Should I get an acoustic-electric or acoustic guitar?

Question

A few months ago, I borrowed my friends acoustic guitar and taught myself a few songs but I had to give it back. I want my own guitar now, but I'm not sure what I should go for.

I don't think I want an electric guitar because I like to sing when I play the guitar (hahaha). So I was wondering if I should get an acoustic-electric or just a regular acoustic guitar? Are acoustic electrics thinner? They can be played with OR without an amp, right? When it's without the amp, does it sound the same as a regular acoustic? Would an acoustic-electric come in more handy?

Also, what guitar should I start off with? (I want a steel-sting guitar) I don't want a really cheap guitar that sounds crappy either, I need a guitar that sounds GOOD and has a decent price, because I don't think I'll be buying another one in a long time. Any certain shops I should check out (I live in Southern Cali)?

Any other tips/advice would be much appreciated too :)

Thanks a bunch :D

Answer 1

Well, I used to have a semi acoustic but a semi acoustic has to be amplified... An acoustic-electric can be played without amplification, you're right.

Steel string guitars are a little more difficult to learn on than nylon. It will take a while longer for your fingers to get strong enough and it will be a little more tiring on your hands.

As for advice on what guitar to get, have an assistant play a few for you at a music shop and decide what you like the sound of most. I haven't got an electric-acoustic so I can 't be of more help, sorry. ☺

Answer 2

The noise produced by an acoustic guitar comes from the vibration of the strings bouncing off of the guitar. The noise from an electric guitar also comes from the vibration of the strings, but through an amplifier. I really can't think of a good way to explain this except to say an electric guitar sounds different than an acoustic guitar that has been amplified.

With that said, let me break down the 2 types of guitars you're considering purchasing.

A straight up acoustic guitar can be played (audibly) with or without an amplifier, as can an acoustic-electric. An acoustic-electric is going to be more expensive than an acoustic guitar.

I think they will both be about the same thickness. I'm sure there are a few exceptions to that, but none that I know off the top of my head.

Here's something you might not have known - you can buy an acoustic guitar and something called a "pick-up" which is a device that you slide onto an acoustic guitar that makes it able to be amplified (they range in price from $20.00-up). It doesn't change the sound of the guitar, it just gives you the ability to make it louder by plugging it into an amp.

To be economical - I would stick with an acoustic guitar and a quality pick-up. When you go shopping for your new guitar, don't let pride get the best of you - hit up local pawn shops. You'll have the best luck finding a unique, quality guitar with a lot of character at a good price if you hunt around at pawn shops.