Buying The Right Guitar For You

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Photo by Malingering

Aside from the thrill of playing a guitar before thousands of enthusiastic fans, there’s hardly anything that compares to the excitement of purchasing a guitar. However, it’s important to proceed with caution, as numerous factors can affect your selection. If you’re not careful, you might end up with an instrument that doesn’t meet your needs. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind.

First and foremost, you need to determine the type of music you intend to play. Try to narrow it down as much as possible. If you’re interested in acoustic guitar How to Buy a Guitar - The guitar is known for its dynamic and unique sound, making it a popular instrument in various genres of music. Whether you're a beginner or someone with a growing passion for guitar playing, here are some top tips for buying a guitar: Seek out advice. Start by seeking guidance from someone you know who has… , are you inclined towards jazz, folk, or classic rock? There are guitars specifically designed for each genre, with distinct sounds and physical attributes that facilitate playing that particular style. For instance, folk guitars typically have slimmer necks to make fingerpicking easier. These differences may be subtle to the untrained eye, but having an understanding of the music played on the guitar is crucial.

Of course, your budget should be a key consideration in any purchase. This may limit your options to some extent, as you wouldn’t want to buy a guitar that is beyond your means. However, it’s worth considering this: starter guitars are available in two price ranges – the inexpensive plywood variety and those with a genuine hardwood soundboard. If you believe you’re going to be a serious player, it’s advisable to skip the former and opt for the latter. Despite being a couple of hundred dollars more expensive, it offers much better value. In fact, it’s still a more affordable instrument compared to horns, keys, or drums. It will last you for years, maintain its tune better, and most importantly, produce superior sound. However, if you’re uncertain about your commitment to the instrument and simply want to get a taste of it, a plywood guitar can still be playable (remember, it’s not a toy, but an instrument).

Next, consider whether you want to explore electric guitars. Even if you primarily play acoustic, there are options for installing pickups, and if you decide to go electric, you’ll have some decisions to make. The quintessential one being: Fender or Gibson? Play both extensively, get a feel for their necks, sound, and overall playability. However, if you’re interested in playing in a Satriani-style shredding manner, you might want to consider an Ibanez. Don’t hesitate to ask the experts at the store as many questions as you can. Be thorough and deliberate in your purchase. They will have valuable insights. Additionally, ensure that they are knowledgeable and inquire about return or exchange options. In some cases, you may even have the opportunity to rent to own. If you’re on the fence about a particular guitar, this option should alleviate any concerns. The guitar you ultimately purchase should last you for many years. In the short term, it should enhance your playing style, contribute to the sound of your band, and most importantly, inspire you to practice diligently.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME