Do you want to buy a guitar? Discover the differences between classical, acoustic, and electric guitars and choose a guitar that suits you.

Buying a guitar? Here is how to choose the one that suits you

Are you looking to buy a guitar, but don't yet know which model suits you best? You are certainly not alone. There are many different types of guitars, brands, and models. The right choice depends, among other things, on the music you want to play, your experience, and your budget.

In this blog, we simply explain what you should look for when buying a guitar. This way, you can choose an instrument you will enjoy learning to play on.

What types of guitars are there?

The first important choice is the type of guitar. The most well-known types are the acoustic guitar, classical guitar, electric guitar, and bass guitar.

Every type has its own sound and feel.

Classical guitar

A classical guitar has nylon strings. These strings feel softer than steel strings, which is why a classical guitar is often comfortable for beginning guitarists.

The neck of a classical guitar is usually a bit wider, which provides more space between the strings. This can be useful when learning chords and individual notes, but for people with small hands, the wide neck might take some getting used to at first.

A classical guitar is well-suited for:

classical music;
Spanish music;
mellow songs;
guitar lessons for beginners;
fingerstyle playing.

You do not need an amplifier, so you can start playing immediately.

Acoustic guitar

An acoustic guitar usually has steel strings. This makes the guitar sound bright, powerful, and full. This type is widely used in pop music, country, folk, and singer-songwriter music.

Steel strings can feel a bit tougher on your fingertips at first. Over time, your fingers will usually get used to this.

An acoustic guitar is suitable if you want to:

accompany yourself while singing;
play pop songs and well-known chords;
practice without an amplifier;
find a bright and powerful sound.

Some acoustic guitars have a built-in pickup. This allows you to plug the guitar into an amplifier or sound system. Such a model is also called a semi-acoustic guitar.

Electric guitar

An electric guitar makes very little sound without an amplifier. To hear the true guitar sound, you plug the guitar into a guitar amplifier.

You can create many different sounds with an electric guitar. By adjusting the settings on the guitar, amplifier, and effect pedals, you can tailor the sound to your musical style.

An electric guitar is popular for:

rock;
blues;
metal;
funk;
pop music;
jazz.

The strings are often thinner and are usually closer to the neck than on an acoustic guitar, which can make an electric guitar play easily and comfortably.

Keep in mind that besides the guitar, you also need an amplifier and a cable. A headphone jack on the amplifier is handy if you want to practice quietly.

Bass guitar

A bass guitar usually has four thick strings and provides the low notes in a band. Together with the drums, the bass forms the foundation of the music.

A bass guitar is therefore different from a regular guitar. You often play individual notes and rhythms rather than full chords. Like an electric guitar, a bass guitar usually needs to be connected to a suitable amplifier.

A bass guitar is right for you if you enjoy:

playing with other musicians;
finding the rhythm in music important;
loving low and powerful tones;
having an important role in the foundation of a band.

Which guitar is suitable for beginners?

There is no single guitar that is the best choice for every beginner. The most important thing is to choose a guitar that fits the music you want to learn to play.

Do you mainly want to play well-known pop songs and accompany yourself while singing? Then an acoustic guitar is often a good choice.

Do you want to play rock, metal, or blues? Then an electric guitar will likely suit you better.

For young children or beginners who find softer strings more comfortable, a classical guitar may be suitable.

Above all, choose a guitar that you find beautiful and want to pick up. An instrument that appeals to you invites you to practice more often.

What size guitar do you need?

Guitars are available in different sizes. A full-size guitar is usually called a 4/4 guitar. This size is suitable for most adults and taller teenagers.

For children, smaller models are available, such as:

1/4 guitar for young children;
1/2 guitar for children;
3/4 guitar for older children and smaller players;
4/4 guitar for adults and taller teenagers.

Age is only an initial guide. The player's height, hand size, and playing comfort are also important. Therefore, it is wise to try out different sizes.

What should you look for when buying a guitar?

Besides the type and size, there are a few other important points.

Playing comfort

The guitar should feel comfortable in your hands. Pay attention to the thickness and width of the neck. Also, check if you can easily reach the strings and chords.

Setup

The distance between the strings and the neck is called the action. If the strings are too high, you have to press down with a lot of force. If they are too low, they may make a rattling sound.

A well-set-up guitar plays more easily and helps prevent you from quitting your practice unnecessarily early.

Tone

Every guitar sounds different. This is due to, among other things, the types of wood used, pickups, strings, and the construction of the instrument.

The best tone is personal. Therefore, try out different guitars and listen to which sound you find most appealing.

Quality

An inexpensive guitar can be suitable for getting started, but the lowest price is not always the best choice. A very cheap guitar may have poor finishing or be difficult to play.

A guitar that plays comfortably and stays in tune makes learning more fun.

What does a good beginner guitar cost?

The price of a guitar depends on the type, brand, material, and finish. Determine in advance how much you want to spend in total.

Don't forget the accessories when setting your budget. For an electric guitar, for example, you also need an amplifier and a cable.

A complete starter pack can be convenient. Always check which components are included and whether they meet your requirements.

What accessories do you need?

To get off to a good start, you might need a number of accessories:

guitar picks;
a tuner;
a guitar strap;
a stand or wall hanger;
a gig bag or case;
spare strings;
a guitar amplifier and cable for an electric guitar;
a capo to play songs in a different key.

Not every guitarist needs all accessories right away. You can often start perfectly fine with just a guitar, a tuner, and a few picks.

Buying a guitar online or trying it out first?

You can easily compare different guitars and prices online. However, it is difficult to judge the playing feel from a picture.

By holding a guitar yourself, you will notice if the size, neck, and shape feel comfortable. You can also compare different models and hear the difference in tone.

Especially for your first guitar, personal advice can help you avoid making the wrong choice.

Buying a guitar at Stockenhof Muziek

Are you looking to buy a guitar, but still doubting between a classical, acoustic, or electric guitar? At Stockenhof Muziek, we are happy to help you make the right choice.

We will look at your level, favorite music, budget, and desired playing feel together. We can also advise you on the right accessories. That way, you go home with a guitar that truly suits you and on which you can keep playing with pleasure.

View our range of guitars or drop by Stockenhof Muziek for personal advice.