I currently have an acoustic guitar with very high action, and it’s tough to play because I can barely stretch my hand to hit the notes.
I’m willing to pay for something decent, but I don’t want to overspend if I don’t have to.
You should get a setup for your current guitar first. That could make a big difference in playability.
It really depends on your budget. If you’re serious about learning and willing to spend a little more, I recommend going to a store and trying out a few guitars with some help. A good guitar can make a big difference.
For electrics, I like the Yamaha Pacifica ($220), or the Squier Affinity Stratocaster ($300). The Fender Player II is great if you want to upgrade later ($800). PRS Silver Sky SE is excellent for $720.
For acoustics, try the Ibanez AW54 ($280), Epiphone DR-100 ($170), or the Taylor Academy 10 ($700). You can get solid guitars for a fair price, and these are great for beginners.
@Marsden
Thanks! What do you think about amps? I’m leaning towards the Yamaha Pacifica.
Storm said:
@Marsden
Thanks! What do you think about amps? I’m leaning towards the Yamaha Pacifica.
For amps, the Positive Grid Spark 2 is awesome. It sounds great, models famous amps, and has effects like reverb and delay. It’s also got features that help you learn chords and play along with a virtual band, which makes practicing more fun.
If you’re looking for something simpler, the Yamaha desktop amps sound good. The Boss Katana is also a solid choice, but doesn’t have the same smart features. After you get more experience, you can consider a Katana 50 or a small tube amp like the Fender Blues Jr.
Storm said:
@Marsden
Thanks! What do you think about amps? I’m leaning towards the Yamaha Pacifica.
I’d recommend a used Katana. They sound awesome and are affordable.
Here’s a link about lowering an acoustic guitar’s saddle: Lowering saddle guide
A new acoustic saddle usually costs $5 to $10 on Amazon.
My first guitar was a Yamaha APX500II. I still love it, even though it’s not the best-sounding guitar I have. It was $300 back in 2011 and it’s probably not much more now. It’s slim and comfortable to hold, and has a 25” scale that’s easier on the fingers than most other acoustics, but still sounds great.
Gibson Les Paul standard.
Just kidding, Yamaha makes affordable guitars that are pretty good!
What guitar do you have now? And what kind of music do you want to play? Are you interested in electric or acoustic?
Tenzin said:
What guitar do you have now? And what kind of music do you want to play? Are you interested in electric or acoustic?
I have a Yamaha acoustic guitar right now. I’m hoping to play songs like Dust in the Wind by Kansas on acoustic, but I’m thinking of getting an electric for songs like Let Down or Snow by RHCP. Not into metal though.
A Yamaha acoustic is good enough to play RHCP songs. For electric, a Stratocaster would be a good choice for that style.
The best guitar is the one you pick up and want to play every day.
Pick the one you feel comfortable with and that you like.
Whatever Yamaha you can afford. They’re a great deal, and honestly, I think they’re better than a lot of more expensive guitars.
Is it better to get an electric guitar for beginners? I saw a random YouTube video that said it was easier.
Storm said:
Is it better to get an electric guitar for beginners? I saw a random YouTube video that said it was easier.
Electric guitars are a little easier because the strings are thinner and have less tension. I started with acoustic and later switched to electric. I played a Washburn acoustic and had it set up by a tech before I started using it. It’s a dream to play after 15 years.
A good guitar for a beginner is one that fits you. Does it feel right? Is it comfortable to hold? How’s the sound?
My first electric was an Ibanez GIO. It’s not top-tier, but I love it. I’d recommend it for beginners or intermediate players, especially if you want to learn rock or metal.
The issue with high action is that it’s harder for beginners to press the strings down. High action can make things much harder if you’re just starting. It could be a problem with the guitar itself.
If you’re looking for a guitar to learn on, try something like a Yamaha FGX800. You’ll want to make sure it’s set up well by a pro so it’s easier to play.
High action can work for bluesy styles if you’re not playing too hard. Some blues players prefer the clarity of a high-action guitar.
The size of your hands matters too. If you have big fingers, narrow-neck guitars might be tricky. Electric guitars usually have low action, making them easier to play than acoustic guitars with higher action.