoustic guitar sound deeper is string dampening. This is the process of muting or dampening certain strings or areas of the guitar to emphasize specific notes or frequencies.
One popular method is lightly touching the strings near the bridge with your picking hand, creating a muted effect on specific notes. Another popular way is using fingerpicks to create a specific effect.
Tips and Tricks for Getting the Best Sound
Now, let’s talk about some tips and tricks for getting the best sound out of your acoustic guitar. First and foremost, proper playing technique is crucial. This means holding the guitar correctly, using the right amount of pressure on the strings, etc.
The environment you’re playing in can also impact the sound of your guitar. Playing in a large, live room will give your sound more depth and resonance while playing in a small, dead room will make it sound more muted and flat.
When selecting the correct type of guitar for a deeper sound, it comes down to personal preference. A dreadnought or jumbo body shape, with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, will generally give you a deeper, more powerful sound than a smaller parlor guitar.
Finally, it’s essential to maintain and care for your guitar to keep it sounding its best. This means regularly changing the strings, holding the guitar in a stable environment, and being mindful of the room’s humidity and temperature.
Conclusion: Can I make an acoustic Sound Deeper?
If you want to make your acoustic guitar sound deeper, there are several methods you can try. From adjusting the action and truss rod to using different types of strings and sound hole inserts, there are plenty of ways to achieve the sound you’re after.
Remember, there’s no “right” way to make your guitar sound deeper—it’s all about experimenting and finding what works for you.
