How to Choose a Jazz Guitar

Deciding to learn to play the jazz guitar is the easiest part of the process. You then have to choose a jazz guitar and learn to play. In choosing a jazz guitar, you want to look for some very specific things to make sure you choose the right jazz guitar for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the types of jazz guitars available. The traditional jazz guitar comes in two different styles: the wide (or hollow) body and the 335 style semi-hollow body. They each project a different sound which should be considered based on the type of music you are going to be playing.

2. Understand the sound of the wide body jazz guitar. The top is broad, thin and has a sound hole of some type. You will also see an F-hole style sound hole. You should also see one or two pickups which help the vibration of the strings transfer out to an amplifier. These can often have feedback problems, so they are best used for solos or small combos when you don't have to compete for sound.

3. Know the difference between the wide body and 335 style jazz guitar. The 335 is thinner and has a thick, solid piece of wood running down the middle. This feature, along with the small pocket of air inside the guitar, allows for less feedback. Less feedback makes this guitar a great choice for louder performances, such as big band, bop or fusion.

4. Play each of the guitars in a music store to get a feeling for the sound of each one in order to pick the one that is right for you. If you are unsure of the choice you should make, talk to one of the associates at the store and tell them about the type of music you play.