Guitar Anatomy & Setup
What Is a Guitar Sound Hole?
A sound hole is an opening in the soundboard or body of an acoustic guitar. The common steel-string and classical design uses one round opening below the end of the fingerboard.
The opening works with the vibrating top and the air enclosed by the body. It is not simply a speaker opening through which all guitar sound exits.
What the Sound Hole Does
As the soundboard moves, it compresses and releases air inside the body. Air moves through the opening, contributing to a resonant system that affects bass response and projection. The size and location of the opening interact with body volume and construction.
The moving soundboard also radiates sound directly. Covering the sound hole changes the instrument, but it does not stop every vibration from reaching the listener.
Round Holes, F-Holes and Ports
Flat-top guitars commonly use a round sound hole. An archtop guitar often uses two f-holes positioned on either side of the bridge area. Some modern acoustic guitars add a side sound port aimed toward the player.
A resonator guitar uses a metal resonator cone as its primary mechanical amplifier and may include screens, ports or cover-plate openings rather than a conventional round hole.
Rosette and Reinforcement
The decorative ring around a round sound hole is called a rosette. It may also help reinforce an area where wood has been removed. Internal braces around the opening support the top while allowing it to vibrate.
Playing Near the Sound Hole
Picking directly over the sound hole often produces a balanced tone. Moving toward the bridge usually emphasizes attack and treble. Moving toward the fingerboard often softens the sound.
The sound hole is also where a player may access an internal label, electronics or a truss-rod adjustment on some guitars. Use the correct tool and protect the top from accidental scratches.
Tone-Position Exercise
- Play the same short phrase over the sound hole.
- Repeat close to the bridge.
- Repeat near the end of the fingerboard.
- Keep volume and rhythm as consistent as possible.
- Choose a position for accompaniment and another for melody.
Why the Sound Hole Matters
The sound hole is one part of a coupled acoustic system. Its design helps determine how the internal air and soundboard combine, while its position gives the player a useful reference for changing tone.
Kalymi Tip
Use picking position as an arrangement tool. Over the sound hole is a useful starting point, but a bridge-side attack can clarify a busy part and a fingerboard-side attack can soften an exposed melody.
Do not treat the sound hole as a handle. Lifting or carrying the guitar by the edge can damage the top or internal bracing.
When recording, move the microphone rather than pointing it directly into the opening by default. A position aimed between the sound hole and the neck joint often captures a more balanced starting sound.
Related Terms
Learn More
- Guitar Learning Path
- Guitar Arrangements
- Kalymi Music Library
- Yamaha Sound Hole Size Experiment
- Yamaha: How an Acoustic Guitar Makes Sound
- Which Instrument Should You Learn First?
Reviewed by
Brent C. Robitaille,
music educator and founder of
Kalymi Music.