9 Tips on How To Pick the Right Guitar for Yourself

Are you ready to buy a guitar but unsure where to start? There are many sizes and styles, and it’s easy to get lost in all the varieties available. But before you start looking for your first guitar, there are some things you need to keep in mind. In this post, we’ll go over how to pick the right guitar for yourself, based on your skill level and musical interests. Read on for tips on what to look for in a guitar.

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Decide Whether You Want an Acoustic or Electric Guitar.

You may not be an instrumentalist and want to simply playing music immediately with a guitar. For easy simple playing, consider going acoustic. However, the electric guitars require amplification and other accessories like cables, pedals, and more. They also depend on the style of music you’d like to play. Electric guitars are more involving but allow for more experimentation in sound, which is intriguing for the experienced player.

If You Select an Acoustic Guitar, Decide Between Nylon and Steel Strings

Strings made of steel are the standard, yet harder on your hands than nylon. However, the steel strengthens your fingertips and builds calluses for future shredding.

Classical guitars with nylon strings are easier to hold and play when you first start, but they are usually specific to classical music. They are also smaller, hollow bodies and don’t produce loud, deep and full tones like the traditional, steel-stringed acoustic guitar. Decide on which is right for you.

Get The Appropriate Size.

If the beginner is a child, you should look into small-bodied guitars. Many of the major manufacturers offer miniature- smaller-than-standard guitars for smaller musicians. Other companies specifically cater to a younger demographic. Such companies offer affordable starter kits with everything your child or young adult will need to get started playing guitar. If this is your child’s or your first instrument, ensure you’re investing only the amount you feel comfortable investing. However, if you’re still unsure about size, ask your local music store sales person.

Determine A Budget

Though determining a budget is obvious, only buy the best guitar you can afford. Most guitars range from $100 to tens of thousands for novelty reasons. An expensive guitar does not necessarily mean that you’ve acquired the best guitar. There’s also no need of spending a lot of money on an instrument that doesn’t suit your needs. Spending within the $300 range for beginner guitar could be your best bet.

If Possible, Determine the Musical Styles You Are Most Interested in Playing.

Different styles and genres of music work best with certain kinds of guitars. This fact is one thing that will require a bit more research on your end. For example, country music is much more open-ended and can be performed on various guitar bodies. When you see what your favorite guitarist plays, it can help make your decision, but that should not be the only factor. Consider that your favorite guitarist has been playing for many years and their needs are much different than yours.

Research the Different Guitar Brands for the Guitar you want

A popular or familiar brand name will not necessarily ensure a higher quality product. It certainly doesn’t mean that if you like a particular guitar style, it is the right one. Research the make and model and even the year (in some instances), and go through reviews. Also, visit your local music shop and ask questions.

Don’t Buy on Aesthetics Alone, But Don’t Buy A Guitar You Think Is Ugly.

As a new guitarist, you might get so enthusiastic about the appearance and cool factor of guitars and end up purchasing something for its paint job rather than its musical qualities. Remember that it’s possible to always slap a custom decal on any guitar, but if you’re unhappy with how the instrument sounds, it may be impossible to fix. Ensure you are satisfied with the instrument and its abilities first and foremost before going for all the extramusical elements.

Look at the Option of Used Instruments.

If there is a guitar you are interested in, and you have done all your research, you may find that it’s a little over your budget. If so, find out if there’s a similar quality used guitar at a lower price. Don’t be afraid to consider buying a used guitar. If handled well, they can work just as well as a new guitar. So, check everywhere- from your local pawn shop to eBay, and other local music stores. These stores can help you connect with musicians looking to sell their guitars and you can pick up discounted guitars.

Save Some Money for Accessories.

From what we stated earlier, you know that electric guitars require accessories to produce sound. However, acoustic/classical guitars are not exempted because they also need carrying cases and straps and additional accessories to make them easier to use and play. These accessories to plan for are guitar strings, tuners, picks, straps, Metronome, music stands and more!

Other ways you can consider to spruce up your guitar include decorating with stickers, draw or paint on your guitar, improve the fret inlay and more. With a decent budget you can have what you need to play your guitar like a professional.

Conclusion

It can be tough to know where to start when looking for a guitar, because these instruments come in many different makes and models. In this article, we’ve outlined some things you should keep in mind when choosing your first (or next) guitar.
We’ve also discussed the main decisions you need to make -whether to buy an acoustic or electric guitar. Many variables can affect your decision, but the most important thing is finding a guitar with the best sounds, feels good, and looks good to play. So what are you waiting for? Start browsing our selection of free guitar tabs and begin honing your skills today!