How to Buy an Inexpensive Acoustic Guitar

Are you looking for a decent instrument that won't bust your budget? The good news is there are a lot of options available. In this article, we will discuss what to look for when you go shopping for an inexpensive new acoustic guitar.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Front and side view of a nylon-string guitar.

   First decide what kind of acoustic guitar you need. The two basic options are steel-string or nylon-string. Nylon-string guitars are often easier to play, and can be a good choice for a new guitar buyer. Steel-string guitars have a number of advantages: They're a better choice if you ever decide to switch over to electric or have a desire to learn slide guitar; they're easier to use with a pickup and other amplification; and they're a better fit for guitarists who want to play rock and other percussive pop styles. While steel-string guitars may entail a little more of a learning curve than nylon-string guitars, they are more versatile in the long run.

2. 
    
   Back of an acoustic-guitar headstock with closed tuners.

   There is a difference between an inexpensive guitar and a cheap guitar. A "cheap" guitar may be difficult to play. Often, beginners will purchase a cheap guitar to save money, just in case they decide not to stick with their new hobby. Spend a few extra dollars and buy a better-built guitar. By doing so, you will avoid the frustration of learning on a guitar that's difficult to play; and if you decide not to continue your guitar education, the resale value will be much higher.

3. 
    
   Am acoustic steel-string guitar with a solid sitka spruce top.

   Look for guitars made from solid wood. More inexpensive guitars are often made of laminated wood. An inexpensive guitar with laminated wood on the back and sides is acceptable, but it's better if you can find one with solid wood back and sides. Never buy a guitar with a laminated top. Always make sure the top of the instrument is made from solid wood.

4. 
    
   Nylon-string guitar with a pizeo pickup attatched to the top.

   Types of wood to look for when considering an inexpensive acoustic guitar include rosewood, maple, koa and mahogany. The top of the guitar is often made from a different type of wood than the sides and backs. The best wood choices for the top include spruce, redwood, mahogany and cedar. Spruce is the most common type of wood used in the tops of well-made guitars.

5. 
    
   The bridge and saddle of a steel-string acoustic.

   Check for playability and action (the distance between the strings and the frets). High action and heavy strings will make playing difficult for the beginner and less practiced guitarist. Almost all well-made guitars will have a truss rod that facilitates adjustments to the neck. The truss rod is located under a small piece of wood on the headstock of the guitar, or inside the guitar where the neck joins to the body.

6. 
    
   Bottle-neck or slide guitar

   Some styles of guitars can offer you more value for your dollar. Better guitar manufacturers will often make smaller-bodied guitars, such as “parlor” or even “travel” guitars, at a much lower price point. Consider shopping on craigslist and eBay for good guitar deals; the larger musicians'-catalog sites also often have good deals on overstocked instruments. Expect to spend at least $500 or $600 on a well-made instrument, although used instruments can sometimes be found for around $300. Generally speaking, any guitar under that amount will be difficult to play and maintain and have little resale value.

[jonlesterwhite]

on 11/9/2009 I found a great deal on a guitar at cutawayacousticguitar.com. Check them out.