Wat doet de Body Shape voor je gitaar?

The shape of a guitar, the body shape, is much more than just appearance. It determines how the guitar sits in your hands, how it balances, and how the sound develops. A large body often gives more volume and bass, while a compact body sounds brighter and more intimate. With electric guitars, you’ll see that the body shape also affects playing comfort, access to the higher frets, and even how you look on stage.

In this overview, we explain the most well-known body shapes: how to recognize them, what their typical tonal characteristics are, and which music styles they are often suited for.

Acoustic body shapes

With acoustic guitars, the body shape is directly connected to sound projection and playing comfort. Larger bodies usually sound fuller and louder but are less manageable. Smaller guitars are often more comfortable and have a more focused sound.

Well-known acoustic shapes

• Dreadnought – The classic with lots of volume and strong bass.
• Jumbo – Even bigger, ideal for strummers looking for power.
• Concert & Grand Concert – Compact and bright, popular among fingerstyle players.
• Orchestra (OM) – A versatile all-rounder with a balance between volume and detail.
• Parlor, O & OO – The smallest shape, very manageable. Loved by fingerstyle and blues players.
• Classical – Nylon strings and a warm tone, perfect for classical and Spanish music. Often used as a beginner’s guitar.
• Roundback – Plastic back, popular for live performances.
• Travel Guitar – Small and handy for on the go.
• Resonator – Unique metallic sound, often used with slide.

Electric body shapes

With electric guitars, the body shape is less about acoustic volume and more about playability, ergonomics, and looks. Some shapes are designed for comfort and versatility, while others go all-in on extreme visuals and powerful performance.

Popular electric shapes

• Stratocaster – Comfortable, sparkling, and versatile.
• Telecaster – Simple and direct, with a recognizable twang.
• Les Paul / Single Cut – Solid and full, with lots of sustain.
• Double Cut (SG-style) – Lightweight, aggressive, and easy access to high frets.
• Superstrat – Built for speed and modern metal.
• Offset (Jaguar/Jazzmaster) – Asymmetrical and loved in indie and surf rock.
• Flying V – Iconic V-shape, bold and striking.
• Explorer – Angular, powerful, and built for rock.
• Metal / Extreme Shapes – For the most outspoken metal and hard rock styles.
• Hollow Body – Large, hollow body for warm jazzy tones.
• Semi-Hollow – Balance between sustain and resonance, very versatile.

Which body shape suits you?

Choosing the right body shape depends on your playing style, tone preference, and comfort.

• Looking for powerful volume and a full sound? Then you’ll end up with dreadnoughts, jumbos, or Les Paul-style guitars.
• Want clarity and comfort? Then concert, OM or offset models are a better match.
• Play mostly jazz or blues? A hollow body or semi-hollow is often the right choice.
• And for metal and rock? Superstrats, Flying V’s and extreme shapes steal the show.

By understanding what makes each body shape unique, it becomes much easier to find a guitar that matches your music style and personal feel.