So, you are looking to buy a guitar, but you don’t know much about them? I know what it feels like. The first time I walked into a guitar shop, everything looked the same.
If the shop doesn’t have the right personnel to guide you to the perfect guitar, you might waste your money on a guitar that is not for your level and possibly quit before even starting.
There are many different guitars and it all depends on your preferences, whether you are dreaming of shredding like Jimi Hendrix (which is pretty hard) or just casually jamming with your friends, the guitar you pick can make a big difference.
That’s why we’ve compiled this no-nonsense guide just to help you pick the right guitar.
1. What's Your Purpose?
The first and most important thing you should consider is what music you want to play. Are we talking about a folk or country song where acoustic guitars shine or do you want to go hard-core metal with an electric guitar?
You might want to play country songs like Del Mar’s Racetrack “Where the Surf Meets the Turf” where you’ll probably need a trumpet, but for a guitar version of the song, acoustic guitar is the right choice.
Del Mar is this year’s home for the Breeders’ Cup, so you have just enough time to practice for your home horse racing party. But also consider diving into data, especially if you make a bet, and browse through previous Breeders’ Cup winners on the link below:
https://www.twinspires.com/breeders-cup/winners/
Of course, you can always go for a combination of both worlds, and buy an acoustic-electric guitar, but we usually don’t prefer this choice for beginners.
So, put all things aside like how it looks, and the brand, and focus on the purpose of the guitar. If you are a beginner, we’d strongly recommend that you get an acoustic guitar since it is more straightforward and portable.
2. Budget: How Much Are You Willing to Spend?
Let’s talk money. Guitars can range from $100 for an entry-level model to $5,000+ for a custom masterpiece. Decide on a budget to buy a guitar and stick to it. If you're a newbie, you don't need to empty your savings on your first guitar. A decent starter acoustic or electric guitar can be found in the $200-$500 range. But, if you’re committed and want something that lasts, consider a mid-range guitar around $500-$1,000.
Remember: Electric guitars have added costs, like amplifiers and cables. Also, you might want to budget for accessories like tuners, straps, and cases.
3. Comfort and Body Type: How Does It Feel?
Most people make the same mistake of not paying attention to how comfortable is the guitar. Remember, guitars come in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes you can make the mistake of not buying the perfect size, which will make things even more difficult when you are starting.
For example, if you are smaller or have shorter arms, it is always better to buy a smaller-bodied guitar. On the other side, if you are tall, a bigger guitar be more comfortable for you.
Think about the neck too: The shape and size of the neck matter a lot. "C" shapes are popular and comfortable for most players, while "V" shapes give a vintage feel favored by blues and rock players.
4. Sound Matters: What's Your Tone Preference?
Every guitar has a unique voice, thanks to its body shape, wood type, and build quality. For instance, mahogany produces a warm, balanced tone ideal for a lot of genres. Rosewood gives a bright, clear sound, often favored by fingerstyle players. Maple is known for its bright, crisp sound and is popular in electric guitar bodies. Spruce, versatile and balanced, is common in acoustic guitars.
Make sure to play the guitar before buying it to get a feel for its sound. If you can't visit a store, check out videos or reviews to hear how it sounds in action.
5. Quality Check: What Should You Look For?
You don’t want a lemon, so here are a few things to inspect:
- Body and Finish: Look for cracks, blemishes, or scratches.
- Neck and Frets: Check for signs of wear or damage. Ensure the neck isn’t warped.
- Electronics (for Electric Guitars): Test pickups, knobs, and switches to ensure they work.
- Hardware: Look at the bridge and tuning machines. Fixed bridges are simpler and provide better tuning stability, while tremolo bridges offer vibrato effects.
If you’re buying used, ask questions about repairs or modifications. When in doubt, bring along a friend who knows their guitars.
6. Brands: Does It Matter?
Yes and no. There are plenty of reliable brands that cater to different needs and budgets. Fender, Gibson, and Epiphone are well-known for electrics; Taylor, Martin, and Yamaha are staples in the acoustic world. Research these brands and decide which aligns with your style and budget.
But don’t be afraid to check out lesser-known brands. Sometimes, you’ll find a hidden gem that outplays big-name guitars.
7. Accessories: What Else Do You Need?
Your guitar journey doesn’t end with the instrument. You’ll need a few guitar accessories to get the most out of your new friend:
- Case or Gig Bag: Protects your guitar during transport.
- Strap: Makes it easier to play while standing.
- Picks: Available in different materials and gauges. Experiment to find your favorite.
- Tuner: Clip-on tuners are handy for acoustics; pedal tuners are great for electrics.
8. Try Before You Buy: Can You Feel It?
If possible, go to a music store and try out a few guitars. Pay attention to how each one feels in your hands, how easily you can press down on the strings, and if it feels comfortable against your body. Remember, if it doesn't feel right, it probably isn't the one for you.
