Breedlove Discovery vs Alvarez OM: A Detailed Comparison
When it comes to acoustic guitars, the Breedlove Discovery and Alvarez OM are two popular choices that often spark debates among guitar enthusiasts. Both brands offer unique features and qualities that cater to different tastes and playing styles. In this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two guitars, covering various aspects such as construction, sound, playability, and price.
Construction and Design
The Breedlove Discovery is a dreadnought-sized guitar, known for its sleek and modern design. It features a solid Sitka spruce top and solid sapele back and sides, which contribute to its rich and warm tone. The Alvarez OM, on the other hand, is a smaller, orchestra-sized guitar with a traditional design. It also boasts a solid Sitka spruce top, but its back and sides are made of mahogany, which adds a bit more warmth and depth to the sound.
| Feature | Breedlove Discovery | Alvarez OM |
|---|---|---|
| Top Material | Solid Sitka spruce | Solid Sitka spruce |
| Back and Sides Material | Solid sapele | Solid mahogany |
| Body Size | Dreadnought | Orchestra |
Both guitars have a comfortable neck profile, with Breedlove’s “Breedlove Body Shape” providing a slightly wider nut width, which can be beneficial for players with larger hands. The Alvarez OM has a more traditional neck profile, which might be more comfortable for players who prefer a narrower nut width.
Sound and Tone
The Breedlove Discovery is known for its bright and clear tone, with a strong midrange and treble presence. This makes it an excellent choice for fingerstyle players and those who prefer a more articulate sound. The Alvarez OM, on the other hand, offers a warmer and more rounded tone, with a stronger low-end response. This makes it a great choice for strumming and flatpicking, as well as for players who prefer a more balanced sound.
When comparing the two, the Breedlove Discovery might be slightly brighter and more articulate, while the Alvarez OM provides a more full-bodied and warm tone. However, the actual sound will depend on the player’s technique, the room acoustics, and the specific model of each guitar.
Playability
Both the Breedlove Discovery and Alvarez OM are designed with playability in mind. The Breedlove Discovery’s wider nut width and modern body shape make it comfortable for players with larger hands, while the Alvarez OM’s traditional design is suitable for a wide range of players. The neck profiles on both guitars are comfortable, and the action is well-set, allowing for easy playability.
Additionally, both guitars have a good balance between the strings, which makes it easier to play chords and single notes with precision. The Breedlove Discovery’s slightly wider nut width can be a significant advantage for players who prefer a more comfortable feel when playing barre chords.
Price
When it comes to price, the Breedlove Discovery and Alvarez OM are both reasonably priced for their quality and features. The Breedlove Discovery typically retails for around $1,200 to $1,500, while the Alvarez OM can be found for around $1,000 to $1,200. These prices can vary depending on the specific model and retailer.
Considering the price range, both guitars offer excellent value for money. They are suitable for players who are looking for a quality acoustic guitar without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Breedlove Discovery and Alvarez OM are both excellent choices for acoustic guitar players. The Breedlove Discovery offers a bright and articulate tone, while the Alvarez OM provides a warmer and more rounded sound. Both guitars are well-built, comfortable to play, and offer great value for money. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences, playing style, and budget.
