A question for those who play guitar...

[Cruel_Sandwich]

Posted: 8/6/08 at 11:06pm

I'm attempting to buy a guitar off of Amazon (Specifically the Yamaha F325 Gigmaker Standard Guitar Package with Natural Finish) but, as a true beginner, I realize that I have no idea what I'm doing and that buying a guitar off of the internet without hearing it or holding it is stupid. So I was wondering what you guys would recommend for an acoustic beginning guitar. Should I get a beginner's set? Nylon or steel string? I'm leaning towards steel because they seem like they would be less apt towards breaking than nylon.

[KrissySim]

Posted: 8/7/08 at 12:38am

This is a tough one because I know price is an issue. I recommend getting a good guitar. You will learn faster, the tuning pegs won't slip and you will sooner develop an ear for tuning and playing. It can be very frustrating for a beginner to not have good neck action and not get the sounds that sound "right". You will learn faster with a good guitar.

So if you cant' afford a good new guitar musicians are always selling used instruments. Hold it, hear it. play basic stuff to see if it "fits" you. You can rent an axe until you find what you are looking for. A good teacher can recommend things to you - a teacher who isn't also a salesman. But even a good honest salesman can, too.

My recommendation for a beginner who wants a good guitar is a Compass, but that's just me. I like the crisp clear sound and easy neck action of a flamenco guitar. The Compass has a professional sound. You will want to keep it even if you graduate to finer instruments. Here is one for about $500. with case and shipping to America.

But ask around. If you aspire to a rock sound, don't get this, it is nylon, get a steel string guitar and ask someone else. The Compass is for finger picking, not a pick.
Guitarras Compass