Is the Dual-Sided Guitar Easy to Play?
The dual-sided guitar, or the Busyui style double-sided guitar, is a unique musical instrument that may seem daunting at first glance due to its unconventional appearance. However, contrary to the perception that it might be a strenuous challenge, playing a dual-sided guitar is not significantly harder compared to a standard acoustic guitar. In this article, we will explore the ease of playing a dual-sided guitar, its characteristics, and potential challenges faced by musicians.
Weight and Body Design
One of the first concerns that new players might have is the weight of the dual-sided guitar. The instrument is slightly heavier than a standard acoustic guitar but is not significantly bulkier than an electric guitar like a Telecaster. The body thickness of the dual-sided guitar is approximately 1 inch, which is comparable to that of a standard dreadnought. This makes it more manageable in terms of physical dimensions.
Another important aspect is the muting mechanism. The side of the guitar that is not being played automatically tucks against the body, muting all unplayed strings. This feature is intuitive and easy to manage, requiring no additional effort from the player.
Setup and Maintenance
Interestingly, many dual-sided guitars are set up perfectly out of the box, requiring minimal adjustments. Some models come with a flawless set-up, with no tweaks needed for the fretwork or action. This simplified setup process further reduces the difficulty associated with playing the instrument.
Playing Techniques and Challenges
While the dual-sided guitar presents some unique challenges, these are manageable with practice and proper technique. Two key factors to consider are the neck weight and the orientation of the necks.
Neck Weight and Neck Dive
The dual-sided guitar can be neck-heavy, leading to potential issues such as "neck dive" if not held correctly. This is particularly noticeable if the guitar is held in a right-handed classical position. However, with some adjustments in how the guitar is held, the issue can be mitigated. Many steel-string acoustic guitarists prefer a waist-over-right-leg playing position, which works well in this context. The key is to keep the right arm supported on the instrument.
Left-Hand Positioning
The orientation of the necks in front-to-back can slightly restrict how the left arm is positioned relative to the neck. For instance, if the player favors a "thumb-over-top-of-neck" playing position, they may face difficulties. However, for players who use a thumb on the back of the neck, there is no significant issue. This aspect is more dependent on individual playing style and technique.
Are Dual-Nested Guitars Feasible?
It's important to distinguish the dual-sided guitar (Busyui style) from dual-nested guitars. A dual-nested guitar, which has necks, strings, and bridges on both the front and back of the guitar, is cumbersome and challenging. These instruments are often described as a "nightmare" and are considered "totally worthless and useless." This stark difference highlights the significant advantages and unique capabilities of the dual-sided guitar.
While the dual-sided guitar introduces some unique challenges, its innovative design allows for versatile playing styles and can offer enhanced musical expression. For musicians looking for a unique and engaging instrument, the dual-sided guitar is a promising choice.