When it comes to finding an acoustic beginner guitar, there are many things to consider. It may actually be worth spending enough money for a high quality guitar, if you have it. The ease with which the guitar plays and the sound it makes really is related to the quality and price.
Two acoustic guitars stand out in the high end beginner guitar category. The Seagull S6 makes a fine acoustic beginner guitar of high quality, that plays well enough to take a novice guitar player well into advanced technique. It is priced in the $400-500 range. Also in this price range is the Washburn D10S. This instrument was ranked as #1 by Acoustic Guitar Magazine in a comparison of guitars under $500. While both guitars represent a significant investment for the starting guitarist, they are both very playable instruments of a quality that is capable of keeping pace with the new player's ability as it grows for many years.
The Yamaha F310, Takamine G-240 and Fender DG7 are all good choices for the beginner. But in terms of price, the most affordable for the beginner is the Epiphone DR-100. Once you gain more experience you will want to trade up, but it's a great acoustic beginner guitar at $120-$150.
When you are looking for your first guitar, avoid the very cheap ones. These are actually harder to play and can be hard for even an experienced player. A cheaper made acoustic beginner guitar is just not made well and usually have really high action, meaning there is more space between the strings and the fingerboard than the more expensive guitars. This can make a beginner just give up.
If your budget is less than $100, you are better off with a second-hand acoustic beginner guitar. If you see two of the same guitar, try playing both of them. Doing this will tell you the personality of the guitar, which might also tell you a little about the personality of the previous owner.
Ever hear the saying, "never buy a guitar from a jerk"? Whether a guitar picks up a "personality" from it's owner is a point to be debated, however most guitar owners treat their instruments like people. So when you look for your first acoustic beginner guitar keep this in mind. Pay attention to the guitar's "vibe", and even if it sounds great, but doesn't feel right somehow, pass on it.
If you are a beginner and can't play worth a dime, ask the store associate to play the acoustic beginner guitar you are considering buying. Any sales person at a guitar store will be able to figure out that you would like to actually hear the sound of the acoustic beginner guitar before making a purchase. Who knows, maybe they will be assisting the next great acoustic guitar player! |
