What is the best acoustic guitar for a beginner?

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Lena A

I'm just starting out, and am looking to make an acoustic guitar out there my own. My price range is around 200-350, and I really want a guitar that will make me love playing music. What is the best acoustic guitar for a beginner?

Answer
There are a lot of different things to consider when buying a new acoustic guitar. For a beginner it is important to weigh up quality with price. It is much better to go for a acoustic guitar that is on the lower end and then as you get better buy a better guitar.

Having the best guitar won't make you the best guitarist so there is no point investing in a really expensive instrument.

For around $200 or $350 i would suggest purchasing perhaps a Yamaha FG700S Folk Acoustic Guitar.

I hope this information helps.

Check out the site below for more information about acoustic guitars. You can also sign up for a free guitar lesson.

Is Taylor a good brand of acoustic guitars for beginners?

I can sort of play the keyboard, I do not really play any other instruments. I cannot read music notes but I know the basics. I want to become a singer/songwriter and I want to learn to play the acoustic guitar. As a beginner I found two Taylor acoustic guitars online at Best Buy that are cheap enough for me to save my money and buy one of them. I would like to know if it is a reliable brand for beginners.

Answer
Taylor makes great guitars so in general, you can't go wrong with that. However, buying guitars online can be something of a hit and miss affair when you're just starting out.

You really should be able to try the guitars first before you decide to purchase the instrument or not.

I suspect you've been looking at the Baby Taylor guitars. Although these are good guitars, they are not full size. They are somewhat limited in volume and tone. You should really go for a regular full size steel string acoustic. And again, you definitely want to try this out for yourself...

You will definitely do best if you buy from a dedicated guitar/music dealer. Oh, and stay well away from First Act instruments. These are nothing but kids toys.

Edited for spelling errors...

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Whats the difference between a beginners guitar and a normal one?

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I got serv

What's the difference between a beginners acoustic guitar and a normal classic guitar?
Why buy a beginners guitar when you can buy a good quality acoustic guitar (NOT for beginners)

Basically, I just want to know why people buy beginners guitars and are they worth it

Answer
Cheaper price,let's you explore the art with out the cost!
If you know your gonna stay with it get the best you can afford. Have a musican help you shop .

How do you add a knob to your guitar for the strap?

peck3000

I have a knob at the bottom of my acoustic guitar, and I've tried attaching the strap to the top of the neck and it is too awkward. I've heard that you can buy the knob and attach it yourself, but I don't know how, or exactly where to attach the knob.

Answer
Best solution: Take it to a luthier or guitar shop. They have the parts, the experience to do it correctly the first time, and they will preserve the resale value of your guitar. They may have suggestions for other methods to make your guitar more comfortable and ergonomically correct as well.

Do it yourself?

You need: an end button with the screw, a Jeweler's screwdriver, (usually Phillips head but if the screw is a flathead you know what to do) a jeweler's drill, or one of those powered screwdrivers and a very very thin (read tiny) drill
optional: some wood putty or Elmer's Glue

1. First determine if the area you want to put the end button will hold the weight of the strap and that there is enough wood to hold the screw in place.

2. Now look inside and really make sure. A dental mirror and a flashlight will usually do the trick

3. Drill a small (did I say small, I meant really really small, you know, Tiny) hole, directly into the place where you want to put the end button. Do not try to do this without drilling the hole. You will be in danger of splitting the wood. Maybe not the same day you install the end button, but eventually! (Cue the background monster movie music)

4. Insert the screw into the end button, then screw the entire assembly into the guitar, slowly and gently.

(This is optional, but I always dip the screw in a little bit of glue or wood putty before I put it into the guitar, then wipe off the excess. I think it makes for a tighter fit and seems to act like a washer to some extent. that part is up to you. If you do it though, wait for the thing to dry before you put a strap on it, usually 24 - 48 hours.)

Wipe off the guitar, no matter how you decide to do it, there will be a few wood shavings at least. Put your toys away and be sure to seal the wood putty or glue if you decided to use it.

Some music stores sell the locking end buttons. Some of them need a special strap and some of them have an adapter you just put on the strap you like, but if it saves you from dropping your guitar on a hardwood stage floow just once, it's worth it.

One other thing you may want to consider before you install an end button. Some transducer pickups contain female input jacks that also serve as end buttons. This way you can get both upgrades done at once. Again, better to go with a luthier unless you are:

A. Really handy, much handier than me!

B. Possessor of all of the proper tools or willing to buy them

(Usually cheaper i the long run to get it done professionally. Remember that last reason and say it once again with me:

"Preserves The Resale Value of the Guitar!!!"

You may need to trade it in on a Martin or Taylor someday and you want to get more than sixty dollars for it.

(If you attach an end button anywhere but where it is recommended, You will want to substitute that screw for a modified nut and bolt. You want both a rubberized and lock type washer on both sides because if you have ever tried to cram your hand inside of a guitar to install one of these puppies, you definitely do not want to try to do it twice. Besides, there is nothing more irritating than washer rattle, especially when you are on a gig and don't have the tools or time to fix it. If you are installing the female quarter inch (stay away form the 1/8" if you can) or XLR jack, you don't need a nut and bolt because the screw assembly tightens onto itself. Remember the rubberized washers though. They can be a lifesaver and if they don't come with the kit, spring for the extra dollar or two to get them.

Another nice place to have an end button is on the heel (also known as the spine in some areas) since it allows you to take off the strap (still recommending a locking strap here) without untying it from the headstock.

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How do I attach two guitar strap pegs?

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Leah

Usually acoustic guitars have one strap peg on the bottom but mine has none. Is it ok to attach one to the bottom the same way as you would with the other?

Answer
I'm assuming you have a classical guitar. There are special straps for classical guitars, like this one:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0007WPHC2/ref=asc_df_B0007WPHC2994674?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&tag=googlecom09c9-20&linkCode=asn&creative=380341&creativeASIN=B0007WPHC2

Classical guitars are meant to be played sitting down so they never come with an end pin, much less a strap button on the neck. I suppose you could attach them assuming there's an end block inside the guitar at the bottom. The other one attaches to the heel of the neck on the treble side.

Keep in mind that in the process of doing this you will be substantially lowering the resale value of your guitar.

How do you tie a guitar strap onto an acoustic guitar with one peg?

x55xm

So I have an acoustic guitar with only one peg/nut thing for the guitar strap. I have a guitar strap with two holes and one string. How/where do you tie the string. Please give a BUNCH of details and pics if you have any!!!!

Answer
I recommend installing a strap button on your guitar. I know a lot of people tie their straps to the headstock but it's not a really good idea. Mostly because the guitar will have a tendency to slide around on you and it's just really uncomfortable. You can get a strap button at your local music shop for just 2 or 3 bucks. If your good with simple tools they're not too hard to install. Some music shops will even do it for you if you ask.

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What are some inspiring rocks songs for a learning acoustic guitar player?

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Todd

I have started taking acoustic guitar lessons with a friend and would like to hear your opinion on songs to listen to for inspiration, and to become more familiar with the general style. I have pretty wide ranged tastes in music, but I am aiming for classical to modern rock.

Answer
Songs I learned while learning Guitar:

Hold my Hand - Hootie and the blowfish
(I'm the one who wants to) Be with you - Mr Big
Tears in heaven - Clapton
Lightning Crashes - Live
Breakfast at Tiffany's - ???
Wicked Game - Chris Isaac
Low - Cracker
Wounded hand - Stone Temple Pilots
Black - Pearl Jam


A lot of old U2 and REM stuff is very easy. U2 tends to ride a chord progression through the whole song, REM creatively uses secondary dominants and major minors.

What are the best websites to go to for beginner guitar lessons?

Bradley

What are some good places to go to on the internet to get good beginner acoustic guitar lessons?

Thanks

Answer
Check out Marty Schwartz and Justin Sandercoe on youtube. Justin has a pretty good website where all his stuff is organised nicely:

www.justinguitar.com - go to the left hand side and find the 'beginner's course' tab.

Marty is probably better for learning songs, and Justin better for technique and theory and stuff.

Hope this helps.

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Can I first learn electric guitar and then transfer skills to an acoustic guitar?

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Mr. E

My situation is that I live with other people, so my practice on the acoustic guitar can get a bit annoying after a short period, because I'm not any good yet.

I was already planning on buying an electric guitar starter kit which includes a small amp and headphones, which would be perfect because I can play and not bother anyone.

My question is, would I be able to transfer any guitar playing skills from my electric guitar to acoustic guitar, or are they too different?

I appreciate your advice. Thank you!
I'm sure it requires more finger precision on the acoustic as not too get any muted sounds on the strings, etc, I just want to know how different it is. Thanks!

Answer
YES! I started on electric guitar and when I use an acoustic it's no problem. The only differences you'll notice is that on acoustic you have to press harder with your fingers, and acoustics generally have a higher action and bigger gaps in between strings. Switching might take a bit of getting used to, but all in all if you can shred on the electric, the acoustic will be easy.

What is a good beginner acoustic guitar to buy?

snicks

Should I buy the guitar kit with DvD's included and strap and such. oR BUY A BETTER GUITAR AND ALL THE OTHER items seperately? This will be a birthday present for my 14 yr old son who has started last year on an electric but lost interest, says he would rather try an acoustic. I would say 500. would be the higher end of what I would spend. Your experienced input much appreciated.

Answer
When buying a guitar, like anything else, you get what you pay for. But lets be honest, most people who start off playing guitar give up within a few months, and the guitar player just ends up a few hundred dollars poorer. When buying a guitar, buy something cheap, but easy to play.

The best acoustic guitar for a beginner is an inexpensive Yamaha FG700s. This is a cheap guitar that is very easy to play, and it looks and sounds great. This is hands down the best choice for a newbie guitarist. Another option would be an Takamine G-340 guitar. You can find both for around $200. But do not buy that Esteban guitar it is very badly made even by cheap guitar standards.

So hold off on buying a $500 guitar until you are sure that playing the guitar is something he is going to stick with. You already lost money on the electric guitar don't make the same mistake twice.

With regards to buying a kit or the accessories individually. I wouldn't buy the kit the accessories included are throw aways and you are better off buy a little better guitar for almost the same price. You can buy the accessories later when needed, which you will end up doing later anyway becuase the ones that come in the kit are garbage. And then have your son use You Tube and Google to search for free lessons before spending money on DVD lessons. There are a ton of free lesson out there. That is what I did when I first started learning and then when I needed more instruction and wanted to move ahead in my playing did I start buying DVD's and paying for Online Lessons.

Just my 2 cents.....

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What is a cheap acoustic guitar that sounds good?

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raymond

I'm looking to spend around 50 to 65 dollars what is a good acoustic guitar for a beginner? Thanks.

Answer
Ahh, man. I would recommend two starter guitars but they are out of your price range. So I'll recommend them anyway :D

For ~$100, I recommend the Epiphone DR-100. I had the step up, the one for around ~$180, and it was such a nice guitar. Sounded beautiful, with a beautiful sunburst finish (then it fell over, landed on the neck and broke D: such a sad day! It just tipped forward off the stand!!!!!!! arg).

Epiphone acoustics are great! And 100$ is pretty cheap. I recommend splurging an extra $35

Look at my source. It's a little out of your price range, but if you shop around, I'm sure you could find this for under $100

Can you people suggest some good ACOUSTIC guitars for beginners?

Akshaya

I am a beginner in guitar and i have to buy one. Can you guys suggest some good acoustic guitars for beginners?

Answer
well there are a lot of options, don't get anything that doesn't have fret markers, i know a lot of no name guitars will be free of fret markers, my first was like this and it was a b**** to figure where my frets were. take note of size (this is scale, or distance from the nut to the bridge, body size is also important and should be taken into consideration if the beginner is young). I would recommend squier, alvarez, ibanez, and ovation if you can find a decent one for cheap. squier guitars are cheap and last pretty long, but they may not sound as good as the others. ibanez guitars are more expensive but the sound they put out is well worth the money (provided the person learning will stick with it). ovation guitars are just wonderful but i have heard from some guitar center employees (cant always trust them) that ovation guitars do not last very long, and I have plenty of friends whose ovation guitars died or lost their outlet jack inside the guitar, so make sure to tighten it now and then if you can. the real benefit to the ovation guitars is the composite back, this is far more comfortable than your usual wood guitar body and makes little difference in sound. alvarez guitars are a pretty good medium, they sound gorgeous, they are relatively cheap, and if you go acoustic-electric the electronics are very good. acoustic electric guitars are really only a good idea if a) the price difference is $50 and under, b) this beginner WILL stick with it and plans on performing at some point, or c) it just sounded too darn good through an amp.

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What website has cheap acoustic guitars?

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B.

I want to buy an acoustic guitar, but their expensive. The only cheap ones i found were colored and i do not want a colored guitar i want a nice vintage standard rosewood, mahogany color those type of guitars. Can someone recommend a website where there is cheap guitars under lets see $100 :) thanks.

Answer
I've played the guitar for years, and I think your best bet is either your local craigslist.org, or any local classified listings online. Alternatively, I have noticed some very good prices on EBay and Amazon, but often the shipping costs are very high. There has been the occasional good deal on EBay with free or low shipping, though, so depending on your patience level, it could be worth a look. Guitar Center is national, so maybe they have reasonable shipping - they have periodical blow-out sales. Good luck!

A Gibson Les Paul Studio Electric Guitar is on a 50% sale and I am a beginner and have original?

WEBHWITHS9

I originally wanted to buy a cheaper acoustic guitar for 200$ but I saw this guitar for a sale and thought maybe in the long run I would want this guitar and wouldn't have to buy a new one in a couple of years.
I have played on a guitar before so I am not completely unfamiliar. Should I stick with the buying the acoustic or buying this one.

Answer
Hi Webhwith,

I used to have my own guitar shop for about 30 years where I taught private students and sold guitars for a living and I always told my students to buy whichever type of guitar would excite them the most to own because they will play it more and get better faster. Since you can afford either the acoustic or the electric guitar get the one that you'll want to pick up and play the most. Hope this helps!

Sincerely,
Steven Herron
Peabody Conservatory Trained Guitarist

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What is the best type of acoustic guitar to buy?

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Kait

I want to teach myself to play the guitar. I don't exactly know how to read music but I can teach myself. What is the best brand of acoustic guitar to buy? (Low cost is a plus) Thanks.

Answer
Well I wouldn't worry so much about brand in the beginning. A good second hand guitar is probably best. There are a lot of good inexpensive brands out there. Keep in mind you may not stick with it and it may not be your thing. Don't invest a lot of money. You want something that you can play. How big are you hands? That's the first question. If you have little hands I really recommend Daisy Rock guitars. They are designed for women (and guys with small hands). If the neck is too thick you'll have trouble with things like barre chords later. Next is a good set up. Here you will need someone that knows a little bit about guitars to help you. Is the neck straight? If it is bowed anywhere its not going to be playable. Are there any dead spots (frets that don't produce a note. Some guitars do have places for whatever reason where you sound the note and you literally get a "thunk"). How is the action set up? Are the strings too high or low on the neck for you? Finally, does the guitar hold tune further up the neck. This is called intonation. It is usually adjustable. Many times a lot of the problems I'm talking about are correctable by a reputable guitar shop. Just beware of dead spots in the neck. If there is a fret where a note won't sound that usually indicates a life-long defect and may not be correctable. If you have someone familiar with guitars that can go with you and knows what to ask you might try looking for a good used one at a pawn shop or off of craigslist.org. If not, buy from a reputable dealer like Guitar Center or a local music store where someone can help you pick out the right instrument for you. Keep in mind, it may not be to your advantage to buy the cheapest thing you can find. At the same time, you don't want to buy an expensive pro-level instrument when you are only beginning. Good luck to you!

What type of acoustic guitar should I get?

Majno L

I will get an acoustic guitar for xmas. I am really new to this so I do not really know the differences.

nylon/steel/bronze strings?

jumbo/drednought/western?

Which one should I choose as a beginner? Could you also suggest brands?

Thanks in forward

Answer
A nylon string guitar is called a classical guitar. It is used almost exclusively for playing classical music. Unless you're interested in playing classical music, don't buy one. I think you'd be better off buying a regular steel-string acoustic guitar.

Jumbos and dreads are large guitars that many people, especially women, find too large to play comfortably. I always recommend that people start with a grand concert or auditorium (also called 00 and 000, respectively) size guitar.

There are many fine brands for beginners including Seagull, Yamaha, Epiphone, and Ibanez. Go to a store in your area and have the salesperson play them for you until you find one you like. Try holding it so you can be sure it fits you comfortably.

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What is the best acoustic guitar instruction book for a total beginner?

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fallbabyy:

I would like to learn by myself but I don't know how to read notes or how to play my guitar at ALL.
I need something that will take me from the very beginning.
Any suggestions?

Answer
hi, try going to http://guitarmanual.typepad.com and getting the ebook that goes along w/ the lesson posts and videos on the site, its taught from a beginners point and shows exactly what to practice to become an advanced player, good luck, email me through the site if you need any extra help !! good luck

http://guitarmanual.typepad.com

How much does the average acoustic guitar cost?

Morte et D

So I want to learn to play acoustic guitar, and then one day learn to play an electric guitar. How much would the average acoustic guitar cost? Can you please also add some links for good acoustic guitars for beginners? :)

Answer
Do not buy any guitars sold at big box stores. The price may be attractive, but these are just toys that look like guitars. Don't be fooled by the guitars target sells that have the Gibson name on them. The maestro series is total junk and I don't know how Gibson ever licensed their name to this worthless junk.

Musician's Friend and Guitar Center sell the Epiphone DR-100 for between $99 and $129. This is the only guitar in that low of a price range that I would recommend. They are perfect for beginners and will make a great couch guitar when you advance and want something better.

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-DR-100-Acoustic-Guitar-101558153-i1150079.gc

To get a better guitar you're looking at $299 and up, but don't need to have huge price tags.
Taylor is probably the best acoustic you can buy without having it custom made, but not everyone has $3000 to blow on a guitar. My favorite 6 string acoustic ever can be had for $399. While it is designed to be a jazz/swing guitar, I find it rocks for all genres.

http://guitars.musiciansfriend.com/product/Gitane-Cigano-Series-GJ10-Gypsy-Jazz-Guitar?sku=580375

Takemine and Ibanez have some decent student guitars at lower prices. you might want to look at those as well. Just search those names on musician's friend for more info.

xx

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Should I go to a recording studio or buy a microphone to record a cd?

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robotron77

I have a few songs I want recorded. It's just me singing with my acoustic guitar. Am I better off going to a studio or getting a good usb microphone?

Answer
I would say that this depends on a couple of factors

1. What computer do you use and do you have audio software?
2. Do you have any recording experience up to now?
3. What speakers/headphones will you be using to monitor?

The good thing about buying your own mic would be trial and error and you can record on a regular basis and build up knowledge of recording techniques...

However, if you are looking at releasing a professional quality set of recordings and have no experience then it would definitely pay you to go into a studio to record.

A studio can charge anything from £100-£350 a day so pick carefully!

If you are looking at learning the recording process then the book 'Practical recording techniques By Bartlett and Bartlett.

Below is a link to an online copy of the book to preview

http://books.google.co.uk/books?hl=en&id=FLV21aleH-gC&dq=bartlett+recording+techniques&printsec=frontcover&source=web&ots=VmhwsRReHf&sig=hPsf4rCoiaHA6kTQ1MVIHYM2dQE&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=1&ct=result#PPA133,M1

Hope this helps!

Where can i find a good acoustic guitar online ?

magic bann

im trying to find a good quality guitar for under $200 dollars the type of guitar im looking for is a six string acoustic guitar with steel strings it should also be a good brand like taylor, yamaha , gibson , and good brands like those any websites where i can buy them u can also suggest stuff to thanks

Answer
www.coda-music.co.uk

And mate a gibson for $200 (about £140 i think) good luck! Thats just above bottom range epiphone... sorry...

You shouldnt always go for popular brands, got to guitar center (guessing u live in USA) and try some out. It's best to play before you bubuy you dont want to waste your money...

Everyone checl this btw - http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtube_gdata_player&v=bSqRnvBurkw

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What accesories do you need to start playing acoustic guitar?

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MusicLuver

So I want to buy an acoustic guitar. What things should I buy along with the guitar? (I'm a beginner)

Answer
You'll need a guitar, of course. Also, good additions are a strap, a case, and an electric tuner. Also, you might need some books or sheet music. If you don't want to buy these, you can find lots of free tabs online.
Good luck!

What is a good beginner guitar method to learn from?

That guy o

I really want to learn how to play my acoustic guitar. I've learned how play saxophone trough method books, and know how to read music. So what is a good guitar method book that I can to learn to play guitar from?

Answer
PluckandPlayGuitar has free video based lessons for absolute beginners and assume you know nothing or close to nothing.

It takes you step by step through the basic guitar chords one by one. There's also lessons on guitar scales, techniques and some easy songs to play.

http://www.pluckandplayguitar.com/

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Is it economical to make a guitar amp by a processor and speakers or buy a cheap amp. I have a semi acoustic.?

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noname

i brought a new semi acoustic guitar(acoustic guitar with a electric port). Now I can buy a cheap guitar amp or i can buy a cheap guitar processor and use my old computer speakers. Which configuration will give a better sound and be more economical.

Answer
I'm not sure what a semi-acoustic is? Do you mean a semi-hollow body guitar? If so, then it's classified as an electric.

You asked which would give a better sound and be more economical. Unfortunately, this is an either/or situation. Better sound, economical, pick one!

For an electric guitar, the amp is an much a part of the sound as the guitar itself. I doubt that computer speakers (at least most of them) would give you a very satisfying experience. For low level playing, you're going to at least want an 8" speaker, preferaably a 10". For performance, at least two 10"s or a 12".

Save yourself the aggravation and get yourself a proper amp.

Greetings form Austin, TX

Ken

Can I clean my acoustic guitar with a damp washcloth or paper towel?

Chris

I have an acoustic guitar that I would like to clean up a bit. I can't get any of the necessary cleaning products at the time, so I was wondering if it would be ok to use a SLIGHTLY wet washcloth or paper towel on it. It is a cheap guitar, so I am not overly worried, but I want to know if it would do any serious damage, to sound or appearance.

Answer
Water is fine as long as you don't let it stand on there or get onto unfinished surfaces like the interior, fretboard, or bridge. A soft cloth (microfiber cloth, old soft t-shirt, or old diaper) is the best for avoiding fine scratches. If you want to use something else, be careful not to rub too hard. I wouldn't use a paper towel on a good guitar, but if you're not worried about semi-microscopic scratches you'll probably be fine.

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What sort of acoustic-electric guitar should I buy?

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Malignantl

I'm a beginner and I have a friend who has played for years and he recommended I get an Ovation acoustic-electric guitar.

We've sort of agreed on Ovation Celebrity CC24 Acoustic-Electric Guitar but I would like to know if anybody has an other recommendations?

Any other brands?

This will be the first time I've actually PURCHASED my instrument so I want as much feedback and help as possible.

Answer
go to a music store and try a bunch out. buy the one that feels and sounds the best to you in your price range. there are lots of good brands of guitars i just depends on what is the best fit for you. Everyone has their personal favorite.

what are perfect guitar gear for beginners with an acoustic electric guitar?

ajer@rocke

Besides the guitar straps, carry bag, and pick, what else should a beginner get for an acoustic electric guitar?

Answer
well, as mikey points out an amp, cable, and tuner are obvious choices. Some less obvious choices would include a couple extra sets of strings, a capo, a guitar stand, Some good acoustic guitar songbooks as well as a good chord book, guitar polish, a slide, maybe an instructional DVD or a gift certificate for a month of guitar lessons.

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What is the best acoustic guitar to get for a beginner?

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ILoveJBieb

I have a guitar already and it is really old and the strings have snapped. I am starting acoustic guitar lessons and I just wanted a good make guitar which is easy to play and good for beginners

Much appreciated :)

Answer
Nothing wrong with an old guitar if it still plays well. Might be worth $5 for a new set of strings just to see how it plays and sounds. I got an old guitar from my grandpa. It didn't look like much. The finish was checking and some strings were missing and one of the tuning pegs was bent. I, being young and stupid, tried to fix it up by sanding it and refinishing it. removing the bridge and "adjusting" it, and putting new tuners on it. Turns out it was an old Gibson Kalamazoo guitar which I complete ruined by trying to fix it up like a "new" guitar. Sorry guitar lovers it still breaks me up that I was so dumb too!

But if it's actually an old piece of junk or you just want a crisp new guitar, you can get some decent beginner guitars in the $100 range if you get one with a laminate top. Laminate (plywood) tops don't have the tone or sustain of a solid wood top but for a beginner the bigger thing is the playability of the guitar. The Takamine Jasmine is a decent guitar for a beginner on a budget (way better than comparably priced Dean, Gibson Maestro, and other sub $100 guitars). Guitar Center has a Mitchell guitar they sell for $129:
The full size dreadnought model:
http://www.guitarcenter.com/Mitchell-MD300S-Solid-Spruce-Top-Acoustic-Guitar-105769301-i1505586.gc
If you need a smaller bodied guitar there's this orchestra model:
http://www.guitarcenter.com/Mitchell-MO100S-Solid-Top-Orchestra-Guitar-105343248-i1460870.gc

At just around $200 my favorite is the Yamaha FG700S. It's a full size dreadnought with a solid spruce top. Yamaha makes excellent beginner guitars and I recommend these to many of my students who want a bit better beginner guitar that will last them a few years.
If you want a smaller body the Yamaha FS720S is a great option but you're getting up in the $275ish price range now. Still a good guitar if you want something smaller bodied but still a full size guitar.
You're right to realize people have preferences when it comes to choosing guitars and I'm sure some very experienced guitarists on here will disagree with some of my recommendations and have options of their own that are equally good. The ones I'd avoid (again my preference and experience picking guitars for my students) are:
Dean - I've played several of their lower end guitars and the majority are just unplayable because they are set up so badly from the factory. They buzz, are difficult to fret and have horrid intonation.
Fender - If you want a strat or telecaster or a good tube amp then Fender's great, but they're acoustic guitars just don't have the tone you'd expect from Fender.
Gibson Maestro - yuck! Why waste $100 on one of these toys when you can get a real guitar like the Takamine Jasmine for the same price?
Ibanez - again, great electric guitars and basses but their acoustics, while they play OK just don't have the tone I like.
Epiphone - some are OK but not the cheaper ones. If you love Gibson and want to look like you own one from a distance they're OK but not music to my ears. Besides my first guitar was an Epiphone and it was a bear to try to play. They have chunky necks and high action which are not ideal for an 8 year old learning to play guitar (that's what I was, no idea how old you are).
Yamaha is much better than those for the price (again just my opinion).

What's a good acoustic guitar for an absolute beginner?

? ?

My 16th birthday is coming up and I wanted to ask for a guitar and I was wondering if there were any good and affordable suggestions for a beginner.

Also, any tips and links would be appreciated. Thanks :)

*Acoustic guitar, btw, no electric.

Answer
This probably isn't what you (or the folks paying for the guitar) want to hear, but a cheap $100 guitar isn't the best choice for a beginner. Actually, it isn't a good choice for anybody. As a beginner, you don't need a fancy guitar, or one with the sweetest tone, but you do need something that won't fight against you. All those cheap guitars at Walmart and amazon.com *look* like decent guitars for a beginner but they're difficult to play and hard to keep tuned. This actually increases the probability that you'll give up trying to learn out of frustration....making the low cost guitar a total waste of money.

If you get a slightly better guitar, you'll improve your chances of success, and have a guitar you won't outgrow in a couple of months. My first choice (balancing cost and quality) would be the Yamaha FG700S: http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/yamaha-fg700s-folk-acoustic-guitar
That guitar has a solid wood top for better tone and will last you a long time.
Working downward in quality, tone, and playability, consider these or other guitars by Yamaha, Ibanez, or Epiphone:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/epiphone-aj-220s-acoustic-guitar
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/ibanez-sgt120-sage-series-acoustic-guitar
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/yamaha-f335-acoustic-guitar
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/guitars/epiphone-pr-150-acoustic-guitar

I've supplied links to an online retailer, but it's best if you can buy at a local music store. That way you can see and feel the guitar before buying. You may find that one is more comfortable or easy to hold than another. I realize you can't play yet, but you can have the salesperson play then to see which sounds better to you. Best of luck to you, no matter which guitar you end up with.

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What is a good electric guitar/amp/pedal for hardcore/metal music?

cheap electro acoustic guitars uk image

Dakota1993

I have experience on an acoustic but have never really dabbled in electric guitars so im lost. I need to know a good guitar, amp, and whatever pedals I will need for hardcore or metal music. Im looking for a good bit of distortion but that the same time something clear. My price range isnt anything great. I got about $1500 to spend. Thanks!

Answer
Guitar: Ideally I'd suggest going for a First Act, as so many absolute guitar heroes from the genres you've mentioned have First Act signature models, but I think all there models are out of your price range. I would suggest an Epiphone SG G-400 http://www2.gibson.com/Products/Electric-Guitars/SG/Epiphone/G-400.aspx: a really great model for very cheap, with a classic gibson tone while also having an "alternative" sound to the les paul. Ibanez also have really good, really versatile models that are excellent for any style of metal, hardcore, technical or punk. I don't have much experience with Ibanez so you would be better trying these out for yourself. I have had great experience playing these styles on Washburn Idols as well http://www.washburn.com/electrics/original-idol-series/
For pedals, all you will need at first is a good distortion. I would suggest anything made by Boss. However, if you really want to develop your own sound, I'd suggest trying some Electro Harmonix pedals because they have a very unique tone, but aren't as widely used as Boss.
Finally, although I've given you a lot of options for guitars and pedals, the only amp I would truely recommend is Blackstar http://www.blackstaramps.co.uk/ they have an absolutely delicious tone, you really have to try these for yourself! Definitely the unsung heroes of the amp world.

I hope this has helped! I'm looking forward to seeing the other answers in this question, as these are also my two favourite genres to play on guitar.

How do i turn my Rosetti archtop Guitar into an Electro-Acoustic?

Gerry

The guitar is from 1960. It has a regular acoustic bridge but do i need a pickup and a bridge or just a pickup. I already have an amplifier and jack lead. 5 points for best answer. p.s I'm on a tight budget. I need something really cheap but does the job and lasts long.
Many Thanks
Geard
pps you can leave any links to sites youve found. I live in the UK so they must be british sites. Thank You

Answer
It can be done, however that's best left to a professional to do. They have the equipment, and the raining to install what is needed, and will be able to do it properly. Otherwise if you have never done it, you run the risk of damaging your guitar, and that can be expensive to have fixed properly.

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What is a good factory made 12 string guitar?

best acoustic electric guitars under 600 image

Q. I dont want to spend too much on it. like under 600. the music i play is like dave matthews band, john mayer, jack johnson, maroon 5, jamiroquia, jason mraz and zepplin is the music i want to play on the 12 stringer.

Answer
There is not much to choose from for under $600 in a 12-string guitar. The Yamaha APX700 12-String Acoustic-Electric is decent. I own the 6-string version.

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Yamaha-APX700-12-12-String--Thinline-Cutaway-Acoustic-Electric-Guitar-104902341-i1167052.gc

Martin used to make the best one. The Martin D12X1 12-String Solid Top Acoustic Guitar. However, I'm told that is guitar may now be discontinued. Maybe you can find on on e-Bay or Amazon.

Breedlove makes one but, I have no experience with them. http://www.guitarcenter.com/Breedlove-Passport-PLUS-C250-SB-12-string-Acoustic-Electric-Guitar-889761-i1474866.gc

But by far the very best and cheapest 12-string is the Taylor weighing in at more than twice your budget. But, for sound and playability, this is the guitar you really want. http://www.guitarcenter.com/Taylor-GA3-12-Grand-Auditorium-12-String-Acoustic-Guitar-104495569-i1175351.gc

All the other 12-strings in your price range or below are, in my opinion, not that good. So, if you're considering one of those, I strongly suggest you go and play one first and see if you feel it sounds and plays ok for your taste. You might compare it to the Taylor and I think you'll agree with me.

What is an inexpensive but really nice guitar brand?

I'm looking for a new guitar and have been playin a cheapo guitar for about 6 months and I need a new one with a better sound. One that has a rich bass.

Answer
Acoustic Brands:
Washburn
Oscar Schmidt

Electrics:
Washburn
Ibanez
Squire (they do make nice guitars believe it or not)

Guitar Brands to avoid at all costs:
Martin (if under a grand)
Dean (if Under a grand)
Indiana (garbage brand)
Austin (unless you have it set up)
Gibson (if under 1500)
First Act (just no)

A fender would do ok. Also you can find a good custom build one for about a grand that is equivalent to one 3 or 4 times the cost at CHW Guitars Custom Shop. Their lowest line being 600 dollars for an electric and 1100 for acoustic, great guitars that outplay any ive ever played.

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What songs feature dual acoustic guitars?

best acoustic guitars list image

Tyler B

A friend and I are going on a Yosemite camping trip with our high school for two weeks and we were asked to bring along our guitars. We know plenty of songs but the only problem is, they pretty much require only one guitar so it would essentially us playing the same thing over each other.

What are some songs that feature dual acoustic guitars? 10 points to the person with the longest and best list. Thanks!

Answer
Some songs I can think of are:

"Me & Julio Down By The Schoolyard" - Paul Simon
"And I Love Her" - The Beatles
"Orion" - Rodrigo y Gabriela (you might check out some more of their music since they are an acoustic guitar playing duo)

What's the easiest song to learn on acoustic guitar?

Anon A

i've just started to teach myself how to play the acoustic guitar and i want to start out small. but i don't know what song to learn first. i think that if i could get a list of songs, i could take it from there, but like i said, i don't know where to start.

Answer
Wonderwall by Oasis
Collide by Howie Day
Horse With No Name by America
Deep Inside of You by Third Eye Blind
Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple

I could go on for days...check out Ultimate-Guitar.com
They have tabs/chords for virtually every song.

Good luck!

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