As a guitar teacher, I often get asked about the best acoustic guitar for beginners. It can be overwhelming to choose from the numerous options available in the market, but there are a few things to consider to make an informed decision.
Firstly, it's important to decide on your budget. As a beginner, you don't need to spend a fortune on a guitar, but it's also crucial to avoid buying a cheap guitar that may not be reliable. Secondly, you should choose the type of guitar that suits your playing style. Acoustic guitars come in various types, such as classical, folk, and dreadnought, each with a unique shape and sound.
Size is also a vital factor to consider. A smaller guitar size may be more comfortable for beginners, but a full-size guitar can produce a rich and balanced tone that's suitable for various music genres. The Yamaha F310 is a popular beginner's guitar that has received excellent reviews for its sound quality and playability. I even provide one for my students, especially those with lessons after school who don’t want to take a guitar in each morning. I will often road test guitars for my students and I’ve even been known to change strings for them!
Playability is essential, and you should look for a guitar that has a comfortable neck size, good fret spacing, and low action. A guitar with high action will be harder to play. You should also play a few chords and notes to ensure that you like the tone and resonance of the guitar. I highly recommend that beginners buy from reputable dealers to avoid purchasing a guitar that may have defects or faults. It's also important to check that the guitar's size fits the player before purchasing.
In summary, choosing the right acoustic guitar for beginners involves setting a budget, selecting the right type of guitar, considering the size, playability, and sound quality. You can pick up a Yamaha F310 for about £130 (new) and it is an excellent beginner's guitar. That said, it’s important to try out different options and buy from reputable dealers to ensure that you get a quality guitar that inspires you to play.