"I wish they'd had electric guitars in cotton fields back in the good old days. A whole lot of things would've been straightened out." -Jimi Hendrix
Music has the power to move people and to unite persons who have differing opinions. When one plays an instrument, they have the ability to change one's mood and make them feel more pleasant. So, are you ready to learn the basics of a new musical instrument? If so, we highly recommend trying out the guitar!
However, before you can even start playing or practising your own guitar, you need to purchase one. Therefore, to select wisely, you need to establish some important criteria to aid you in choosing your first guitar.
Without further delay, to help you choose the best guitar possible we've researched some helpful information and included it in this article. Enjoy!
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What Type of Guitar Should You Buy?
Before embarking on the right guitar model to buy, you need to ask yourself a few questions so that the instrument adapts to your personal particularities. Such as? The following are a few questions:
- Left or right-handed?
- Electric or acoustic guitar?
- The budget?
- The size of the guitar body?
- What type of music do I want to play?
After you've asked yourself the necessary questions and you've come to effective conclusions, you'll need to focus on the types of guitars that there are. Beyond the 12 strings, there are guitars with two necks and other atypical features; however, the "normal" guitars are the most common such as the bass, the electric, and the folk guitar.
Let's take a look at four types of guitars to help beginners pick the correct one for them:
- The Classical Guitar: generally speaking, the classical guitar is nylon-stringed, with bronze-wrapped nylon fibre for the three bass strings. Also, it's worth stating the neck of the classical guitar has more space between the strings, which makes it easier to grip and more comfortable for beginners. The classical guitar is suitable for many genres of music.
- The Folk Guitar: it's worth mentioning that with its metal strings, the folk guitar hurts your fingers. Although the neck is generally thinner, which makes the game more comfortable, the folk guitar has a more imposing body. In this sense, it can discourage beginners. However, the folk guitar allows you to approach a multitude of musical styles, from jazz to rock.
- The Electric Guitar: as its name suggests, the electric guitar is electrified. Also, it's heavier, has a thinner neck yet plucking the strings is easier. All musical genres are suitable for the electric guitar. The electric guitar needs an amplifier to be adequately heard. As a beginner, it's difficult to follow electric guitar courses; it's best suited for intermediate or advanced students.
- The Electro-Acoustic Guitar: for those who don't know, electro-acoustic guitars are folk guitars that can be amplified. Equipped with a microphone in the bridge, they connect to an amp. However, most experts would not recommend this guitar for a first purchase because of its cost.
By taking a look at the most commonly sold guitars, as a beginner, you'll be better prepared to decide upon the best one for you.
What are the Best Guitar Models for Beginners?
There are plenty of guitar models that are available. However, if you're beginning, you'll want to find a guitar that suits your budget. Before going out to shop for the ideal guitar, you should think about whether you want to purchase new or second-hand.
For example, there are many bargains for used guitars at select music stores and on the internet by checking out classified ads. Also, ask your guitar tutor or friends if they know anyone that might want to sell their used guitar. For beginners, and for those with small budgets, a second-hand guitar will do the trick. You might find a second-hand guitar for under £100.
Nonetheless, if you have the means and want to purchase new, you should. However, expect to pay approximately £200 for a decent guitar. Beware of spending too much from the beginning since you might want to switch guitars in the near future as your skill level increases.
So, in general, what budget should a beginner guitarist establish in the UK? If you start off with a budget of anywhere between £100-200 you will do fine since you'll have plenty of used and new options available to you.
Here is where you can find the most effective guitar lessons in Coventry.
Guitars for Beginners
Now that we've established the price, let's take a look at some of the most highly recommended guitars for beginners that are available for purchase across the United Kingdom.
| Classical Guitar | Folk Guitar | Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
| Yamaha C40II | Fender CD-60S | Yamaha Pacifica 112V |
| £129 | £170 | £259 |
The aforementioned table highlights the best classical guitar, the best folk guitar, and the best electric guitar for beginners along with their model names and prices.
Where to Buy Your First Guitar?
Although the diversity is greater and the promotions are always more attractive on the internet, it's recommended to buy your first guitar at a music store. Why? Because you are able to see your new instrument right away and get a feel for what you need.
Also, by purchasing at a music shop, you will get expert advice from real professionals. Don't hesitate to ask the shop owners or workers any questions that may come to mind.
By purchasing at a music shop, you are immersing yourself straightaway into the world of musicians and playing music.
If you need additional assistance in purchasing your first guitar, ask a knowledgeable friend to accompany you, or even ask the seller to play music on the guitars you're interested in.
Google search music shops in your area and read the reviews to guarantee that you're shopping at a highly recommended store. Also, ask the advice of your music tutor or friend to find the right store for you.
Nonetheless, if you still decide to shop for your first guitar online, search for your guitar model on Amazon.
Additional Tips and Tricks When Buying Your First Guitar
Before you buy your first guitar, there are some last-minute tips that you might want to consider. Such as? Take a look at the following four to find out more:
- Check the Body: the body, or the soundbox, is the nerve centre of the instrument and that allows you to amplify the vibration caused by the strings of your guitar. The right guitar body is a solid wood crate and you should feel free to ask the seller to check this with you to be sure of the quality of your crate before purchase.
- Ensure Quality Mechanics: the machine heads or the keys make it possible to tighten or loosen the strings. The mechanics are lined up next to each other or placed on the sides of the guitar headstocks; every guitar has its unique mechanics. Ask the seller for specifications of mechanics about the guitar you are considering.
- Take a Look at the Frets: the frets are the metal bars that adorn the neck where you put your fingers. To guarantee quality frets, test each note to see how it feels to the touch but also to ensure that the strings do not curl. You don't want a badly tuned guitar from the beginning; therefore, ask the shop owner to tune your guitar correctly before you leave the music store.
- Buy the Right Accessories: though you don't want to overspend on pointless accessories, there are certain items that are necessary. For instance, to transport your new guitar you'll need to have a cover or case with protective padding. Also, think about investing in a tuner and some extra strings to have on hand. A few picks are also a must since you can't play the guitar without them. Finally, a strap that is suitable for your guitar will complete the entire look and effectively support your weight.
If you take into account the four previously mentioned pieces of advice before purchasing a guitar, you are going to be ready to play ASAP.
In conclusion, when purchasing your first guitar, you'll want to remember the following factors:
- Determine the style of music you wish to play,
- Remember to have fun at all times,
- Ask and listen to the advice given by tutors, friends, and trusted shop owners,
- Don't spend a fortune in the beginning,
- Integrate helpful accessories into your learning sessions.
If you consider all the advice and counsel from today's article, you'll successfully purchase the perfect guitar for you!
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