Ready to buy your first guitar? Here are seven steps you should follow to navigate the sea of options and find the perfect instrument:
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Table of Contents
Determine Your Needs
The first thing you should do is consider your music style and preference. Do you wish to play jazz, rock, or blues? This will help you buy a guitar suitable for your favorite genre.
Next, ask yourself how you plan to use your guitar. Are you hoping to play in a band, perform live, or record music? Or are you exploring music as a hobby and wish to bring your guitar on road trips and play around a campfire? All of these questions will help narrow down your search.
2. Choose a Guitar Type
Knowing the difference between the different types of guitars is critical. Here’s a brief breakdown of two common types:
Acoustic Guitars
Acoustic guitars produce sound naturally through their hollow body and require no additional equipment, such as cables or amplifiers. This makes them an excellent option for beginners. If you’re into folk, country, or pop music, an acoustic guitar is the perfect choice.
Both 6-string and 12-string acoustic guitar models have a softer, mellow sound. 12 string guitars, especially, create a chorus-like effect and produce a brighter and harmonically resonant sound.
Electric Guitars
Electric guitars are the go-to option for rock, blues, jazz, and metal players. They rely on electronic pickups and amplifiers to produce sound. The thinner necks and lighter strings make electric guitars easier to play for beginners.
If acoustic guitars provide simplicity and portability, electric guitars can offer versatility. Both have their advantages, but the right choice depends on your musical preferences and goals.
3. Set a Budget
Before you visit the guitar store or check online websites, it is important to set a budget. Guitars can be incredibly expensive and setting a realistic budget beforehand can stop you from overspending. You can find a guitar with excellent build quality and comfortable placement for under $250.
If it is your first guitar, starting with a lower budget is a good idea. You might realize that the instrument isn’t right for your hands. With a less expensive guitar, you can get a replacement and try out other options.
4. Choose a Guitar Style and Shape
The style and features of a guitar have a huge impact on its usability. Here are three factors you should consider:
Material
Acoustic guitars are typically made from wood, such as spruce, mahogany, or rosewood. Whereas, electric guitars are often made from alder or maple. The construction material of your guitar can affect its tone and resonance.
Body Shape
Guitars come in various body shapes, from small parlour guitars to dreadnoughts. Parlour-style guitars have thin bodies. On the other hand, dreadnoughts have a thick tone, which is perfect for strumming chords. Compare the body shape of various guitars to find the most suitable option.
Neck’s Width and Length
Lastly, consider the neck length and width as it can impact finger placement. If you have small hands, opt for a guitar with a thinner neck and a shorter scale length.
Understanding and balancing these factors with your preferences will help you find a guitar that feels and sounds great.
5. Try Out the Guitar in Person
Trying out a guitar before buying can help you assess its feel, usability, and sound. Consider visiting the guitar store in person to assess a guitar’s:
- Neck shape and size
- Body shape and weight
- Action and spring spacing
Looking at the guitar in person is especially important when you’re buying a second-hand guitar. You can look for any cracks, marks, or poorly finished parts. You can also assess the guitar’s overall construction and material.
6. Choose a Reliable Seller
Buying a guitar from a reliable seller can help you get your money’s worth. Here are some tips you should follow when looking for a seller:
- Ask around for recommendations. If any one of your friends owns a guitar or any other musical instrument, request them for a review. They will give you valuable suggestions and might be able to get discounts from their regular guitar seller.
- Search for music stores online that specialize in guitars. Pay special attention to previous customer reviews.
- Assess the customer service and how helpful they are with product knowledge.
- Inquire about the seller’s warranty and return policy.
With a little research, you can find a guitar that offers affordable and quality products.
7. Think about Guitar Accessories
The right accessories can enhance your playing experience. Here’s a list of things you can consider buying with your guitar:
- Guitar case: Protect your guitar during transportation and storage
- Tuner: Keep your guitar in tune for optimal sound
- Picks: To strum or pick notes with better control
- Capo: Change the key of the guitar without adjusting the tuning
- Amplifier: Produce sound from your electric guitar
- Instrument cable: Connect your electric guitar with an amplifier
- Extra strings: Replace strings in emergencies
- Finger exerciser: Train and strengthen hand muscles for better endurance
These guitar accessories can not only make playing easier but also improve sound quality.
