Concert vs Auditorium Guitars: Size and Sound Compared

Key differences at a glance

Concert and auditorium are two popular full-size acoustic body shapes with distinct physical and sonic characteristics. The concert is the smaller of the two, while the auditorium (often labeled 000 or OM by Martin-style conventions) strikes a middle ground between compact parlor guitars and larger dreadnoughts.

The most noticeable difference is size. Concert guitars have a smaller overall body with a narrower waist and less depth, making them comfortable to hold and easy to play. Auditorium guitars are wider and deeper, which gives them a stronger presence and more volume while still staying manageable compared to a jumbo.

Tonally, both shapes aim for balance, but they achieve it differently. Concert guitars deliver a soft, clear voice with crisp trebles and a delicate bass. Auditorium guitars produce a fuller sound with more low-end presence and a smooth, even response across all six strings. Understanding these differences helps you decide which fits your playing style and physical needs.

Body size and shape

Martin's own acoustic guitar guide describes the concert body as a 'dimension-decreased version of Dreadnoughts while maintaining more of their body thickness.' That means a concert guitar is noticeably smaller than a dreadnought in length and width, but it keeps a similar depth, so it still feels substantial in your hands. The upper bout is narrower, and the waist is more tapered, giving it a curvy, classical-like silhouette.

Auditorium guitars, which Martin groups with Orchestra models, are larger than concerts. They 'strike a balance between small and large body sizes' and have a top that is 'much smaller proportionally to the bottom compared to other body styles.' This proportion gives the auditorium a distinctive look: the upper bout is compact while the lower bout is wide, creating a strong projection area.

The physical dimensions directly affect how the guitar rests against your body. A concert guitar sits comfortably for players with smaller frames or shorter arms, while an auditorium has a slightly larger footprint that some players find more stable for fingerpicking. If you are used to a dreadnought, an auditorium will feel closer to home, whereas a concert may feel more agile.

Tonal character

The size and shape of the body shape how air moves inside the guitar, which in turn shapes the sound. Martin describes concert guitars as having 'a balanced sound with equally present bass and high frequencies' but notes they are the 'softest in the spectrum with clear, crisp trebles and delicate bass.' This makes concert guitars ideal for intimate settings, fingerpicking, and styles like jazz where note clarity matters more than raw volume.

Auditorium guitars, on the other hand, achieve balance with 'tamed bass frequencies and smooth highs.' The larger body provides more low-end response and a bit more headroom when you strum, but not so much that the bass overpowers the mids and trebles. This balanced voicing, along with the bigger sound chamber, makes auditoriums versatile across genres, from folk to pop to light rock.

The difference in volume is significant for performances. An auditorium can fill a small room without amplification, while a concert guitar works best when you are close to the listener. If you plan to record or play with other musicians unplugged, an auditorium gives you more projection; if you practice at home or play in quiet settings, a concert's softer voice may be preferable.

Playing styles and comfort

Because of its smaller body and balanced, delicate tone, a concert guitar suits fingerstyle players who want each note to ring clearly. The reduced width makes it easier to reach around the neck for complex chord shapes, and the shallow body depth keeps your picking hand close to the strings, which many fingerpickers find comfortable.

Auditorium guitars handle both strumming and fingerpicking with ease. The extra body volume adds warmth and a slight percussive quality when you dig in, while the smooth trebles keep individual notes distinct. This makes the auditorium a popular choice for singer-songwriters who switch between rhythm playing and lead lines.

If you have smaller hands or a shorter reach, a concert guitar's lower string tension (due to its scale length, which can be shorter on some models) and narrow waist reduce strain. However, remember that body size is not the only factor; neck width and scale length also matter. Check out our guides on guitars for small hands and fingerstyle guitars for more tailored advice.

Where they fit among other body shapes

Concert guitars sit between parlor and grand concert (00) sizes. They are larger than a parlor, which has a 'delicate sound with distinct treble and reduced bass,' but smaller than a grand concert. This makes them a middle-ground option for players who want more projection than a parlor but still prefer a compact feel.

Auditorium guitars are often compared to orchestra models (OM), which share the same body size but have a longer scale length, as Martin notes: 'The only difference between a 000 and an OM is the scale length.' A longer scale length increases string tension, which can affect playability and tone. If you are deciding between these two, read up on scale length to understand the implications.

For context, dreadnoughts are larger still, with a 'loud projective tone with strong bass,' while jumbos are even bigger. The auditorium offers a more controlled low end than a dreadnought, which is why many recording engineers prefer it for a balanced track without boominess. Similarly, the concert's soft attack makes it a great contrast to the powerful dreadnought, suiting quiet, nuanced performances.

Wood and construction considerations

While body shape determines the basic character, the tonewoods used for the top, back, and sides refine the sound. Martin's wood guide explains that the top 'plays one of the biggest roles in an acoustic guitar’s voice,' affecting volume, attack, and dynamic range. Spruce tops are common on both concert and auditorium models, offering brightness and projection, while cedar tops warm the tone and compress the attack.

Back and side woods also shape the response. Dense woods like rosewood produce 'deep bass, rich overtones, and a strong balance between warmth and clarity,' which can add complexity to an auditorium's already full voice. Mahogany, with its 'clear, woody voice, strong midrange, and focused fundamental tone,' pairs well with concert guitars by keeping the sound dry and articulate.

Bracing patterns also play a role. X-bracing is standard, but the placement and scalloping affect how the top vibrates. A concert guitar with lighter bracing responds quickly to fingerpicking, while a sturdier bracing on an auditorium supports heavier strumming without distortion. To learn more, see our articles on guitar bracing and tonewoods.

What to pick for your use

Questions

What is the difference between a concert and an auditorium guitar?

The main difference is body size. Concert guitars are smaller, with a curvy shape and a soft, balanced tone. Auditorium guitars are larger, with a wider lower bout, producing more volume and a slightly stronger bass response while still maintaining tonal balance.

Are concert guitars easier to play than auditoriums?

Usually yes for smaller players, because the body is smaller and the waist is narrower, making it easier to reach around. However, neck width and scale length also affect playability, so try both to see which feels better in your hands.

Can an auditorium guitar be used for fingerpicking?

Absolutely. Many fingerstyle players prefer auditorium guitars because the larger body adds warmth and volume without muddying the low end. The even response across strings helps articulate each note clearly.

Is a concert guitar good for performing live?

A concert guitar can be used live, but its lower volume means you'll need a pickup or microphone for larger venues. If you prefer playing unplugged in intimate settings, a concert guitar is a fine choice.

What does 000 mean in guitar models?

000 is a Martin-style designation for an auditorium body shape. It typically has a 14-fret neck and a body size slightly smaller than a dreadnought. An OM (orchestra model) uses the same body but with a longer scale length.

Which is better for a beginner: concert or auditorium?

It depends on your physical size and musical tastes. If you're a smaller adult or a child, a concert may be more comfortable. If you want a guitar that can cover many styles and you're of average build, an auditorium is a forgiving and versatile choice.