Guild OM-320 Orchestra Acosutic Guitar Natural vs Left Handed Guitar,Left Handed Acoustic Guitar Cutaway

Price Comparison

The Guild OM-320 Orchestra Acoustic Guitar is priced at $299.99, whereas the Left Handed Guitar is significantly cheaper at $139.99, making it about 53% less expensive. This price difference may play a crucial role for beginners or budget-conscious players. While both guitars offer unique features, the cost can heavily influence a buyer's decision, especially for those who are just starting their musical journey. For a beginner, the Left Handed Guitar provides a more accessible entry point without sacrificing essential features.

Build Quality

The Guild OM-320 is built with a solid top construction, ensuring a bold and balanced tone. This premium feature indicates a higher quality of craftsmanship aimed at serious musicians. In contrast, the Left Handed Guitar, while still a full-size cutaway model, does not explicitly mention the same level of solid wood construction but focuses instead on being a practical choice for left-handed players. The emphasis on a dreadnought shape in the Left Handed Guitar suggests good sound production, but the Guild's solid top may provide a richer tonal quality, appealing to more experienced players seeking depth in their sound.

Target Audience

The Guild OM-320 is designed for players looking for an instrument that combines traditional aesthetics with modern features, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced players. Conversely, the Left Handed Guitar is specifically crafted for left-handed beginners. It includes accessories like a gig bag and tuner, catering directly to those just starting out. This focus on accessibility makes the Left Handed Guitar an appealing option for new players who may not want to invest heavily in their first instrument.

Features and Accessories

The Guild OM-320 boasts features like an open pore satin finish for maximum resonance and a premium Rosewood fingerboard, enhancing playability and sound quality. In comparison, the Left Handed Guitar comes as a complete beginner package, including a gig bag, guitar strap, strings, and a capo, which are particularly beneficial for left-handed novices. While the Guild offers superior sound quality and craftsmanship, the Left Handed Guitar’s bundled accessories provide great value for those who need everything to get started.

Sound Quality

The Guild OM-320 is known for its bold and balanced tone, thanks to its solid top construction and premium materials. This guitar is likely to appeal to players seeking a nuanced sound for various playing styles. In contrast, while the Left Handed Guitar features a dreadnought body designed to produce a powerful sound, it may not match the tonal richness of the Guild. For players who prioritize sound quality and are willing to invest, the Guild is the better option, whereas the Left Handed Guitar serves well for initial learning phases.

Design and Aesthetics

In terms of aesthetics, the Guild OM-320 presents a classic look with black binding and a matching black tortoise pickguard, appealing to traditionalists. Its natural finish enhances the visual appeal while allowing the wood to resonate freely. The Left Handed Guitar, on the other hand, is more utilitarian in design, focusing on functionality for left-handed players rather than on visual sophistication. For those who appreciate the artistry in guitar design, the Guild OM-320 stands out significantly.

Brand Reputation

Guild has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality acoustic guitars, which is reflected in the Guild OM-320’s craftsmanship and tonal quality. Its bestseller rank of 48,938 indicates a solid following among players. Conversely, the Left Handed Guitar by Janerock, ranked at 35,988, while also popular, is primarily viewed as an entry-level option. The established reputation of Guild may provide buyers with more confidence in their purchase, especially for those looking for longevity and reliability in their instrument.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Guild OM-320 Orchestra Acoustic Guitar and the Left Handed Guitar ultimately depends on your skill level, budget, and musical intentions. If you are a beginner looking for an affordable package to get started, the Left Handed Guitar is a great choice at $139.99, providing essential features and accessories. However, if you are seeking a higher-quality instrument with superior sound and craftsmanship, the Guild OM-320 at $299.99 is worth the investment. Each guitar has its strengths, making your specific needs the deciding factor in this comparison.