The term “cutaway” on a guitar refers to a design feature on the instrument’s body: a cut or notch (usually on the lower part of the body next to the neck) that allows for much more comfortable access to the higher frets on the fingerboard. This detail, which might seem minor, has a significant impact on both the playing experience and the instrument’s aesthetics.
How is the cutaway recognized?
The cutaway is easily identifiable by its “indentation” in the guitar’s body, right where the neck joins the body.
Types of cutaway
There are mainly two styles of cutaway:
- Venetian cutaway: with smooth, rounded lines.
- Florentine cutaway: with a more angular and pointed outline.
Both serve the same function, differing only in their appearance.
Advantages of a cutaway on a guitar
- Access to higher frets: Its main advantage is the ease of reaching the frets beyond the 12th, up to the 19th or 20th fret in some cases, which is essential for solos, complex melodies, or advanced techniques, especially in styles like jazz, rock, modern flamenco, or fingerpicking.
- Interpretative versatility: It allows you to explore a wider range of notes and technical resources, opening up expressive possibilities that would be difficult on a guitar without a cutaway.
- Comfort: It is especially useful for guitarists with small hands or for those who require quick and precise movements in the higher register.
- Modern aesthetics: The cutaway design provides a contemporary and elegant look, highly appreciated by many modern musicians.
Disadvantages of a cutaway on a guitar
- Price: Guitars with a cutaway are usually a bit more expensive, both due to the additional work in construction and the possible inclusion of electronic systems.
Who is a cutaway guitar recommended for?
The cutaway is ideal for guitarists who:
- Play solos or pieces that require access to the upper frets.
- Perform modern styles, jazz, contemporary flamenco, pop, or rock.
- Seek greater comfort and versatility on stage or in recordings.
- Use amplified guitars, as many cutaway guitars include electronic systems.
Conclusion
The cutaway on a guitar is an innovation that responds to the technical and stylistic needs of contemporary musicians. Its main contribution is the comfort and access to higher registers and notes that become more complicated after the 12th fret.
The choice between a guitar with or without a cutaway should be based on playing style, technical needs, and the personal preferences of each guitarist.
Cutaway on a Mariano Conde guitar
On each page of our flamenco guitars or concert guitars, you can customize your guitar and add the Cutaway option.
