Are you planning to join a band as a guitarist or just jam in your room? Well, whatever the scenario, stepping into the world of guitars is indeed an exciting move. However, with numerous options available in electric guitars, choosing the right one for beginners can be pretty confusing.
Whether your taste leans toward classic, indie, blues, or you are discovering your unique style, it is good to know what separates a guitar from the other. Considering the choices available in the market for beginners, Monterey electric guitars are becoming quite popular for their playability, broad sound palette, and everyday value, especially for those finding their feet! Read this blog for valuable information on confidently choosing your first electric guitar.
Starting with the Basics
Electric guitars typically come in a handful of body types that affect how they sound and feel. Here’s a quick rundown of the guitar basics to help you get started:
- Solid body: This is tried-and-true for most beginners. Punchy, bright, and free from annoying feedback, it is suitable for everything, right from Aussie pub rock to bedroom rock!
- Semi-hollow body: With a bit more warmth and resonance, it is still practical for practice and gigs. It is also fine for blues and indie rock, but it is a tad more prone to feedback at louder volumes.
- Hollow body: It is a good choice for jazz or anyone chasing a richer, deeper tone. However, first-timers might find this a bit trickier to tame, making the solid body an obvious choice.
Setting a Realistic Budget
Let’s be honest! As a first-timer, you must spend wisely on your first electric guitar. In Australia, an entry-level guitar will likely cost you around AUD 200 to AUD 300. This is realistic for newbies who want quality without overspending. So, don’t get dazzled by flashy branding or even by super-cheap options. Invest in something reliable. Avoid anything that has rough edges and feels uncomfortable to hold.
The Importance of Playability
Here are a few things that you must pay attention to when you test a couple of models:
- Neck shape and size: Your hand should comfortably wrap around the neck, whether a crew neck, C-shape, or slim.
- Fretwork: Frets should be smooth, as sharp and uneven frets can make playing a chore and put you off practising.
- Weight: This is particularly important for younger players or someone with a more petite frame.
Also, don’t forget to check the gap between the strings and the fretboard. If it is too high, it is hard work; if it is too low, you will hear buzzing. Play a few open chords and see what feels right.
Pickups and Getting Your Sound Right
Pickups are what translate string vibrations into the glorious noise you hear through an amp. There are mainly two types:
- Single-coil pickups
- Humbuckers
While the first one is better for surf rock or blues, the other one is better for rock and metal. However, if you explore, you will find beginner-friendly guitars that offer the best of both worlds.
Must-Have Accessories
You must spare a thought and a few dollars for these essentials because they are truly useful:
- Amp: Even a single practice amp will uncover tones you will never get unplugged.
- Tuner: Staying in tune implies sharper playing and faster learning.
- Strap and gig bag: You will need both for comfort and safe carrying.
- Picks and strings: Always have backups. Breakages happen, often just before you sit down to play!
Conclusion
Choosing your first guitar is indeed a special journey that is as important as learning your first chords. So, invest in comfort, value, and sound that makes you want to keep coming back. Ensure you explore various options and try them before buying one. Feel free to ask the local music shop staff for advice. Furthermore, tap into video lessons and join forums for tips and inspiration.
Remember, a bad first guitar can kill your motivation, while the right one will see you through years of motivation. Also, it doesn’t have to cost you a fortune. So, use these tips, explore, and pick the best one to begin your fantastic musical journey.
