Ovation Adamas I guitar 1688-3 Green #607-97
Year: 1978
Adamas I 1688-3 Green #607-97. Many thanks to Arnaud from France for the pics of this amazing Adamas This one of a kind model was previously owned by Marcel Dadi (Late 1978)
Adamas I guitar 1688-3 Green #607-97
Model #1688-3 · Family: 1688
Adamas Proto Rare Models
Adamas Models
12-string
Steel
Deep Bowl
No Cutaway
Model Variants
Guitars (5)
Adamas Classical Nylon Strings Prototype
Year: 1980
Many Thanks to my friend Karl from Germany for the wonderful photos of this amazing guitar. Prototype Adamas Classical (late 70 or early 80) Only a few were made. They never went into production. The owner was the late German guitarist Sigi Schwab. He is the only European recipient of the Ovation Award. Pictures taken by Karl on 09/24/2006 in Wendelstein/Germany during a concert of Sigi Schwab and his group Percussion Project. M.Sigi Schwab and Karl
Adamas I Gold Top Custom Built for Bill Kaman
Year: 1994
Adamas I Gold Top Custom Built for Bill Kaman # 050494. Many Thanks to Alberto Biraghi from Italy for the nice photos of that beauty. http://www.accordo.it (Probably from 1994)
Adamas Slothead "Lilas" Custom built for Marcel Dadi
Year: 1977
This model has been custom built for Marcel Dadi. This guitar is usually called "La Lilas" because of its color. The serial is #093-91 and there's no inlays on the fretboard of this guitar like it was usual on the very first model. Many thanks to Tom and François.D from France for these nice pictures and to Joël, the second owner of that guitar that he bought from Marcel Dadi himself. Joël and the "Lilas"... and with Marcel Dadi on stage !!! My Friend Tom with the "Lilas"& Marcel with his "Lilas"!!! Thanks to my friend Pascal Clément for this original picture from his collection.
Adamas Slothead 12 Strings Prototype
Year: 1974
Many thanks to Sam for these nice pics. This is the first Adamas 12-string model produced by Ovation (1974/1975). It is one of the first 26 Adamas models that remained in the prototype stage and is certainly the only 12-string prototype. It is believed to be serial number #12, but this is not confirmed yet. The guitar has two holes instead of the shoulder pads found on models #27 to #60 and on subsequent commercially released models. There is an access point on the back of the guitar that was likely used to adjust the bracing of the top and thus fine-tune the sound. The top is black, and the back is made of unpainted Lyrachord. This is a significant piece of the design history of these legendary Adamas models.
Showing items from all 1688 variants
Related Artists (1)
Larry Corryel
Larry Coryell (1943–2017) was a trailblazing American guitarist often hailed as the "Godfather of Fusion." Emerging in the mid-1960s, he bridged the gap between jazz, rock, and classical music with unparalleled technical fluidity. His work with The Free Spirits and his landmark album Spaces (1970) redefined the guitar's role, blending the distorted energy of rock with complex jazz improvisation. Beyond his electric prowess, Coryell was a pioneer in bringing the Ovation acoustic guitar to the forefront of professional jazz. He was particularly fond of the Ovation Adamas, a high-tech model featuring a carbon-fiber top and the brand's signature "roundback" design. Coryell’s mastery of the Ovation was most famously showcased in The Guitar Trio, where he performed alongside John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucía. His ability to match the intensity of a flamenco master and a jazz-rock icon on a synthetic-backed guitar proved that Ovation instruments were serious tools for virtuosos. Biography generated with the assistance of AI
Featured In (43)
1991 Ovation Full Line French Catalog
Year: 1991
Comprehensive French-language full-line catalog from Kaman Music Corporation for 1991, covering the entire Ovation guitar range. Opens with a letter from C. William Kaman II introducing the Pinnacle as a new model. Covers Adamas and Adamas II (carbon graphite fibronic tops), Elite series, Custom Legend, Legend, Custom Balladeer, Classics (nylon string), Pinnacle, Ultra Deluxe, Ultra, and Celebrity lines. Includes detailed French-language specifications for all models, electronics section covering OP-24, FET-3, PVT, and VT preamps, cases and accessories, and warranty information. Printed in U.S.A. with Kaman Music Corporation, P.O. Box 507, Bloomfield, CT.
1994 Ovation US Retail Price List
Year: 1994
Complete 1994 US retail price list and product catalog from Ovation Instruments covering their full line of acoustic-electric guitars, basses, and mandolins. Features the new Optima Preamp System on the Collectors Edition, the Viper solid-body acoustic-electric, and models ranging from the flagship Adamas series down through the Celebrity line, along with cases and accessories.
Adamas / Adamas II Guitar Price List 1983
Year: 1983
This is a single-page U.S. Suggested List Price sheet for Ovation's Adamas and Adamas II guitar lines, effective January 1, 1983. It covers seven Adamas models ranging from $1,995 to $2,390 and three Adamas II models ranging from $1,595 to $1,695, along with accessories including a molded hard case and leather look case cover. The document also details available finish colors and notes regarding left-handed models, wide neck configurations, and separate case pricing.
Adamas Catalog II 1982
Year: 1982
Adamas guitar catalog featuring the full Adamas line including the Adamas, Adamas II, and Adamas Cutaway models. Details the carbon-graphite Fibronic Soundboard top, Kaman Bar neck reinforcing system, deep bowl body, stereo FET preamp electronics, exotic wood epaulets, and available finishes in Red, Black, Beige, Blue, and Brown. Includes full specifications table and accessories/warranty information. Published by Ovation Instruments, a Kaman Company, Bloomfield, CT.
Ovation & Adamas Japanese 1994 Catalog
Year: 1994
Comprehensive 1994 Ovation and Adamas guitar catalog for the Japanese market (distributed by Nakao Corporation, Tokyo). Features the full USA-made lineup including Adamas, Adamas II, Elite, Standard Elite, Custom Legend, Legend, Custom Balladeer, Old Walnut Elite, Craftsman, Craftsman Limited, Classic, Old Country Artist, Elite Bass, and Doubleneck series with detailed specifications, available finishes, accessories, strings, and the complete Collectors Series history from 1982-1994. Many thanks to Kazuhiro Gamo from Japan for his help and his kindness
Ovation 1991 Japanese Price List
Year: 1991
Official 1991 Japanese price list (dated March 1, Heisei 3) for the complete Ovation guitar range distributed in Japan. Covers Adamas Guitar by Ovation (Super Adamas, Adamas II), Ovation Guitar (Custom Legend, Legend, Classic, Elite, Thunderbolt, Crafts, Special, Collectors' Series from 1982-1991, Left Handed models), Ovation Guitar Made in Japan (Pinnacle), Ultra Guitar by Ovation, Celebrity Guitar by Ovation, cases, accessories (Matrix tuners, metronome, picks, straps, feedback silencer), and all string lines (Adamas, Ovation Bronze, Kaman Nickels, Omega Classic). All prices in Japanese yen excluding tax. Many thanks to Kazuhiro Gamo from Japan for his help and his kindness
Ovation 1993 Japanese Price List
Year: 1992
Comprehensive Japanese-market Ovation price list revised October 1, 1992 (Heisei 4). Covers full Adamas, Ovation, Pinnacle, Ultra, and Celebrity guitar lines with Japanese Yen pricing, plus cases, accessories, strings, tuners, and straps. Distributed by Nakao Trading Co., Tokyo. Includes Collectors Series models through 1993. Many thanks to Kazuhiro Gamo from Japan for his help and his kindness
Ovation Adamas 1687 12-String Acoustic Electric Guitar Parts Diagram and Parts List
Year: 1980
This two-page document is an official Ovation parts diagram and parts list for the Adamas model 1687, a 12-string acoustic-electric guitar. It includes an exploded-view illustration showing the guitar body, electronics cavity, volume and tone control assemblies, bridge/saddle/pickup assembly, and output jack hardware. The parts list enumerates all components with part numbers, covering both standard top parts and acoustic-electric-specific electronics including a FET transistor amplifier, stereo and mono output jacks, and a battery-powered preamp system.
Ovation Adamas Guitar Catalog 1984
Year: 1984
This is a 1984 Ovation Instruments product catalog dedicated entirely to the Adamas series of acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars, featuring the Adamas, Adamas II, and Adamas Cutaway models. The brochure details the innovative carbon-graphite composite Fibronic Soundboard, the Kaman Bar neck reinforcement system, piezoelectric stereo pickup system, and the distinctive multi-soundhole epaulet design. Available in five finishes (Red, Black, Beige, Blue, Brown), the catalog includes full specifications, model listings, accessories, and warranty information, and was published by Ovation Instruments, Inc., a Kaman Company, based in Bloomfield, Connecticut.
Ovation Adamas I 12-string und Adamas II 6-string – Test Review in Gitarre & Bass
Year: 1997
This is a German-language test/review article from the December 1997 issue of Gitarre & Bass magazine covering the Ovation Adamas I 12-string and Adamas II 6-string electro-acoustic guitars. The article details the construction features including the Lyrachord bowl back, carbon graphite and birch sandwich top, Quintad Bracing system, and the Optima Preamp pickup system with 4-band EQ and built-in tuner. Prices listed are approximately DM 7,990 for the Adamas I and DM 5,990 for the Adamas II, both including an Ovation Supercase.
Ovation and Adamas 1999 Japanese Price List
Year: 1999
Official Japanese market price list for Ovation and Adamas guitars for 1999, covering the full product line including Adamas, Legend, Elite, Balladeer, Folklore, Longneck, Viper, Classic, Country, Mandolin, Mandocello, Collectors Edition, and Custom Shop collections with prices in Japanese Yen.
Ovation Full Line Suggested Retail Price List
Year: 1993
This is a Japanese market suggested retail price list for Ovation guitars, revised on May 21, 1993 (Heisei 5). The catalog covers the full Ovation and Adamas guitar lineup including USA-made models (Adamas, Legend, Elite, Collectors Series), Japan-made Pinnacle models, and Korea-made Ultra and Celebrity models, with prices listed in Japanese Yen. It also includes accessories such as cases, straps, tuners, and guitar strings from Kaman and Adamas.
Ovation Guitar French Price Catalog - September 1987 (CAMAC Distribution)
Year: 1987
A two-page French-language Ovation guitar price catalog distributed by CAMAC, dated September 1987, subtitled 'La Guitare des Stars' (The Guitar of the Stars). The catalog lists the complete Ovation lineup with French franc prices, including the Applause, Celebrity, Balladeer, Legend, Elite, Custom Legend, Nylon, Adamas, and Thunderbolt series, along with available cases (Etuis). Color options and preamp specifications (OP24) are noted throughout. Many Thanks to Dominique Filhon from France for his kindness and for his help
Ovation Guitar German Price List — Unverbindliche Preisempfehlungen 8/90
Year: 1990
This is a German-market Ovation guitar catalog/price list dated August 1990 (8/90), distributed by Musik Meyer GmbH of Marburg, Germany. It covers the full Ovation and Adamas lineup including Applause, Celebrity, Ultra, Pinnacle, Custom Balladeer, Classic Concert, Legend, Elite, Thunderbolt, Custom Legend, Collectors, Adamas I and II series, with prices in Deutsche Marks across Deep Bowl, Deep Bowl Cutaway, Super Shallow Bowl Cutaway, and Deep Bowl 12-string configurations. The document also includes accessories, strings, and electronics/color code references.
Ovation Guitar Japanese Advertisement – Kaman Music Japan
Year: 1987
This two-page Japanese advertisement for Ovation guitars, distributed by Kaman Music (GM-SH division), promotes the brand's distinct soundhole designs: the Rosette, Adamas Epaulet, and Thunderbolt Epaulet. The first page features close-up photography of three Ovation guitars highlighting their distinctive bodies and inlay work, with the tagline 'Though appearances differ, they share the same musical bloodline.' The second page showcases three specific models—the Rosette Type Legend 1867-1, Adamas Epaulet Type Super Adamas 1688-2, and the newly introduced 1987 Thunderbolt Epaulet Type Thunderbolt TB01-6—along with detailed Japanese copy explaining the history and philosophy behind each soundhole design.
Ovation Guitars 1996 German Catalog
Year: 1996
This is the 1996 Ovation Guitars product catalog distributed in Germany by Musik Meyer GmbH of Marburg, celebrating Ovation's 30th anniversary. The catalog covers the full range of Ovation guitar lines including the Adamas Series, Bloomfield Series (Custom Legend, Elite, Legend, Standard Balladeer, Classic), Custom Shop Series (Elite Standard, Elite Bass, Mandoline, Mandocello, Elite Longneck, Viper, Folklore, 1996 Collectors Edition), and World Series (Celebrity Deluxe, Celebrity). All text is in German and includes detailed specifications, model tables, and Quick Check feature summaries for each series.
Ovation Guitars 1997 Full Line Catalog
Year: 1997
This is the official 1997 Ovation Instruments full product line catalog, printed in April 1997, covering the complete range of Ovation acoustic/electric guitars, basses, mandolins, and specialty instruments. The catalog features detailed descriptions, specifications, color options, and electronics information for all model families including the Adamas, Elite, Custom Legend, Legend, Standard Balladeer, Celebrity Deluxe, Celebrity, Viper, and specialty acoustic lines. Notable artist endorsers featured include Melissa Etheridge, Al DiMeola, Richie Sambora, Rudy Schenker, Joan Armatrading, Aaron Tippin, and Adrian Legg, along with a history section detailing Ovation's origins from the Kaman Corporation.
Ovation Guitars French Price List - CAMAC Juin 1988
Year: 1988
This is a two-page French-language Ovation guitar catalog/price list distributed by CAMAC, dated June 1988. It covers the full Ovation lineup including Thunderbolt, Legend, Elite, Custom Legend, Nylon, Adamas, Applause, Celebrity, and Balladeer series with French Franc pricing. The document also lists available guitar cases (Etuis) and notes available color options including Sunburst, Rouge, Naturel, Noir, Blanc, Bleu, and Gris dégradé. Many Thanks to Dominique Filhon from France for his kindness and for his help
Ovation Guitars German Price List October 1987 (Preisliste 10/87)
Year: 1987
This is a German-language Ovation guitar price list dated October 1987, covering the full range of Ovation and Applause models available in the German market. It includes pricing in Deutsche Marks (DM) for series including Classic, Collectors', Adamas, Applause, Celebrity, Ultra, Balladeer, Legend, Custom Legend, and Elite, as well as Guitar-to-MIDI systems, Guitar Cases, and accessories. All prices are listed as non-binding recommended retail prices (unverbindliche Preisempfehlungen).
Ovation Guitars Katalog 1995 (German)
Year: 1995
This is the official 1995 Ovation Guitars catalog produced for the German market, distributed by Musik Meyer GmbH of Marburg. It covers the full Ovation line including the Adamas Series, Bloomfield Series (Elite, Elite Standard, Custom Legend, Legend, Custom Balladeer, Standard Balladeer), World Series (Celebrity De Luxe, Celebrity), and includes technical information about construction features such as the Kaman Bar, Quintad bracing, and various preamp systems. The catalog also contains a section warning consumers about gray-market instruments and promoting the official Service-Garantie-Siegel authentication seal.
Ovation Suggested Retail Price List
Year: 1994
Comprehensive Japanese-market suggested retail price list for Ovation guitars, basses, mandolins, and accessories, effective November 1, 1994 (Heisei 6). Distributed by Nakao Trading Co., Ltd. (Tokyo). Prices in Japanese Yen covering all product lines from Super Adamas through Applause, plus Collector's Series (1982-1995), Kaman strings, cases, and accessories. Includes warranty and International First Quality Standard information.
Ovation Suggested Retail Price List Japan 1997
Year: 1997
This is the official Ovation suggested retail price list for the Japanese market, revised July 1, 1997, distributed by Nakao Trading Co., Ltd. It covers the full range of Ovation and Adamas guitars including the Adamas, Legend, Classic, Elite, Nature Series, Balladeer, Celebrity, Applause, Viper, Collectors Edition, and Custom Shop models, with prices listed in Japanese Yen. The catalog also includes accessories, cases, strings, and a warranty/quality standard section in Japanese.
Ovation U.S.A. / Adamas Japanese Market Catalog 1995
Year: 1995
Comprehensive product catalog for Ovation and Adamas acoustic-electric guitars distributed in Japan by Nakao Corporation. Covers the full USA-made product line including Adamas, Adamas II, Custom Legend, Elite, Legend, Craftsman, Classic, Old Country Artist, and Viper series with detailed specifications, component details, and Adamas strings. Features bilingual English/Japanese content with full Japanese translations of all product descriptions. Many thanks to Kazuhiro Gamo from Japan for his help and his kindness
Ovation U.S.A. Guitar Catalog - Japanese Market Edition
Year: 1992
A comprehensive 28-page Ovation guitar catalog produced for the Japanese market, distributed by Nakao Corporation in Tokyo. It covers the full Ovation and Adamas product lines including Adamas, Adamas II, Elite, Elite Limited, Custom Legend, Legend, Classics, Craftsman, and Special Edition models, along with detailed specifications, electronics (OP-24 preamp), accessories, cases, and strings. Signed off by C. William Kaman II, president of Ovation Instruments.
2007 Adamas Custom Shop Brochure
Year: 2007
Comprehensive Adamas Custom Shop brochure showcasing four base model configurations with extensive customization options. Details the Adamas I Standard Model 1687, Adamas II Standard Model 1581, Adamas Model 1680 (woven carbon fiber), and Adamas Model 2080 (deep contour bowl). Covers all customizable features including top material, finishes, sound hole treatments, body configurations, neck options, fingerboard materials, electronics, and hardware. Printed by Kaman Music Corporation, catalog code KCG-680 01/07. Many thanks to Paul Moody from USA for his help and his kindness
Adamas / Ovation Japanese 2007 Price List
Year: 2007
Japanese-market price list for Adamas and Ovation USA guitars for 2007, distributed by Nakao Corporation (Tokyo). Includes specifications and pricing in Japanese Yen for Adamas, Adamas Re-issue, Custom Legend, Custom Elite, Legend, Elite, Elite Texture, Standard Elite, Standard Balladeer, Legend Nylon, Country Artist, Folklore, Elite Bass, Mandolin, and signature/anniversary models including Melissa Etheridge, Al DiMeola, Nikki Sixx, and Glen Campbell editions. Many thanks to Kazuhiro Gamo from Japan for his help and his kindness
Adamas 30th Anniversary - Ovation USA Limited Edition Models
Year: 2005
This Japanese-market catalog celebrates the 30th anniversary of Adamas guitars, which began in 1976 with Charlie Kaman's Operation Ovation. It showcases four limited edition models featuring exotic hardwoods, carbon fiber tops, and special anniversary designs. The document highlights both the latest and reissue models commemorating three decades of Adamas innovation.
Adamas by Ovation - A Summary History of Development
Year: 1978
This brochure documents the development history of the Adamas guitar by Ovation Instruments Inc., detailing the engineering innovations including the carbon fiber 'Fibronic Soundboard' construction, the unique neck design with the 'Kaman Bar', and the progression from 6-string to 12-string versions. The document is signed by Charles H. Kaman and emphasizes the technical achievements in achieving superior sound quality, sustain, and frequency response.
Adamas by Ovation 1978 Price List
Year: 1978
This is a 1978 price list for the Adamas by Ovation guitar line, manufactured by Ovation Instruments Inc. of New Hartford, CT. The document lists all available Adamas models including standard, 12-string, wide neck, and electric variants in four colors (Red, Beige, Blue, Brown), with prices ranging from $2,200 to $2,550. All prices are F.O.B. New Hartford, CT, effective January 1, 1978, and include case and case cover.
Adamas by Ovation 1979 Price List
Year: 1979
This is a single-page 1979 price list for the Adamas by Ovation guitar line, covering both acoustic and acoustic-electric models in standard, 12-string, and wide-neck configurations. All models were available in five colors (Red, Black, Beige, Blue, Brown) with acoustic prices starting at $2,200 and electric models at $2,395. Prices were effective August 1, 1979, F.O.B. Moosup, CT, and all listed prices included a case and case cover.
Adamas Guitar Owner's Manual
Year: 1993
This is the official Ovation Adamas guitar owner's manual, printed in November 1993, covering the unique features of the Adamas line including the Fibronic Soundboard top, Kaman Bar neck reinforcement system, bridge setup, and electronics. The manual provides detailed maintenance instructions including neck adjustment procedures, action setup, battery replacement for the acoustic-electric system, and general care guidelines. It was published by Ovation Instruments, a division of Kaman Music Corporation, based in New Hartford, Connecticut.
Adamas Guitars - Artisan Built Carbon Fiber-Top Guitars
Year: 2000
Japanese-market catalog for the Adamas CVT and SMT carbon fiber-top acoustic-electric guitar lines. Features crossweave carbon fiber (CVT) and unidirectional carbon fiber (SMT) soundboard technologies, the Melissa Etheridge signature 12-string model, detailed construction specs, and finish options. Printed in Japan, September 2000.
Adamas History Booklet II: When Adamas Speaks
Year: 1977
Promotional booklet by Charles H. Kaman telling the story of the Adamas guitar development. Describes the 1972 origins of carbon graphite fiber top technology, the fibronic graphite soundboard construction, Lyrachord roundback heritage, and innovative upper-bout sound ports. Includes technical details on construction and sound quality. Published by Ovation Instruments Inc., a Kaman Music product, Made in U.S.A.
Adamas I Owner's Guide
Year: 1978
This is an owner's manual for Adamas guitars by Ovation Instruments. It provides detailed information about the guitar's construction, including the Fibronic soundboard, Kaman Bar neck reinforcement, electronics, and maintenance procedures. The document includes technical specifications and care instructions for the Adamas line of acoustic-electric guitars.
Adamas Owner's Guide
Year: 1977
This is an owner's manual for Adamas guitars by Ovation Instruments Inc. It provides detailed information about the construction, features, maintenance, and specifications of Adamas acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars, including the innovative Fibronic soundboard, bowl design, neck construction, electronics, and accessories.
Ovation / Adamas - French Price List Catalog 1989 (CAMAC Distribution)
Year: 1989
This is a single-page French-language Ovation guitar price list from August 1989, distributed by CAMAC. It features the Adamas line of guitars with reference numbers and public prices in French Francs (TTC), along with a selection of Ovation cases (Etuis). The document is branded 'La Guitare des Stars' and includes images of an Adamas guitar and an Ovation gig bag. Many thanks to Rémy Loyant for this nice document Merci beaucoup à Rémy Loyant
Ovation & Adamas Japanese 1999 Catalog (Jp)
Year: 1999
Full product line catalog for Ovation and Adamas acoustic-electric guitars for the Japanese market, featuring Adamas SMT, Adamas, Adamas II, Adamas III, Elite, Custom Elite, Elite Standard, Custom Legend, Legend, Standard Balladeer, Specialty Acoustics (Folklore, LongNeck, Mandolin, Mandocello), Viper, and Bass models. Includes complete Japanese translation pages. Distributed by Nakao Trading Co. (Tokyo). Signed by C.W. Kaman II, President, Ovation Instruments.
Ovation Adamas 1188/1688 12-String Guitar with Kaman Bar - Parts Diagram and Parts List
Year: 1980
This is an official Ovation Instruments, Inc. parts diagram and parts list document for the Adamas 1188/1688 12-string acoustic guitar featuring the proprietary Kaman Bar truss rod system. The document includes an exploded-view illustration with numbered callouts and a corresponding parts list organized by sections: Neck, Bowl & Top, Bowl, and Top (Acoustic Models Only). It serves as a service and replacement parts reference, listing part numbers and descriptions for all major components of the instrument.
Ovation Adamas Guitar Owner's Manual
Year: 1983
This is the official owner's manual for the Ovation Adamas guitar, published in January 1983 by Ovation Instruments, Inc., a Kaman Company based in Bloomfield, CT. The manual covers the unique features of the Adamas guitar including the Fibronic Soundboard top, Kaman Bar neck reinforcement system, bridge adjustment, and built-in stereo acoustic-electric pickup and preamplifier system. It also provides guidance on care and maintenance, string recommendations, and warranty information.
Ovation Guitars French Price List – September 1981
Year: 1981
This is a two-page French retail price list ('Tarif Public Conseille') dated 15 September 1981 for Ovation, Adamas, Applause, and Matrix brand guitars. It covers acoustic and electro-acoustic 6- and 12-string steel and nylon string guitars, solid body electrics, basses, cases, and strings with prices listed in French Francs. The document also includes color/finish codes and notes on left-handed model availability. Many thanks to my Friend Pascal Clément for that great document
Ovation Instruments 1688 Adamas 12-String Acoustic Electric Guitar Parts Diagram and Parts List
Year: 1980
This is an official Ovation Instruments, Inc. parts diagram and parts list for the model 1688 Adamas 12-String Acoustic Electric guitar. The document includes an exploded view illustration showing the onboard electronics assembly including the FET stereo preamp, volume and tone control pots, output jacks, pickup, bridge, and hardware components. Each part is identified by a reference number cross-referenced to a detailed parts list with Ovation part numbers and descriptions.
Ovation Roundback Guitar Owner's Manual
Year: 1993
This is an Ovation Instruments Owner's Manual printed in May 1993 (dated 5/93, part number 990004-H), covering care, maintenance, and technical specifications for Ovation Roundback guitars. The manual includes sections on string care, neck adjustment (Truss Rod and Kaman Bar), bridge setup, and the acoustic-electric OP-24 preamp system. It was produced by Ovation Instruments, a division of Kaman Music Corporation, located at 37 Greenwoods Road, New Hartford, CT 06057.
Ovation USA LX Series & Traditional Catalog (Japanese Edition)
Year: 2007
Japanese-market Ovation USA catalog distributed by Nakao Corporation featuring the LX Series lineup including Custom Legend, Custom Elite, Legend, Elite, Standard Balladeer, Standard Elite, Al DiMeola Signature II, Elite T, Nikki Sixx Signature Bass, Balladeer & Elite Special, Specialties, and Traditional series models. Highlights Lyrachord GS bowl, Advanced Neck System, Scalloped X-Bracing, OP-PRO preamp, and OCP-1 pickup technologies. Includes artist photos of Al DiMeola, Steve Lukather, Melissa Etheridge, Nikki Sixx, and Godsmack.
Guitars (23)
1978 Adamas I 1688-8 12 S #542-92
Year: 1978
Adamas I 1688-8 12 S #542-92. Many Thanks to Mike Ward from USA for these very nice photos. (Nov, 1978)
Adamas 1688 12 Strings Custom Order
Year: 2005
Many Thanks to my friend Dave Witko from USA for these very nice photos. This guitar was custom built for Chris Choate and as far as I know, it's the only Adamas ever produced in Beige/Blue color.
Adamas 1688-2 12S from1978
Year: 1978
These photos come from an ad published in Japan years ago. If you are the owner, please feel free to contact me.
Adamas 1688-9 12S #894-91
Year: 1979
Many thanks to Ed from USA for sharing these pics of his wonderful Adamas with us. Adamas 1688-9 12S #894-91
Adamas I 1688-2 12 Strings
Year: 1979
Thanks a lot Karl for these nice pictures (1979)
Adamas I 1688-2 12 Strings
Year: 1978
Adamas I 1688-2 12 Strings #581-95. Many Thanks to Kazuhiro Gamo from Japan for these wonderful photos.
Adamas I 1688-5 12 String
Year: 1988
Many Thanks to Mike from USA for these very nice photos.
Adamas I 1688-5 12 Strings
Year: 1988
Many Thanks to Elias Argyris for these very nice photos.
Adamas I 1688-5 12-S Black
Year: 1991
Thanks a lot to my friend Karl for these pictures taken in Italy.
Adamas I 1688-7 12 String
Year: 1983
Many Thanks to Mike Ward from USA for these very nice photos.
Adamas I 1688-7 12 strings
Year: 2007
Many Thanks to Stephane Tremblay from Quebec/Canada for these nice photos.
Adamas I 1688-8 12 Strings
Year: 1996
Many Thanks to Hideki Hara in USA for these nice pictures.
Adamas Original Slothead 12 String #0033-96 1688-7
Year: 1976
Adamas Original Slothead 12 String #0033-96 1688-7. Thoses nice and rare photos found on the web comes from this website in Japan: https://www.mikigakki.com Because I don't speak Japanese, I don't have the permission to use these nice pics. If you are the owner of that wonderful guitar or photos and if you don't want to see them here, please contact me and I'll immediately delete them!! (11/1976)
Ovation Adamas I guitar 1688-3 Green #607-97
Year: 1978
Adamas I 1688-3 Green #607-97. Many thanks to Arnaud from France for the pics of this amazing Adamas This one of a kind model was previously owned by Marcel Dadi (Late 1978)
Adamas 1688-9 12S from 1979
Year: 1979
These photos come from an ad published in Japan years ago. If you are the owner, please feel free to contact me.
Adamas Classical Nylon Strings Prototype
Year: 1980
Many Thanks to my friend Karl from Germany for the wonderful photos of this amazing guitar. Prototype Adamas Classical (late 70 or early 80) Only a few were made. They never went into production. The owner was the late German guitarist Sigi Schwab. He is the only European recipient of the Ovation Award. Pictures taken by Karl on 09/24/2006 in Wendelstein/Germany during a concert of Sigi Schwab and his group Percussion Project. M.Sigi Schwab and Karl
Adamas Custom 12 String
Year: 2009
Many Thanks to Jeff Whitehead from USA for these nice photos.
Adamas Cutaway Blue
Year: 1996
CUSTOM MADE ADAMAS WITH MARCEL DADI's SPECS : LARGE NECK (48mm at nut), EXACT SOUDHOLES PLACES WITH CUTAWAY. VERY FEW IN EXISTENCE. RARE Guitare en vente sur le site de "Magic Guitar" / Guitar for Sale on "Magic Guitar" Website: Magic Guitar.
Adamas I Gold Top Custom Built for Bill Kaman
Year: 1994
Adamas I Gold Top Custom Built for Bill Kaman # 050494. Many Thanks to Alberto Biraghi from Italy for the nice photos of that beauty. http://www.accordo.it (Probably from 1994)
Adamas Slothead "Lilas" Custom built for Marcel Dadi
Year: 1977
This model has been custom built for Marcel Dadi. This guitar is usually called "La Lilas" because of its color. The serial is #093-91 and there's no inlays on the fretboard of this guitar like it was usual on the very first model. Many thanks to Tom and François.D from France for these nice pictures and to Joël, the second owner of that guitar that he bought from Marcel Dadi himself. Joël and the "Lilas"... and with Marcel Dadi on stage !!! My Friend Tom with the "Lilas"& Marcel with his "Lilas"!!! Thanks to my friend Pascal Clément for this original picture from his collection.
Adamas Slothead 12 Strings Prototype
Year: 1974
Many thanks to Sam for these nice pics. This is the first Adamas 12-string model produced by Ovation (1974/1975). It is one of the first 26 Adamas models that remained in the prototype stage and is certainly the only 12-string prototype. It is believed to be serial number #12, but this is not confirmed yet. The guitar has two holes instead of the shoulder pads found on models #27 to #60 and on subsequent commercially released models. There is an access point on the back of the guitar that was likely used to adjust the bracing of the top and thus fine-tune the sound. The top is black, and the back is made of unpainted Lyrachord. This is a significant piece of the design history of these legendary Adamas models.
Adamas U-681T-2 Red Custom Order
Year: 2006
Many Thanks to Jeff Whitehead from USA for these very nice photos. This guitar is a custom order with the following specifications: - 1-7/8 Wideneck - Reverse red-burst textured top suspended ring mount - Acoustic only This instrument is a great example of the factory's know-how!! (Sept, 2006)
Ovation Karl's Collection
Year: 2000
This document is a personal photo catalog of an extensive private Ovation guitar collection, likely belonging to a German collector, showcasing instruments spanning from 1968 to 2007. The collection is organized into series including Carbon-Top (Adamas models), Wood-Top (Balladeer, Josh White, Custom Legend, Elite), and Specialty instruments (Bass, Mandolin, Mandocello, Ukulele, Elite Long Neck). Each instrument is carefully labeled with model name, model number, and year of manufacture, with group photos taken against backdrops of firewood stacks and gardens. This outstanding collection belongs to my friend Karl in Germany Many Thanks Karl for these splendid pictures and for your help .
Patents & Innovations (3)
Adamas Q Japanese Patent 2
Year: 2001
Japanese patent application for an improved composite top member (soundboard) for acoustic stringed instruments. Features a center-free flex edge design with paired composite material layers and a center layer, allowing the soundboard to vibrate more freely than conventional laminated tops. Reduces the need for internal bracing. Filed by Kaman Music Corporation with US priority 09/574356.
Guitar Construction
Year: 1977
Patent for a guitar body design featuring two discrete sound openings located on either side of the longitudinal center line in the upper bout, replacing the conventional single center sound hole. This construction allows for a thinner sound board with improved bracing patterns, enabling better acoustic response particularly in the first and second harmonic modes of vibration. The design is foundational to the Ovation Adamas guitar series.
Stringed Instrument Body and Neck Assembly (Japanese Patent)
Year: 2001
Japanese patent application for an acoustic stringed instrument with a composite material body and neck assembly. Features a neck block-free design where the neck member attaches at two points on the body inner wall, providing structural strength with reduced weight. Uses graphite fiber reinforced composite materials. Filed by Kaman Music Corporation with US priority 09/575320.
Technical Reference (4)
1688-5 epaulet
1688-5 epaulet
1688-8 Adamas I 12S Epaulet
1688-8 Adamas I 12S Epaulet
aAdamas I 1688-2 12S Epaulet
aAdamas I 1688-2 12S Epaulet
Adamas I 1688-5 12-S Black Bridge
Adamas I 1688-5 12-S Black Bridge