Boroughs Guitars Acoustic Electric Guitar: Hands-On Review

The feeling of playing an acoustic guitar is like magic. From the first notes on the Boroughs Acoustic Electric Guitar, a vibrant detailed voice jumped to life. Sitting down in a large open room, this Boroughs auditorium-shaped acoustic projected with brilliance as I strummed through my first chords.

Throughout the history of popular culture, there is no instrument that is as recognizable and loved as the acoustic guitar. Whether you are a country singer, bluesman, folk artist, or pop star, you need an acoustic guitar. With the release of Boroughs new line of guitar options, the Boroughs B30ACE guitar — specifically — proves why it’s so special. As my excitement rose, my hands pivoted into a spirited bluegrass medley and I thought to myself… This is exactly what an acoustic guitar is supposed to be.

A No-Nonsense Guitar Body

The Boroughs Acoustic Electric Guitar features an impressive set of features and build choices. Boroughs say the guitar is “everything you need in your guitar, nothing you don’t.” Starting in the body of the instrument is an X-braced spruce top. Spruce is the standard topwood for steel string guitars. It is a bright tonewood that is strong and projects well. X-bracing is a technique used on some of the best acoustic instruments and the Boroughs is no exception. The guitar is full-voiced and balanced. The Graph Tech™ nut and compensated saddle are significant upgrades compared to plastic parts used in other instruments in this price range. Working with the fully enclosed 15:1 tuners, the intonation on the B30 is perfect.

As I reached for larger chords in a rendition of Bach’s B minor Sarabande, I found the C-shaped neck very comfortable. This shape is a great choice for beginners who will find the thinner profile more accommodating. The fretboard is a material known as techwood that receives treatment to withstand varying levels of humidity. This will give you the peace of mind that your instrument will be safe during all seasons.

Included Electronics

One of the most impressive features of this guitar is its included electronics. The Boroughs CnR-3 preamp is located on the upper shoulder of the instrument. It also has a battery pack and output jack on the opposite side. A single 9v battery powers the preamp and graphic tuner. I tested the sound through a portable PA speaker with a touch of reverb. The 3-band EQ let me cut out a touch of bass. Even with the PA at a considerable volume, I didn’t experience any feedback. The inclusion of this electronics system is part of what makes this Boroughs guitar so versatile.

I would be comfortable taking this guitar to any of my gigs knowing I can plug right in to any acoustic amp or PA for great sound. I am a musician who spends almost every day of the week on a stage, in a recording session, or a musical. Therefore, having an instrument with such a great tone is a huge asset.

Even and Balanced Sound

While practicing with the Boroughs Acoustic Electric Guitar, I spent the better part of ten minutes playing an extended arrangement of some contemporary acoustic music. The guitar showcased it’s balance as I jumped up and down the fingerboard mixing chords and single notes alike.

One of the defining characteristics of an acoustic guitar is its ability to project evenly. Whether you’re strumming an anthemic sing-along or playing a melody, the Buroughs Acoustic Electric Guitar voices each note with definition and bloom. There is excellent string separation that rivals what I’ve seen on instruments 500 times the price. As I strummed through dense chords, I found myself coming back to my first instincts with the Boroughs Acoustic Electric Guitar. I couldn’t stop loving it.

When you play an instrument that’s as rewarding as the Boroughs, you reconnect with what an acoustic guitar is supposed to be. This is a great sounding instrument for everybody to enjoy making music.

Learn how to use your new guitar at the Adorama Music YouTube channel.