The best Guitars: What You Need To Know.
Guitar playing can be a fun and fulfilling hobby. However, whether it’s a novice picking up an instrument for the first time, or a professional musician looking to upgrade their sound, choosing the right guitar for your needs can be a daunting task. Everyone’s playing style, budget, and sound preference is unique. That’s why it’s so important to understand the various types of guitars available, including their features, advantages, and price points, before making a purchase.
Fortunately, this article will cover all the information you’ll need to find the best guitar for you. We’ll discuss the various models, body types, and manufacturers, so that you can make an informed decision and get your guitar playing off to a great start.
First, let’s have a look at some of the most popular guitar models, as well as the benefits they offer:
• Acoustic Guitars
The most common type of guitar is the acoustic. They’re used in nearly every style of music, from folk to blues and rock. Acoustic guitars are ideal for beginners; they are relatively inexpensive, easy to find, and don’t require an amplifier or any other accessories to produce sound. In addition, acoustic guitars offer a unique, “wooden” tone and quality.
• Electric Guitars
If you’re looking for a more modern sound and tone, then electric guitars are the way to go. These instruments are used in all forms of rock, pop, and blues. They have a sleeker sound than acoustic guitars, and can be played with an amplifier to enhance the sound even more. Electric guitars are typically more expensive than acoustic guitars, as they require additional components like amplifiers and pedals.
• Bass Guitars
For a more expansive sound and low-end thump, bass guitars are a must. These instruments are a mainstay of most rock and pop songs, and provide the powerful foundation for any arrangement. They are more complicated to play than the other two guitar types, and require additional equipment, like a bass amp and a pedal.
• Classical Guitars
Classical guitars are another popular instrument, preferred by many classical and flamenco players. They have a distinctive sound and feel, and often feature intricate designs and patterns. Classical guitars also have softer strings than other guitars, so they’re easier on the fingers and more suited for beginners.
• Twelve-String Guitars
Twelve-string guitars, as the name implies, are guitars that have 12 strings, instead of the usual 6 or 7. They’re mostly used in folk and country music, and produce a bright, resonant sound. Twelve string guitars are often more expensive than other guitars, as they require precise tuning and extra strings.
• Dulcimers
The dulcimer is a unique stringed instrument, usually made of wood, with metal strings stretched over a wooden frame. It’s mostly used in folk, country, and bluegrass music, and produces a soft and mellow sound. Dulcimers are fairly simple to play, and are great for beginners.
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of guitar models, let’s have a look at some of the most prominent guitar manufacturers:
• Fender
Fender is one of the oldest and most renowned guitar makers in the world. They’re particularly well known for their iconic electric guitars, like the Telecaster and Stratocaster, which are used by countless legendary players. Fender is also well known for their range of acoustic and bass guitars, as well as their lineup of amplifiers and pedals.
• Gibson
Another major player in the guitar industry is Gibson. While they are mostly known for their signature electric guitars, they make a wide range of other instruments, including acoustic and bass models. Gibson’s instruments are typically used by top professionals, and their instruments exude quality and craftsmanship.
• Epiphone
Epiphone is Gibson’s budget-friendly brand, offering versions of popular Gibson models at a lower price point. They also have their own range of instruments, like the Les Paul and the SG, which are popular amongst intermediate to advanced guitar players.
• Martin
Martin is one of the oldest guitar makers in the world, and is renowned for their high quality acoustic guitars. They specialize in acoustic instruments, and their signature “Dreadnought” guitars are particularly popular amongst country, bluegrass, and folk players.
• Ibanez
Ibanez is a Japanese guitar maker, best known for their electric instruments. They offer a range of affordable yet high quality guitars, perfect for beginners or intermediate players. Their “S Series” is particularly popular amongst hard rock and metal players.
• Gretsch
Gretsch is an American guitar maker that’s renowned for their electric and acoustic models, as well as their hollow-body and semi-hollow body instruments. They’re used in all forms of rock and blues, and have a distinctive tone that’s instantly recognizable.
Now that you’re familiar with some of the guitar models and manufacturers, let’s look at some tips to help you find the right instrument for your needs:
1. Consider your playing style and budget
One of the first things you’ll need to consider is your playing style and budget. Decide whether you’re looking for an acoustic, electric, bass, classical, or twelve-string guitar. You should also consider what type of music you’ll be playing, how advanced your playing is, and how much you’re willing to spend.
2. Try out different guitars
No two guitars are alike, even ones of the same model and make. That’s why it’s important to try out as many guitars as possible before you make a purchase. Play around with different models and manufacturers, and be sure to ask the sales rep for their opinion and advice. Once you’ve found a guitar you like, play it in different environments to get a better sense of how it sounds.
3. Ask around
Another great way to find the right guitar for you is to ask your friends, family, and other musicians for their advice. Ask people what guitars they recommend and why, and see if they have any other tips or insights. Chances are, someone you know will have some great advice and can point you in the right direction.
4. Read reviews
Finally, it’s always a good idea to read reviews before buying a guitar. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, do some research and read reviews from players and experts. This will help you get an unbiased opinion of the guitar, and determine if it’s the right one for you.
At the end of the day, choosing the right guitar for your needs is all about finding the right balance between your playing style, sound preference, and budget. With the right background knowledge and advice, you’ll be sure to make an informed decision and find the best guitar to suit your needs.
Now that you know all the information you need to find the best guitar, you’re ready to make an educated purchase. Good luck!