Hey music lovers! Today, we're diving deep into the Yamaha CPX500 OVS, a guitar that's part of the renowned Compass Series. If you're on the hunt for an acoustic-electric guitar that blends exceptional playability, stunning looks, and versatile sound, then stick around. We'll explore everything this beauty has to offer, from its construction and sound quality to its features and overall value. Whether you're a seasoned performer or just starting your musical journey, understanding what makes the CPX500 OVS tick is key to deciding if it's the right fit for you. Let's get started and unravel the magic behind this Yamaha gem.

Overview of the Yamaha CPX500 OVS

The Yamaha CPX500 OVS is more than just a guitar; it's a statement. As part of Yamaha's Compass Series, it's designed to offer a comfortable playing experience with a focus on delivering a balanced and articulate sound. The "OVS" in its name stands for Old Violin Sunburst, which hints at the guitar's aesthetically pleasing finish. This model is particularly popular among musicians who need a reliable instrument for both stage performances and studio recordings, thanks to its built-in electronics. The CPX500 OVS features a medium-jumbo body size, which contributes to its robust sound projection while maintaining a comfortable feel for the player. The combination of its tonewoods, construction, and electronics makes it a versatile option for a wide range of musical genres. The guitar’s reputation for durability and consistent performance further solidifies its place as a trusted instrument for musicians worldwide. Overall, the Yamaha CPX500 OVS stands as a testament to Yamaha's commitment to quality and innovation in the world of acoustic-electric guitars, offering players a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features and specifications that make the Yamaha CPX500 OVS a noteworthy instrument. At its core, the guitar boasts a spruce top, known for its bright and balanced tonal characteristics. This is complemented by nato back and sides, which contribute warmth and richness to the overall sound. The medium-jumbo body size provides a comfortable playing experience while ensuring ample projection. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge enhance the guitar's sustain and clarity. The CPX500 OVS is equipped with a System 66 preamp and under-saddle pickup, allowing for seamless amplification and tone control. This system includes a 3-band EQ, giving you precise control over your sound when plugged in. The guitar also features die-cast chrome tuners, ensuring stable and accurate tuning. With a scale length of 25 9/16" (650mm) and 20 frets, the CPX500 OVS offers a familiar and comfortable playing experience for most guitarists. The Old Violin Sunburst finish not only adds to its visual appeal but also protects the instrument. These specifications combine to make the Yamaha CPX500 OVS a versatile and reliable acoustic-electric guitar suitable for various playing styles and musical genres.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of the Yamaha CPX500 OVS truly set it apart in its class. Yamaha's attention to detail is evident in every aspect of this guitar, from its carefully selected tonewoods to its flawless finish. The spruce top is not only visually appealing but also contributes significantly to the guitar's bright and articulate sound. The nato back and sides add warmth and depth, creating a balanced tonal profile. The medium-jumbo body is designed for comfort and projection, making it ideal for both fingerstyle and strumming. The rosewood fingerboard is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable playing surface for your fingers. The Old Violin Sunburst finish is applied meticulously, enhancing the guitar's aesthetic appeal while protecting the wood from environmental factors. The die-cast chrome tuners are robust and precise, ensuring stable tuning even during extended playing sessions. The System 66 preamp is seamlessly integrated into the guitar, offering convenient access to volume and tone controls. The overall construction is solid and durable, reflecting Yamaha's commitment to producing high-quality instruments that can withstand the rigors of regular use. The meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail make the Yamaha CPX500 OVS a standout choice for musicians seeking a reliable and visually stunning acoustic-electric guitar.

Sound Quality and Performance

When it comes to sound quality and performance, the Yamaha CPX500 OVS truly shines. The combination of its spruce top and nato back and sides creates a balanced and versatile tonal palette. The spruce top delivers bright and clear highs, while the nato back and sides add warmth and depth, resulting in a well-rounded sound that suits various playing styles. The medium-jumbo body enhances the guitar's projection, making it ideal for both solo performances and ensemble playing. The System 66 preamp and under-saddle pickup ensure that the guitar's natural acoustic tone is faithfully reproduced when amplified. The 3-band EQ allows for precise tone shaping, giving you the flexibility to tailor your sound to suit any musical genre or venue. Whether you're fingerpicking delicate melodies or strumming powerful chords, the CPX500 OVS delivers a dynamic and responsive performance. The guitar's excellent sustain and clarity make it a joy to play, and its consistent performance ensures that you can rely on it for both practice and performance. The CPX500 OVS is particularly well-suited for singer-songwriters, as its balanced tone and comfortable playability make it easy to accompany vocals. Overall, the Yamaha CPX500 OVS offers exceptional sound quality and performance, making it a top choice for musicians of all levels.

Yamaha's System 66 Electronics

The Yamaha CPX500 OVS comes equipped with Yamaha's System 66 electronics, a crucial component for any performing musician. This system is designed to amplify the guitar's natural acoustic tone while providing versatile control over your sound. At the heart of the System 66 is an under-saddle piezo pickup, which accurately captures the vibrations of the strings and translates them into an electrical signal. This signal is then processed by the preamp, which is mounted on the upper bout of the guitar for easy access. The preamp features a 3-band EQ, allowing you to adjust the bass, mid, and treble frequencies to your liking. This is particularly useful for tailoring your sound to suit different venues and musical styles. The System 66 also includes a built-in tuner, which is a convenient tool for keeping your guitar in tune on stage or in the studio. The tuner is accurate and easy to use, ensuring that you're always playing in tune. The preamp is powered by two AA batteries, which provide long-lasting performance. The battery compartment is easily accessible, making it simple to replace the batteries when needed. Overall, Yamaha's System 66 electronics are a reliable and versatile solution for amplifying the CPX500 OVS, providing musicians with the tools they need to sound their best in any situation. The intuitive controls and high-quality components make this system a valuable asset for any performing guitarist.

Playability and Comfort

Playability and comfort are paramount when choosing an acoustic-electric guitar, and the Yamaha CPX500 OVS excels in both areas. The guitar's medium-jumbo body is designed to provide a comfortable playing experience, whether you're sitting or standing. The body size is large enough to deliver ample projection but not so large that it feels unwieldy. The neck profile is slim and comfortable, making it easy to navigate the fretboard. The rosewood fingerboard is smooth and responsive, providing a comfortable surface for your fingers. The action is set low from the factory, which means that the strings are close to the frets, making it easier to fret notes and chords. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who may not have developed the finger strength to play guitars with higher action. The CPX500 OVS also features a cutaway, which allows for easy access to the higher frets. This is a valuable feature for guitarists who enjoy playing lead lines or solos. The guitar's lightweight construction also contributes to its overall comfort, making it easy to play for extended periods without fatigue. Overall, the Yamaha CPX500 OVS is designed with the player in mind, offering a comfortable and enjoyable playing experience that will inspire you to pick it up and play. The thoughtful design and attention to detail make this guitar a joy to play, regardless of your skill level.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the Yamaha CPX500 OVS.

Pros:

• Versatile Sound: The combination of a spruce top and nato back and sides delivers a balanced and versatile tonal palette suitable for various musical styles.
• Comfortable Playability: The medium-jumbo body, slim neck profile, and low action make it easy to play for extended periods.
• Reliable Electronics: The System 66 preamp and under-saddle pickup provide accurate amplification and versatile tone control.
• Built-in Tuner: The convenient built-in tuner ensures that you're always playing in tune.
• Attractive Finish: The Old Violin Sunburst finish gives the guitar a classic and elegant look.
• Durable Construction: Yamaha's reputation for quality ensures that the CPX500 OVS is built to last.

Cons:

• Nato Back and Sides: While nato is a decent tonewood, some players may prefer the richer sound of solid wood back and sides.
• Preamp Tone: While versatile, the System 66 preamp may not offer the same level of sonic complexity as higher-end preamp systems.
• Limited Color Options: The Old Violin Sunburst finish may not appeal to everyone, and there are limited color options available.

Alternatives to the Yamaha CPX500 OVS

If the Yamaha CPX500 OVS doesn't quite meet your needs, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Fender FA-235E Concert Acoustic-Electric Guitar: A great option for those looking for a more affordable alternative with a slightly smaller body size.
• Ibanez AEG10II: Known for its slim body and comfortable neck, the AEG10II is a good choice for players who prefer a more compact guitar.
• Taylor 114ce: A step up in terms of price and quality, the Taylor 114ce offers exceptional tone and playability.
• Epiphone DR-100: A budget-friendly option that's perfect for beginners, the DR-100 delivers decent sound and playability at an affordable price.
• Seagull S6 Original: Made in Canada, the Seagull S6 Original is known for its solid cedar top and excellent value.

Who is this Guitar For?

The Yamaha CPX500 OVS is a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that's well-suited for a wide range of players. It's an excellent choice for:

• Beginners: The comfortable playability and forgiving action make it easy for beginners to learn and develop their skills.
• Intermediate Players: The balanced tone and reliable electronics make it a great option for intermediate players who are looking to upgrade their instrument.
• Performing Musicians: The built-in preamp and tuner make it a convenient and reliable choice for performing musicians who need to amplify their sound.
• Singer-Songwriters: The balanced tone and comfortable playability make it easy to accompany vocals, making it a great choice for singer-songwriters.
• Guitarists on a Budget: The CPX500 OVS offers excellent value for the price, making it a great option for guitarists who are looking for a quality instrument without breaking the bank.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Yamaha CPX500 OVS is a fantastic acoustic-electric guitar that offers a winning combination of sound quality, playability, and value. Whether you're a beginner, an intermediate player, or a performing musician, this guitar has something to offer. Its versatile tone, comfortable playability, and reliable electronics make it a great choice for various musical styles and playing situations. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end guitars, the CPX500 OVS delivers exceptional performance at an affordable price. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile acoustic-electric guitar that won't break the bank, the Yamaha CPX500 OVS is definitely worth considering. So go ahead, give it a strum, and see if it's the right fit for you. You might just find your new musical companion!