“What guitar should I buy?” is a common and reasonable question for every novice student. After all, some teachers claim that the basics ought to be learned on an acoustic guitar.
Meanwhile, many virtuoso guitarists, like Slash or Yngwie Malmsteen, began their apprenticeship directly on an electric model. It turned out just alright for them.
In this article, I’ll review the essential information about buying a guitar as a beginner. I’ll also look at potential, attainable objectives.
And hopefully, I’ll convince you that purchasing an instrument and learning to play, above everything, should prioritize fun and encourage your creativity.
Why choosing the right guitar as a beginner can make a difference?
First of all, just how many guitar types are there? Tons! And that’s just the guitars available in your run-of-the-mill music store.
The truth is that you can choose to buy from a variety of acoustic guitars (the Dreadnought model, grand concert, grand auditorium cutaway, etc). You can choose from a wide variety of electric guitars that feature six or more strings. You can opt early for the role of a bass guitar player. Or, you can even purchase a similar stringed instrument (bouzouki, mandolin, lute).
However, if you’re like most beginners, you’ll want to learn the very basics of playing a regular guitar.
For these purposes, we’ll focus primarily on acoustic and electric models featuring six strings for our guitar buying guide. From Elvis Presley to Eddie van Halen, these are the models that 99% of buyers want.
Acoustic vs. electric guitar as a beginner
Popular belief is that learning to play an acoustic guitar first and then graduating to an electric model is the best route for someone that wants to learn the instrument. Is that just an old wives’ tale, though?
Yes, acoustic guitars have the benefit of not requiring additional items like amplifiers or effects pedals. Starting with an acoustic guitar is recommended, as it’s more challenging and will get your hands and fingers used to playing a stringed instrument.
Electric guitar players have the luxury of plugging into various effects and guitar amps. However, learning an acoustic guitar will give you the fundamentals before progressing to more complex learning material. Acquaintance with proper positioning and technique on an acoustic guitar can prove invaluable when learning other instruments in the furure.
Also, an electric guitar’s body is thinner and less bulky than its acoustic counterpart, making it easier to hold your instrument closer to yourself. It also looks sexier. Solos played on electric guitars by the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page, or Joe Satriani are revered.
Acoustic guitar solos? Let’s say, have a smaller cult following.
Still, either guitar will do just fine. The basics of both are very similar, and you’ll advance on either model provided you enjoy it and want to practice often.
When learning the guitar, the type of instrument used doesn’t really matter; either electric or acoustic will do just fine. Ultimately, though, it comes down to what motivates you.
Most people start learning for fun, but some have a clearer objective in mind. If, for example, you’re set on starting a death metal within a year, you may just want to save yourself the trouble and jump right into learning riffs on an electric guitar.
Is it more difficult to play an acoustic guitar than an electric one?
Sure! How often do you hear your favorite rock guitarist whip out an acoustic guitar? And how often do they mess up when they do?
Playing an acoustic guitar involves a bit more subtlety. But don’t worry! It can be taught just like anything else involving a guitar.
When it comes to the feel of the instrument, there are some distinct distinctions between an acoustic guitar and electric guitar.
Electric guitar strings tend to be thinner, as magnetic pickups are installed that convert vibrations from metal steel or nickel strings into voltage and sound.
On the other hand, acoustic guitars generate sound by amplifying string vibrations naturally through their body, producing a warm and rich tone emitted from the soundhole. However, if we used super-light gauge acoustic guitar strings like those found on an electric guitar, we would get a tinny and weak sound.
Also, classical and Western-type acoustic models are both popular. Classical guitars use thinner strings. Western-styled guitars are used more frequently in pop, rock, and country music.
In other words, your fingers will need to adjust to playing an acoustic guitar. But you’ll be rewarded for your troubles handsomely.
How to choose an electric or acoustic guitar?
If you’re a novice player, simply taking a guitar off the rack at your local store and playing it might not be enough to determine whether you want to buy it.
I’ve done extensive guides on how to purchase an acoustic guitar or an electric model. Read those if you want more detail.
However, the basics always apply. Let’s look at those for a second.
Which acoustic guitar to buy?
When shopping for an acoustic guitar, tone is one of the most important factors to consider. Different wood types used on the top, back, and sides will produce different tones.
For example, spruce wood often makes the top and produces a bright and clear sound, while mahogany wood provides warmth and depth through the back and sides.
Could you take into account its size as well? Models range from the Dreadnought to the Concert and Grand Auditorium in size. Your chosen instrument’s sound quality and comfort level will depend on which size fits best in your hands. This matters, especially for someone looking to buy a guitar for a beginner.
Last but not least, the playability of a guitar is paramount. Ensure the model has a comfortable neck and good action (the distance between strings and fretboard).
Ultimately, you must pick a guitar that feels good in your hands and makes you feel like a rockstar when playing it!
Which electric guitar to buy?
When shopping for an electric guitar, one of the most important factors to consider is its pickups. These help convert the string vibrations into electrical signals which can be amplified.
There are two primary types of pickups that you need to know about single-coil and humbucker. Single coils produce a bright, clear sound. Meanwhile, humbuckers offer warmer tones. Ultimately, you must select which type best fits your desired music style. From a Fender to a Gibson, those differences will apply.
Another crucial element when selecting a guitar body is the type of wood used. Different wood materials will produce distinct tones. For example, alder wood is commonly used for electric guitar bodies and produces an even tone with a strong midrange response. On the other hand, mahogany wood produces warmer and darker tones.
Finally, once again, consider playability. Make sure that the guitar feels right in your hands. As Randy Rhoads would tell his students, if you like the way it looks and feels, you’ll be more inclined learn to play it. Intermediate players can quickly become advanced guitarists provided that they choose the right model.
In conclusion, when shopping for a guitar – whether acoustic or electric – it’s essential to consider its tone, size, and playability.
Additional factors to consider when buying a guitar?
Lastly, there are a few things that invariably come into the equation when purchasing a guitar.
These tend to stress beginners out. To relieve you of some of those fears, let’s quickly go over them.
What should my budget be for buying a guitar as a beginner?
First and foremost, you’ll want to consider your budget. As a novice, you don’t need to break the bank on your first guitar. I could only afford a 3/4 acoustic made in the Czech Republic, but I’m not complaining. I switched to a full scale not long afterward.
In fact, you can find plenty of quality options for under $500. Of course, if you have a larger budget, you can opt for higher-end models with more features and better sound quality. Buying a more expensive model may mean that you won’t need to make another change once you advance in your learning.
Do I need accessories?
In addition to the guitar itself, you’ll want to consider any necessary accessories. This includes items like a guitar tuner, picks, a strap, and a case. You;ll also want to think about what guitar strings you should buy to feel comfortable playing. These accessories are essential for properly maintaining and playing your guitar.
How am I going to carry it around?
Speaking of cases, you’ll also want to consider how you will carry your guitar around. If you plan on taking it to lessons or gigs, you’ll need a case or gig bag to protect it during transport. Some guitars come with a case included, while others require you to purchase one separately.
Would Jimi Hendrix approve?
I’d like to think that Hendrix wouldn’t only approve but, noticing you don’t have a tuner, would humbly offer to tune the guitar for you. Either that, or he’d ask you how quickly you can roll a spliff and, based on your answer, would offer to make you a roadie. Swell guy!
Just buy a guitar and start making music!
Learning a new instrument is just like learning a new language. It involves some discipline and may occasionally seem like an overwhelming task.
But both the journey and the result can and should be fun.
Once you buy a guitar and learn the basics, you’ll be able to express yourself creatively. Whether you become a professional musician or an amateur guitarist, it will help to enrich your life.
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