The Best of Acoustic Guitars: What You Need to Know.
When someone begins to play guitar, they are usually faced with the task of deciding between an acoustic and an electric guitar. Both can provide ample opportunity for creativity, but acoustic guitars are well-loved for their warmth, rich resonance and classic look. Despite the advances in technology and the advantages of other guitar styles, acoustic guitars remain one of the most popular and best instruments.
If you’ve ever wondered what sets each acoustic guitar apart, what tips you should bear in mind before you invest, and what the best acoustic guitars are, here’s all you need to know.
What Makes Acoustic Guitars Different From Other Types of Guitars?
The first thing to note is that an acoustic guitar does not have an external source of power: unlike electrical guitars, you don’t need any kind of amplifier or power source. Acoustic guitars also produce a much softer, mellower sound than can be achieved from electric guitars, making them the perfect choice for a range of musical genres, from folk and blues to contemporary music.
The main difference between acoustic guitars and other types of guitars lies in the body, or soundboard. The soundboard on an acoustic guitar contributes to the instrument’s volume and tone, amplifying the sound of the strings; without it, the sound would be considerably less vibrant, warm, and resonant. On electric guitars, on the other hand, the shape of the guitar has much less of an impact as they are plugged into an amplifier.
Materials and Construction
The choice of materials from which an acoustic guitar is made will have a big impact on its sound and overall quality. Generally speaking, there are two basic types: solid wood guitars, made from wood all the way through, and laminate guitars, which have a ‘plywood’ construction.
Less expensive guitars tend to use laminate wood, while more expensive guitars are generally constructed from solid wood. Solid wood guitars tend to have a more complex sound with more bass and sustain, while laminate guitars tend to be more consistent in their sound across the strings.
When assessing the potential of an acoustic guitar, it’s important to pay attention to its construction. The body shape, number and spacing of the soundholes, the bracing pattern, and the type of strings used will all influence the sound and playability of the instrument.
The Neck and Fretboard
The neck and fretboard also play an important role in the performance and sound of an acoustic guitar. The neck will typically be made of a hardwood such as mahogany or maple, although some guitars are fitted with composite necks or necks made from a different kind of wood. The material will determine the speed and feel of the strings, as well as the sound.
The fretboard, or fingerboard, will typically be made of a softer material such as rosewood or ebony. These materials have a slightly softer feel and are less likely to cause fret buzz from aggressive playing styles. The fretboard will also affect the tonal qualities of the instrument.
Pickups and Preamps
Many acoustic guitars these days are fitted with a range of pickups and preamps. These are designed to capture the sound of the guitar and send an amplified signal to an amplifier or speaker. While these are not essential pieces of equipment, they can be incredibly useful when recording or performing live.
When shopping for an acoustic guitar, it’s best to try out a range of instruments to get an idea of how different pickups and preamps can affect the sound. While some may prefer the sound of an acoustic guitar without any pickups or preamps attached, others may find they need the extra boost these devices can provide.
Top Tips When Shopping for an Acoustic Guitar
When looking for an acoustic guitar, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure you purchase the best instrument for your playing style and budget.
1. Try Before You Buy: Before investing in an acoustic guitar, it’s important to try out a range of instruments to get an idea of which is most suitable for you. Different brands and models can have a big impact on the visual, sound and playability of an instrument so it’s essential to have an idea of what you like before making any decisions.
2. Consider Your Budget: Quality acoustic guitars can range in price, so it’s important to set a realistic budget that best suits your needs. If you’re unsure, starting with a mid-range model is usually a good option.
3. Shop Around: With so much choice on the market, it’s worth shopping around and getting an idea of which brands are most popular with guitarists before investing. With online retailers and auction sites such as Ebay and Craigslist, finding a good deal is often possible.
The Best Acoustic Guitars
Now that you’re clued up on the basics, here are some of the best acoustic guitars on the market today.
1. Martin D-45: The Martin D-45 is one of the most coveted acoustic guitars in the world and understandably so. This impressive model features all the trappings of a classic dreadnought, from the solid spruce soundboard to the ebony fretboard, and is perfect for fingerpicking and strumming.
2. Gibson J-45: The Gibson J-45 is another highly acclaimed acoustic guitar renowned for its responsiveness and versatility. It features a powerful spruce soundboard and a rich voice from maple soldering, allowing it to hold its own in any mix.
3. Taylor 114ce: Taylor’s 114ce is the perfect combination of value and quality. It boasts a solid spruce top, an ebony fretboard, and a comfortable body shape. Its sound is warm and inviting without losing any clarity, and its consistent intonation makes it an incredibly usable instrument.
4. Fender FA-115: The Fender FA-115 boasts an awe-inspiring design and an enviable level of volume and tone. The solid spruce top allows it to balance both power and projection, while the mahogany body provides a warm, rich timbre.
5. Yamaha FG800: Yamaha’s FG800 is an ideal choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option that does not sacrifice quality. It features a solid spruce top and a laminated nato body, providing the player with plenty of projection that won’t break the bank.
Conclusion
Acoustic guitars are beloved the world over for their warm, organic sound and classic design. There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for an acoustic guitar, from the material it’s made of to the pickups and preamps included. The top tips and models provided here should give you a better idea of what to look for to get the best acoustic guitar for you.