Learning how to play the guitar is a wonderful thing. A lot of people will appreciate you for this new skill because you’ll be able to produce a great atmosphere during gatherings. Or, if you’re very enthusiastic about it, you can become a member of a band which is a possible career option for you.
Practicing the acoustic guitar is like learning how to drive a manual car, there’s always an option to make things easier, but it’s good to know the basics. Although the electric models allow you to do things that are impossible with an acoustic one, some people prefer the natural sound of the regular strings.
On top of all that, acoustic models are a lot cheaper, and usually much more available, depending on where you live of course. Needless to say, there are a lot of brands and many different models that you can choose from, which makes it a bit more difficult for you to choose the right one.
Thankfully, we created this quick buyer’s guide, so if you stick with us until the end we might help you find a model that’s worth your money. We’re only focusing on those models without electronics, so if you’re a lover of the acoustic sound, this is the right place to be.
So, how can I choose?
Now that we know all this, you’re probably even more excited about purchasing an acoustic model, and we’re more than happy to help you out with it. Here are some of the most important factors that you need to consider before making the actual transaction.
What size do I want?
If you’re not very experienced with these instruments, you probably think that it’s always better to go with the smaller models. I mean, it’s better to have a guitar that fits anywhere and is easier to carry around right? Well, yes, but that’s not the case if you want it to be louder. Maybe you’ll play at campfire gatherings or you just want it to be louder for a personal reason. If that is the case, you’ll need one that has a larger body.
What type of wood?
Sitka Spruce, Maple or Mahogany, they’re all different types that provide a different type of sound. Some will sound better to your ear, and some won’t, but you’ll need that particular sound-type for a certain song or an event. For example, maple allows you to sound a bit punchier, which can be a great addition if you’re in a band mix. Remember though, some materials are more expensive than others, so this can impact the price. Duesn.com is a website where you can find many models, and possibly choose the one that’s best for you.
Does the brand matter?
Some music fanatics choose one brand and use their products until the end of their career, never even thinking about switching. That’s great, but does brand matter when you’re a beginner? Not really, and you should be chosen based on the price tags, not the popularity of the brands. Sure, having a guitar from Fender is amazing, but skipping breakfast because you cannot afford it for the next three months is not.
A few worthy examples
1. Art & Lutherie Roadhouse – $370
A simple design but great sound and size that’s considered to be in the medium range. The neck is made out of silver leaf maple, and the top out of solid spruce. The sides are Wild Cherry. It’s affordable and great for beginners. Unfortunately, it’s only for those who are right-handed.
2. Taylor GS Mini – $420
The acoustic model that’s suitable for left-handed musicians. It is in the category of Mini Grand Symphony and made out of very solid materials. The top is built out of Sitka Spruce, the back and sides out of Laminated Sapele, and the neck is made out of regulated Sapele. Produces great sound and the overall build is very good, although the design is nothing impressive aesthetics-wise.
3. Yamaha SLG200S Acoustic – $670
Now, this is a design that we think is amazing, and you’ll probably agree as well. This guitar is not very large but it’s enough for some solid practice, although the price is a bit on the higher side. The brand is Yamaha, which is a very reputable company, so you cannot go wrong with this purchase if durability and build-quality are what you’re after. The sides are made out of Rosewood and Maple, the neck out of Mahogany and the finish is a gloss, giving it that sweet look.
4. Taylor Builder’s Edition K14Ce – $4500
This model is not in the affordable category, but if you’re looking for top-quality build and looks, it’s the one you need. For all you professionals out there, this guitar is what you need if you want to take your career to the next level. It’s made out of the best materials. Sides are Koa, the neck is tropical mahogany and the fingerboard is West African Ebony. Unfortunately, it cannot be used by leftists. It’s comfortable to hold, produces top-tier sound, and looks great, but the price will make you consider it twice.
Why an acoustic model in 2024?
According to numerous reviewers, the quality of the lower-priced acoustic guitars has largely increased, which is a great thing if you are on a budget. The materials used in these models are better, which automatically makes them more durable. Whether this is because people are transitioning to electric and they have to prevent that, or they simply decided that it’s time to step up, we don’t know. But, it’s a great thing that you can now get a solid product for not a lot of money.
One of the most popular brands, such as Fender, for example, has a model that starts at about two hundred dollars, which is not even that much of an entry-model product, it’s quite solid. This probably means that young artists don’t have to endanger their entire economy just so they can learn how to play, or start their humble career.
