If you want to learn how to play acoustic guitar and are considering buying an acoustic guitar for the first time, here’s some things you would be wise to take into account.
To the new guitarist there can seem to be many types of acoustic guitar to choose from when size, brands and various manufactures are taken into consideration.
So how do you decide which one is right for you?
The first thing you could do is to search online to get an idea of styles, sizes and prices. You will find many review sites online (search google) that will help you to start building up some idea of the acoustic guitar that will suit you.
Of course, the problem with trying to make a choice from your online searches is that you can’t actually handle the guitars that you fancy. So here’s what to do.
Find a good guitar shop (or shops) and see if you can find the model of guitar that you are interested in. In doing this you can get a feel of the guitar and decide if it is good value for money.
In the first instance, decide on whether you want nylon or steel strings. Nylon is good if you want to play Pop, Folk, Latin, and classical tunes and they will be a lot more gentle on your fingers. If you prefer to play rock and country songs, then a steel strung guitar will be a far better choice. Make sure you strum the guitar and and listen carefully to it’s tone. With steel strings this will vary according to the gauge (thickness) of the strings.
Next. The type of material that your guitar is made out of, and how it was made is also decisive. The wood that the guitar is made out of should have been cut, seasoned and dried properly to ensure the best construction and thereby the tone. If these things have not been done properly the result will be poor quality sound. The wood used for top of acoustic guitars (the sound board) can range from plywood or solid spruce. The backs and sides can be made from Rosewood or Mahogany and Mahogany will produce a lighter sound than Rosewood. If you have a friend or acquaintance who knows how to play acoustic guitar, they may know who the good guitar stockists are in your area.
The third thing to consider is the bridge of the guitar. Make sure that this is fitted correctly and shows no signs of warping. This is important as it is the bridge that transmits the sound of the strings to the soundboard. Check the “action” of the guitar by checking the distance between the strings and the fretboard nearest to the body of the guitar. The strings should be as close to the fretboard as possible, but not so close that they “buzz” when played.
OK. Once you have decided which guitar you want, it will be time to go back to the internet to actually buy it. You can make your purchase, safe in the knowledge that you are choosing the guitar you want and that is of good quality and you will save a whole lot of money in the long run.
Good hunting.
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