Discover the Magic of Tenor Guitars

Spotlight on the Airline Guitars MAP Tenor

Tenor guitars have been making waves in the music world for decades, offering a unique blend of playability and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist looking for something fresh or a beginner exploring new sonic landscapes, a tenor guitar can open up a whole new world of musical possibilities.

One of the most exciting tenor guitars on the market today is the Airline Guitars MAP Tenor. This electric tenor guitar is an absolute gem, combining retro style with modern playability. Let’s dive into what makes the MAP Tenor a standout instrument and why it deserves a spot in your collection.

What is a Tenor Guitar?

A tenor guitar is a four-stringed instrument that traditionally features a shorter scale length than a standard six-string guitar. Initially designed for tenor banjo players transitioning to guitar, tenor guitars have since become a staple in multiple genres, from jazz and folk to rock and indie. They can be tuned in a variety of ways, making them a highly flexible tool for musicians seeking new sounds.

Need to tune your tenor guitar? Try out our free online tenor guitar tuner.

The Airline Guitars MAP Tenor: A Retro-Inspired Powerhouse

Airline Guitars has built a reputation for crafting unique, vintage-inspired instruments that break the mold. The MAP Tenor continues that tradition with a design based on its 6-string sibling but reimagined for the tenor guitar enthusiast.

Key Features of the MAP Tenor:

• Basswood Body – Lightweight yet resonant, providing excellent tonal balance.

• Bolt-on Neck – Ensures stability and easy maintenance.

• Rosewood Fingerboard & Dot Inlays – Classic feel with smooth playability.

• 23” Scale Length – Perfect for standard tenor or octave mandolin tuning.

• Dual Humbuckers – Offering rich, warm tones with plenty of versatility.

• 3-Way Pickup Selector – Switch between pickup configurations for diverse tonal options.

• Dual Volume, Single Tone Controls – Fine-tune your sound to perfection.

• Tune-o-Matic Bridge & Stoptail – Enhancing sustain and tuning stability.

• Nickel/Chrome Hardware – Durable and stylish.

• Gig Bag Included – Take your MAP Tenor on the road with confidence.

Why Choose a Tenor Guitar?

The tenor guitar is a fantastic instrument for both rhythm and lead playing. Whether you want to create intricate fingerpicking patterns, punchy rhythm parts, or melodic lead lines, the MAP Tenor is built to handle it all.

Versatile Tuning Options

One of the biggest advantages of a tenor guitar is the range of tuning possibilities. The MAP Tenor’s 23” scale length allows players to experiment with tunings like:

• Standard Tenor (CGDA) – Common in jazz and traditional music. 

• Chicago Tuning (DGBE) – Matches the top four strings of a standard guitar, making it great for guitarists looking to transition.

• Octave Mandolin Tuning (GDAE) – Adds a folk and Celtic flavor.

• Open Tunings – Perfect for slide guitar and experimental sounds.

Who Should Play the MAP Tenor?

The MAP Tenor is an ideal choice for:

• Guitarists Looking for a Fresh Sound – If you’re looking to expand your tonal palette, the MAP Tenor is a great addition.

• Mandolin & Banjo Players – Transitioning to a guitar-style instrument without the complexity of six strings.

• Indie & Alternative Rock Musicians – Its unique tone and playability make it a standout choice in modern music.

• Jazz & Blues Players – The smaller scale and warm humbucking pickups make it great for rich, expressive solos.

Final Thoughts: Why the MAP Tenor Stands Out

The Airline Guitars MAP Tenor is more than just a cool-looking instrument – it’s a gateway to new creative possibilities. Its retro design, premium hardware, and versatile sound make it an excellent choice for musicians looking to push their sonic boundaries.

Whether you’re playing in a band, composing new music, or just jamming at home, the MAP Tenor is an inspiring instrument that delivers both in looks and performance. If you’re ready to add something unique to your collection, the Airline Guitars MAP Tenor is waiting to be your next favorite guitar.