Learning to play the guitar is a rewarding hobby, but picking a proper guitar might be difficult as with so many sizes and styles to choose from, it’s easy to become overwhelmed whether you’re looking for yourself or for someone else.
Here are some factors you should consider when choosing a guitar.
Table of Contents
1. Types
There are three main types of guitar- classical (or Nylon String), acoustic (Steel String), and electric guitar.
Classical Guitar (or Nylon String)
Classical guitars are essentially acoustic guitars with wider necks and nylon strings. They’re best suited for classical and Spanish style music but can be used for other styles as well.
Advantages:
- Nylon strings are easier on the fingers than steel strings
- A wider neck makes it easier to form chords
- Can be played without an amplifier
Disadvantages:
- Tend to be more expensive
- Not as loud as other guitars
Classical guitars are good choices for beginners because the nylon strings are easier on fingers and the neck is wider which makes it simpler to form chords. They’re also less expensive than other types of guitars.
Acoustic Guitar (Steel String)
Steel string guitars are similar to classical guitars except they have steel strings and a narrower neck. They’re the most popular type of guitar and can be used for a variety of genres including country, rock, pop, and folk.
Advantages:
- Can be played without an amplifier
- Versatile- can be used for a variety of genres
Disadvantages:
- Strings are harder on the fingers
- A narrower neck can make it more difficult to form chords
Acoustic guitars are not recommended for beginners because the sharper strings can be hard on fingers and the narrower neck can make it more challenging to form chords. However, they are versatile instruments that can be used for a variety of genres.
Electric Guitar
Electric guitars are difficult to generalize because their size, shape, and electronics all affect the sound they can produce. Electric guitars are distinct from classical and acoustic guitars in that they do not produce any sound without the assistance of external amplification.
Advantages:
- Can be played through an amplifier to create a variety of sounds
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Disadvantages:
- Require an amplifier to be heard
- Can be more expensive than other guitars
Electric guitars are smaller than acoustic guitars, making them easy to carry around for little ages and heights. They also have a variety of pickups that can produce different sounds when played through an amplifier. Electric guitars can be more expensive than other guitars but they offer a unique sound that is perfect for certain genres of music.
2. What Do You Want to Play
You should figure out what style(s) of music you want to play on your guitar. Different types of guitars are better suited for different genres. For example, classical and acoustic guitars are typically better for classical and fingerstyle pieces while electric guitars are better for rock and blues.
3. Size and weight
The next thing to consider is the size and weight of the guitar. If you’re a smaller person, it might be difficult to handle a larger guitar. Conversely, if you’re taller or have large hands, a smaller guitar might be uncomfortable to play.
4. Budget
The final consideration is your budget. Guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It’s important to find a guitar that’s affordable but still sounds good and is comfortable to play.
Final Thought
Choosing the right guitar for beginners can be a daunting task but it’s important to take your time and consider all the factors before making a purchase. With so many different types of guitars available, it’s important to find one that’s best suited for your individual playing style and needs.
