Tanglewood TWCRO Crossroads Orchestra Acoustic Guitar, Whiskey Burst Satin

The all-rounder size for strumming and picking

Sitting between a small parlour and a big dreadnought, the Tanglewood TWCRO is a mid-size orchestra guitar that is easy to hold for long sessions. It is acoustic only, made from mahogany, and suits players who mix strummed chords with fingerpicked parts.

Why the orchestra shape

The orchestra body has a narrower waist and a smaller footprint than a dreadnought. It sits closer to you, so your strumming arm rests more naturally over the top, and the guitar feels less bulky on your knee. You still get good projection, so it does not sound small when you dig in with a pick.

Mahogany tone

This is a mahogany acoustic guitar through and through, from the top to the back and sides. Expect a smooth, warm sound with good definition between the strings. Fingerstyle patterns come across clear and balanced, and chords have a rounded quality that suits singer-songwriter material, folk and blues. The Eboncore fingerboard and satin finish keep the look classic, and the burst shading frames the grain without hiding it.

Getting started

A mid-size guitar is often the easiest place to begin. Your arm does not have to stretch over a deep body, and the waist sits on your leg without sliding about. That helps beginners keep a relaxed posture while they learn their first chords, and it helps experienced players stay comfortable through a long evening of songs.

• Comfortable mid-size body for practice and lessons
• Responds well to both a pick and bare fingers
• Eboncore fingerboard
• Whiskey Burst Satin finish that lets the grain show

At £129, the TWCRO is a sound choice for a first proper acoustic, a second guitar for the sofa, or a student instrument that will not be outgrown quickly. It is one of the most adaptable shapes in the tanglewood crossroads range. Left-handed players can get the same guitar as the TWCROLH, and if you think you will want to plug in later, the TWCROE adds onboard electronics.