OVATION CE44-5

Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar User Manual

Model: CE44-5 | Brand: OVATION

1. Introduction

Welcome to the user manual for your Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar. This instrument is designed to offer exceptional aesthetics and pristine live sound, featuring Ovation's signature multi-soundhole design for clear highs and balanced bass response. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your guitar to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar, front view

Figure 1: Front view of the Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar. This image showcases the black finish, multi-soundhole design, and the overall body shape.

2. What's in the Box

Upon unpacking your Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5, please ensure all components are present:

  • Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar
  • Ovation Diecast Chrome Tuners (pre-installed)
  • Ovation CP-100 Slimline Pickup (pre-installed)
  • OP-4CT Preamp with Tuner (pre-installed)
  • (Note: Additional accessories like guitar picks, straps, or cases may be sold separately.)

3. Setup Guide

3.1 Unpacking and Inspection

Carefully remove the guitar from its packaging. Inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during shipping. Retain all packaging materials in case the guitar needs to be returned or transported.

3.2 Battery Installation for Preamp

The OP-4CT preamp requires a 9V battery for operation.

  1. Locate the battery compartment on the side of the guitar, near the preamp controls.
  2. Press the latch to open the compartment.
  3. Insert a fresh 9V battery, observing the correct polarity (+/-).
  4. Close the battery compartment securely.
Close-up of the Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 preamp controls and battery compartment

Figure 2: Detail of the OP-4CT preamp and battery compartment on the guitar's side.

3.3 Tuning the Guitar

Your guitar is equipped with a built-in tuner for convenience.

  1. Press the "TUNER" button on the OP-4CT preamp to activate the tuner. The display will illuminate.
  2. Pluck each string individually, starting from the thickest (low E).
  3. Adjust the corresponding tuning machine head until the display indicates the correct pitch (E, A, D, G, B, E). The display will typically show green when in tune.
  4. Press the "TUNER" button again to deactivate the tuner.
Close-up of the Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 headstock with tuning machines

Figure 3: The headstock of the guitar, showing the Ovation Diecast Chrome Tuners.

3.4 Connecting to an Amplifier (Optional)

To amplify your guitar's sound:

  1. Ensure your amplifier is turned off and its volume is set to minimum.
  2. Connect a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable from the guitar's output jack (located at the bottom of the guitar) to your amplifier's input.
  3. Turn on your amplifier and slowly increase the volume to your desired level.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Playing the Guitar

The Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 is a versatile acoustic-electric guitar suitable for various playing styles. Its comfortable neck and medium-depth Lyrachord body provide excellent playability and projection.

4.2 Using the OP-4CT Preamp System

The integrated OP-4CT preamp system allows you to shape your amplified tone.

  • Volume/Gain Control: Adjusts the overall output level of the guitar when amplified. Start with a lower setting and increase gradually.
  • 3-Band Equalizer (Bass, Mid, Treble): These sliders allow you to boost or cut specific frequency ranges to tailor your sound.
    • Bass: Controls low-end frequencies for warmth and depth.
    • Mid: Controls mid-range frequencies, affecting the guitar's presence and punch.
    • Treble: Controls high-end frequencies for brightness and clarity.
  • Built-in Tuner: As described in Section 3.3, activate with the "TUNER" button for accurate tuning.
Close-up of the Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 preamp controls with sliders and buttons

Figure 4: Detailed view of the OP-4CT preamp controls, including volume, EQ sliders, and tuner button.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning

Regular cleaning will help preserve your guitar's finish and playability.

  • Wipe down the body, neck, and strings with a soft, lint-free cloth after each use.
  • For stubborn grime on the body, use a guitar-specific polish or cleaner sparingly.
  • Clean the fretboard periodically with a lemon oil or fretboard conditioner to prevent drying and cracking.

5.2 String Replacement

Strings should be replaced regularly to maintain optimal tone and playability. The guitar uses bronze strings.

  1. Loosen the old strings using a string winder.
  2. Remove the bridge pins and old strings.
  3. Insert new strings, ensuring the ball end is seated correctly with the bridge pin.
  4. Thread the strings through the tuning machine posts and wind them securely.
  5. Stretch the new strings gently and tune the guitar. Repeat stretching and tuning until the strings hold pitch.
Close-up of the Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 bridge and saddle

Figure 5: The guitar's bridge and saddle, where strings are anchored.

5.3 Storage and Environmental Considerations

Store your guitar in a stable environment to prevent damage.

  • Avoid extreme temperatures and humidity fluctuations.
  • Keep the guitar away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  • When not in use, store the guitar in a proper case or on a stand to protect it from accidental damage.
Side profile of the Ovation Celebrity Elite CE44-5 Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Figure 6: Side profile of the guitar, showing its slim body design.

6. Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
No sound when amplified
  • Dead or incorrectly installed 9V battery.
  • Cable not properly connected.
  • Amplifier issues.
  • Preamp volume/gain too low.
  • Replace battery, check polarity.
  • Ensure cable is firmly plugged into guitar and amp.
  • Test amplifier with another instrument.
  • Increase preamp volume/gain.
Guitar won't stay in tune
  • Old or worn strings.
  • Improper string winding on tuning machines.
  • Environmental changes.
  • Replace strings.
  • Ensure strings are wound correctly and stretched.
  • Allow guitar to accustom to room temperature and humidity.
Buzzing sound from strings
  • Low action (strings too close to frets).
  • Uneven frets.
  • Improper playing technique.
  • Adjust saddle height or truss rod (consult a professional).
  • Consult a guitar technician.
  • Ensure proper finger placement and pressure.

7. Specifications

FeatureDetail
ModelCelebrity Elite CE44-5
Body TypeCutaway Electro-Acoustic, Mid-Depth Lyrachord Bodysuit
Top MaterialSolid Spruce Wood
BracingScalloped, Quartersawn X-Bracing
Back MaterialNato Wood, Ovangkol Wood
Neck MaterialNato Wood
Fretboard MaterialOvangkol
Scale Length25.3 Inches (643mm)
Nut Width42.8mm
Pickup SystemOvation CP-100 Slimline Pickup
PreampOP-4CT Preamp with Tuner (3-band EQ, Volume/Gain)
TunersOvation Diecast Chrome Tuners
Bridge SystemOvangkol
Number of Strings6
String MaterialBronze
Connector Type1/4 inch (6.35mm) jack
Item Weight5.19 pounds
Product Dimensions44.09 x 18.31 x 7.09 inches
ColorBlack

8. Product Videos

Watch these official product videos for additional information and demonstrations.

No official seller videos are available for embedding at this time.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official OVATION website. If you require technical support or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact OVATION customer service.

You can often find support resources, FAQs, and contact information on the manufacturer's website: www.ovationguitars.com (Note: This is a placeholder URL, please refer to actual product documentation for correct support links.)

© 2023 OVATION. All rights reserved.

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