by David Pitts

Created on: January 13, 2009

Choosing the right style of guitar depends on several factors. The basic guitar choices are acoustic, classical, solid body electric, jazz electric, and acoustic electric. There are other variations, but these are the main choices. If you are a beginner, then your objective should be to get a guitar that is easy to play. There is a certain amount of physical awkwardness and finger pain that impedes the learning process for beginners. It's just tough to get used to pressing the strings down while your hand is contorted to make a new chord you are learning. Many new students give up after a few weeks because it hurts too much. A classical guitar with nylon strings eases the finger pain. Another good choice is a solid body electric with very close "action", meaning that the frets are very close to the fretboard. Or, if you can afford it, a good acoustic with close action would be great.

The second factor is the style of music you prefer. Again, there are many choices. If you want to play rock, then you need an electric guitar with an amplifier that has some built-in sound effects. This also applies if you want to play lead guitar style in country music. Soft rock, country, or folk where you will mainly play chords is best achieved by a good acoustic guitar or an acoustic electric. Classical guitars, either plain of electric, are best for Latin or classical music where finger picking is common. If jazz is your objective, then a jazz electric guitar is best where you can play jazz chords easily with fairly close action all the way up the neck.

The third major factor is cost. Electric guitars obviously require an amplifier along with the guitar itself. The better acoustic guitars have a sweeter, louder tone, and close action farther up the neck. They sound great, are easier to play, but can be quite expensive. If you already play the guitar and are looking for the guitar that fits your style and preference, then only you can decide. Pick your music and then pick your guitar. Most successful guitar players eventually own multiple guitars that accommodate different music and styles.

In summary, if you are a beginner, start with a guitar that is easy to play. When you overcome the initial learning "pain" and have built up your finger callouses, then do some serious consideration about what kind of guitar meets your music objectives. It you enjoy playing and want to get much better, then don't spare the expense if you can afford it. Choose an instrument that you will grow to love. Most guitar players have such an instrument and cherish it dearly.

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