What is a good starter guitar/ way to get one?

Question

This summer I was planning on trying out guitar. I have a couple of friends who play, but honestly I feel awkward asking them about it. I want to get an easy to play and cheap guitar that would be good for a beginner, and I was just planning on attempting to teach myself in my spare time. What kind do you think I should get, and where? Like should I try to rent it, or ebay, or classifieds? Thanks

Answer 1

start w/acoustic.Why? Bec develop hand strength,better position,dexterity,etc. learn basics acoustic then electric is a breeze. Get cheapo acoustic,steel string, look in pawn/consignment/craigslist,etc.  if it doesn't take you're not out $$. Check out 'how to tao of folk" & "Learning music online" good sites,will take you through basics how to hold,practice,tune,hold pick,strum,etc. check around your area bulletin boards, git shops( git center,etc) for others who play acoustic and go see them/watch them(hands) play..they might help out or give direction.  Most important: keep at it  every day, frustrating as h**l but all of a sudden you'll"get it" Don't quite before the miracle happens

Answer 2

Please learn from my mistakes. Do not buy a cheap one because its cheap. I did that and hated playing it. It sat aroud for years until I bought a good one and that's when I started to learn how to play.

As for what kind? Go to the local music stores and pick them up and strum them. Ask other players in the store what they think and why.

Personally, while it's the most popular guitar out there, I don't like dreadnaughts (which is a body size) because I'm small.

With that said, the Baby Taylor is a great guitar for under $300. Good quality construction, great sound, will last forever. Also, it's small enough to travel.

I've bought about 50 items on e-bay and had some bumps, but mostly had good luck. I wouldn't rent unless your are very unsure and just want 30-60 days to try it and see. It will ultimately cost more and sooner or later, your guitar will get bumped. You don't want to have to pay for damages.

If you're looking for an electric, I like the Yamaha Pacifica. It looks just like the Fender Strat, but it's MUCH lighter and is a lot of fun to play.

As for self-teaching, I highly recommend having an occassional or regular lesson for a while until you get the basics. It's much harder to unlearn a bad habit or technique than it is to learn one. Try to have someone who knows, watch you sometimes and make sure you're doing things right.

Finally, I agree with the previous post. Start with steel string acoustic - no matter what kind of music you want to move to later.

I hope this helps and have a great time playing!!

Answer 3

Acoustic is probably the way to go as you don't need to spend on an amp. Don't buy anything too cheap, as you get what you pay for and its important to buy something you like and is comfortable to play. It may also put you off playing. Yamaha acoustics are pretty decent and reasonably priced. There's not much to go wrong with them either, easy to string and unless they have serious damage, playing isnt affected and you could pick up a used one fairly cheap. Local ads or ebay are ok, but find the budget models, do a bit of research, then find one at a fair price. If you can't play yet, trying one out isnt always helpful, but it may be worth asking one of your friends to advise you. Hope you get an axe to grind!