The AE147 occupies top slot in the Applause series, the 'Deluxe' tag denoting Elite-style multi-hole epaulettes rather than a centre soundhole.
The raised, wood epaulettes sit on a multi-ply-bound, black-lacquered top of X-braced laminated spruce, with the bridge rear-strung in the usual Ovation manner.
The fibreglass bowl is the medium-depth variety, which is by far the company's most popular option these days.
It should be noted however, that this still means a pretty portly body, some 135mm deep at the apex of the bowl.
The guitar comes with two strap buttons, which is good to find. The intermediate-scale neck – sprayed up in a matching black lacquer – is an ideal strumming companion.
It's slim and shallow, allowing slick, compact chord work, made even more effortless by our sample's slinky action.
The black vibe is contrasted by white fretboard binding, while the cutaway provides decent access to the full 23-fret range.
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