🎸 How to choose your first guitar? The complete guide to get started right.
Do you dream of learning guitar but don't know where to start? Between electric, acoustic, or classical guitars, it can be difficult to make the right choice when you're a beginner. This guide is here to help you understand the differences between each type of instrument, depending on your age, musical style, and budget.
🧭 Summary
- 1. Electric guitar: for playing rock music with headphones
- 2. Folk guitar: perfect for singing and accompaniment
- 3. Classical guitar: ideal for children and gentle beginners
- 4. What budget should I plan for to get started?
- 5. Our product recommendations
🎸 Electric guitar: for playing rock music with headphones
Do you want to play rock, metal, funk, or even jazz? The electric guitar is an excellent choice for exploring all these styles. It's easy to play (thin neck, flexible strings) and allows you to plug in headphones, which is handy in an apartment.
✔️ Advantages
- Playing comfort (thin neck, low action)
- Silent when used with a headphone amp or multi-effects unit
- Ability to modulate the sound with effects
⚠️ Points to check
- Requires an amplifier or simulator
- Beware of very low-end models (poor quality setup and construction)
→ See electric guitars on Music Shop
🎵 Folk guitar: perfect for singing and accompaniment
The folk guitar is ideal for singing around a campfire, playing acoustic pop, or light rock. It has a bright and powerful sound, but its steel strings can be hard on the fingers at first.
✔️ Advantages
- Bright sound, strong projection
- Versatile: song, pop, rock
- Available in an electro-acoustic version
⚠️ Important to know
- More demanding on a child's fingers
- Dreadnoughts can be imposing.
→ See folk guitars at Music Shop
🎼 Classical guitar: ideal for children and sensitive beginners
The classical guitar has nylon strings, which are very gentle on the fingers. It is often used in conservatories, but it is also perfect for children or beginners who want to play without pain.
✔️ Advantages
- Very easy to play with your fingers (nylon strings)
- 1/2 or 3/4 sizes available for children
- Quiet, ideal for learning
→ See classical guitars on Music Shop
💰 What budget should I plan for to get started?
A good instrument doesn't have to cost a fortune. Here's an idea of average budgets:
- Beginner Classic: €99 to €250
- Folk music for beginners: €150 to €350
- Electric guitar + amplifier: €250 to €500
💡 Avoid €79 packages with guitar + amp: they are often unplayable and frustrating.
