How to Choose Your First Acoustic Guitar
Most people who quit guitar in the first year do not quit because of talent. They quit because the guitar was hard to play. Here is what to look at so that does not happen to you.
Pick a body size that fits you
A dreadnought is the big, loud, classic shape. It suits most adults and fills a room. A concert body is a little smaller and sits easier on the knee, which helps if you are smaller framed or play mostly on the couch. For children from about 7 to 11, a 3/4 size guitar is usually the right call.
In our shop that means the Yamaha FG800J for a dreadnought, the Yamaha FS800J for a concert body and the Yamaha JR1 for a 3/4 size.
Solid top or laminate
The top is the part of the guitar that moves the most air. A solid wood top vibrates more freely than a laminate one and tends to sound fuller. If your budget allows a solid top, take it.
How much to spend
You do not need an expensive guitar to learn on. You need one that stays in tune and does not fight your fingers. Guitars in the two to three hundred dollar range from the major makers do that well.
Setup matters more than the logo
String height is the difference between a guitar that feels easy and one that hurts. A factory guitar is set to survive shipping, not to feel good. That is why every guitar we ship goes on our bench first. You can read exactly what we check on our setup page.
Ready to look? Browse our acoustic guitars, or call us at (423) 462-1894 and we will talk it through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I spend on a first acoustic guitar?
Guitars in the two to three hundred dollar range from the major makers stay in tune and play well which is all a beginner needs.
Is a solid top worth it on a beginner guitar?
Yes if your budget allows. A solid top vibrates more freely than laminate and tends to sound fuller.
What size acoustic guitar should a beginner buy?
Most adults are comfortable on a dreadnought. A concert body is easier to hold for smaller players.
