I'm buying a guitar for the first time tomorrow. What should I look for?

Question

I am about 5'4. I'm a girl. And I am looking for my first guitar. But I want it to be a quality, not so expensive guitar. Im not sure if the store has new or old or used guitars but is there anything I should check for like wood or brands or length or anything? thank you!

Answer 1

Along with the preceding suggestions I add these:

1. Check the height of the strings from the fretboard where you see the double-dots in the 12th fret. If they are much higher than they are from the rest of the fretboard ask a guitar technician to adjust the action. Check for warpness of the neck. A slight bow is acceptable unless it emits buzziness while plucking the strings.

2. Check for wobbly or cracked machine head keys--what is used to tune up the strings.

3. Check for volume and resonance at playing a simple chord. Is there sustain? Does the sound linger?

4. I prefer rosewood backs and sides for my guitars, but my very first one was a Gibson parlor-size guitar--one that would be perfect for you. While it is made of all mahogany sides and back--with a spruce top--you could benefit from a smaller made guitar other than buy what is called a dreadnought size--the largest made. Gibson guitars are higher-priced, but you can find great deals by logging on to www.musiciansfriend.com.

5. A few cracks on the body top are acceptable provided they're not huge. Any cracks on the sides and back are less than desirable.

6. The poster that said old guitars play well is correct unless they are in bad form with too many cracks and warped necks. A spruce top that once was blonde in color, but now a honey-brown is a keeper.

7. Above all, test any potential guitar you might buy. If it feels comfortable then consider buying it. If you have any reservations about it, move on to another one.

Good luck in your acquisition of a best friend for life.

Answer 2

It depends how much you want to pay, and whether you want an acoustic guitar or electric guitar. If you buy an acoustic, it is probably the best way to start. Check the price. I never pay more than $250.00 for a used guitar. Check to see if there are any broken parts everywhere on it. Check the neck, the frets, and the bridge. If you don't know what this is ask in the store. Most guitars are standard. The sound is important too. An Aria is a good guitar to start with. Hope this helps.

Answer 3

Add to the above - get a SOLID wood top - that's what makes the biggest differance in an acoustic. Just as a guide, the Washburn D10S is the best selling guitar in the world and it runs $250 - $300 on line.

Answer 4

Look for the guitar that fits best to you. Good size, shape and sound. You can also find some cheep, but good guitars. The second hand isn't that bad too. Did you know that older instruments are better than new ones?