Ovation CE48P Celebrity Elite Exotic Acoustic-Electric Guitar User Manual

1. Introduction

The Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic Acoustic-Electric Guitar combines unique design with versatile performance. This instrument features a super shallow Lyrachord body and a stunning layered quilted maple top, visually enhanced with detailed laser-cut epaulets. Designed for live performance, it incorporates the Ovation Slimline pickup and OP-4BT preamp system, offering clear highs, balanced bass response, and nuanced tonal complexity. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your guitar.

2. Key Features

• Layered Quilted Maple Top: Provides a visually striking appearance and contributes to the guitar's resonant tone.
• Lyrachord Super Shallow Cutaway Body: Offers comfortable playability and a focused, balanced sound, especially suitable for amplified performance.
• Elite Multi-Port Soundhole Design: Enhances sound projection and clarity with unique laser-cut epaulets.
• OP-4BT Preamp System: Features a three-band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble), volume/gain control, an onboard tuner, and a low-battery indicator for precise sound shaping and easy tuning.
• DieCast Tuning Machines: Ensures stable and accurate tuning.
• Satin-Finished Nato Neck with Ovangkol Fretboard: Provides a smooth, comfortable playing experience.

3. Setup

3.1 Unpacking

Your Ovation CE48P-RG guitar comes carefully packaged. Upon receiving your instrument, carefully remove it from its packaging. The package should contain the guitar itself.

3.2 Battery Installation (for Preamp)

The OP-4BT preamp system requires a 9-volt battery for operation. To install or replace the battery:

1. Locate the battery compartment on the side of the guitar's body, near the preamp controls.
2. Press the small tab or latch to open the battery compartment.
3. Insert a fresh 9-volt battery, ensuring correct polarity.
4. Close the battery compartment securely until it clicks into place.

3.3 Initial Tuning

Before playing, ensure your guitar is properly tuned. The OP-4BT preamp includes a built-in tuner for convenience.

1. Turn on the onboard tuner using the dedicated button on the preamp.
2. Pluck each string individually. The tuner display will indicate the note and whether it is sharp or flat.
3. Adjust the corresponding tuning machine head until the tuner indicates the correct pitch for each string (E, A, D, G, B, E from thickest to thinnest).
4. Turn off the tuner when finished to conserve battery life.

4. Operation

4.1 OP-4BT Preamp System

The OP-4BT preamp system allows you to shape your guitar's amplified tone and monitor its battery status.

• Volume/Gain Control: Adjusts the overall output level of the guitar when plugged into an amplifier or PA system.
• 3-Band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble): Use these sliders to boost or cut specific frequency ranges to achieve your desired tone. Adjust Bass for low-end warmth, Mid for vocal presence, and Treble for high-end clarity.
• Onboard Tuner: Activates the built-in chromatic tuner (see Section 3.3 for tuning instructions).
• Low-Battery Light: Illuminates when the 9-volt battery is running low and needs replacement.

4.2 Connecting to an Amplifier

To amplify your guitar's sound:

1. Connect a standard 1/4 inch (6.35mm) instrument cable from the guitar's output jack (located on the lower bout) to your amplifier or PA system.
2. Turn on your amplifier and adjust its volume and tone controls as desired.
3. Use the volume/gain control on your guitar's preamp to set the output level.

5. Maintenance

5.1 General Care

• Wipe down your guitar with a soft, clean cloth after each use to remove sweat and oils.
• Store your guitar in a stable environment, avoiding extreme temperature and humidity changes.
• Keep the guitar in its case when not in use to protect it from dust and accidental damage.

5.2 String Replacement

Strings should be replaced regularly to maintain optimal tone and playability. The frequency depends on your playing habits and string type.

1. Loosen the old strings using a string winder.
2. Remove the bridge pins and carefully pull out the old strings.
3. Insert the new strings, ensuring the ball end is securely seated with the bridge pin.
4. Thread the strings through the tuning machine posts and wind them tightly.
5. Tune the guitar using the onboard tuner or an external tuner.
6. Stretch the new strings gently to help them settle and hold tune.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 No Sound When Plugged In

• Check if the 9-volt battery in the preamp is dead or incorrectly installed. Replace if necessary.
• Ensure the instrument cable is securely connected to both the guitar and the amplifier.
• Verify that the amplifier is turned on and its volume is up.
• Test with a different cable or amplifier to rule out equipment issues.

6.2 Poor Tone or Buzzing

• Check if the strings are old or corroded; replace them if needed.
• Ensure the guitar is properly tuned.
• Adjust the EQ settings on the preamp and amplifier.
• If buzzing occurs, check for fret buzz or issues with the bridge saddle or nut. Professional setup may be required.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty & Support

8.1 Warranty Information

The Ovation CE48P-RG Celebrity Elite Exotic Acoustic-Electric Guitar comes with a Five-year limited warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. For detailed terms and conditions, refer to the official Ovation website or contact customer support.

8.2 Customer Support

For further assistance, technical support, or service inquiries, please visit the official Ovation website or contact their customer service department. Contact information can typically be found on the manufacturer's website or in the product packaging.