I want to learn to play the guitar...should I buy a steel or nylon string guitar?

Question

I want to learn to play the guitar...should I buy a steel or nylon string guitar?

Answer 1

Nylon for beginners.  The steel strings are hard on your fingers when you first start.  but you can use the nylon to build up your fingers and if you switch to steel later it won't be so painful

Answer 2

This really depends on what you plan on playing.

Do you see yourself playing a guitar rendition of your favorite Motzart piece? - if so go nylon

Do you see yourself playing your favorite song off the radio this week? - if so go steel

In my experience, nylon string guitars are only used in classical style guitar and Spanish style music.

Rock and roll, Pop, Jazz, Blues, Country, all typically use steel.

I've only ever used steel guitar strings.  You get a much different sound.  They produce louder sound, a cleaner crisper sound.  They are more durable.

Oh and did I mention that if you've never played before, they are gonna hurt your fingers like mad!  

Brian Adams didn't sing "played it till my fingers bled" in Summer of '69 for nothing.  But in time you will build up callases and this won't be an issue.

The guitar is a great instrument. Its portable, and you can play and sing at the same time.  Great when played by itself, unlike drums with I also play. Great when played with other common instruments.

I would recommend getting a cheap acoustic guitar to start. That way if you don't like it your not in too deep.  With the acoustic you also don't need any other equipment like amps and cables.

You can buy one new for around $100 at any music store, or better yet, do some research and get a used guitar from a garage sale, or craigslist.com for $100 or less and you may be buying a $300 guitar for the same price as that cheeper new one.

I could go on and on , but the most important thing, is if you want to do it, just do it and have fun.

Answer 3

Steel strings..that's what I have on my guitar.

Answer 4

neither..,get guitar hero!!

Answer 5

WOW...guitar hero?! total disappointment...i suggest buying a steel string guitar since it makes your fingers stronger and builds your calices quicker...

Answer 6

I'd go with the steel string because it will be an easier transition if you decide to play an electric guitar in the future.