Cutaway vs Non-Cutaway Guitars: Pros and Cons

What Is a Cutaway on a Guitar?

On an acoustic or electric guitar, a cutaway is a scoop or notch cut out of the upper bout, the curved section of the body that meets the neck. The purpose is to make the highest frets easier to reach. A non-cutaway body has a continuous curved upper bout that stops at the neck joint, typically around the 12th fret. A cutaway extends that joint further toward the bridge, exposing several additional frets.

Many acoustic models offer a cutaway as an option. The Martin acoustic guitar types guide notes that some Auditorium and Orchestra models include a cutaway, and classical guitars sometimes have one as well. On electric guitars, cutaways are almost universal, often taking the form of a double cutaway on both sides of the neck. The body shape plays a big role in both comfort and sound, as covered in guitar body shapes.

How a Cutaway Improves Upper Fret Access

Without a cutaway, your hand must reach around the body to touch the frets above the neck joint. On many non-cutaway acoustics, that joint is near the 12th fret, so playing much above that becomes difficult. A cutaway moves the body wall back, giving your thumb and fingers a clear path to the fingerboard.

Players who frequently play lead lines, arpeggios, or chord melodies above the 12th fret will notice an immediate difference in comfort and speed. Even if you rarely play in the highest registers, the option to have that access can make certain chord voicings and scale patterns far more playable. If you mainly strum open chords and barre chords in the lower positions, the benefit is less significant. The comfort of the neck and fretboard also affects how easily you can shift positions, so consider neck shapes and feel.

Body Shape, Volume, and Tone

The size and shape of a guitar body directly affect its volume and tone. Martin's documentation states that 'body size and shape directly impacts the guitar's volume and tone.' A cutaway removes a portion of the upper bout, which reduces the internal air volume and changes how the top vibrates. The result is often a slight decrease in bass response and a perceived focus on treble, though the effect varies by design and construction.

The materials used for the back and sides also influence resonance, projection, and sustain. As outlined in Martin's wood guide, denser woods like rosewood tend to produce a more focused sound with longer sustain, while lighter woods such as mahogany offer a warmer, more direct response. A cutaway guitar built with a particular wood will not sound identical to a non-cutaway version of the same model, simply because the shape is different. Explore tonewoods and sound for more on how materials shape your tone.

It is worth noting that the strings themselves also contribute to the overall tonal character. Martin's string guide describes how factors like material and core design affect brightness, warmth, and sustain. A cutaway body paired with a set of bright 80/20 bronze strings can yield a very articulate, cutting sound that suits soloists, while a non-cutaway with warmer phosphor bronze strings might feel fuller and rounder for strumming. Understanding these interactions helps you predict how a cutaway will behave in your hands.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

The trade-offs between cutaway and non-cutaway designs come down to a few practical and sonic considerations. The table below summarizes the key differences. Think about your own playing style and how much you value having easy access to the highest frets versus a slightly larger internal air chamber. Many guitarists find that a cutaway is a worthwhile compromise, especially if they play a mix of rhythm and lead. Others prefer the traditional feel and look of a non-cutaway and rarely venture past the 12th fret.

Cutaways on Different Body Styles

Cutaways appear across a wide range of acoustic body shapes. In Martin's acoustic guitar types guide, they mention that Auditorium and Orchestra models can include a cutaway, and classical guitars sometimes have one as well. Dreadnoughts, which are known for their strong bass and projection, are also available with cutaways from many manufacturers. The choice of body size matters, because a cutaway on a compact concert guitar may have a different effect than on a large jumbo.

For players who prefer a smaller instrument, a cutaway can make a travel or mini guitar surprisingly versatile. The reduced overall size already brings the frets closer together, and a cutaway adds that extra reach on top. On the other end, a jumbo or grand auditorium with a cutaway can provide a loud, boomy voice while still allowing you to climb into the upper register. If you are exploring different body sizes, have a look at our guides for full size guitars, 3/4 size guitars, and travel guitars.

How to Choose the Right Design for Your Playing

Think about how many of your parts happen above the 12th fret. If you are a beginner learning open chords and basic strumming, a non-cutaway will give you a solid platform and a classic look at a lower entry point. If you play blues, rock, or jazz soloing that climbs into the higher register, a cutaway will pay off every time you reach for that high note.

Acoustic-electric models frequently come with cutaways, because amplified playing often involves more lead work. If you plan to plug in, consider an acoustic-electric guitar. For a pure acoustic experience, weigh the tonal trade-off against your need for access. Many manufacturers offer both versions of the same body size, so compare them side by side if you can. A solid understanding of guitar body shapes will also help you decide which silhouette fits your style.

Remember that the best guitar is the one that feels comfortable and inspires you to play. If you are torn between two options, try to spend time with both a cutaway and a non-cutaway of a similar model. Notice how your hand sits on the neck and whether you ever feel limited by the lack of upper fret access. For many players, the cutaway becomes a welcome convenience, while others barely notice it. Let your own hands and ears guide you.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Do cutaway guitars sound worse than non-cutaway guitars?

Not necessarily. The tonal difference is subtle and depends on the body shape, bracing, and tonewoods. Many players notice a slight reduction in bass, but a well-made cutaway can still sound full and balanced. The practical benefit of upper fret access often outweighs any minor tonal change.

Are cutaway guitars only for acoustic instruments?

No, cutaways are standard on most electric guitars. Double-cutaway designs are common, while single cutaways appear on certain models. On acoustic guitars, a cutaway is an option that is especially popular on acoustic-electrics and smaller body shapes.

Can I get a classical guitar with a cutaway?

Yes. Some classical and nylon-string guitars have cutaways, as mentioned in Martin's acoustic guitar types guide. They are less common, but they exist for players who need upper fret access without switching to a steel-string instrument.

What is the difference between a single cutaway and a double cutaway?

A single cutaway removes only the upper bout on one side of the neck, usually the high-string side. A double cutaway removes material on both sides, which is typical on solid-body electric guitars and gives balanced access to the highest frets from any playing position.

Is a non-cutaway better for flatpicking and bluegrass?

Many flatpickers prefer non-cutaway dreadnoughts because they want the full, booming bass and projection that a complete body provides. If you rarely play above the 12th fret, a non-cutaway is a sensible choice that preserves the classic sound and look.