New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Getting a guitar is a relatively big investment for any musician. Whether you are a beginner or a professional guitarist, you must browse your options to see what best fits your needs and musical capabilities when buying a guitar. If you are only starting your guitar playing journey and looking to invest in your very first guitar, you cannot just buy the first thing you see. You need to keep certain things in mind when making the purchase to ensure it is worth it. Here are some guitar buying tips from experienced musicians to help you choose the right one.
Choose Guitar Type
When choosing a suitable guitar to buy, decide first what type of guitar you need. The two main categories are acoustic and electric guitars, and within each of those categories, there are several types depending on the brand and the instrument's material. There is no right type of guitar for beginners and another for more experienced musicians. The way you choose a suitable instrument depends entirely on your music taste and what you are keen on learning and playing in the long run. You can switch from time to time to different guitars but when you are thinking of buying the instrument, choose the type you are most passionate about playing and listening to.
Set a Budget
Guitars are relatively big investments. Depending on the type, brand, and condition of the instrument, it can vary in price from one model to another. The professionals at Acoustic Bridge suggest that before you make a trip to the music shop to choose your favorite guitar, make sure you set yourself a budget. This way, you narrow down your search and know where to look. You won't be disappointed that you cannot afford a guitar you had your eyes on. Whether your budget is big or small, you will always find a suitable guitar that fits your financial status. If you have a large budget, you can invest in a brand new guitar with advanced features and great quality, or maybe even buy more than one guitar. Whereas if you are working with a tight budget you can still get great deals on used guitars in good condition, so it's a win-win situation.
Check the Neck
The neck of the guitar is perhaps of its most important features. As you start shopping for a guitar, it is important that you check the necks on each one to make sure they are straight. Curved necks will be irritating when you play, and the sound quality will be affected. The ideal guitar must have a straight neck to support the strings attached, so they do not get strained by the pressure of playing and start breaking. Certain guitars have curves or back bows played by professionals who have extensive musical experience. However, they are still too hard and tiring to play, unlike straight-neck guitars which are smooth and efficient.
Find the Right Size
Many beginners do not realize that guitars come in different sizes to suit people's body figures to make playing easier. There are specific sizes even made for children who are just beginning their guitar journeys. When choosing the best guitar, make sure you ask about the different sizes to see which one will be easier for you to handle and invest in the guitar that is easy to grip and play rather than one that is too big or too small.
Test the Guitar
When you are browsing the shops for a good guitar, it is wise to try different ones at the shop before making your purchase. You do not have to go all out and play a gig with the guitars advertised. However, it would be best to hold them, play the strings a little, and get a feel of the guitar experience before you buy one. Many professionals swear by this method as it helps musicians choose the perfect instrument right then and there.
Playing the guitar can be quite exciting and fun. The key to enjoying your guitar playing experience is having the best fitting instrument that works with your particular preferences. As you are out and about shopping for the perfect guitar, make sure you familiarize yourself with the different types, play different guitars at the shops, and have a set budget to make your search process a little easier and more rewarding. A guitar that feels comfortable in your arms will inspire you to become a great musician. Who knows, you might be the next Jimmy Hendrix.
