Wednesday, October 22, 2008

An Introduction to Acoustic Guitars

By Richie Braun

If you've been looking in the market for a new, used or special musical instrument, whether you might be a first class player or just a beginner, whether you choose to play or practice classical or upscale music, top-grade classical or just would like an acoustic guitar, you will need to gain some prior knowledge of what kind of techniques, music and repertoire you will be wanting to play, pursue and make perfect. Also, what kind of styles and playing techniques you should focus on will equally play into the selection.

Regardless of your playing ability and whether or not it might be your first, second or stand-by instrument, you must know that certain styles tend to sound better on certain specific kinds of guitars. This is why, classical guitar players will have a hard time with some of the rock song guitar effects. Strumming, singing, accompanying yourself or other singers, in a small group, then an acoustic guitar will definitely do the trick for these kinds of requirements.

However, when considering bigger groups playing in large rooms and grander settings, you will likely tend to select an acoustic electric guitar; for rock music and super-stage applications, solos, etc. you should probably go for an all-out electrical guitar. Whether you believe it or not, electric guitars are typically far easier to play for beginners, but you will need an amplifier and some additional accessories in order to bring the instrument to its full potential.

Try to determine how much money you might have and want, and can also afford to spend. There will be a wide range of prices and options depending on your means and financial allocation which you will have set for this purchase. The cheaper down the ladder you go, the more you will be likely to get what you pay for.

Remain aware that cheap will not always sound as good for very long. If you pay less, your instrument might not be as robust and the sound quality could possibly be far less than what you might've initially expected. If and when your skills increase, is not always a good reason for postponing and making a good investment immediately.

If you really can't afford a high quality instrument, you should think about using some of your saved money to get a part-time job or odd jobs, or try to get someone to loan you the money. Cheap guitars are generally difficult to keep well tuned and they show wear and tear quickly and will typically be harder to play, especially for those beginner fingers and hands of yours.

Sounding poor and not feeling like you are making any progress has been the reason for many keen learners' downfall. It does not always take very much for a player to give up, get de-motivated and just decide to quit playing. That's why you should always make the decision from the very start and try to invest in a good quality instrument if you possibly can.

With musical instruments, cheap is not the way you want to go. Unless you are a small toddler, using your first instrument, which might still be a legitimate motivation to prefer a cheaper option. At least $300 US should be a bottom ranger for a decent, entry-level guitar or decent acoustic that will get you started.

USA manufactured, and made of solid, good quality wood, the instrument will hold its resale value and might be a little more expensive, but worth every extra cent you pay. Try to always ensure that it isn't made of cheaper plywood as the sound might be just as bad as its quality. - 15634

About the Author: