Tanglewood TR3 Roadster Orchestra Acoustic Guitar, Spruce Top, Natural Satin

A comfortable orchestra body with a clear spruce voice

The Tanglewood TR3 is a simple, good looking acoustic guitar with no electronics to get in the way. The orchestra body shape is easy to hold, which makes it a friendly pick for songwriters, learners and anyone who wants a guitar that lives on the sofa.

A body that sits well

An orchestra guitar is a little more compact than a dreadnought, so it rests naturally against you and feels less bulky. It still has enough size to give a balanced sound with decent volume for singing along or playing with friends.

Spruce and mahogany

The top is spruce and the back and sides are mahogany. The spruce top keeps strummed chords crisp and picked notes clear. The mahogany adds some warmth, so nothing sounds harsh. It is a combination that works across most styles.

Because there is no electronics hardware in the body, the guitar stays light and the top is free to vibrate. It is a good guitar for learning songs, practising scales and writing at the kitchen table, and it will not be fussy about where you play it.

Neck and finish

The Eboncore fingerboard is smooth and the Natural Satin finish lets the wood show without a glossy shine. It feels pleasant in the hand and is easy to keep looking tidy.

• Orchestra body shape
• Spruce top, mahogany back and sides
• Eboncore fingerboard
• Natural Satin finish, no electronics

Is it the right one?

If you plan to plug in, look at the TR4CE or TR5E instead. They have onboard electronics and cost £299. For playing at home or in small rooms, the TR3 at £229 is a sound choice, and it is the lowest priced Roadster here. Left-handed players can choose the TR3LH. Delivery is free in the UK.