Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Your First Guitar

Choosing your first guitar is an exciting step in your musical journey, but with so many options available, it can also feel overwhelming. The right guitar will inspire you to practise and play more, while the wrong one can make the learning process more frustrating than it needs to be. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know when choosing your first guitar, from understanding different types to tips on finding the perfect fit for your style and budget.

1. Electric vs. Acoustic: Which Type is Right for You?

The first decision you’ll need to make is whether you want to start with an electric or acoustic guitar. Each has its pros and cons, depending on the kind of music you want to play and the kind of learning experience you’re after.

Acoustic Guitars

• Best for: Folk, country, pop, singer-songwriter, and light rock.

• Sound: Acoustics produce sound naturally from the vibrations of the strings, meaning you don’t need an amplifier. The sound is bright and warm, ideal for strumming chords or fingerpicking.

• Advantages: Simple setup—just pick it up and play. Acoustics are great for portability and practising anywhere without additional gear.

• Disadvantages: The string action (distance between strings and fretboard) is often higher, which can make it harder for beginners to press down the strings, especially for barre chords.

Electric Guitars

• Best for: Rock, blues, metal, jazz, and pop.

• Sound: Electric guitars rely on an amplifier to project sound, and their tone can be heavily modified with effects pedals. They’re more versatile in terms of sound, allowing you to play anything from soft jazz to heavy distortion.

• Advantages: Electric guitars generally have lower string action, making them easier to play, especially for beginners. They also offer more tonal variety and can be easier on the fingers.

• Disadvantages: You’ll need an amplifier and cables, which adds to the cost and complexity. Electrics are also heavier and less portable without the additional gear.

2. Set a Budget

When choosing your first guitar, it’s important to set a budget that’s comfortable for you. Fortunately, there are great beginner guitars at a wide range of price points.

• Entry-level guitars (£100-£250): Many reputable brands offer quality guitars at this price range, making it perfect for beginners. At this range, you’ll find solid options that are easy to play and stay in tune.

• Mid-range guitars (£250-£500): If you’re willing to spend a little more, mid-range guitars offer better build quality, more features (like improved electronics on electric models), and enhanced playability.

• High-end guitars (£500 and up): These are usually for more advanced players, but if you’re serious about learning and have the budget, investing in a high-quality guitar will ensure that it lasts and grows with you.

3. Guitar Size and Playability

Choosing the right size guitar is essential for comfortable playing, especially if you’re a younger player or have smaller hands. Here’s a breakdown of common guitar sizes:

• Full-size guitars: Most adults and teenagers will be comfortable with a full-size guitar. These are the most common and come in various shapes like dreadnought for acoustics or Stratocaster for electrics.

• ¾-size guitars: If you’re a child, younger teenager, or have particularly small hands, a ¾-size guitar might be a better option. These guitars are smaller and easier to handle.

• Parlour-size guitars: For players looking for a smaller body without sacrificing tone, parlour guitars are a good acoustic option. They offer a more compact body but still deliver a rich sound.

4. Choosing a Brand

There are many reputable guitar brands to choose from, each offering a range of models suited for beginners. Here are a few well-known brands with reliable entry-level guitars:

Acoustic Brands:

• Yamaha: Known for producing high-quality entry-level acoustics like the Yamaha FG series, which is popular among beginners.

• Fender: Famous for their electric guitars, Fender also makes solid acoustics, particularly in the FA and CD series.

• Epiphone: The budget-friendly branch of Gibson, offering reliable and well-built acoustics for beginners.

Electric Brands:

• Squier by Fender: Squier offers beginner versions of iconic Fender models like the Stratocaster and Telecaster, making them a great choice for aspiring rock and blues players.

• Epiphone: Known for producing affordable versions of Gibson’s Les Paul and SG models, which are perfect for players who love classic rock and blues.

• Ibanez: Ideal for beginners interested in rock, metal, or shredding, with slim necks and fast playability.

5. Try Before You Buy

If possible, try out several guitars in person before making your decision. Visit a local music shop and test different models to see which feels the most comfortable in your hands. Pay attention to how easy it is to press down the strings, the weight of the guitar, and how it sounds. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from shop staff—they can provide valuable advice and even set up the guitar for better playability.

6. Don’t Forget the Extras

When purchasing your first guitar, you’ll also need a few essential accessories:

• Tuner: A clip-on tuner will help you keep your guitar in tune, which is essential for good sound.

• Guitar Picks: Experiment with different thicknesses to find what feels right for you. Thicker picks are better for lead playing, while thinner picks are easier for strumming.

• Strap: A guitar strap is important if you plan to play standing up. Look for one with comfortable padding, especially if you’re buying an electric guitar.

• Gig Bag or Case: Protect your guitar when you’re travelling or storing it. A padded gig bag is fine for most beginners, but a hard case offers extra protection.

Conclusion

Choosing your first guitar is a personal decision that depends on your musical interests, budget, and comfort level. Whether you opt for an acoustic or electric, make sure to pick a guitar that feels good to play and sounds inspiring. Remember, the best guitar is the one that makes you excited to practise and improve! With the right instrument in hand, you’re ready to begin your journey as a guitarist!