Finding the right guitar for those laid-back practice sessions on your couch can significantly enhance your playing experience. Comfort, size, and sound all play crucial roles. Over the years, many guitarists have sought out instruments that are easy to pick up and play without sacrificing tone. Here are some excellent “Couch Guitar” options, based on real-world playing experiences, that cater to different preferences and budgets.
Larrivee Parlor: A Solid Wood Gem
The Larrivee parlor guitar, particularly models from the early 2000s, stands out as a superb choice for couch playing. These guitars, often crafted with solid wood flamed maple, offer a rich, resonant tone despite their smaller size. The compact body sits comfortably in your lap, making it ideal for extended practice or casual strumming while relaxing. For players seeking a high-quality, all-solid-wood instrument that’s perfect for intimate settings, a used Larrivee parlor can be an excellent investment.
Martin Backpacker: The Ultimate Portable Companion
Don’t underestimate the Martin Backpacker. While it might draw some skepticism due to its unconventional shape, this little guitar is surprisingly versatile, especially when set up in Nashville tuning. This tuning gives it a brighter, almost mandolin-like quality, adding a unique texture to your sonic palette. The Backpacker’s small body and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to handle on the couch, and its durability makes it a great travel guitar too. Original, smaller-bodied models can often be found used at very affordable prices, offering exceptional value for a unique and portable instrument.
Alvarez Artist Dreadnought: Affordable Versatility
For those who prefer a more traditional guitar shape but still need couch-friendly playability, the Alvarez Artist dreadnought series offers a compelling option. While dreadnoughts are typically larger guitars, Alvarez Artist models, especially used ones, are available at very accessible price points. Look for models with a solid spruce top and laminated mahogany back and sides for a balanced and warm sound. Alvarez also makes smaller-bodied guitars within the same Artist range, providing even more comfortable options for couch playing without breaking the bank. These guitars are versatile enough to move from your living room to a campfire jam session.
Martin 000 Jr. Streetmaster: A Modern Compact Marvel
The Martin 000 Jr. Streetmaster is a more recent offering that’s specifically designed for comfortable playability. With its slightly smaller 000 body size and shorter scale length, it’s exceptionally comfortable to hold and play for extended periods on the couch. The Streetmaster finish gives it a cool, understated vibe, and its solid wood construction delivers a surprisingly rich and full tone for its size. While priced higher than some used options, the 000 Jr. Streetmaster offers a modern take on the couch guitar, blending Martin quality with player-friendly design.
Kala Baritone Ukulele: Explore Lower Tunings
For a different flavor altogether, consider a Kala Baritone Ukulele. Tuned like the lower four strings of a guitar (DGBE), a baritone ukulele provides a tenor guitar-like experience in a smaller, more manageable package. It’s an excellent way to explore lower tunings and add a unique sound to your musical toolkit without the complexities or cost of a full baritone guitar. The baritone ukulele’s compact size and nylon strings make it exceptionally comfortable for couch playing and gentle on the fingertips.
Oahu Square Neck Hawaiian Guitar: A Wall-Hanging Conversation Starter
Finally, for a touch of vintage charm and a truly unique “couch guitar” (in a decorative sense), consider a vintage Oahu square neck Hawaiian guitar. These guitars, often dating back to the 1930s, are not typically played in the traditional sense while lounging on the couch, but their unique design and historical appeal make them fascinating instruments to own. Often made from laminated birch, they are remarkably stable and can serve as interesting wall art that sparks conversation. While not your primary playing instrument, an Oahu Hawaiian guitar adds character and a touch of history to your guitar collection.
Ultimately, the best “couch guitar” is the one that you find most comfortable and inspiring to play. Exploring these diverse options, from parlor guitars to baritone ukuleles, can lead you to the perfect instrument for your relaxed playing sessions. Happy strumming!
