Acoustic Guitar Buying Guide for Learning Songs You Love

Based on my buying and playing experience, the best acoustic guitar (or any guitar) is the one you love as long as it’s comfortable to play, sounds great and suits your budget.

LIke you, the only reason I picked up the Guitar was I wanted to learn and play my favorite songs.

There ’s no bigger motivation than being able to play your favorite songs on a guitar.

However, with time and helping others with their first Guitar purchase, I’ve learnt it’s equally important to have a guitar you’ll love to play and grow in your musical journey. 

A wrong instrument in the right hands leads to people giving up learning Guitar. And we don’t want that to be you.

So, without further delay, let’s get you ready to buy your first Guitar. I’ll try to answer the most important questions at the top of your mind based on my own experience.

I’ll also share a few before and after tips for purchase so that you get the best bang for your buck.

The Best Beginner Guitar to Learn Songs

A dreadnought steel-string acoustic guitar is the ideal beginner guitar – whatever your reason for learning.

It’s the most versatile instrument to play songs in almost all genres – rock, pop, blues, folk, country, bollywood, etc.

Steel-string acoustic guitars are available in different sizes. Of all the guitar sizes available in the market, a dreadnought is the most preferred among teachers, students, and professional guitarists alike.

I’ll try and answer in greater detail for those interested.

What is a Steel String Acoustic Guitar?

A steel-string acoustic guitar is a wooden sound box that uses the vibration generated by hitting strings to produce sound.

There are two types of acoustic guitars generally available in the market:

1. Steel-string acoustic guitar
2. Nylon-string classical guitar

The strings used (steel vs. nylon) are the main difference in the sound produced by these Guitars.

Why Should You Start on a Steel String Acoustic Guitar?

A steel-string acoustic guitar is a simple instrument that you can carry with you anywhere and play at a birthday party or a barbeque and become the entertainer in demand in no time.

It’s also easy and inexpensive to maintain – requires minimal effort at upkeep. Just wipe it with a clean cloth before and after you play, and it’ll sound great for months.

The accessories you’ll need to learn are also inexpensive and readily available.

And lastly, most guitar teachers begin their beginner students on a steel-string acoustic guitar. So, that helps.

Why Should You Buy a Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar?

The dreadnought guitar is the most widely available guitar shape in the market today, mainly because of its middle-of-the-road size and versatility in covering different musical styles.

Manufactured by almost all leading guitar brands and small custom shops, dreadnought acoustic guitars are also available in different price bands to suit every pocket. 

The medium-sized body is just wide enough to produce good volume with a bright, clear tone for mellow fingerpicking, strumming or playing your favorite melodies.

Given the sheer variety available, you are sure to find a dreadnought acoustic guitar that’s a perfect fit and makes for a comfortable playing experience.

Alternatives to a Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

Dreadnought acoustic guitar is the recommended instrument for all beginners.

But buying a guitar is a personal choice that includes your comfort, budget, and musical interests. And you may have your justifiable reasons for not purchasing a dreadnought.

So if you don’t want a dreadnought guitar, what other choices are available for a beginner?

Let’s look at a few alternatives on either side of the dreadnought size spectrum.

Small Size Steel String Acoustic Guitars

Among guitars smaller than dreadnoughts are typically mini-acoustics, Parlors, Grand Concert, and Grand Auditorium style guitars.

The main reason you should consider a smaller size guitar is playing comfort. For example, if you are buying one for children under 12 or someone with a shorter frame.

Small-sized guitars are made by reducing the instrument’s length or making modifications to the guitar’s body by tapering or narrowing the lower or upper bouts or reducing the box-size (width).

There are no fixed size measurements that these guitars fall in. Instead, the size, shape, and unique model numbers used by manufacturers set these instruments apart.

You can typically divide the smaller guitar into three categories:

Mini-acoustic Guitars

If you are buying a guitar for children under 12 or adults who prefer a small size instrument, then a mini-acoustic guitar is worth a look.

Mini-acoustic guitars cater to customers looking for a small size instrument. And generally, they are known by their size names – 1/2 size guitar and 3/4 size guitar.

It’s important to note here that mention of size does not necessarily mean actual size. For example, a typical full-length acoustic guitar is 40 inches in total length. But a 3/4-size guitar may be 36 inches and not 30 inches in total length.

The total length may vary by manufacturer.

Parlor Guitars

Also known as ‘0’ size or baby parlors, they’re distinct in shape with a smaller width and a slightly elongated lower bout. 

Their lower volume and a nice, mid-range punch produce clear, warm tones that make them an ideal instrument for practicing in smaller areas.

If you are interested in learning fingerstyle playing on a small-size guitar, then parlor guitars are suitable for beginners.

Grand Concert and Grand Auditorium

Very similar in shape and looks to a dreadnought, these instruments are almost the same length as a dreadnought but slightly tight at the waist and have a smaller width.

You won’t notice a big difference between these shapes and a standard dreadnought guitar. And it’s best to hold each shape and play to get a sense of your comfort level and easy reach to the instrument’s first fret.

Jumbo Acoustic Guitars

Jumbo, Super Jumbo are some of the names for these big-sized guitars, ideal for people who find dreadnoughts uncomfortably small for their big body frame.

If you prefer a big, loud boomy sound, you can also give the Jumbo style acoustic guitar a try.

As a beginner, a dreadnought steel-string acoustic guitar remains a wise investment.

Can You Learn Songs on a Classical Guitar?

Yes, you can. But note a few essential things before you buy one.

Classical guitars use nylon strings instead of steel strings producing warm and mellow tones perfect for specific musical styles.

There was a time I used to believe that nylon string classical guitars may not work well for some genres such as rock. Well I was wrong. Here’s proof.

From a beginner’s point of view, classical guitars with their nylon strings and lower tension are easier on fingers and help beginners avoid pain. But they also come with a wide neck, making learning a little difficult for beginners.

In the end, the choice matters not on the type of strings or other technical factors but your comfort, playability and the kind of music you want to learn.

Can You Learn Songs on an Electric Guitar?

The answer is almost the same as for classical guitar. 

An electric guitar is more comfortable to play than a steel-string acoustic guitar.

However, if you don’t already own one, you’ll need to budget some more cash as you’ll need to invest in at least a couple of accessories, such as a practice amplifier and patch cables.

Also, do you have access to a soundproof practice area? 

If not, you may not enjoy playing electric guitar at a super low volume, or you’ll need to buy good quality headphones.

However, these days most manufacturers supply budget modeling amps that’ll do the job for a beginner.

So if Metallica, Iron Maiden or Linkin’ Park are your gods – ignore my advice and go for an electric guitar.

Buying Your Acoustic Guitar Online vs. Visiting a Guitar Store

Buying a guitar online is cheap and convenient.

But buying a guitar from a reputed store in your neighborhood has its advantages too. 

You really cannot tell the difference between two equally good guitars unless you strum a few chords.

But as a beginner, does it matter? Well, it does.

As I mentioned earlier, your comfort and playability are essential in choosing a guitar that’s right for you. Testing a few out at the store is the best way to ensure you get your money’s worth.

Sometimes, new Guitars need some necessary adjustments to improve playing comfort and require a visit to the store. A good setup would typically cost about $50 – $70. Many stores may include it for free in the price or offer a good discount on your guitar setup.

Some beginner’s fear that they don’t know much and the sales guy at the store will sell them a piece of junk or make them spend more.

Not really. Guitar stores do business on reputation. 

Store owners don’t want an angry customer walking-in every day or leaving a bad review online.

Plus, you can check store reviews online before visiting and ask for the manufacturer’s warranty on the goods you buy. You can also have a knowledgeable guitarist friend accompany you and help you make the right choice.

However, if you do not have a store nearby or the one nearby doesn’t have a brand or make you want, it’s best to buy your first guitar online.

These days buying online is safe. Every e-commerce store offers a refund or free replacement on damaged goods.

Buying Used vs. New Guitar

In a 2020 survey done by Fender, they discovered that over 90% of new Guitarists quit within the first year. If you’re investing in a Guitar, even on a low budget, it’s good to have an instrument that doesn’t throw surprises while you’re learning.

Buying a used guitar is a shot in the dark for most beginners. 

Buy a used guitar only if you’re low on budget and have a guitarist friend you trust to help you find the right one for a bargain. 

A new Guitar is usually playable right out of the box. You don’t need to worry about any parts breaking or won’t have the need to change strings. All you need is a basic setup, and you’re good to go.

A manufacturer’s warranty also protects you if you discover a defect a few days or even weeks after purchase.

What to Look for in Your New Acoustic Guitar?

I highly recommend you have a knowledgeable guitar friend accompany you at the store. If you don’t have anyone, here are a few things you should check for a new Guitar.

If you choose to buy online or visit a store, always stick to your budget. At the store, mention your price range to the salesclerk and request to show you guitars within your price range.

I mean, it’s tempting to stand in front of a brand new, sparkling Gibson Les Paul electric in cherry red color and not max out your credit card. 

Before you take the guitar in your hand, ask the salesclerk to tune the guitar. Now sit on a comfortable chair so that your thighs are parallel to the floor and do the following:

Check your Comfort level: Does the Guitar feel comfortable to hold? The guitar should not feel heavy, and your playing arm should comfortably rest on the body of the guitar without arching above your shoulders.

Check the Guitar for Playability: Does your left fretting hand (right hand for left-hand players) comfortably reach the instrument’s first fret? Can you easily wrap your fretting hand around the neck of your guitar?

Ask for a pick and lightly strum all the strings. Do you like the sound? Play an E Major or an A Minor chord. Are you able to play them easily? Is pressing the strings too hard and painful?

Do you like how the guitar sounds? Depending on the type of material used, each guitar you try may produce a slightly different sound. If the sound is clear with a bright tone, it’s all good.

Build Quality: Check all joints, string tuners and frets. There should be no moving parts, cracks, odd sounds in your guitar. Especially check the joint where the fretboard meets the body.

If the strings look a bit dull or rusted at places, the guitar may have been on the stands for a few months, and the store should agree to a new set.

If you’re considering buying a cheap or a used Guitar online, make sure the Guitar has a truss rod. Truss rod is a thin metal rod that fits inside the fretboard and across its length. Truss is an absolute must to setup the Guitar for playing comfort and avoiding finger pain. 

What Guitar Accessories You’ll Need?

For a steel-string acoustic guitar, the following three accessories are a must.

1. Guitar Plectrum (or Pick)
2. Guitar Tuner
3. Guitar Gigbag

Accessories are better bought online, unless the store is giving you a good deal.

Guitar Plectrum (or Pick):

You’ll be learning two types of playing techniques – strumming (rhythm guitar) and picking (lead guitar). Choose two different sizes of guitar picks to make learning easy in the early days.

For strumming, buy a thin guitar pick – measuring .45mm or less in thickness. A thin guitar pick is forgiving as you learn to control your strumming hand while hitting the strings and won’t get stuck in between the guitar strings as you play.

For picking, choose a thick one, around .60mm to 1 mm. Buy a guitar pick that doesn’t bend as you move from one string to another.

It’s always good to keep a few guitar picks handy even if you choose to learn fingerstyle guitar.

Clip-on Guitar Tuner:

The second accessory you should buy is a clip-on electric guitar tuner. 

You’ll need to tune your guitar regularly. Some budget guitars may require tuning almost daily before you play.

A guitar tuner makes it easy and quick for beginners to tune their guitar without any guesswork.

If you don’t wish to spend on a clip-on guitar tuner, download a guitar tuner app, such as Fender Guitar Tuner or use an online guitar tuner. They should suffice in your beginner days.

Guitar Gigbag:

It’s a good habit to look after your guitar. A guitar Gigbag keeps your instrument safe and protected from dust when you’re not playing. 

Most Guitar stores including online, offer you a basic, unpadded Gig Bag for free or at a discount with your Guitar purchase.

I recommend you go for a padded one for extra safety and care.

How Much Should You Spend On a Beginner Guitar?

Most well made Guitars sold by popular brands should last you a good 3-5 years at the least.

Guitars are available in different price bands, starting as low as $70 and going all the way to $5,000 or more.

The best guitar is the one that you like, followed by your budget. A good steel-string acoustic guitar for beginners should be around $200 to $250. Add another $70 – $100 for accessories and setup.

Therefore price is subjective and should not be the only criteria to buy your first guitar. Give equal consideration to comfort, sound quality and look.

How to Setup Your New Guitar?

As a beginner, avoid doing any set up yourself and take it to a pro at your nearest guitar store or a luthier.

For a brand new guitar, you need two main adjustments done for a setup.

Guitar String Height Adjustment:

Also known as ‘Action’, string height is the distance between the string and the fret. Keep it low for a pleasant playing experience and avoid unnecessary pain. 

There are umpteen opinions on ideal Action and  it’s better to go by how you feel when you play. Some players do prefer a higher guitar action. Rule of thumb, if it hurts a lot, lower the guitar action.

Guitar Intonation:

Intonation refers to pitch accuracy in a musical instrument. In other words, how well the notes on your guitar are in tune.

As a beginner, don’t worry too much about this. Most new guitars don’t have issues here. The guitar technicians usually check and correct intonation if needed.

Basic Care and Maintenance Tips for Your Guitar’s Longevity

Follow these simple tips for basic care and maintenance and your Guitar will return the favor for years.

1. Always wipe your guitar with a clean cloth before and after playing
2. Clean your guitar strings once a month with a few drops of good quality guitar string cleaner on a piece of cotton. Run it across the length of the strings a few times and let it dry. Then wipe the strings with a clean cloth
3. Change your guitar strings every 4-6 months, minimum. If you play for a couple of hours or more everyday, reduce this time by a month or two.
4. Keep your guitar safely inside a gig bag when not playing 3 days or more
5. Do not expose your guitar to extreme temperatures as it may adversely affect the tonewood resulting in poor tone and sound quality

Buy Your First Guitar and Play

That’s all, folks!

You’re all set and ready to buy your first guitar.

I hope reading this acoustic guitar buying guide has been useful. Learning to play the guitar is going to be a life-changing experience you’ll cherish forever.

Don’t overthink your decision. Following the tips in this guide, buy one and start learning right away.

Here’s a quick summary to the guide above:

1. If possible, buy your first guitar from your neighborhood store
2. Buy a guitar that matches your musical interest, is comfortable to play, and is within your budget
3. Buy only the required guitar accessories
4. Have a guitar technician setup your guitar
5. Keep your guitar clean and dust free
6. Even for 10 minutes, play a little every day

I wish you many years of joyful guitar playing.