Complete Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Guitar Type

Contents

1. Assess your musical styles and genres
2. Evaluate your budget
3. Identify the right guitar size
4. Choose between acoustic and electric guitars
5. Consider acoustic guitar types
6. Consider electric guitar types
7. Choose between new and used guitars
8. Pick the right guitar brand
9. Guitar accessories that you need
10. Where to buy your guitar

Have you ever walked into a music store, eyes wide, heart fluttering with excitement, only to be overwhelmed by the sheer amount of guitars hanging on the wall? You're not alone! With so many types of guitars available, finding the perfect one to suit your style and needs can be quite a challenge. That's why we've put together this complete guide to help you navigate through the journey of choosing your ideal guitar. Whether you're a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking to expand your collection, this guide will provide you with the key pointers to consider when exploring the diverse world of guitars.

Assess your musical styles and genres

Before you even set foot in a music store or browse online, you need to understand what kind of music you want to play. This is vital because different types of guitars are designed to accommodate different music styles. For instance:

• Acoustic guitars are great for folk, country, or singer-songwriter genres.
• Electric guitars are the go-to for rock, metal, blues, or jazz.
• Classical guitars, with their nylon strings, are ideal for classical music and flamenco.

Remember, these are not hard-and-fast rules, but rather general tendencies. Some musicians love to experiment and play rock on an acoustic or folk on an electric — the beauty of music is in its freedom of expression.

So, ask yourself: What kind of music are you drawn to? What songs do you find yourself humming or tapping along to? By answering these questions, you'll start to form a clearer picture of the types of guitars that might be a good fit for you.

However, if you're still unsure about the music style you want to pursue, don't worry! There are versatile guitar types that cater to a broad range of musical styles. An acoustic-electric guitar, for example, offers the best of both worlds: the rich, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar and the amplified sound of an electric guitar. It's a popular choice among beginners and experienced players alike who enjoy playing a wide variety of genres.

Evaluate your budget

Let's talk about money. The cost of guitars can vary wildly, from budget-friendly starter instruments to high-end models that can set you back a pretty penny. So, it's important to set a budget before you start shopping for the types of guitars that suit your musical style.

As a rule of thumb, don't go for the cheapest guitar you find. While it might seem like a good idea to save money, a low-quality guitar can actually hinder your progress. It might not stay in tune, the strings could be difficult to press down, or the overall sound might just not be up to par.

On the other hand, you don't need to break the bank either. There are plenty of high-quality guitars that are affordable and great for beginners. Brands like Yamaha, Fender, and Ibanez offer reliable models that won't cost you an arm and a leg.

It's also important to remember that the cost of the guitar isn't the only expense you'll have. There are other things you'll need as well, like a case, a tuner, a strap, and more. So, when you're setting your budget, make sure you account for these additional costs too.

In the end, the price tag shouldn't be your only focus. The ultimate goal is to find a guitar that feels right in your hands, sounds good to your ears, and inspires you to play. After all, the value of a guitar isn't measured in dollars, but in the joy it brings you when you play.

Identify the right guitar size

Let's take a step back from the types of guitars and their costs, and let's focus on something equally important: size. Yes, size matters when it comes to choosing the right guitar. It's not just about small hands or big hands, it's also about comfort, ease of playing, and the sound you want to produce.

There are a few different sizes you can choose from:

• Full-size guitars: These are the most common and are suitable for adults or older teenagers. They offer a full range of sound and come in various types.
• Three-quarter size guitars: A bit smaller than the full-size, these guitars are great for younger players or adults with smaller hands. They're still capable of producing a rich sound, but are easier to handle than their larger counterparts.
• Half-size and quarter-size guitars: These are perfect for young children just starting out. They are easy to hold and play, but they won't produce as full a sound as larger guitars.

Remember, the key is to find a guitar that feels comfortable in your hands and against your body. You should be able to reach the frets without straining, and the body of the guitar shouldn't feel too big or too small. So, when choosing the right size guitar, it's best to actually hold and try out different sizes to see what feels best.

Remember, your guitar is going to be your musical partner, so it's important that you feel comfortable and at ease with it. Once you've figured out the right size, you'll be one step closer to finding your perfect guitar type.

Choose between acoustic and electric guitars

Now that we've talked about sizes, let's move onto one of the biggest decisions you'll have to make when choosing a guitar: acoustic or electric? Each type has its own unique characteristics, so let's break those down.

Acoustic guitars: These are the types of guitars you often see in music videos or on stage at music festivals. They don't require any additional equipment to play, which makes them the perfect choice for beginners or for those who value simplicity and mobility. Acoustic guitars produce a rich, full sound that can fill a room without the need for an amplifier. They're great for playing a wide variety of music, but they really shine when it comes to folk, country, or classical tunes.

Electric guitars: On the other hand, electric guitars require an amplifier to produce sound, but they offer a lot more flexibility when it comes to the types of sounds and effects you can create. They're a bit easier to play than acoustic guitars due to their lighter string tension, which could be a plus if you're a beginner. Electric guitars are the go-to choice for rock, blues, and pop music, but don't let that limit you — they can be used to play almost any genre!

So, should you go acoustic or electric? That really depends on your personal preferences and the kind of music you want to play. Remember, there's no right or wrong answer here. It's all about finding the guitar that fits you and your musical aspirations best. The world of types of guitars is wide and diverse, and there's a perfect fit for everyone!

Consider acoustic guitar types

Alright, so you're leaning towards the acoustic side of things. Great! But did you know there are different types of acoustic guitars? Let's go over a few of the most common ones to help you find your perfect match.

Dreadnought guitars: Named after a type of battleship (cool, right?), these are the most common type of acoustic guitar. They're big, bold, and produce a loud and rich sound. If you're looking for a guitar with a lot of volume, a Dreadnought might be your best bet.

Parlor guitars: These are smaller in size compared to Dreadnoughts, which makes them a great choice if you're looking for something a little more portable or if you have smaller hands. Despite their size, Parlor guitars can still pack a punch when it comes to sound!

Classical guitars: These types of guitars are characterized by their wide neck and nylon strings. They produce a softer, mellower sound compared to steel-stringed guitars. If you're into playing classical or Spanish music, this type of guitar is your perfect match.

And these are just a few examples! Always remember, when choosing among different types of guitars, it's important to consider what feels comfortable to you and what matches the style of music you want to play. You could say that each guitar has its own "personality", so take your time and get to know each one. You'll know when you've found the right one — it will feel just like an extension of yourself!

Consider electric guitar types

So, you're feeling the electric vibe? Excellent choice! Just like their acoustic cousins, electric guitars come in various types and styles. Here are a few common ones you might want to consider:

Solid Body: These are the most common type of electric guitars. As the name suggests, they have a solid piece of wood for the body, which allows for a wide range of tones. If you're into rock, pop, or blues, a solid body guitar could be the perfect fit.

Semi-Hollow Body: These guitars have a hollow space within the body, which gives them a warmer, more resonant tone compared to solid body guitars. They're versatile and great for just about any genre, but you'll often see them in jazz, blues, and rock.

Hollow Body: These guitars are fully hollow inside, similar to an acoustic guitar. They produce a rich, full sound that's perfect for jazz and blues. Hollow body guitars are also great for achieving a vintage sound.

Remember, it's not just about the look or the sound of the guitar. It's also about how it feels in your hands and how it responds to your touch. Take your time to explore the different types of electric guitars out there. Try them out and see which one makes your heart sing. After all, playing guitar is all about expressing yourself, right?

Choose between new and used guitars

So, you've mulled over the types of guitars, and you're now ready to make a purchase. But there's another question to consider: Should you buy a new guitar or a used one? There's no right or wrong answer—it all boils down to what suits you best.

New Guitars: If you're buying a new guitar, you get the perk of being its first owner. It comes with a warranty, which is a big plus. Also, you won't have any worries about hidden damage or wear and tear. However, new guitars, especially the high-quality ones, can be quite pricey.

Used Guitars: As for used guitars, they can be a great bargain, offering excellent value for money. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a well-maintained guitar that's been aged to perfection. The downside? They might have hidden issues that aren't immediately noticeable. Plus, they usually don't come with a warranty.

Whether you decide on a new or used guitar, remember: it's not just about the price. It's also about the feel, the sound, and most importantly, the connection you have with the guitar. So, take your time, do your research, and choose a guitar that will make your musical journey even more enjoyable.

Pick the right guitar brand

With so many types of guitars out there, it might feel like you're lost in a forest of brands. But don't worry, we're here to help you find the right path. Picking a brand is not just about the logo on the headstock—it's about the quality, craftsmanship, sound, and even the history of the brand.

Fender and Gibson: These two are the titans in the guitar world. Fender is known for its bright, twangy sound, making it a favorite for rock and country music. Gibson, on the other hand, is loved for its warm, rich tones, which is why many jazz and blues musicians prefer it.

Ibanez: If you're into metal or rock, then Ibanez is a brand worth looking into. They produce some of the best electric guitars in the industry, known for their fast necks and versatile sound.

Martin: When it comes to acoustic guitars, Martin is a name that stands out. They are famous for their high-quality craftsmanship and the beautiful, resonant sound of their guitars.

Yamaha: If you're on a budget but still want a reliable, good-sounding guitar, then Yamaha is a great choice. They offer a range of affordable acoustic and electric guitars that are perfect for beginners.

Remember, the brand is just one part of the equation. The most important thing is how the guitar feels in your hands and how it sounds to your ears. So, go ahead and explore different brands—you might just find the perfect fit for your musical style.

Guitar accessories that you need

So, you've chosen your perfect guitar from the wide array of types of guitars out there. Awesome! But wait—your journey doesn't end there. There are a few handy accessories that can make your guitar-playing experience even better. Let's take a look at some of these:

Guitar Picks: These small, flat pieces of plastic can make a big difference in the way you play. Picks come in different thicknesses and shapes, so try a few out to see which ones feel the most comfortable and produce the sound you like.

Guitar Strap: If you plan on standing up while playing, a guitar strap is a must. It helps hold the guitar in place and makes it easier to play. Plus, they come in all sorts of cool designs!

Guitar Tuner: Keeping your guitar in tune is essential for sounding good, and a guitar tuner makes this task a breeze. You can get a digital tuner that clips onto your guitar, or even download a tuner app on your phone.

Guitar Case: Your guitar is an investment, and a good case can protect it from damage and make it easier to transport. Hard cases offer the most protection, while soft cases or gig bags are lighter and more portable.

Guitar Stand: When you're not playing, a guitar stand is a safe and convenient place to keep your guitar. It also makes your guitar easily accessible for those spontaneous jam sessions.

Remember, each guitar player is unique, so the accessories you need might be different from someone else's. The key is to find what works best for you and enhances your playing experience. Happy strumming!

Where to buy your guitar

Now that you've determined the type of guitar that suits your style, and figured out all the accessories you need, it's time to make that exciting purchase. But where exactly should you get your guitar from? Let's explore a few options.

Local Music Stores: This is usually the first stop for many. Local music stores let you physically try different types of guitars before you buy. You can feel the weight, hear the sound, and get a sense of its overall vibe. Plus, these stores often have experts who can answer your questions and give advice.

Online Retailers: If you already know what you want, online retailers like Amazon and Guitar Center offer a wide range of brands and types of guitars. They often have reviews from other customers which can help you make an informed decision. Just remember to read the return policy carefully, just in case.

Used Guitar Shops: For those on a budget, a used guitar can be a great option. Stores like Reverb specialize in used and vintage guitars. You can find a great deal, but be sure to ask about the guitar's history and check for any damage.

Direct from the Manufacturer: Some guitar companies sell their instruments directly from their websites. This can be a good route if you're looking for a specific brand or model.

One final tip—take your time. Buying a guitar is a big decision, so don't rush it. And remember, the goal is to find a guitar that feels good in your hands and sounds good to your ears. Happy shopping!

If you enjoyed reading our "Complete Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Guitar Type" and want to take your guitar skills to the next level, we recommend checking out the workshop 'How to Get Better at What You Do - Go from Good to Great!' by Debbie Knox-Hewson. This workshop will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to improve your guitar playing and help you become a more skilled musician.