Technical References

2008 Collectors Label

Year: 2008

2008 Collectors Label Thanks to Kim Messer for sharing this picture with us.👍🏻

2006 Collector Color

Year: 2006

2006 Collector Color

2006 Collector's Inlay

Year: 2006

Ovation Guitar VIP Preamp

Year: 2006

The Ovation VIP (Virtual Image Processing) preamp was officially launched in 2006, representing a major technological leap for acoustic-electric guitars. Unlike standard preamps that simply amplify a piezo signal, the VIP utilized advanced modeling technology developed in collaboration with Fishman. It allowed players to blend their natural pickup sound with "images" of high-end studio microphones (like the Neumann U87) recorded in professional environments. ​This system effectively eliminated the "piezo quack" by replicating the resonance and air of a mic’d instrument. It featured a sleek interface with a built-in digital tuner, a 3-band EQ, and a dedicated dial to switch between five distinct studio-quality mic profiles. Even today, it is praised by enthusiasts for its ability to make a thin-bodied Ovation sound like a full, rich dreadnought through a PA system.

2005 Collector bridge

Year: 2005

2005 Collector bridge

2005 Collector rosette

Year: 2005

2005 Collector rosette

2005 Collector's Inlay

Year: 2005

Ovation OP Pro Preamp

Year: 2004

The Ovation OP Pro Preamp was introduced in 2004, designed in collaboration with professional guitarists to deliver a more natural, studio-quality acoustic tone. This high-output preamp features a 3-band EQ, a precise onboard digital tuner, and a unique "Pre-Shape" circuit that optimizes frequency response. ​A standout feature is its Gain/Volume control and a battery status indicator, housed in a sleek, user-friendly interface. It was engineered to work seamlessly with Ovation’s OCP-1K pickup, minimizing noise while maximizing headroom for live performances. Unlike its predecessors, the OP Pro offers a more "organic" feel, reducing the typical "piezo quack" found in older electronics. It quickly became a standard for the mid-to-high-end Ovation lineup due to its reliability and warmth.

Ovation OP20 Guitar Preamp

Year: 2004

The Ovation OP20 guitar preamp was officially introduced in 2004, designed as a versatile, mid-range solution for their Celebrity and Standard Series. It features a streamlined interface with a 3-band EQ (Bass, Mid, Treble) and a dedicated Pre-shape button to enhance low-end warmth. A standout feature of this model is the integrated onboard chromatic tuner, which was a significant upgrade for stage convenience at the time. ​Known for its reliability, the OP20 delivers a clean, transparent signal that complements Ovation’s signature piezo pickups. The unit is powered by a standard 9V battery and includes a low-battery indicator to prevent mid-performance failures. While simpler than the high-end OP-Pro, it remains a favorite for its ease of use and consistent tonal quality.

2003 Collector's Inlay

Year: 2003

Ovation OP40 Guitar Preamp

Year: 2003

The Ovation OP40 preamp was introduced in 2003, becoming a staple for the brand's high-end guitars during the mid-2000s. Known for its clean headroom and low-noise circuitry, it offers professional-grade tone shaping for stage and studio. It features a 3-band EQ, a dedicated Mid-Shift switch for frequency control, and a Pre-Shape circuit to enhance the "Ovation" sparkle. ​A standout feature is the built-in chromatic tuner with a clear LED display for easy visibility under stage lights. The unit also includes a "Battery Status" indicator and a notch filter to effectively suppress feedback. Its modular design allows for quick battery changes via a convenient pop-up compartment. This preamp remains a favorite among players for its balance of simplicity and high-fidelity output.

2002 Collector's Inlay

Year: 2002

2002 Label

Year: 2002

2002 Collector Label