Which acoustic guitar is the best?

Question

So, I'm just started to take guitar lessons and I'm looking to get an acoustic guitar. I was wondering what the best brand of guitar would be for me. I am just starting out, and I have a low budget. Also I was wondering if it would be reasonable to spend $250 on a slightly used Alvarez acoustic guitar. And would $175 be reasonable for an Ibanez? And which would be the better deal out of the two?

Answer 1

I played an Alvarez for several years and it held up real well, if the used one comes with a hard shell case it would probably be a good deal. If possible take it to a guitar repairman and have them check out the condition of the neck and bracing. Ask your teacher to look at it. You might also look at Yamaha, Takamine and Epiphone (pronounced EP-e-fone), all are known for making quality entry level instruments.

Playability is key to a beginning guitarists success, so a nylon string guitar can make it easier. But they have a different tone than a steel string guitar and that may not be the sound you want so you may lose interest. Having an action set for ANY guitar will improve the playability, it's like getting a tune up for your car and should be done once a year or so.

Solid top guitars vs. laminate: A solid piece of wood on the guitar top produces much better tone than a laminate top. If you can find a solid top in your price range that would be good. The links are all solid top and would be a good choices.

Many guitars do not come with a case. Cardboard cases fall apart, so I suggest you purchase a hard shell case. They start at $50 and go up. You should also by an electronic tuner, this will help you keep your guitar in tune I really like the Intellitouch tuners for their ease of use.

Good luck and happy picking!

Answer 2

Well it depends on the person never order a guitar online cause you are going to want to hold it and make sure the neck fits comfortably in your hand. I would go for an Ibanez. Or you could keep saving and go for a gretsch acoustic they don't cost much and play with the best of em'. Like my gretsch g3700 I only payed $350(used) and it sounds beautiful. Not to mention they look great with there triangle sound hole.

Answer 3

I usually recommend the Yamaha acoustic for my beginning students. The Guitar Center has them for about $250.00, and even less when on sale. Be sure to play any guitar that your thinking about buying as they all have a little difference in sound and action, even if you have five of the same brand, spend time playing all that are in your budget !

Answer 4

I remember the Washburn D10S was named best beginner's guitar by Acoustic Guitar magazine a few years ago, and that's when I bought mine. Great guitar, and prices have gone down. They even released the D10STE which has electronics.

Even though I've moved on, I still keep the D10S around for situations when I don't want to bring my nice new guitar.

Another great line that's highly recommended for both beginners and pros alike is the Takamine G series. There's a bunch, so you can find one that fits your budget.

Answer 5

I bought a cheap Epiphone, ($100), put some Martin strings on it and I was very impressed.  I only bought it to mess around, I own all electric except for that one, but its a joy to play and sounds great.

Answer 6

I would go with washburn.. Its a great sounding guitar and sometimes musicians friend has them for as low as 100 dollars. washburn... No matter what model the quality has always been great for me. I've owned many washburns in my lifetime and probably will own many more.

Good luck