How to Choose Your First Guitar: Acoustic or Electric?

a young boy in a leather jacket holding an electric guitar that is too big for him
Photo by Pixabay: https://www.pexels.com/photo/boy-wearing-black-jacket-holding-electric-guitar-164835/

Once you want to learn to play guitar, you must purchase an instrument. With many options, including acoustic and electric, first-time buyers often find the process challenging. Picking the right guitar is critical for learning and embracing music. The wrong guitar will not only cause discomfort while playing but can also make beginners quit. Acoustic and electric guitars have advantages and disadvantages. This information will help you decide which type of first guitar you need based on personal preferences and practical information on learning.

Electric Guitars

Before you pick up a PRS Private Stock, learning as much as possible about electric guitars, their sound, and how they work is vital. These instruments are rock, metal, blues, and jazz favorites. They offer an amplified sound that cannot be duplicated with acoustics.

Sound and Style

Electric guitars are prized for their versatile sound. Add an amplifier and pedals, and create unique sounds that complement any music style. From clean and crisp sounds to highly distorted, electric guitars can achieve a wide array of tones and sounds for any playing style. 

Ease of Play

Most electric guitars have thinner strings, making them less painful for beginners developing finger callouses. The reduced tension ensures you will not have to press as hard as on acoustic strings. The electric guitar neck is also slimmer, which helps beginners learn cord finger placement without feeling the pain. 

Additional Gear Options

Unlike acoustic guitars, electric options offer many more gear selections. While some requirements, such as amplifiers, are present, the added gear can lead to a more significant expense than a simple acoustic guitar. Some guitar manufacturers and retailers offer beginner packages that include some of the extra gear. You do not need to invest in much equipment until you are sure the guitar is the right instrument. 

Acoustic Guitars

Many players begin with an acoustic because they are simply designed and often more affordable. You do not need any additional equipment to play acoustics. 

Sound and Style

Acoustic guitars produce a rich sound that is ideal for many genres. They are found in country, folk, blues, and pop. The guitar’s hollow body amplifies the strings’ sound, so you do not need any outside amplifier. 

Ease of Learning

Because there is no additional gear, playing an acoustic is simple for beginners. This allows them to focus on getting the right chords and strumming patterns in place without worrying about extras. 

Difficult Play

String tension and play height make acoustic guitars more challenging, especially for beginners. Their wider necks also make it more difficult to hold cords. 

Choose the Right Guitar for Your Needs

When selecting a guitar as a beginner, you must balance comfort, sound, and personal choice. The first decision is acoustic or electric. Ideally, you should select an instrument that matches your musical taste. 

Considering the guitar’s body, weight, and neck size is essential, as these can make playing easier or more challenging. Testing various guitars can help beginners understand which type will help them learn and enjoy playing. 

Since you are a beginner, it is wise to select a lower-end instrument to save money. Once you have advanced skills, you can purchase more expensive options and add gear. No matter the instrument you buy, enjoyment will never cease as you play. 

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Brenda Coles
I'm an elementary school teacher who became a stay-at-home mother when my first child was born. I love to write about lifestyle, education, and news-related topics.