If you're still not sure which kind of guitar you wish to learn with, it's time for some research. Usually the kind of music you prefer determines the kind of guitar to start out with. Next, check out as many makes and styles as possible, whether the guitar is an acoustic or electric. Visit a large music shops where customers can try different types out. The most crucial items to search for will sound quality and just how well it stays in tune. Here are a couple of tips which I think will help you search for, when out window shopping.
Check out the guitar in general * Ensure the machine heads turn easily, that the bridge is securely fastened. The frets should not be jagged and should be polished and lying flush with the side of the fingerboard. * Make sure that the guitar neck has no sign of warping, lift the guitar and look down the neck. * When you hold the guitar as you would when playing it, does it feel awkward or uncomfortable. Make sure it's not too heavy and that you can get your hand around the neck. * Tune the guitar yourself or have someone do it and see if it tunes easily. * Make sure the action is set correctly. If the strings are hard to press onto the frets, the action is too high. If it makes a buzzing sound from the nut or soundboard, the action is too low. This can be corrected but could be expensive.
Do a tuning test * If the notes don't match on an acoustic guitar it most likely means the neck is warped. * If the notes don't match on an electric guitar, the strings may need adjusting.
Buying Acoustic * Make sure that the top or soundboard of the guitar is made of solid wood. Plywood tops have an inferior sound. * Ensure that the guitar has a heel, this is a piece of wood which supports the back of the neck where it joins the body. Guitars without a heel tend to be weaker and may snap off.
Decided on Electric * Do you want to play a single or dual coil pickup. * Ensure the pickup selector switch is working correctly. * Check the guitar out with an amplifier by turning up the controls and testing for crackle. * There are different neck shapes, discover which ones you prefer.
Consider Buying Second Hand * A well made used guitar is sometimes a better deal than a cheap new one. However, make sure you know what to look for since you probably won't be able to return it.
As with any other hobby or passion, there's always more to buy after you get the main piece. You might also want to pick up things like: pics, guitar straps, extra strings and a guitar bag or case. My theory is to start out with a less expensive guitar in the very beginning. See how serious you are about learning and playing better, then work your way up as you improve. And finally, don't buy a guitar just because it looks good. A good sounding guitar is much more important than a cool looking one!
Check out the guitar in general * Ensure the machine heads turn easily, that the bridge is securely fastened. The frets should not be jagged and should be polished and lying flush with the side of the fingerboard. * Make sure that the guitar neck has no sign of warping, lift the guitar and look down the neck. * When you hold the guitar as you would when playing it, does it feel awkward or uncomfortable. Make sure it's not too heavy and that you can get your hand around the neck. * Tune the guitar yourself or have someone do it and see if it tunes easily. * Make sure the action is set correctly. If the strings are hard to press onto the frets, the action is too high. If it makes a buzzing sound from the nut or soundboard, the action is too low. This can be corrected but could be expensive.
Do a tuning test * If the notes don't match on an acoustic guitar it most likely means the neck is warped. * If the notes don't match on an electric guitar, the strings may need adjusting.
Buying Acoustic * Make sure that the top or soundboard of the guitar is made of solid wood. Plywood tops have an inferior sound. * Ensure that the guitar has a heel, this is a piece of wood which supports the back of the neck where it joins the body. Guitars without a heel tend to be weaker and may snap off.
Decided on Electric * Do you want to play a single or dual coil pickup. * Ensure the pickup selector switch is working correctly. * Check the guitar out with an amplifier by turning up the controls and testing for crackle. * There are different neck shapes, discover which ones you prefer.
Consider Buying Second Hand * A well made used guitar is sometimes a better deal than a cheap new one. However, make sure you know what to look for since you probably won't be able to return it.
As with any other hobby or passion, there's always more to buy after you get the main piece. You might also want to pick up things like: pics, guitar straps, extra strings and a guitar bag or case. My theory is to start out with a less expensive guitar in the very beginning. See how serious you are about learning and playing better, then work your way up as you improve. And finally, don't buy a guitar just because it looks good. A good sounding guitar is much more important than a cool looking one!
About the Author:
Alex is a freelance graphic designer with a passion for writing. She has been learning guitar herself for the past few years, and would like to share some tips. Visit Understanding The Guitar Fretboard or 10 Ways To Enhance Your Guitar Skills to read more of Alex's guitar tips.