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What Is A Silent Guitar Used For?
Have you ever wanted to practice your acoustic guitar without making too much noise? If so, check out Yamaha’s SLG200 Silent Guitars, models SLG200S and SLG200N. These beautiful guitars may be just what you’re looking for. Both models give you the option to play in silent mode or plug them into an amp for full acoustic sound.
Now that you get the idea of what they are used for, let’s explore the main difference between these two models. The primary difference comes down to the type of strings. The SLG200S comes with steel strings. The Classical SLG200N comes with nylon strings. Let’s take a look at the two models to see how they compare.
Yamaha SLG200 Silent Guitars are compact and lightweight, making them the ideal solution for traveling musicians on the road.
As a musician, I’m sure you’re asking yourself, what do these guitars sound like? And how can a guitar without a body sound like a traditional acoustic guitar? Well, it’s time to find out for yourself. And by the way, we think you will be pleasantly surprised! Check out these two videos below:
SLG200S (steel strings)
Now let’s compare the SLG200N Classic with nylon strings…
Are you as surprised as we were?
How Quiet Is Yamaha Silent Guitar?
Because the SLG200S and SLG200N are essentially electric guitars that recreate the sound of quality acoustic guitars, playing them in silent mode is like playing an electric guitar unplugged or playing an electric guitar through headphones.
How Does A Silent Guitar Sound Like An Acoustic Guitar?
The secret to recreating such realistic acoustical sounds is Yamaha’s built-in pre-amp system called Studio Response Technology.
Yamaha’s SRT (Studio Response Technology)
Yamaha’s third-generation SRT pickup system does a beautiful job of recreating the body resonance tone and ambiance of a traditional acoustic guitar but with 80% less wood!
For a warmer sound, you can adjust the built-in microphone setting. This effect sounds as if a microphone is used to amplify the sounds.
The SRT system includes a knob to adjust the sound between digital reverb and chorus effects. Although this knob is sensitive, the effect is terrific.
Yamaha has included an auxiliary control with input for plugging in peripheral devices such as an MP3 player, as well as a Stratocaster-style output to connect to an amplifier. This control unit is powered by two AA batteries and includes an AC adapter jack to save your batteries.
The included earphones do a great job but feel free to use your favorite headphones for a fuller sound experience. The headphone output jack measures an eight-inch.
I was immediately impressed by the color, character, and quality of sound the SLG200N produces. Turning the dial to the full mike position creates a true classical guitar sound. And turning it to the pickup setting produces a warm tone with precision.
The guitar’s reverb and chorus settings sound rich and natural.
When plugged into an amplifier, the SLG200N was equally impressive. The sound is very natural and full-bodied. I would not hesitate to use it in a live performance.
Thanks to the electronic controls, I was able to plug the guitar directly into a digital audio workstation for recording. This was a nice plus over a conventional classical guitar.
For more precise clarity, turn the dial to the pickup setting. Or choose somewhere in between the two for an utterly unique sound. SRT electronics also include Power, Vol and AUX. Vol, Bass, Treble, Smooth control effects (Reverb 1, Reverb 2, Chorus), and Chromatic Tuner.
Compact Design Lightweight Design Including Carrying Case Offers Great Protection
The design of the Yamaha Silent Guitars is unique. You can easily separate its body into two pieces to store it in its case, which takes way less space than the one of a standard acoustic guitar. Check this video out to see how easy it is to do it:
For a guitarist on the move, you can’t beat Yamaha SLG200 Silent Guitar’s lightweight, compact size.
The gig bag fits into an airplane’s compartment, which saves checking it in and preventing possible handling damage. It is not the most robust carrying case, so this is a good feature.
Assembly and disassembly are quick and easy. The treble side of the frame is permanently affixed to the body. The bass side attaches with two screws.
Once assembled, both Yamaha SLG200 Silent Guitar’s feels a little strange at first when compared to a traditional classical guitar body guitar. But once you get used to the thin body, you’ll soon be appreciating just how easy this guitar is to play.
The overall construction of the Yamaha SLG200 Silent Guitar’s feels like a high-end guitar. I was impressed with how the fretwork and nut and saddle slots are perfectly interconnected.
Additional Highlights of Yamaha SLG200 Silent Guitars
- Included earbuds allow you to practice in silence
- The (¼ inch) jack connects to the amplifier, loudspeaker, PA system, audio interface, or mixing board.
- Ebony fingerboard helps to produce a fine and clear sound.
- Wood frames are removable, allowing the guitar to collapse into a slim, sturdy gig bag.
- Both models are easy to play and very user-friendly.
- For an electric guitar, the Yamaha SLG200 Silent Guitars are lightweight at only 4.5 pounds.
Final Thoughts
In our opinion, Yamaha’s Silent Guitars are a great choice for any type of stage performance, studio performance, live event, or practicing. Plus, the unique design creates an aggressive look that many guitarists appreciate.
If you’re still not sure a Yamaha silent guitar is for you, or you’d like one more showdown between the steel strings and nylon strings, check out this video:
Happy (silent) playing!
