Body size

Different body sizes suit different players preferences and musical styles. Below are examples of various body sizes I typically build. As the featured guitars are built using different woods, their tone cannot be compared directly to each other. However, the descriptions and audio samples are representative of what to expect from a guitar of a given size. If you’re interested in something not shown here, please inquire.

Single 0
The single 0, also known as concert size, is a small bodied guitar that delivers a focussed, articulate sound where each note is well defined. Though the midrange rich tone can sound slightly boxy when strummed, the single 0 is an ideal blues guitar and really shines when played fingerstyle. Comfortable to hold while seated, it makes a perfect couch noodler.
Dimensions:
  • length: 18 1/8”
  • width: 13 3/4”
  • depth: 4 1/4”

Double 0
Slightly larger but not as deep as a single 0, the double 0, 00, or grand concert size is another small bodied guitar that’s very comfortable to hold and play. Less boxy sounding than a single 0, the 00 produces a lovely tone with a bottom end that may surprise you.
Dimensions:
  • length: 19 1/4”
  • width: 14 1/2”
  • depth: 3 3/4”

Triple 0 / OM
Sometimes called a folk guitar or auditorium size, the 000 and OM produce a sound which is even and balanced across the strings. Using the same mid-sized body dimensions, the 000 and OM models differ in scale length with the 000 using a shorter scale. Frequently built with a 14th fret neck/body joint, a 12th fret joint is also common as in the pictured 12 fret OM. One of the most popular body sizes, a 000 or OM is well suited for both strumming and fingerstyle use.
Dimensions:
  • length: 19 1/4”
  • width: 15”
  • depth: 4 1/4”

Grand Auditorium
The grand auditorium is perhaps the most versatile body size. Slightly larger than an OM, this mid-sized guitar produces a bigger, fuller sound while remaining quite comfortable to hold. This general purpose workhorse is a great choice as an all-around guitar, equally at home being strummed or played fingerstyle.
Dimensions:
  • length: 20”
  • width: 15 3/4”
  • depth: 4 3/4”

Dreadnought
The dreadnought is a large, deep bodied guitar that produces a lush, robust sound. Perfect for flat picking and strumming, even aggressively. When played fingerstyle, individual notes are less well defined than on a smaller bodied guitar. The Bounsall dreadnought features sloped shoulders and a rounded lower bout. A gorgeous look and a wonderful tone.
Dimensions:
  • length: 20 1/4”
  • width: 16 1/8”
  • depth: 5”

Baritone
Using the same basic body shape as the dreadnought, the baritone has a longer 27” scale length, heavier strings, and is tuned a perfect 4th lower (B to B). The result is a characteristic deep, resonant, low pitched voice that brings a whole new dimension to your playing.
Dimensions:
  • length: 20 1/4”
  • width: 16 1/8”
  • depth: 5”

Soundhole

Acoustic guitars traditionally have a center soundhole, approximately 4” in diameter. If you’re looking for something a bit different, maybe one of my alternate soundhole styles shown below is something that’d interest you. I’m often asked how this affects tone. Read the story of ”The Butternut Twins” for a practical example.

Center
f-holes
Offset
Multi-hole
Multi-hole cutaway
Lower bout