Easy Learn Guitar

The easy way to learn to play guitar

Acoustic Guitar

If you are considering buying an acoustic guitar for the first time, here are some things you would be wise to take into account.

To the new guitarist there can seem to be numerous types of acoustic guitar to choose from when size, brands and various manufactures are taken into account.

So how do you know which one is right for you?

The first thing you could do is to search the internet 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 what you want.

Now, 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 retailer (or retailers) and see if you can find the model of guitar that you are interested in. This way you can get a feel of the guitar and decide if it is good value for money.

First of all, decide on whether you want nylon or steel strings. Nylon is best if you want to play Pop, Folk, Latin, and classical tunes and they will be 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 can vary according to the gauge (thickness) of the strings.

Next. The kind of material that your guitar is made out of, and how it was made is also important. The wood that the guitar is made out of should have been cut, seasoned and dried properly to ensure the best construction and therefore, tone. If these things have not been carried out properly the result will be poor quality sound. The wood used for top of acoustic guitars (the sound board) can range from plywood through to solid spruce. 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 that is a knowledgeable guitar player, they may know who the good guitar stockists are in your area.

The next 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 online 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 into the bargain.

Good hunting.