Discovering the world of music by learning to play the guitar can be an incredibly rewarding journey. The soft strumming of strings, the allure of playing your favorite songs, and the satisfaction of mastering a new skill – there’s truly nothing quite like it. This guide is here to help you embark on this unique, melodious adventure.
Why acoustic guitars are great for beginners
Acoustic guitars are often the go-to choice for beginners and for good reason. They are relatively affordable, portable and produce a warm sound that is pleasing to the ears. Additionally, they do not require any additional equipment like amplifiers, making them a convenient option for those just starting out with their guitar journey. Moreover, since they produce sound acoustically, it allows beginners to focus on honing their technique and developing a good ear for music without any distractions.
Factors to consider when buying an acoustic guitar
When choosing the perfect acoustic guitar for yourself, there are several factors you need to keep in mind. Here are some key considerations that will help you make an informed decision:
Budget
As a beginner, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Acoustic guitars come in a wide range of prices, so it’s crucial to determine how much you’re willing to spend before looking at options. It’s also worth noting that while higher-end guitars may offer better sound quality, as a beginner, you may not necessarily need all the fancy features and can opt for a more budget-friendly option.
Body type
Acoustic guitars come in various body types such as dreadnought, concert, auditorium, and jumbo. Each type has its own unique sound and feel, so it’s essential to try out different body types to see which one is most comfortable for you. Generally, beginners may find dreadnought or concert body types to be the most suitable, as they are easier to handle and produce a well-balanced sound.
Neck width and length
The neck of an acoustic guitar is another crucial factor to consider. As a beginner, you’ll want a neck that’s comfortable for your hands and allows you to reach all the frets easily. Look out for a neck with a suitable width and length for your hand size and playing style.
Brand and reputation
When it comes to buying any musical instrument, the brand is an important factor to consider. It’s always advisable to go for reputable brands that have been in the market for a long time and have a good track record of producing quality instruments. This ensures that you’re getting a well-built guitar that will last you a long time and provide a good playing experience.
Top 3 Acoustic Guitars for Beginners
Here, we introduce the top 3 acoustic guitars tailored specifically for beginners. These models offer a blend of affordability, playability, and tonal excellence that make them perfect for novices yet satisfying for more seasoned players. Whether it’s the richness of sound, smoothness of the fretboard, or the comfort of the neck, these guitars have been chosen with the beginner in mind. Let’s dive into the world of strings and melodies and discover the perfect instrument to embark on your musical journey.
Squier SA-150 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar, Sunburst
This is a full-size steel-string acoustic guitar that delivers a robust sound without imposing a hefty price tag. Its all-laminate construction features a lindenwood top coupled with a mahogany back and sides, contributing to its impressive sound quality. Notable features include a scalloped “X” bracing, a mahogany neck, and a durable dark-stained maple fingerboard that enhances the overall playability. With its slim and easy-to-play neck, it caters to both beginners and seasoned guitarists. The guitar’s full-bodied tone is reminiscent of a classic dreadnought, making it a fantastic choice for any music enthusiast.
SIGMA 40” Acoustic Guitar, OOO, 4/4 Full-Size, with D’Addario EXP16 Strings
Introducing the full-size steel-string SIGMA acoustic guitar, a superbly crafted instrument that offers resonating sound at an affordable price. Comprising an all-laminate construction with a lindenwood top, mahogany back, and sides, it boasts features like a scalloped “X” bracing, a mahogany neck, and a dark-stained maple fingerboard. The slim neck design makes it an ideal pick for both novice and experienced guitarists. Additionally, its handcrafted construction, solid Spruce top, Sapele (eastern Mahogany) back, sides, and Rosewood fingerboard and bridge, provide a unique nod to vintage instruments. The SIGMA guitar not only extends a warm, rich tone with plenty of mids and bass, it also remains responsive and retains its tonal integrity. With an exquisite design and about 40-inch length, it comfortably fits both beginning and experienced guitarists, making quality music accessible to all.
Fender FA-15 3/4 Scale Steel String Acoustic Guitar
The Fender FA-15, a 3/4 Scale Steel String Acoustic Guitar, is a perfect blend of style, practicality, and durability. Built with an all-laminate construction, it is designed to withstand long-term use without compromising on the quality of sound. The modern 3+3 headstock adds a contemporary flair while the Viking bridge ensures stability and reliability. It features a set-neck made of Nato, known for its strength and resonance, contributing to the rich, full-bodied sound that Fender is renowned for. The guitar comes complete with a gig bag making it a convenient choice for the traveling musician.
Essential Accessories for Your Acoustic Guitar
Apart from the guitar itself, there are a few essential accessories that every beginner guitarist should have. These include a capo, tuner, extra strings, picks, and a guitar strap. It’s also recommended to invest in a good quality guitar case or gig bag to protect your instrument when traveling.
Capo
Browse Capo’s Here
A capo is a small device that clamps onto the neck of your guitar and changes the pitch of the strings by shortening their length. This allows you to play songs in different keys without having to change your finger positioning on the fretboard. It’s an essential tool for playing along with other musicians or learning new songs.
Tuner
Browse Tuner’s Here
An electronic tuner is necessary for keeping your guitar in tune. It’s a small device that detects the pitch of each string and displays whether it is too high, low, or in tune. Tuners come in various forms, such as clip-on tuners that attach to your instrument or pedal tuners that can be used on stage.
Extra Strings
Browse Strings Here
It’s always a good idea to have extra strings on hand in case one breaks or becomes too worn out. It’s recommended to change guitar strings every 3-4 months, depending on how often you play. Make sure to buy the correct type of strings for your guitar, whether it’s steel or nylon.
Picks
Browse Pick’s Here
Picks are small triangular pieces of plastic or other materials used to strum the strings of a guitar. They come in various sizes and thicknesses, so it’s worth experimenting to find the one that feels most comfortable for you. It’s also good to have multiple picks on hand in case one gets lost or worn out.
Guitar Strap
Browse Straps Here
A guitar strap is essential for playing while standing up. It attaches to your guitar and goes over your shoulder, allowing you to play without having to hold the instrument up with your hands. Make sure to adjust the strap to a comfortable length for your playing style and height.
Top 3 Acoustic Guitar Starter Packs / Bundles
If you’re a complete beginner and don’t know where to start, an acoustic guitar starter pack or bundle may be the perfect option for you. These packages typically include everything you need to get started, such as a guitar, gig bag, tuner, strap, picks, and more. This makes it easy and convenient for beginners to get all the necessary equipment in one go.
BESYOU 30″ Black Beginner Acoustic Guitar Starter Package
For smaller beginners or those who prefer a more compact guitar, the BESYOU 30″ acoustic guitar is a great option. It features a basswood body and produces a warm sound suitable for various music genres. The package also includes essential accessories such as a gig bag, tuner, strap, picks, and more.
YMC 38″ Blue Beginner Acoustic Guitar Starter Package
This affordable and eye-catching blue guitar is perfect for beginners who want to make a statement. It features a basswood body, rosewood fingerboard, and produces a warm sound with good sustain. The package also includes everything you need to get started, including a gig bag, tuner, strap, extra strings, and more.
Pyle Beginner Acoustic Guitar Kit
This all-in-one kit is perfect for beginners who want a hassle-free guitar buying experience. It includes a full-size acoustic guitar, gig bag, tuner, strap, picks, and more. The guitar features a spruce top with mahogany back and sides, producing a well-balanced sound.
Commonly Questions about Acoustic Guitars for Beginners
What is the best acoustic guitar size for a beginner?
The best size for a beginner is a full-sized acoustic guitar (approximately 40 inches in length). This provides enough space for your fingers to move around comfortably on the fretboard.
Do I need to buy an expensive acoustic guitar as a beginner?
No, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on your first acoustic guitar. There are plenty of affordable options available that still offer good quality and sound.
How often should I change my guitar strings?
It’s recommended to change your guitar strings every 3-4 months, depending on how often you play and the condition of the strings.
Can I use steel strings on a classical acoustic guitar?
No, classical acoustic guitars are designed for nylon strings. Using steel strings can cause damage to the instrument.
Conclusion
Having these essential accessories will not only make your playing experience more enjoyable but also help you take care of your guitar and keep it in good condition. Remember to invest in quality accessories, as they can make a
