Monday, May 16, 2011

Super Tips When Buying A Guitar

By Zeke Pique


A guitar purchase is an investment in your musical enjoyment and creativity. Your instrument will become a personal vehicle of self-expression. There are many things to consider when shopping for the right one. Here is some advice for buying a guitar.

Decide first how much you would like to spend. If you are already serious about playing, you may want to try to budget as much as you are comfortable with in order to ensure you will be satisfied with a quality instrument. A new guitar for you may cost a substantial amount. However, you may be able to find a comparable used one for less.

Beginners are better off spending a bit less for their first instrument. Good models can be found for lower cost. If you do not keep up with learning, you will not have wasted too much money. Also, it might be good to look for used models to save money.

Of course, higher end models cost more. In most cases, you really get what you pay for. The more expensive ones tend to be easier to play, have a nicer sound, stay in tune better, and their notes are in tune all along the length of the neck.

Most guitars are made of wood, although some travel models are made of plastic. Different woods have different sound. Softer woods, like mahogany, sound warmer and are not as loud. Harder woods, like rose wood, are give a bright, crisp sound. The harder woods can be much more expensive.

These various woods can be used in different parts of the instrument. Maple necks are commonly found on electric models. Sometimes the fretboard will have a darker wood over the maple. Maple is commonly found on the tops of acoustic guitars, while a darker wood will make up the back and sides. Mahogany or walnut is commonly used here.

Different constructions and materials mean each instrument may be unique. If you plan to perform for audiences, the more expensive guitars made with hard woods may be a better choice. If you mostly want a practice model for playing at home, your money is better spent on making sure your instrument will be easy to play and stay in tune.

Do not rush into any purchase. If the sales person offers deals or pressure you to buy today, smile and decline. You should seriously consider what will make you happy in the long term.

If you are a beginner, it is best to start with an acoustic. You should know that there are two main types of acoustic guitar: classical and folk. Classical styles have nylon strings, wide necks, the tuning pegs point to the back, and the top lacks a pick guard. These are good for a classical class. They are also used in some rock songs. Folk guitars have steel strings, narrower necks, a pick guard, and the tuning pegs point to the sides. These are good for folk, country, and most rock songs.

If shopping for an electric, bring your amplifier to see how they will sound together. Try the many different styles out there. You will not know what you like until you sample all that is offered. If also shopping for an amplifier, try each guitar with different amplifiers.




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