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Buying Your First Acoustic Guitar
Photo by John Nupp - Unsplash
There are two types to consider.
Steel string and nylon string.
If you are going to buy a used guitar, be careful, and know what to look for!!
Here's what you need to consider when buying your first guitar.
Set Your Budget:
An good quality entry level acoustic guitar should cost betweem: $200 to $350 which is good for beginners.
A mid-range priced guitar with better woods and better and fuller sound should be $400 to $800.
You will want a guitar that you feel comfortable with.
Does it stay in tune?
Any buzzing sounds?
Is the neck too thick/thin for your hand?
Choose the Type of Acoustic Guitar:
Steel- 6 string acoustic.
Bright, loud, versatile (pop, rock, folk, country).
Classical (nylon-string)
Softer feel, mellow sound (classical, flamenco, fingerstyle).
Better for young beginners because nylon strings are easier to press down on.
Pick the Body Shape:
Body shape changes comfort and tone:
Dreadnought: loud, powerful, good for strumming.
Concert / Grand Concert: smaller, comfortable, good for fingerstyle.
Grand Auditorium: balanced all-rounder.
Parlor: small, warm, vintage tone.
There are different body sizes and depths.
Guitar necks have different shapes and depths. You want your hand to be comfortable on the neck.
Guitar necks have different scale lengths.
Short scale lengths are easier for a beginner to stretch the fingers over the frets.
Nylon strings are easier to press down on, but the neck is wider.
Find a reputable guitar shop and try different guitars.
You don't need to know how to play at this point.
You just want to feel comfortable holding the guitar in your lap.
If you are going to buy a used guitar, be careful, and know what to look for!!
A reputable dealer in used guitars would be a good option.
If you decide to buy a guitar online, be sure it is a reputable company,
that has at least a 30 day return policy.
Try sitting with each type if possible.
Check the Materials
Solid top: = better tone, ages well.
If budget allows, choose at least a solid spruce or cedar top.
Back & sides: Mahogany (warm), rosewood (rich), maple (bright).
Try Before You Buy (or Use a Good Return Policy)
If buying online, choose a store with a 30-day or better return policy.
Recommended Beginner Brands
Simon and Patrick
Takamine
Yamaha
Fender
Ibanez
Epiphone
Where to Buy
Local music stores (best for trying in person)
Online retailers (look for good return policies)
Used marketplaces (you can find bargains, but inspect carefully and know whata to look for.
Good idea to bring along a guitar playing friend for advice.
