Are you ready to take your musical journey to the next level? Whether you’re a beginner looking to strum your first chords or an experienced player seeking an upgrade, choosing the best acoustic guitar is a crucial decision. With so many options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But fear not! We’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to finding your dream instrument. From the warm and rich tones to the sleek and stylish designs, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed choice. Join us as we explore the different body styles, tonewoods, and sound signatures, helping you discover the perfect acoustic guitar that suits your unique preferences and playing style. Whether you’re a folk enthusiast, a blues aficionado, or a strumming singer-songwriter, this guide will be your trusted companion on your quest for the perfect sound. So, let’s dive in and find the acoustic guitar that will inspire you to create beautiful music.

Different types of acoustic guitars

When it comes to finding the best acoustic guitars, there is a wide range of options to choose from. Each type offers its own unique sound and characteristics, catering to different playing styles and genres. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types of acoustic guitars.

1. Dreadnought: The dreadnought is one of the most common and versatile acoustic guitar styles. It features a large body and a rich, powerful sound that’s perfect for strumming and flatpicking. If you’re looking for a guitar that can deliver a strong and balanced tone, a dreadnought might be the right choice for you.

2. Concert: Concert guitars are slightly smaller than dreadnoughts, making them more comfortable to play, especially for those with smaller hands. They produce a balanced sound with a clear midrange, making them a great choice for fingerstyle players and vocal accompaniment.

3. Jumbo: If you’re after a big, boomy sound, a jumbo acoustic guitar might be the perfect fit. With their large bodies and deep bass response, jumbo guitars are ideal for players who want to make a bold statement on stage or in the studio.

4. Auditorium: Auditorium guitars strike a balance between the larger dreadnought and the smaller concert guitars. They offer a versatile sound that’s suitable for a wide range of playing styles, making them a popular choice among acoustic guitarists.

Remember, the type of acoustic guitar you choose will largely depend on your personal preferences and the type of music you intend to play. Take the time to try out different types of guitars to see which one feels and sounds the best to you.

The following video I produced helps you hear the subtle but important details behind two of the most commonly used tonewoods (rosewood & mahogany) alongside two of the most popular body sizes (grand auditorium and OM).

Factors to consider when choosing an acoustic guitar – sound, playability, and body style

When choosing an acoustic guitar, there are several factors you need to consider to ensure you find the perfect instrument for your needs. Let’s explore these factors in more detail.

1. Sound: The sound of an acoustic guitar is one of the most important considerations. Different types of wood used for the top, back, and sides of the guitar can significantly impact its tone. For example, spruce tops are known for their bright and articulate sound, while cedar tops produce a warmer and more mellow tone. Additionally, the body shape and size of the guitar can influence its sound. Experiment with different tonewoods and body styles to find the sound that resonates with you.

2. Playability: Playability refers to how comfortable and easy it is to play the guitar. Factors such as the neck shape, action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard), and the overall setup of the instrument can affect playability. Look for a guitar with a neck shape and width that feels comfortable in your hands, and check that the action is neither too high nor too low for your playing style.

3. Body style: As mentioned earlier, different body styles offer different sound characteristics. Consider the size and shape of the guitar that suits your playing preferences. If you’re primarily a strummer, a larger-bodied guitar like a dreadnought or jumbo may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you’re into fingerstyle playing, a smaller-bodied guitar like a concert or auditorium might be a better choice.

By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that the acoustic guitar you choose not only sounds great but also feels comfortable to play. Remember, finding the right balance between sound, playability, and body style is key to selecting the perfect instrument for you.

The following video is a short showcase introducing you to one of the most wonderful acoustic guitar brands money can buy – and despite being totally hand made acoustic guitars from Europe – their prices are ridiculously affordable.  JuST for one in the video below…

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Popular acoustic guitar brands

Now that you have a better idea of the type of acoustic guitar you’re looking for, let’s explore some of the most popular brands known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship.

1. Martin: Martin is one of the oldest and most revered acoustic guitar manufacturers in the world. Known for their rich tone and impeccable build quality, Martin guitars have been favored by legendary musicians such as Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash.

2. Taylor: Taylor guitars are renowned for their innovative design and sound. With their sleek and modern aesthetic, Taylor guitars offer a wide range of tonal options, making them popular among contemporary artists.

3. Gibson: Gibson is synonymous with electric guitars, but they also produce exceptional acoustic guitars. Loved by blues and rock musicians, Gibson acoustic guitars are known for their warm tone and vintage-inspired designs.

4. Yamaha: Yamaha offers a fantastic range of affordable and high-quality acoustic guitars suitable for players of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Yamaha has a guitar to suit your needs.

These are just a few examples of the many reputable acoustic guitar brands available today – however – before you go rushing out to buy one – PLEASE DO watch the following video on branding & the modern world we live in.  The reason you wont find some of my top personal acoustic guitar recommendations in any other shop is because the acoustic guitars I personally recommend are not as easy to find as mass produced branded guitars

How to choose the right size and shape for your acoustic guitar

Choosing the right size and shape of an acoustic guitar is crucial for both comfort and sound. Here are some guidelines to help you find the perfect fit.

1. Consider your body size: If you have a smaller frame or shorter arms, a smaller-bodied guitar like a concert or auditorium might be more comfortable to play. On the other hand, if you have a larger build, a dreadnought or jumbo guitar may suit you better.

2. Playability: The size and shape of the guitar should also complement your playing style. If you primarily strum chords, a larger-bodied guitar will provide more volume and resonance. If you’re into fingerstyle playing, a smaller-bodied guitar may offer better articulation and responsiveness.

3. Try before you buy: It’s essential to try out different sizes and shapes of guitars to see what feels and sounds best to you. Visit your local music store and spend some time playing guitars of different sizes and shapes. Pay attention to how comfortable the guitar feels in your hands and how it responds to your playing style.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to choosing the right size and shape for your acoustic guitar. It’s all about finding the perfect balance between comfort, playability, and sound.

Understanding different tonewoods and their impact on sound

The choice of tonewoods used in an acoustic guitar can have a significant impact on its sound. Let’s take a closer look at some common tonewoods and their characteristics.

1. Spruce: Spruce is one of the most popular tonewoods used for the top of acoustic guitars. It produces a bright and articulate sound with excellent projection, making it a favorite among guitarists of various genres.

2. Cedar: Cedar is known for its warm and mellow tone. It offers a more balanced sound with a strong midrange response. Cedar-topped guitars are particularly favored by fingerstyle players.

3. Mahogany: Mahogany is a dense tonewood that produces a warm and focused sound. It offers a rich low-end response and a smooth midrange, making it a popular choice for blues and folk musicians.

4. Rosewood: Rosewood is highly prized for its rich and complex sound. It offers a deep bass response, clear highs, and a scooped midrange. Rosewood is commonly used for the back and sides of high-end acoustic guitars.

These are just a few examples of the tonewoods commonly used in acoustic guitars. Each tonewood contributes to the overall tone and character of the instrument, so it’s worth exploring the different options to find the sound that resonates with you.

Exploring different acoustic guitar styles – fingerstyle, strumming, and flatpicking

Acoustic guitars are incredibly versatile instruments that can be played in various styles. Let’s explore some of the most popular playing styles and the types of guitars that suit them best.

1. Fingerstyle: Fingerstyle playing involves plucking the strings with your fingers instead of using a pick. This technique allows for intricate melodies and complex chord progressions. Guitars with a wider neck and a smaller body, such as concert or auditorium guitars, are often favored by fingerstyle players due to their enhanced articulation and responsiveness.

2. Strumming: Strumming is the act of sweeping the strings with a pick or your fingers in a rhythmic fashion. For strumming, guitars with a larger body, such as dreadnought or jumbo guitars, are ideal. Their larger size and volume provide more resonance and projection, making them perfect for accompanying vocals or playing in a band setting.

3. Flatpicking: Flatpicking involves using a pick to play individual notes or strum chords. This technique is commonly used in genres like bluegrass and country. For flatpicking, guitars with a strong midrange and a balanced tone, such as dreadnought or concert guitars, are often preferred to ensure clarity and projection.

Remember, the playing style you choose will influence the type of acoustic guitar that suits you best. Consider the techniques you enjoy and the genres you want to explore, and select a guitar that complements your preferred style.

Tips for testing and selecting the best acoustic guitar

When it comes to choosing an acoustic guitar, it’s essential to spend some time testing and comparing different models to find the perfect instrument for you. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.

1. Test multiple guitars: Don’t settle for the first guitar you try. Test out as many guitars as possible to get a sense of the different tones, playability, and overall feel. Each guitar has its own unique characteristics, and it’s important to find one that resonates with you.

2. Play different styles: Experiment with different playing styles to see how the guitar responds. Try strumming, fingerpicking, and flatpicking to get a sense of the guitar’s versatility and responsiveness.

3. Listen to the guitar’s resonance: Pay attention to the guitar’s resonance and sustain. A high-quality instrument will have a clear and balanced tone that rings out and sustains well.

4. Check for build quality: Inspect the guitar for any visible flaws or defects. Look for even spacing between the strings, smooth fret edges, and proper alignment of the neck and body. A well-built guitar will feel solid and comfortable to play.

5. Seek professional advice: If you’re unsure about which guitar to choose, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a professional guitar technician or a knowledgeable salesperson. They can guide you based on your preferences and playing style.

By following these tips, you can ensure that the acoustic guitar you choose is the perfect fit for you and your musical aspirations.

Maintenance and care tips for acoustic guitars

To ensure your acoustic guitar stays in top condition and continues to sound its best, it’s important to take proper care of it. Here are some maintenance and care tips to keep in mind.

1. Clean your guitar regularly: Wipe down your guitar with a soft cloth after each playing session to remove any fingerprints, sweat, or dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the finish.

2. Keep your guitar properly humidified: Acoustic guitars are sensitive to changes in humidity, which can cause the wood to warp or crack. Use a humidifier to maintain the optimal humidity level for your guitar, especially in dry environments.

3. Store your guitar in a safe place: When not in use, store your guitar in a case or on a guitar stand to protect it from accidental damage. Keep it away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and excessive moisture.

4. Change strings regularly: Over time, guitar strings can become dull and lose their tone. Aim to change your strings every few months or whenever they start to sound dull or feel difficult to play.

Looking to find the instrument that’s right for you? Here’s what you need to know.

Congratulations on deciding to buy your first guitar! Whether you’re looking for an acoustic or an electric model, a guitar can make your life more fulfilling and fun. One of the advantages of taking up guitar, as opposed to other instruments, is that you can learn enough chords to play some songs relatively quickly. The feeling of accomplishment you’ll get is likely to inspire you to put in plenty of practice time, and like so many worthwhile endeavors, the more you put into it, the more you will get out of it.

Acoustic vs. Electric

There are two types of guitars: acoustic and electric. An acoustic guitar is an instrument that creates its sound without needing an amplifier. An electric guitar requires an amplifier to be heard in all its glory. Acoustic guitars always have hollow bodies made of wood; electric guitars can have either hollow or solid bodies (again, usually made of wood), though some electric models are termed “semi-hollow” because they have a solid block of wood running through the center of their otherwise hollow body.

All electric guitars use steel strings, as do many acoustic guitars. Those kinds of strings tend to be bright-sounding and vibrant. Some acoustic guitars, typically termed classical guitars, use nylon or composite strings instead, which have a gentler, more mellow tone.

There are also acoustic guitars that come with built-in electronics so you can plug them in and amplify their natural sound. Such instruments are sometimes called “acoustic-electric” guitars.

How Guitars are Built

Knowing a few things about the construction of a guitar will help you in your search for the right instrument. Here’s an illustration that shows the various parts of an acoustic guitar:

In both acoustic guitars and electric guitars, the density and weight of the woods used help determine the tone and resonance that the guitar produces.

Most of the tone of an acoustic guitar gets generated from the wood in its top, which is the face of the instrument. Spruce is commonly used for steel-string acoustic guitar tops, although sometimes you’ll see mahogany. In the case of classical nylon-string guitars, you’ll occasionally encounter models with cedar and cypress wood tops. A guitar with a solid top will produce a richer tone than one with a laminate or plywood top. The wood used for the back and sides of an acoustic guitar is equally critical for tone creation. Typically, guitar manufacturers use mahogany, nato, rosewood or maple for fuller tone. Make sure to find out the composition of the wood in a guitar before buying it.

The woods used in the construction of electric guitars are usually alder, basswood, ash, pine, maple or mahogany. Some models will even use one kind of wood for the back of the body and a different one for the top. For example, you can find electrics with a maple top on a mahogany body. The type and combination of woods used has a major impact on the tone of an electric guitar.

Find Your Fit

You’ll want your guitar to be comfortable to hold and easy to play. After all, if it doesn’t meet both of those criteria, you might get discouraged from practicing! One critical factor in selecting a guitar is finding one that’s size-appropriate for you. An instrument that’s too big or too small will make learning difficult and not as enjoyable.

To determine if a guitar’s size is right for you, try sitting down and holding it in your lap. See if you can reach the far end of the fretboard (the part closest to the tuning machines) with your left hand. If you can’t do that, choose a guitar with a neck that has a shorter scale length. The scale length refers to the distance between the nut and the bridge. (Refer to the illustration above to see where those components are.) Another advantage of a short-scale neck is that it reduces string tension, making fretting (pressing down the strings) easier. The URBAN GUITAR by Yamaha, which was created in collaboration with superstar Keith Urban, is designed for easy playability, has a short scale length, and even comes with an interactive lesson app.

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The shape of a guitar’s body also affects comfort. For example, a concert-style shape (such as the one used by the URBAN Guitar) is narrower across the waist and has a shallower depth than the larger Traditional Western or Dreadnought guitar, making it easier to hold. The URBAN Guitar also features a cutaway (an indentation of the body where it meets the neck), which lets you more easily reach the upper frets on the high strings.

The Yamaha STORIA line of acoustic guitars are also a great choice for beginners, as they all have short-scale necks, small bodies and low action. (See the “Tweaked for Comfort” section below.) Although designed for first-time players, they offer quality and features you can grow into, including built-in electronics.

If you’re especially petite or are buying a guitar for a child, you might want to consider a compact acoustic guitar such as the Yamaha JR1 or the three-quarter size Yamaha JR2. Both models are mini-versions of the famed Yamaha FG Series of acoustic guitars, delivering big tone despite their small size. They’re also ideal for practicing in the park, on the beach, or anywhere your muse takes you.

It’s best to try out guitars of different shapes and sizes at your local music store and see which one feels most comfortable. There’s a model out there that’s perfect for everyone!

Tuning In

Another important issue is the quality of the tuning machines (often called “tuning keys” or “tuning pegs”). They should turn smoothly and easily and shouldn’t bind or jump when you turn them.

But even when playing an instrument with the best tuning machines, beginners sometimes have trouble getting their guitars in tune. The solution is simple: make a small investment in an electronic tuner. Today’s tuners are simple to operate and can help you save time and frustration. There’s no shame in using one, either: Virtually all guitarists — even the top professionals — use them.

Clip-on tuners are the easiest to use. They attach to the headstock and sense the pitch of a string through vibrations in the wood. A good choice here is the Yamaha GTC1, which can be used not only for guitar, but other stringed instruments such as bass and ukulele too.

Tweaked for Comfort

As stated earlier, when you buy a guitar, it should be comfortable to play. Of course, you can’t change its body size, type or scale length, but there are many aspects that can be adjusted. Most can be done on your own, but if you’re a beginner, you’re best to have them done by a qualified luthier (a craftsperson who builds and repairs guitars and other stringed instruments). Most music stores can refer you to such a person, or may even have one on the premises.

The most common problem you might encounter is that its action — the height of the strings over the fretboard — is too high. Low action, like what you’ll find on the URBAN Guitar by Yamaha, improves playability, but if it’s too low, there can be string buzz or some notes may not ring out properly (a phenomenon known as “fretting out”), so some compromise may be in order.

Another common problem is a guitar being unable to play all its notes in tune, which requires adjusting its intonation. In the hands of a skilled luthier, this is usually fixable if the basic construction of the guitar is sound.

If you find a repair person you like, try to build a long-term working relationship with them, similar to what you do with a good auto mechanic. You want to find someone you can trust. Someday, you may end up doing the maintenance work yourself, but in the meantime, leave it to the professionals.

Add a Case

To protect your new instrument, a case is necessary. Many beginner guitars come with one; if not, it can be bought separately. Alternatively, you can opt for a gig bag like the Yamaha AG-SC, which can have either soft or semi-rigid sides and is typically made from a heavy-duty fabric or leather, with padding for protection. Gig bags are generally lighter than cases and most offer shoulder straps. Those with a single strap allow you to sling your guitar over your shoulder; a double strap lets you carry your guitar like a backpack, keeping your hands completely free.

A hardshell case like the Yamaha AG3-HC provides the most protection from bumps or the occasional drop — although there are no guarantees your guitar won’t get damaged if you drop it while it’s in the case. However, hardshell cases are heavier and typically more expensive than gig bags, and they don’t have straps, so you can’t carry them as easily.

Consider a Guitar Bundle

You can simplify the process of finding and purchasing all the gear you’ll need with a bundle such as the Yamaha GigMaker. These comprehensive and affordable packages include the guitar itself, as well as a tuner, strap, cable, gig bag and even picks. There are versions available for steel-string acoustic, classical nylon-string acoustic and electric guitars; the latter also includes a practice amp.

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Shopping for your first instrument should be the initial step in a lifelong journey of learning and inspiration. It can also be confusing because all musical instruments come in so many different makes and models.

If you’re buying your first guitar, you’ll face choices like what size guitar to buy, deciding between an acoustic or electric, or whether to invest in a new or used instrument. While there are many variables that might affect your decision, the most important thing is to find a guitar that sounds good, looks good, and feels good to play – to you.

There are countless styles of guitars available, and everyone has their own personalities and tastes. Above all, the instrument should inspire you, and make you want to practice more frequently. From deciding between types and styles, to deciding between which guitar sizes to buy, this guitar buying guide will help simplify the process of finding the best beginner guitar for you.

Click below to jump to a section in the guitar buying guide.

1. Electric guitar vs. acoustic guitar for beginners
2. What to look for when buying a guitar

3. New vs used guitars
4. Picking the right size guitar for a beginner
5. Best guitar brands for beginners
6. Where to buy a guitar
7. Guitar accessories for beginners

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Buying an electric guitar for a beginner

Out of all the types of guitars, electric guitars are by far the most popular style used in modern music. Electrics produce only the faintest of sound on their own, but once connected to an amplifier they open up a world of potential for a variety of sounds. These guitars are primarily used in rock, metal, pop, blues, jazz, country, and R&B.

What to look for when buying a guitar

There’s no way to poke and prod anything you buy online before it’s at your door, so if you’re shopping in person, here are a couple of things to watch out for. Important note about new instruments: One of the ways that guitar manufacturers save cost is by putting minimal labor into the final setup of the instrument.

Often the parts are quality and the assembly is fine, but the fine-tuning that makes an instrument play well and sound its best is left to the consumer.

1. Does the guitar stay in tune?

Have someone at the store get the guitar to standard tuning and play a few chords. There are two reasons to do this.

First, if the playing sounds terrible, odds are it’s not the sales person (who is likely a decent guitar player), it’s a difficult instrument to play. The second reason to have the instrument tuned up is to check the action.

2. Is the guitar neck straight?

Check the neck of the guitar for any curves or bends. Ideally, your guitar should have a straight neck, and prevent the strings from hitting the frets as you play.

If the guitar has a bow or back bow, it can make playing the guitar more difficult, especially for beginners. If you’re unsure of how to check your guitar’s neck relief, ask a professional. They should be able to check and identify any potential problems with your guitar neck, and make corrections as needed.

3. How far are the strings from the fretboard?

The action of a guitar or bass is how the strings relate to the fretboard. Check The action is something that can be adjusted pretty easily, but if the strings are super far from the neck at the point where the neck and body of the guitar meet or the neck is noticeably curved, it might be an instrument to pass up.

That doesn’t necessarily mean that brand or model are flawed, just that the individual instrument may already have some problems.

4. Can you comfortably reach the entire fretboard?

If the guitar sounds all right and the action doesn’t look way out of whack, see if you can comfortably reach the entire fretboard. Run your finger along each side of the neck to see whether you can feel any of the ends of the metal frets sticking out.

If you feel some that aren’t level with the wood, it doesn’t mean the instrument is garbage or that brand or model are no good, but you can probably find another guitar or bass that doesn’t already have that problem. Frets that aren’t level with the wood can be fixed, but there’s no reason to deal with that if you’re buying a new instrument.

5. Are the guitar electronics in good condition?

If you’re looking at an electric guitar, get it plugged into an amp and toggle all the switches and turn all the knobs a few times. If you hear any crackling sounds, it means some of the internal electronics may be a little dirty.

Again, that’s a fixable problem, but not something you want to hear a few minutes after your kid plugs it in for the first time. Another of the same brand and model will probably be fine, if you’re looking at what you think is a good style and price point.

So you’ve decided to learn guitar – congratulations! You’ve chosen one of the most versatile, expressive, and exciting instruments out there.

And choosing a guitar can be very exciting indeed – with three types out there and countless colorways available, picking out the instrument that will sit in your hands and help you make beautiful music is one of the biggest delights of starting out in guitar

Now, as a beginner, you could begin your road to becoming a great guitarist with whichever one. However, depending on your guitar goals and preferences as a player, you may find that one type feels natural and pleasant to play, while another has you grinding your teeth in frustration.

Acoustic, Electric, and Classical Guitars: Similarities and Differences

The most common acoustic guitar shape – the “dreadnought”

Even though each guitar type is built in a different way, they all have the same essential parts – the strings, body, neck, fretboard, headstock, and hardware.

Classical guitars are usually outfitted with nylon strings, whereas most acoustic and all electric guitars come with steel strings, which are ostensibly easier to play on.

Furthermore, the body of an acoustic guitar is the largest of the three types, if we’re taking the standard dreadnought shape as an example.

An interesting meeting place between acoustic and electric guitars is the advent of “semi-acoustic” guitars, which can be wired to an amp – the same, however, can’t be said about classical guitars.

In a nutshell, the core and purpose of all guitar types are the same, whereas nearly all the other details are different.

Electric vs. Acoustic vs. Classical – Which One Is The Best For You?

Let’s look at the features and idiosyncrasies of each type of guitar, and the purposes each is best suited to. Beyond the obvious matter of electric guitars being for rock ‘n’ rollers and classical guitars suiting classical and flamenco players, each type of guitar has practical advantages and disadvantages for beginners looking to wrap their head and their fingers around their new instrument.

Let’s look at each type of guitar and how it will impact your learning.

Benefits Of Beginning With An Electric Guitar

Electric guitars are exceptionally easy to play but very difficult to master. The reason why they’re good for beginners is because you’ll be able to play for hours without hurting your fingers – if you feel like you’re not hearing the fretted notes well, simply crank up the volume on your amp.

The strings are quite close together and the neck is narrow, meaning your hand will be able to easily make most chord and scale shapes without having to stretch. Plus, the cutaways on an electric guitar make the upper frets easily accessible, allowing for the exploration of soloing and playing higher up the neck right from day one.

Disadvantages Of Beginning With An Electric Guitar

Most people who begin with electric guitars seldom take up acoustic, let alone classical guitar, ever. The reason is quite simple – electric guitars offer more versatility and they are easier to play.

The real disadvantage here is skipping out on fully mastering the basics – if you want to master chords and scales, the best way to do so is by taking small steps on an acoustic or classical guitar.

Electric guitar is much easier to play as the strings are (usually) lighter, and the sound augmented with electricity will, in most cases, cover your mistakes and make them appear less obvious, so you won’t feel like you need to practice the things immediate beginners on acoustic (and nylon) guitars do.

The basics are exceptionally important for your growth as a musician. The veterans and pros don’t do anything special aside from using their knowledge of the basic skills on a totally different level – the simplest techniques, through practice and repetition, become advanced and make room for even more improvemen

Benefits of Beginning with an Acoustic guitar

Acoustic guitars are usually the weapon of choice for most beginner guitarists. They’re the most balanced guitar type in terms of sound, playability, and they require the least amount of time in order to grasp the basic concept of playing.

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An acoustic guitar with a cutaway, allowing access to the upper frets

The acoustic guitar is great for practicing the basics – scales, chords, chord progressions, and riffs. You can easily hear if a note is wrong and can correct your mistake accordingly.

The larger shape of acoustic guitars means that they’re a bit heavier, but this actually helps beginners rest their picking arm on the body of the guitar while playing, resulting in less hand fatigue than with electric and classical.

Disadvantages Of Beginning with an Acoustic guitar

There are only two real disadvantages of beginning with an acoustic guitar – firstly, they’re usually more expensive than classical guitars, and secondly, the steel strings will hurt your fingers at first, as you’re getting used to the guitar.

If we take out the price part, we’re left with some pain along the way, so what should you expect?

Steel stringed acoustic guitars are harder to fret than nylon-strung classical guitars, but there’s more resonance, and the chordplay is a bit easier. Steel is naturally harder than nylon, and chords will be easier to nail down on a steel-string guitar because the strings are usually thinner and will give you the aforementioned feel of “locked frets”.

In a nutshell, acoustic guitars are better suited for beginners if you’re able to save up a bit more money.

Benefits of Beginning With A Classical guitar

If you’re a complete beginner, feeling the nylon strings for the first time will dissuade you from trying out steel ones ever. They’re very mellow, feel nice to the touch, and are comfortable to play on.

The classical guitar also features a smaller, more lightweight body than both the acoustic and electric guitar.

A big reason why many beginners opt for classical guitars is the fact that they’re quite a bit cheaper than acoustic and electric guitars.

Disadvantages Of Beginning With A Classical Guitar

Classical guitars are often taught by professionals in music schools as they’re the hardest guitar type to master. Why is that so?

First of all, the nylon strings feel substantially different than steel strings, and people who’ve had some practice with electric or acoustic guitars will feel like complete beginners right off the bat.

Secondly, the sounds that classical guitars emit are airy, and all of your mistakes will be more accentuated. This falls down hard on most beginners, but even though it could help with practice, it should be considered as a disadvantage over the other types.