You are currently viewing The Ultimate Acoustic Guitar Buying Guide for 2023

Last Updated on March 2, 2024 by Teemu Suomala

photo reveals owner of guitaristnextdoor.com

Author: Teemu Suomala

I first grabbed the guitar in 2009. I started this website in January 2020 because I couldn’t do window installation anymore due to my health problems. I love guitars and have played dozens and dozens of different guitars through different amps and pedals over the years, and also, building a website interested me, so I decided to just go for it! I got lucky and managed to get awesome people to help me with my website.

I also got lucky because I have you visiting my website right now. Thank you. I do all this for you guys. If you have any recommendations, tips, or feedback, just leave a comment, I would love to chat with you. I have also been fortunate to produce content for several large guitar websites, such as SongsterrMusicnotesGuitarGuitar, and Ultimate Guitar.

I spend my spare time exercising and hanging out with my wife and crazy dog (I guess that went the right way…).

Author: DL Shepherd

Darren has been playing guitar for over 23 years. He fronted the metal band Suddenly Silence in the early 2000’s, and also achieved recognition as an award-winning bluegrass guitarist.

A native of southwestern Virginia, and has shared the stage with many big-name acts from various genres. When he is not playing one of his many guitars, he can be found riding his Harley through the mountains of Virginia.


Purchasing an acoustic guitar (or guitars) is an awesome experience. However, with so many options available, finding the perfect instrument that suits your needs and budget can be overwhelming.

This ultimate acoustic guitar buying guide for 2023 will help you navigate the world of acoustic guitars and provide you with valuable insights to make an informed decision. Let’s dive in and discover the world of acoustic guitars together!

Short Summary – What You Will Learn

  • Understand the anatomy, tonewoods and body styles of acoustic guitars to make an informed decision.
  • Consider skill level, purpose & budget when selecting an acoustic guitar for optimal playability & comfort.
  • Choose a suitable instrument that resonates with your musical passion by trusting your instincts.

Understanding Acoustic Guitars

Displays Laminate and Solid Wood Acoustic Guitars

Acoustic guitars have long been a popular choice for musicians of all genres thanks to their versatility, rich sound, and ease of use. But what makes an acoustic guitar unique? To fully understand and appreciate these instruments, we need to delve into their anatomy, tonewood selection, body styles, sizes, neck shapes, and electronics.

By understanding these fundamental concepts, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision when buying your first or next acoustic guitar.

Anatomy of an Acoustic Guitar

Diagram displays an anatomy of acoustic guitar

At its core, an acoustic guitar is comprised of four primary components: the body, neck, headstock, and bridge.

The body houses the sound hole, which is responsible for projecting the sound produced when the strings are plucked. The neck, typically made from sturdy yet lightweight wood, connects the headstock (housing the tuning pegs) from the other and to the body from the other. The bridge anchors the strings to the guitar body, transferring the vibrations to create the beautiful sound we all know and love.

The type of wood used in the construction of the neck and fretboard plays a crucial role in the instrument’s playability and usability. Light, stiff woods are ideal for neck construction, as they efficiently transfer vibrational energy from the strings to the body. The headstock, located at the top of the guitar, holds the tuning pegs and hardware, which are used to adjust the tension of the strings and, consequently, their pitch.

Understanding the anatomy of an acoustic guitar helps you appreciate the craftsmanship behind each instrument and ensures that you select a guitar that suits your needs.

Check our full anatomy of an acoustic guitar article here.


Tonewoods and Sound Quality

displays Soundboard & top of an acoustic guitar

The choice of tonewoods in an acoustic guitar greatly influences its overall sound quality. Denser woods like spruce produce a brighter sound, while lighter woods like cedar tend to have a darker tone. The type of wood used in the guitar’s construction, including the top, back, and sides, contributes to the unique tonal spectrum of each instrument.

When selecting an acoustic guitar, it’s essential to consider the type of tonewood that best suits your desired sound and the longevity of the instrument. Some guitars even feature alternative materials, such as the Ovation Adamas I GT Non-cutaway Acoustic-electric guitar, which uses a fiberglass composite body and a carbon fiber soundboard.best ac

Laminated wood vs solid woods

Solid wood tops resonate more effectively than laminate tops, allowing for a fuller, richer sound. With solid wood, sound can even improve when the wood ages. Laminate tops, on the other hand, are more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity and are typically more affordable, but at the same time, laminate tops can sound duller, and sound quality can worsen when the wood ages.

Read our full Laminate woods vs Solid woods article here.

Common Tonewoods

Read our full acoustic guitar tonewoods guide here.

Mahogany
displays mahogany wood and reveals how it can affect the sound of electric guitar

Mahogany produces a warm, well-rounded tone. It can make a guitar heavier though because of its density. Mainly used for backs and sides, but some guitars have mahogany tops. Mahogany necks are also really common. Solid mahogany can work really well as a fingerstyle or blues tonewood.

Rosewood
Displays a rosewood tonewood

Rosewood is perhaps the most popular tonewood for acoustics. Not as a top, but as a back & sides. It has a warm, well-balanced tone. It is lighter in weight than mahogany and tends to resonate more freely. Mainly used for backs and sides. 

Sapele
Displays a sapele tonewood

Sapele wood is used in place of mahogany. It is a tough wood that is incredibly durable. The tone is very similar to mahogany with a bit more pronounced treble and a more mellow tone. It also tends to be more focused than mahogany since it is more dense, therefore it does not resonate as freely. Mainly used for backs, sides, and necks.

Koa
displays koa wood and reveals how it can affect the sound of electric guitar

This tropical tonewood fits in between the crisp sound of rosewood and the warm sound of mahogany. It is typically used for backs and sides, but a few Koa topped models are out there. In general acoustic guitars with koa tonewood sound fantastic to me.

Maple
displays maple wood and reveals how it can affect the sound of electric guitar

This tonewood offers very crips and bright tone. It has a very clear tone without a lot of sustain or overtones due to its density. While it can be used as a stunning top, it is more commonly used for backs, sides, and necks.

Sitka spruce (also referred to as spruce)
Displays a spruce tonewood

This is used almost exclusively for guitar tops. It is a softer tonewood with a lot of volume and presence. It also has a very well-balanced and articulate sound that pairs well with the tonal bandwidth of a guitar. You can’t go wrong with a Sitka spruce top!

Cedar
Displays a cedar tonewood

Cedar is softer than Sitka spruce and therefore resonates more freely. While the sound is not as focused, it is warm and vibrant. This is a good choice for fingerstyle guitar players since it doesn’t take much force to make this wood sound great. It is used as a wood for guitar tops. 


Acoustic Guitar Body Styles

The shape of an acoustic guitar can change the way it sounds. This impacts both its tone and volume. Smaller-bodied guitars, such as parlor or concert models, produce a midrange-forward sound, making them ideal for ensemble playing or recording applications. In contrast, larger-bodied guitars, like dreadnoughts or jumbos, are louder and have a deeper, more resonant sound, making them the preferred choice for solo singer-songwriters.

Less common body styles, such as the jumbo and the parlor, offer unique tonal characteristics that cater to specific playing styles and genres. Ultimately, the shape and size (more about size soon) of an acoustic guitar will affect its playability and the type of sound it produces, so it’s essential to choose a body style that aligns with your preferences and playing style.

Check the full acoustic guitar body styles guide here.

Which is better for you? Concert vs Dreadnought, the Ultimate Acoustic Guitar Comparison

Common Acoustic Guitar Body Styles

Dreadnought
displays Dreadnought acoustic guitar bodyshape

The dreadnought body style is the most popular guitar body shape in the world. Period. Named after the British Royal Navy’s powerful battleships, these guitars are renowned for their large, full-bodied sound that highlights the bass frequencies. Their square shoulders and wide waist give them a strong voice that’s perfect for flatpicking, strumming, and supporting vocals.

Jumbo
displays Jumbo acoustic guitar bodyshape

The jumbo is the largest standard guitar body style and is renowned for its powerful, loud sound. With a strong projection and a balanced tone, jumbos are great for performers playing in large venues. The round shoulders and larger lower bout enable the production of deep bass and strong mids, while the sound can remain clear and detailed at high volumes.

Concert & Grand Concert
displays Grand Concert acoustic guitar bodyshape

Smaller than dreadnoughts, concert and grand concert guitars offer a more balanced tone across the bass, mid, and treble frequencies. These styles are comfortable to hold and play, making them perfect for fingerstyle techniques. Concert guitars are the smaller of the two, while grand concert models have slightly more volume and bass response due to a larger body size.

Orchestra
displays Orchestra acoustic guitar bodyshape

Also known as auditorium guitars, orchestra body style guitars strike a middle ground between dreadnought and concert guitars. They’re known for their balanced tone and versatility. With a narrower waist, these guitars rest comfortably on the player’s lap, making them ideal for both fingerstyle playing and strumming. They are generally well-balanced across the tonal spectrum and deliver sufficient volume for performance settings.

Parlor
Displays PRS SE P50 Parlor

The parlor guitar is the smallest of these five body styles. It was popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and has seen more popularity in recent years. Its smaller body size makes it comfortable to play, especially for younger players or those with a smaller build. Despite its smaller size, a parlor guitar can offer a surprising amount of volume, with a bright and distinct tone that excels at fingerpicking. The tone leans more towards the mid and treble ranges, making it less bass-heavy than larger models.


Acoustic Guitar Body Sizes & Scale-Length

How do you navigate the sea of sizes, from 1/4 to the mighty full-size? Each size sings its own song, each has its own strengths, and each connects with a unique group of players. From tiny hands strumming their first chord to experienced fingers plucking a soulful melody, there’s a size that fits just right.

Now we’ll unveil the secrets of acoustic guitar sizes, guide you through their pros and cons, and help you discover the model that could become your musical soulmate. Get ready to strum into a world of possibilities, let’s tackle the most common acoustic guitar sizes!

Common Acoustic Guitar Body Sizes

1/4 Size Guitars

These are the smallest standard guitar size, typically suitable for children aged 4-6 years. They’re a great introduction to playing the guitar for very young children. The sound from these guitars can be somewhat thin due to their small size, but they can still produce pleasing melodies for practice or casual playing.

Pros:

  • Perfect size for very young children.
  • Easier to hold and play for small hands.
  • Usually more affordable.

Cons:

  • Limited volume and tone due to size.
  • Kids will outgrow them quickly.

Models and Brands: Yamaha JR1 (FG Junior), Hohner HAG250P.

1/2 Size Guitars

1/2 size guitars are slightly larger and suitable for children between 5-8 years old. They offer a richer sound compared to 1/4 size guitars but are still relatively small for easier playing.

Pros:

  • Ideal for young kids progressing from 1/4 size.
  • Still affordable and portable.
  • Better tone and volume than 1/4 size.

Cons:

  • Still somewhat limited in sound depth.
  • Not ideal for adults or older children.

Models and Brands: Yamaha CGS102A, Cordoba Protege C1M 1/2.

3/4 Size Guitars

These guitars are great for children aged from around 8-12, or for adults looking for a smaller, more portable guitar. They offer a more mature tone while still being accessible for smaller hands.

Pros:

  • Versatile size suitable for older children and some adults.
  • Good balance of portability and sound quality.
  • Many professional-quality models available.

Cons:

  • Might be too small for some adults or teenagers.
  • Not as rich sounding as a full-size guitar.

Models and Brands: Taylor GS Mini, Fender MA-1.

7/8 Size Guitars

7/8 size guitars are just slightly smaller than a full-size guitar and are a good choice for teens or adults with smaller hands. They can offer nearly the same sound quality as a full-size guitar but with a slightly smaller and more manageable size.

Pros:

  • Almost the same tone as a full-size guitar.
  • More manageable for smaller adults or teenagers.
  • Good selection of quality models.

Cons:

  • Slightly less volume and tone depth compared to full size.
  • May be harder to find compared to other sizes.

Models and Brands: Cordoba C9 Parlor, Ibanez GA35TCE.

Full Size Guitars

Full size guitars, or 4/4 guitars, are the standard size for adults and are the most common size you’ll find. They provide a full, rich sound that smaller guitars can’t quite match.

Pros:

  • Best tone and volume of all sizes.
  • Suitable for all adult hand sizes.
  • Wide range of models, styles, and price points.

Cons:

  • Might be difficult for smaller hands to play.
  • Not as portable as smaller sizes.

Models and Brands: Martin D-28, Gibson Hummingbird, Taylor 810.


Acoustic Guitar Neck Shapes & Nut Width

This graph reveals most common guitar neck shapes

The neck shape and nut width of an acoustic guitar play a crucial role in the instrument’s overall playability. A comfortable neck profile allows for ease of playing, while the nut width, which determines the width of the neck and also affects the spacing between the strings (aka. string spacing), can affect the ease of fretting and chording.

There are various neck shapes and nut widths available, ranging from slim and wide profiles to suit different preferences and hand sizes.

It’s essential to find a neck shape and nut width that feels comfortable and suits your playing style.

Common Acoustic Guitar Neck Shapes

Classic C Neck Shape
image displays Classic C neck shape looks

The classic C shape is one of the most common and traditional neck profiles for acoustic guitars. It is characterized by a rounded contour that fits comfortably in the hand, making it ideal for most playing styles. The depth of the C shape can vary, with some being deeper and fuller, while others are more shallow, catering to a variety of hand sizes and preferences.

Modern C Neck Shape
image displays Modern C neck shape looks

The modern C shape is slightly flatter and thinner than the classic C shape. It’s designed to be comfortable and generally works for a wide variety of hand sizes. But that being said, the modern C usually works better for small hands than the classic C shape.

D Neck Shape
image displays 1950s D neck shape looks

The D shape, tends to be bulkier with less taper towards the headstock, meaning it’s quite thick from front to back. This can provide a good grip for players, particularly those with larger hands, or for those who like to really feel the meaty neck in their hand. It can be favored by players who do a lot of rigorous strumming as it gives them something solid to hold onto.

U Neck Shape
image displays Vintage U neck shape looks

The U shape neck is characterized by its noticeably larger and rounder profile. Similar to the D shape neck, it’s often referred to as a “baseball bat” style due to its significant heft. However, the U shape is generally even bulkier, with its sides nearly parallel, forming a consistent depth that provides a very substantial grip. This neck shape is favored by some players who prefer a substantial amount of wood to grip on to while playing. Due to its size, the U shape neck may not be as comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer more streamlined neck profiles. It can often be found on vintage guitars or reissued models that adhere to traditional design specifications.

Common Acoustic Guitar Nut Widths

  • Standard nut width for steel-string acoustic guitar with 6 strings wary between 1.6875″(42.86mm) and 1.75″ (44.45mm).
  • 12-string acoustic guitars typically have a nut width of 1.875″ (47.62mm).

Truss Rod

displays Truss rod of an acoustic guitar
Truss rod adjustment scre or nut can be located through the soundhole at the end of the neck.

A truss rod is a metal rod that is installed in the middle of the neck of the guitar to add support and keep the neck from bending under the pressure of the strings.

Almost all steel-string acoustic guitar do have a truss rod these days, and it’s definitely recommended to buy an acoustic guitar with one since truss rod helps with neck adjustments a lot. Some classical guitars do not have a truss rod, and this is not a huge deal since nylons strings don’t bend the neck much, but still, with classical guitars too, truss rod is definitely good to have in case you want to make some setup adjustments.


Acoustic Guitar Fingerboard Radius

image explains what Guitar fretboard radius means

The fingerboard radius is the curvature of the fingerboard on an acoustic guitar and plays a significant role in its playability. A flatter radius can be more suitable for chord playing, while some players prefer a rounder radius is better suited for bending notes, vibrato, and tapping techniques.

The most common fingerboard radius in acoustic guitars is between 10″ and 15″ inches (classical guitars have almost completely flat fretboard, around 20″). When selecting an acoustic guitar, it’s smart to consider the fingerboard radius, as it can greatly affect the overall playing experience and comfort of the instrument.


Electronics

displays Preamp unit of an acoustic guitar

Acoustic guitars with built-in electronics, also known as acoustic-electric guitars, offer the convenience of amplification without the need for an external microphone. These guitars are equipped with pickup, preamps, and other electronics that allow the guitar’s natural sound to be amplified and shaped for various performance settings.

While acoustic-electric guitars offer added versatility and control, they also come with the added cost and complexity of the electronics. When deciding between an acoustic and an acoustic-electric guitar, it’s important to consider your performance needs and whether the added features and costs are worth it for your specific situation.

Check the full Different Types of Acoustic Guitar Pickups article here.

Pros:

  • Convenient sound amplification and projection. You can easily adjust the volume and tone of your guitar by plugging it into an amp or a soundboard, which is ideal for playing live shows, recording, or busking.
  • More sound and tone options compared to a standard acoustic. You can use effects pedals, EQ settings, or different types of amps to modify your sound and create different styles and moods.
  • Can move around when you play live. You don’t have to worry about staying close to a microphone or losing sound quality when you move around on stage, as your guitar will be picked up by the amp or the soundboard.
  • Can be played unplugged and used as a traditional acoustic. You can still enjoy the natural resonance and feel of an acoustic guitar when you play it unplugged, as it has no difference from a regular acoustic guitar.
  • Usually feature an onboard tuner. No lost tuners, really handy.

Cons:

  • Absence of amps upon purchase. You will need to buy an amp or a soundboard separately if you want to amplify your sound, which can add to the cost and hassle of playing an acoustic-electric guitar.
  • Usually only necessary for performances. If you are not planning to play live shows, record, or busk, you may not need the electric features of an acoustic-electric guitar, as a standard acoustic guitar may suffice for your needs.
  • Higher gauge strings and wider fretboards. Acoustic-electric guitars usually have thicker strings and wider fretboards than electric guitars, which can make them harder to play for beginners or people with smaller hands. They may also produce buzzing sounds if not played with proper technique

Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar for You

image displays Different acoustic guitars

Finding the perfect acoustic guitar is a personal thing, as each player has unique preferences and requirements. Factors such as

  • skill level,
  • playing style,
  • purpose,
  • performance setting,
  • and budget

all play a role in determining the right guitar for you.

In the following sections, we’ll explore these factors in-depth to help you make an informed decision and find the instrument that resonates with your heart and soul.

Skill Level and Playing Style

Your skill level and playing style are significant factors when choosing an acoustic guitar. As a beginner, it’s important to find a guitar that is easy to play and within your budget. However, don’t be afraid to invest in a higher-quality instrument if you can afford it, as this can greatly impact your learning experience and overall enjoyment of playing.

For more experienced players, the choice of an acoustic guitar may be influenced by specific playing styles or genres. Fingerstyle players may prefer a smaller-bodied guitar with a wider string spacing, while those who primarily strum chords might opt for a larger-bodied guitar with a more powerful sound.

Ultimately, it’s important to try out different guitars and find the one that feels the most comfortable and inspiring to you.

Purpose and Performance Setting

The intended purpose and performance setting of your acoustic guitar should also be taken into consideration when making your choice. If you plan to perform live, an acoustic-electric guitar with built-in electronics might be a more suitable option, allowing you to easily amplify your sound without the need for additional microphones.

On the other hand, if you’re primarily using your acoustic guitar for home practice or studio recording, a standard acoustic guitar might be more appropriate. In this case, the focus should be on finding an instrument with a sound and feel that inspires you to play and create.

Budget and Value

Budget plays a crucial role in determining the right acoustic guitar for you. While it’s true that more expensive guitars generally offer better quality and longevity, it’s not always necessary to spend a fortune to find a great instrument. Many affordable guitars on the market provide excellent value for the money, offering a combination of good sound, playability, and durability.

It’s important to strike a balance between budget and value when selecting your acoustic guitar. If you’re a beginner, consider investing in a solid entry-level instrument that won’t break the bank but still offers decent quality and playability. More experienced players might opt for a higher-priced instrument that meets their specific requirements and expectations.

In either case, the key is to find a guitar that provides the best value for your budget and needs.

Check our acouystic guitar buyer guides for different budgets:

Final Choice

After considering all the factors mentioned above, it’s time to make your final choice. It’s essential to test multiple guitars, as each instrument is unique and will feel and sound different to each player. Don’t be afraid to take your time and try out various brands, models, and price ranges to find the perfect match for you.

Remember that the perfect acoustic guitar is the one that feels comfortable to play, inspires you to play, and produces a sound that resonates with you.

Check our picks for the best acoustic guitar brands in the world!


Top Brands and Models for Beginners

As a beginner, it’s important to choose a guitar that offers a good balance of quality, playability, and value. Some of the top brands and models for beginners include Yamaha, Fender, and Epiphone. These brands are well-known for their consistency, excellent sound, and remarkable value, making them an ideal choice for those just starting their musical journey.

In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at each brand and their most suitable models for beginners.

Yamaha

displays Yamaha FG800M Headstock

Yamaha is a renowned brand in the world of musical instruments, and their acoustic guitars are no exception. Known for their consistency, excellent sound, and remarkable value, Yamaha guitars are an ideal choice for beginners. One of their most popular models is the Yamaha FS800 Concert Acoustic guitar, which features a comfortable concert body shape and a 25-inch scale length.

The FS800 is an entry-level guitar that offers a great balance of quality and affordability. With its solid spruce top and comfortable “C”-shaped neck, this guitar is perfect for beginners looking to learn on an instrument that is easy to play and sounds great.

Check our Yamaha acoustic guitar buying guides:

Fender

displays a headstock of a Fender acoustic guitar

Fender is another iconic brand in the world of guitars, best known for their legendary electric guitars, the Stratocaster and Telecaster. However, Fender also offers a range of quality acoustic guitars that are perfect for beginners. The Fender CD-60s, for example, is an affordable dreadnought guitar with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out.

The Fender Newporter Classic, another great option for beginners, offers the bold sound of a larger body size with the convenience of a comfortable, easy-to-play neck. Its solid mahogany top, back, and sides provide a warm, resonant sound, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres and playing styles.

Fender’s acoustic guitars not only offer excellent value, but are also versatile enough to grow with you as you progress.

Check our picks for the best Fender acoustic guitar for all situations here.

Epiphone

displays headstock of an Epiphone Acoustic Guitar

Epiphone, a subsidiary of Gibson, is known for producing quality instruments at an affordable price. Their acoustic guitars are no exception, offering a range of models that cater to beginners and intermediate players alike. Some of the most recommended Epiphone models include

  • Epiphone EJ-200SCE,
  • Epiphone Hummingbird Pro,
  • and Epiphone DR-100.

Check our favorite Epiphone acoustic guitars for all situations here.

These guitars offer a combination of excellent sound, playability, and durability, making them a great choice for those just starting out. Epiphone’s guitars are built with solid materials and craftsmanship, ensuring that you’ll have a reliable instrument that will last for years to come.

Whether you’re a beginner or a more experienced player looking for a versatile and affordable acoustic guitar, Epiphone offers a range of options that cater to your needs.


Essential Accessories for Your Acoustic Guitar

Once you’ve selected the perfect acoustic guitar, it’s important to invest in essential accessories to keep your instrument in top condition and ensure a smooth playing experience. In the following sections, we’ll discuss some of the most crucial accessories for your acoustic guitar, including tuners, amplifiers, metronomes, strings, picks, cases, gig bags, and straps.

These accessories will not only enhance your playing experience, but also help protect and maintain your guitar for years to come.

Tuners, Amplifiers, and Metronomes

displays Microphone and Guitar Amplifier With A Mic Input

A guitar tuner is an essential accessory for any guitarist, ensuring that your instrument is always in tune and ready to play. There are several types of tuners available, including built-in tuners on acoustic-electric guitars, clip-on tuners, and smartphone apps such as the Fender Tune App. It’s crucial to find a tuner that is accurate, easy to use, and fits your specific needs.

Amplifiers and metronomes are also important accessories for acoustic guitar players, especially if you plan to perform live or practice with a band. Amplifiers allow you to amplify your guitar’s sound for larger venues or performances, while metronomes help you develop a strong sense of timing and rhythm. Both accessories are available in various sizes and price ranges, so it’s important to choose the ones that best suit your needs and budget.

Check these acoustic guitar amp guides:

Strings and Picks

displays Martin guitar strings

Strings and picks are two essential components of an acoustic guitar, and it’s important to choose the right ones for your playing style and preferences. When selecting strings for your acoustic guitar, consider factors such as the material, string gauge, and whether the strings are coated or uncoated. Different types of strings will produce varying sounds, so it’s beneficial to experiment and find the ones that best suit your desired tone.

Picks come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, with different picks suiting different playing styles. The standard pick is the most widely used and is typically employed for strumming chords, while the flat pick is used for playing single notes or lead guitar playing. The thumb pick is suitable for fingerstyle guitar. Experimenting with different picks will help you find the one that best suits your playing style and allows you to achieve your desired sound.

Check our full acoustic guitar string choosing article.

Cases, Gig Bags, and Straps

displays Taylor 814ce in a guitar case

Protecting your acoustic guitar is crucial for maintaining its longevity and sound quality. Cases, gig bags, and straps offer various levels of protection for your instrument, making it easier to transport and store. Hardshell cases provide the highest level of protection against impacts, dust, and moisture, while gig bags offer a more lightweight and affordable option with some protection against impacts and dust.

Straps are essential for comfortably carrying your guitar, especially during live performances or extended practice sessions. They are available in a variety of materials, such as leather, nylon, or cotton, and can be adjusted to fit your body size and playing style.

When selecting a case, gig bag, or strap, it’s important to consider factors such as the size and shape of your guitar, the level of protection required, and your budget.

Check these articles:


FAQ

Is it Worth Buying A Cheap Acoustic Guitar?

Buying a cheap acoustic guitar can be a viable option for beginners or those on a tight budget. While it’s true that more expensive guitars generally offer more in terms of quality, playability, and sound, many affordable guitars on the market provide excellent value for the money, offering a combination of good sound, playability, and durability.
However, it’s important to be cautious when purchasing a cheap acoustic guitar. Be sure to assess the quality of the materials used, the playability of the instrument, and the sound quality. Additionally, ensure that the guitar is set up correctly and that the strings are of good quality.
With careful consideration, it’s possible to find a decent acoustic guitar at an affordable price.

How Much Should I Spend On A Decent Acoustic Guitar?

The cost of a decent acoustic guitar can vary greatly depending on factors such as your skill level, playing style, and budget. As a beginner, you can expect to spend between $150 and $300 for a good quality, entry-level guitar. More experienced players might opt for a higher-priced instrument that meets their specific requirements and expectations.

Ultimately, the most important factor when determining how much to spend on an acoustic guitar is finding the right balance between quality and affordability. Investing in a guitar that offers good sound, playability, and durability within your budget will ensure that you have a positive experience and enjoy playing your instrument for years to come.

Is It OK To Buy An Expensive Guitar As A Beginner?

While it’s not necessary to purchase an expensive guitar as a beginner, there can be some benefits to doing so. Higher-priced acoustic guitars typically offer better sound quality, playability, and durability, which can contribute to a more enjoyable learning experience and help inspire you to continue practicing.

However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of investing in an expensive guitar as a beginner.

Consider factors such as your financial situation and your commitment to learning the instrument. If you’re unsure whether you’ll stick with playing the guitar long-term, it might be more prudent to start with a more affordable instrument and upgrade to a higher-quality guitar once you’ve developed your skills and passion for the instrument.

displays a high-end acoustic guitar

Does It Matter What Acoustic Guitar You Get?

The type of acoustic guitar you choose can have a significant impact on your playing experience and overall enjoyment of the instrument. Factors such as body size, tonewood choice, and price all play a role in determining the right guitar for you, so it’s essential to consider these aspects when making your selection.

Ultimately, the best guitar for you is the one that feels comfortable to play, inspires you to create, and produces a sound that resonates with your heart. Trust your instincts and let your passion for music guide you towards the instrument that will become an extension of your own voice and soul.

Are More Expensive Acoustic Guitars Worth It?

More expensive acoustic guitars are generally built with higher-quality materials and craftsmanship, resulting in better sound quality, playability, and durability. For professional musicians or those seeking a guitar that will last for many years, investing in a more expensive instrument can be well worth the cost.

However, it’s important to consider your individual needs and budget when deciding whether a more expensive acoustic guitar is the right choice for you. If you’re a beginner or on a limited budget, you may be able to find a more affordable guitar that still offers good quality and playability.

Ultimately, the best guitar for you is the one that meets your specific needs and allows you to express yourself musically.

How do I know what acoustic guitar to buy?

By considering the essential aspects of an acoustic guitar such as body size, tonewood choice, strings type and budget, you can determine which is the most suitable for your needs. Taking into account these factors will help you make the best decision when buying an acoustic guitar.

How much should I spend on a decent acoustic guitar?

For those looking for a decent acoustic guitar, it is recommended to spend between $150 and $800. This budget will help you find an instrument that meets your playing level, from beginner to experienced player.

The higher the price, the more features and better quality you can expect to find in the guitar.

Is it worth buying a cheap acoustic guitar?

For most musicians, a cheap guitar does not offer the same sound quality and playability as a more expensive one. While they can certainly work for beginners or those on a budget, be aware that cheaper guitars are often made from low-quality materials with fewer features and less attention to detail.

Therefore, it is important to consider your individual needs before investing in a cheap acoustic guitar. But that being said, cheap guitar is better than no guitar, cheap acoustic guitar can absolutely get you started.

Does it matter what acoustic guitar you get?

Choosing the right acoustic guitar for you is essential. While factors like sound, comfort and price will come into play, ultimately it does matter what type of acoustic guitar you get in order to make sure it meets your needs and expectations.

The type of acoustic guitar you choose will depend on your playing style, the type of music you want to play, and your budget.

How do I know which acoustic guitar to buy?

By considering factors such as price, quality of materials, body type and size, tonal range, and playing style, you can confidently choose the right acoustic guitar for your needs.

Additionally, asking experienced guitarists for their opinion and trying out several different models is another great way to make sure you get the perfect one.


Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the perfect acoustic guitar is a personal journey that takes time and careful consideration. By understanding the various factors that influence the sound, playability, and overall quality of an acoustic guitar, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision and find the instrument that truly resonates with your heart and soul.

Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced player looking for a new acoustic companion, trust your instincts and let your passion for music guide you on this exciting adventure.

Keep rocking!


Teemu Suomala

I first grabbed the guitar in 2009. I started this website in January 2020 because I couldn’t do window installation anymore due to my health problems. I also noticed that most guitar websites don’t do a really good job, so I decided to just go for it! I got lucky and managed to get awesome people to help me with my website. I also got lucky because I have you visiting my website right now. Thank you. I do all this for you guys. If you have any recommendations, tips, or feedback, just leave a comment, I would love to chat with you. I have been fortunate to produce content for several large guitar websites, such as Songsterr, Musicnotes, GuitarGuitar, and Ultimate Guitar. I spend my spare time exercising and hanging out with my wife and crazy dog(I guess that went the right way…). Expertise: guitar learning techniques, electric guitars, and guitar amplifiers. You can connect with me on LinkedIn or just email me.
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Dusty Bembridge

Thank you very much for this article Teemu. I believe it is very comprehensive and has covers almost all aspects of the guitar. I wished I had all this information when I purchased my first guitar some 20 years ago! It will definitely come in handy for my next purchase. Thank you again.