How Do You Buy a Guitar?

Getting a guitar can be a great source of enjoyment.

It can also be a source of anxiety if you’re a beginner.

How do you know what to look for?

I recently talked to a retired married couple, both of whom were starting guitar.

They had many questions about buying guitars.

The topics we discussed could help you as well.

1. Which type of guitar should I get?

The main 3 types of guitars are electric, classical, and steel-string acoustic.

If you really love the sound of electric, you can start there, but then you have to make decisions about amps and pedals that can be distracting from learning the basics of the instrument.

For many years, I encouraged people to get a classical guitar first because the nylon strings are easier on the fingertips (and because I love classical guitar).

But I have found many beginners want the sound of steel-string acoustic guitar because that is what they hear in popular songs. 

Now I encourage beginners to get a steel-string acoustic guitar and go from there.

2. What brand?

Yamaha is a good brand for inexpensive guitars. The FS800 is an example of a model that works well for beginners.

Later you can upgrade to a Taylor or Martin steel-string. Or you can try an Alhambra or Cordoba classical.

But Yamaha is a good place to start.

3. What size?

Don't get a guitar that feels too big. I encourage beginners to avoid dreadnought and grand auditorium body styles and instead get a concert body style. A smaller guitar is easier to hold. 

4. How do I know if the guitar is decent?

If you are unsure of the quality of a guitar, ask a guitar-playing friend or acquaintance.

If you don’t have a guitar-playing friend and you have already learned a little about guitar, you could try testing a guitar like this:

a. Play every fret from 1-12 on each of the six strings. Notice whether all notes sound clear and whether two consecutive frets sound the same as each other. If they do, that’s a problem.

b. Play harmonics by lightly touching each string over the 12^th fret. Then compare the 12^th fret harmonic on each string to the 12^th fret note played normally on the same string. The two should sound the same.

These tests are hard for beginners to do accurately, which is why asking someone who plays guitar is helpful.

Don't stress about your guitar-buying decision.

Go ahead and get a beginner Yamaha and have some fun.

Once you have been playing for a few months, you will gain insight into what you want in your second guitar.

Let me know if you have questions.

Keep making music!