What kind of acoustic guitar is best for a beginner on a limited budget?

Question

I have musical experience, I play piano and I'm studying violin performance in university. All my guitar playing friends recommend Epiphone, Washburn, or Takamine...Are they right?

I am a small woman, so I really would prefer a smaller sized guitar (like a folk body) but not a children sized one...I intend on playing around at music stores before I buy, but I want to know where to start...

Answer 1

I am a small woman, too, and I just can't get my hand around the neck of a full-sized guitar. That's the key to know if you would be able to play a full-sized one or a 3/4 sized or spanish style one. It doesn't matter what brand your first guitar is really, just that you can afford it, it sounds good and it fits you and your style of playing. Going to a music store that specializes in guitars, asking questions and trying out the instruments is a great idea! Good luck in your search.

Answer 2

I have been forced to use some Epiphones and I have been stupid enough to try some Washburns - steer clear from those. Takamine, yes, very nice gutars. Yamahas are fairly good and rather cheap. If you have more money, Martins and Taylors are the way to go. Some Ibanez models are quite fine, too. Yamaha, Takamine, Martin and Taylor have smaller models, too - like either a folk body or 3/4 size, though I really doubt the 3/4s can produce a decent sound.

Answer 3

There is really no way to answer this question. You have to go to a music store and grab some guitars and start playing. While your friends are right in the name brands they recommend, neck length, width, the tension of the strings and the feel of the body all come into play and you'll just have to play around to see what feels the most comfortable. Who knows, you may just like an enourmous dreadnought! :)

Answer 4

the Seagull guitar company is excellent. theres one for like $370

Answer 5

Do you want fair prices? Check out Interstate music.com!