How to Care for an Applause Guitar

Applause construction and why it matters

Applause guitars are the budget-conscious sibling of Ovation, sharing the same design philosophy: a synthetic roundback bowl instead of wooden back and sides. The bowl is molded from Lyrachord, a glass-reinforced composite that does not crack, split, or react to humidity the way wood does. That makes the guitar more durable and stable in changing environments, but it also means traditional wood-care products are not needed, and some can even damage the finish.

The top is usually spruce or a similar tonewood, so the parts that need the most attention are the soundboard, the fretboard, the bridge, and the electronics. The roundback bowl is nearly indestructible, but it can show scratches and should be cleaned with the right technique. Understanding the material differences helps you avoid the most common mistakes: applying wood polishes to the bowl, over-oiling the fretboard, or ignoring battery corrosion in the preamp.

• Roundback bowl: molded Lyrachord composite, not affected by humidity, clean with water-based products only.
• Top: traditional tonewood, needs humidity control and gentle cleaning.
• Fretboard: high-pressure laminate or similar synthetic material, clean with mild soap and water, not lemon oil.
• Electronics: Ovation-style preamp with battery, needs protection from moisture and regular battery replacement.

Cleaning the roundback bowl

The roundback bowl is the most distinctive feature of an Applause guitar, and it is also the easiest part to clean. Because it is a molded composite, it does not need polish or wax. A soft, slightly damp microfiber cloth is enough to remove fingerprints, dust, and smudges. If the bowl is particularly dirty, add a drop of mild dish soap to the cloth, then wipe again with a clean damp cloth.

Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvent-based polishes, or anything containing alcohol or acetone. These can dull the glossy finish or create hazy patches. Also avoid spraying any liquid directly onto the bowl; always apply to the cloth first. If you play with a guitar strap, the buckle can scratch the back of the bowl, so take care when putting it down or placing it on a stand.

The bowl does not require any humidification care. That is a major advantage over all-wood guitars, especially if you live in a very dry or very humid climate. You can read more about how to manage humidity for the wooden parts of your guitar in the guide to using a guitar humidifier.

Caring for the fretboard and frets

Many Applause models use a synthetic fretboard material rather than rosewood or ebony. This material does not need oil. In fact, applying lemon oil or other wood conditioners can leave a sticky residue that attracts dirt. Instead, clean the fretboard with a soft cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild soap solution. Wipe along the fretboard, then dry immediately.

The frets themselves are metal and can accumulate grime and oxidation over time. When you change strings, take the opportunity to wipe each fret with a dry cloth. If you notice sticky buildup, use a slightly damp cloth and then dry the frets thoroughly. For deeper cleaning, you can remove the strings and polish the frets carefully with a fret-polishing cloth, avoiding contact with the fretboard material as much as possible. For a step-by-step approach, see the guide on cleaning and conditioning a guitar fretboard.

Because the fretboard is synthetic, it will not crack or shrink, so you do not need to worry about humidity-related fret sprout or fretboard shrinkage that can affect wooden boards. However, tuning stability and string wear still depend on the nut and bridge, which are typically synthetic or metal. Clean the nut slots gently with a soft cloth when restringing, and avoid using any lubricants unless a professional recommends them.

Electronics and battery care

Applause acoustic-electric models are equipped with Ovation-style electronics, typically a preamp mounted in the soundhole or on the upper bout, with an undersaddle piezo pickup. These systems are reliable but have one common failure point: the battery. Most models use a 9V battery or a pair of coin-cell batteries. If the guitar starts to sound weak, distorted, or cuts out, check the battery first. The lower the battery, the closer the signal is to clipping, which some players mistake for a pickup problem.

Remove the battery when the guitar will not be played for more than a few weeks. Batteries can leak, and corrosion on the battery contacts or the output jack is a leading cause of intermittent sound. Wipe the battery contacts and the inside of the battery compartment with a dry cloth if you see any white or green residue. Do not use water or cleaners on the electronics. For a full procedure, refer to the guide on replacing the battery in an acoustic-electric guitar.

Keep the output jack clean and dry. When not using the guitar, cover the jack with a plastic cap if the guitar has one, or store the guitar in its case. Moisture can corrode the solder joints, causing crackling or a dead signal. If you hear crackling when you move the cable plug, the jack may be loose or dirty. Unplug the cable, clean the jack with a dry cotton swab, and fill a restringing session with a good cleaning of the battery compartment. You can also check the guide on cleaning guitar electronics for more advice.

Restringing and strings

Applause guitars have a pinless bridge design on many models, which makes restringing different from traditional pin bridges. The strings are fed into the bridge from the rear, where they are anchored by small ball ends that sit inside the bridge or the soundhole. When you change strings, remove one string at a time and replace it before moving to the next. This keeps tension on the neck and avoids a sudden release of string tension, which can affect the setup.

For the top and body, guitar strings are available in different materials, but for an Applause you want a set that balances warmth and projection. Phosphor bronze is a popular choice for its warm, balanced voice, while 80/20 bronze is brighter. Since the guitar has a composite back, the tone is largely determined by the top and strings, so changing string material is a quick way to adjust the sound. For a comparison, see the article on phosphor bronze vs. 80/20 bronze strings.

When restringing, also check the saddle and the nut for wear. The saddle is usually a synthetic material that does not need lubrication, but if you notice the strings sitting unevenly or making a sitar-like buzz, the saddle may need to be filed or replaced. The guide on restringing an acoustic guitar includes helpful tips for this process.

Top and body finish maintenance

The top of an Applause guitar is made of wood, usually spruce or a laminated tonewood, and it needs the same care as any wooden acoustic guitar. Wipe the top down after each playing session with a dry, soft cloth to remove sweat and oils from your hands. Dirt and sweat can dull the finish over time and even affect the sound if buildup gets heavy.

For occasional deeper cleaning, use a guitar-safe polish designed for acoustic guitars, or a damp cloth with a drop of mild soap. Avoid household furniture polishes, which can contain silicones that build up and create a hazy layer. If the guitar has a satin finish, check the guide on caring for satin finish guitars for specific advice; satin finishes can develop a shine from friction, which is normal but can be minimized with proper wiping. For more details on finish care, see the guide on cleaning and polishing a guitar finish.

The neck and headstock are also painted or finished wood. Wipe them down when changing strings. Do not use abrasive pads on the headstock, and keep the tuning machines clean and dry. If you live in a dry climate, consider using a guitar humidifier for the wooden top, even though the back is synthetic. The top is the only part that can dry out and crack, so moisture control is still relevant, but the risk is lower than with an all-wood guitar.

Storage and common issues

Store your Applause guitar in a case or gig bag when you are not playing it. This protects the top from dings and the electronics from dust. Avoid leaving the guitar in a car or in direct sunlight. Even though the bowl is heat-resistant, the wooden top and the glue joints are not. Extreme temperatures can cause the top to crack or the finish to check.

The most common issues with Applause guitars are battery-related crackling, dirt buildup on the fretboard, and scratches on the bowl. All are preventable with a regular care routine. If you notice any cracks in the finish on the top, address them early, because they can let moisture in and worsen. For any doubt about the electronics, see the guide on cleaning guitar electronics, which covers pots, jacks, and switches.

Applause guitars are built to be tough, and many are the go-to for busking and travel. If you use yours on the road, inspect the strap buttons regularly, as heavy use can loosen them. The guide on installing strap locks provides a simple upgrade that prevents drops. With the right routine, an Applause guitar can stay in great shape for decades, and the synthetic parts will never crack or warp, only the wood needs your attention.

What to pick for your Applause guitar

Questions

Do I need to humidify an Applause guitar?

The roundback bowl is synthetic and does not need humidification. However, the wooden top can still dry out and crack if the environment is very dry. If you live in a dry climate or heat your home in winter, use a guitar humidifier to protect the top, while the back will be unaffected.

Can I use lemon oil on the Applause fretboard?

No. Applause fretboards are made from a synthetic material that does not require oil. Lemon oil is for unfinished rosewood or ebony boards, and on a synthetic board it leaves a sticky residue that attracts dirt. Use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap instead.

Why does my Applause guitar crackle when I play through an amp?

Crackling is almost always a battery problem. If the battery is low, the preamp will distort intermittently. Replace the battery first. If the crackling continues, check the battery contacts and the output jack for corrosion or loose solder joints.

Is it normal for the roundback bowl to scratch?

The Lyrachord bowl is durable but can show fine scratches from straps, buckles, or rough handling. Minor scratches can be buffed out with a mild automotive polish, but test on a hidden area first. Avoid abrasive pads and never use solvent cleaners.

Can I change strings on an Applause guitar myself?

Yes. Most Applause models have a pinless bridge, which is simpler than traditional pin bridges and makes restringing easy. Replace one string at a time to keep tension on the neck, and be gentle with the bridge saddle. The process is covered in the article on restringing an acoustic guitar.