Electric guitars are a great way to get started playing guitar. They’re relatively easy to learn to play, and they can be used to play a wide variety of music. If you’re thinking about buying an electric guitar, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Editor’s Notes:Choosing the right beginner electric guitar is an important decision. There are many different models and brands available, and it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this beginner electric guitar recommendations guide to help you make the right decision.
We’ve analyzed dozens of electric guitars and interviewed dozens of guitarists to come up with our top picks for beginner electric guitars. Our recommendations are based on a number of factors, including price, playability, and sound quality.
| Squier Affinity Stratocaster | Epiphone Les Paul Special II | Yamaha Pacifica 012 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $229 | $199 | $179 |
| Playability | Easy to play, with a comfortable neck and low action | Also easy to play, but with a slightly thicker neck | Very easy to play, with a thin neck and low action |
| Sound quality | Versatile sound, suitable for a wide range of music genres | Classic rock sound, with a warm, thick tone | Bright, clear sound, with good sustain |
Ultimately, the best beginner electric guitar for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. But no matter what your budget or playing style, we’re confident that you’ll find a great guitar on our list.
1. Price
The price of a beginner electric guitar is an important consideration. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend. Beginner electric guitars range in price from $100 to $500. The price of the guitar will depend on the brand, the features, and the quality of the materials.
If you’re on a tight budget, there are several affordable beginner electric guitars available. However, if you’re willing to spend a little more money, you can get a guitar with better features and quality.
Here are some tips for setting a budget for a beginner electric guitar:
- Decide how much you’re willing to spend on a guitar.
- Research different brands and models of guitars.
- Read reviews of guitars from other users.
- Talk to a guitar teacher or salesperson for advice.
Once you’ve set a budget, you can start shopping for a beginner electric guitar. There are many different brands and models available, so it’s important to do your research and find a guitar that’s right for you.
By following these tips, you can find a beginner electric guitar that fits your budget and needs.
| Price Range | Features | Quality |
|---|---|---|
| $100-$200 | Basic features, | |
| $200-$300 | More features, better quality | |
| $300-$500 | Professional features, high quality |
2. Playability
Playability is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a beginner electric guitar. A guitar that is easy to play will make it more enjoyable to learn and will help you avoid frustration. There are a few key things to look for when assessing the playability of a guitar:
- Neck shape: The neck shape should be comfortable to hold and play. It should not be too thick or too thin, and it should have a smooth finish.
- Action: The action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A low action will make it easier to press down on the strings, which is important for beginners.
- Weight: The weight of the guitar is also a factor to consider. A heavier guitar can be more difficult to play for long periods of time.
By considering these factors, you can choose a beginner electric guitar that is easy to play and will help you learn quickly and easily.
3. Sound quality
Sound quality is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a beginner electric guitar. A guitar that sounds good will make it more enjoyable to play and will inspire you to practice more. It will also help you develop your musical ear and learn to appreciate different genres of music.
- Tone: The tone of a guitar is the overall sound that it produces. A good tone is clear and balanced, with no harsh or muddy frequencies. It should also be versatile enough to play a variety of music genres, from blues to rock to country.
- Volume: The volume of a guitar is important for both practicing and playing live. A guitar that is too quiet will be difficult to hear, while a guitar that is too loud can be overpowering. It’s important to find a guitar that has a volume that is appropriate for your needs.
- Sustain: Sustain is the length of time that a note rings out after it is played. A guitar with good sustain will allow you to play long, sustained notes that will add depth and richness to your playing.
- Feedback: Feedback is a high-pitched squealing sound that can occur when a guitar is played too close to an amplifier. Feedback can be annoying and distracting, so it’s important to choose a guitar that is not prone to feedback.
By considering these factors, you can choose a beginner electric guitar that sounds good and is versatile enough to play a variety of music genres. This will help you learn to play guitar quickly and easily, and it will also make playing guitar more enjoyable.
4. Features
When choosing a beginner electric guitar, it is important to consider the features that you need. Some of the most common features include a tremolo bar, a pickup selector, and volume and tone controls.
- Tremolo bar: A tremolo bar is a lever that allows you to create a vibrato effect by bending the strings. This effect is commonly used in rock and blues music.
- Pickup selector: A pickup selector allows you to choose which pickup is active. Different pickups have
different sounds, so this allows you to change the sound of your guitar to suit the music you are playing. - Volume control: The volume control allows you to control the volume of your guitar. This is important for both practicing and playing live.
- Tone control: The tone control allows you to control the tone of your guitar. This allows you to adjust the brightness or darkness of the sound.
In addition to these common features, there are a number of other features that you may want to consider when choosing a beginner electric guitar. These include:
- Cutaway: A cutaway is a notch in the body of the guitar that allows you to reach the higher frets more easily.
- Binding: Binding is a strip of material that is glued to the edges of the guitar body and neck. It protects the guitar from damage and gives it a finished look.
- Inlays: Inlays are decorative designs that are set into the fretboard. They can add a touch of style to your guitar.
By considering the features that you need and want, you can choose a beginner electric guitar that is perfect for you.
5. Brand
When choosing a beginner electric guitar, it is important to consider the brand. Different brands have different reputations for quality, playability, and sound. Some of the most popular brands for beginners include Squier, Epiphone, and Yamaha.
- Squier is a subsidiary of Fender, and their guitars are known for being affordable and well-made. Squier guitars are a great choice for beginners who are looking for a good quality guitar at a reasonable price.
- Epiphone is another popular brand for beginners. Epiphone guitars are known for their classic designs and good sound quality. Epiphone guitars are a good choice for beginners who are looking for a guitar that looks and sounds like a vintage instrument.
- Yamaha is a Japanese brand that is known for making a wide range of high-quality musical instruments. Yamaha electric guitars are known for their playability and versatility. Yamaha guitars are a good choice for beginners who are looking for a guitar that is easy to play and can be used for a variety of genres of music.
In addition to the brands listed above, there are a number of other brands that make good beginner electric guitars. When choosing a brand, it is important to do your research and read reviews from other guitarists. This will help you make an informed decision and choose a guitar that is right for you.
6. Reviews
Reading reviews of different electric guitars before you buy one is a great way to get an idea of what other people think of the guitar and whether or not it’s a good fit for you. Reviews can provide you with valuable insights into the guitar’s playability, sound quality, features, and overall value. By reading reviews, you can avoid making a purchase that you may regret later on.
- Reviews can help you identify potential problems with a guitar. Many reviews will mention if the guitar has any manufacturing defects or other problems. This information can be very helpful in making a decision about whether or not to buy a particular guitar.
- Reviews can help you compare different guitars. If you’re trying to decide between two or more different guitars, reading reviews can help you compare their features, sound quality, and playability. This can help you make an informed decision about which guitar is the best fit for you.
- Reviews can help you find the best guitar for your needs. Not all electric guitars are created equal. Some guitars are better suited for certain genres of music than others. By reading reviews, you can find a guitar that is well-suited for the type of music you want to play.
- Reviews can help you save money. By reading reviews, you can avoid making a purchase that you may regret later on. If you buy a guitar that doesn’t meet your expectations, you may end up spending more money in the long run by having to buy a new guitar.
Overall, reading reviews of different electric guitars before you buy one is a smart move. Reviews can provide you with valuable insights into the guitar’s playability, sound quality, features, and overall value. By reading reviews, you can make an informed decision about which guitar is the best fit for you and avoid making a purchase that you may regret later on.
7. Warranty
A warranty is an important consideration when choosing a beginner electric guitar. A warranty protects you in the event that the guitar is damaged or defective. This is especially important for beginners, who may not be as experienced in handling and maintaining a guitar.
Most electric guitars come with a warranty of at least one year. Some warranties may be longer, such as two or three years. The warranty will typically cover defects in materials and workmanship. This means that if the guitar is damaged due to a manufacturing defect, the warranty will cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
It is important to read the warranty carefully before you purchase a guitar. Make sure you understand what is covered by the warranty and what is not. You should also keep your warranty in a safe place in case you need to use it.
Having a warranty on your electric guitar gives you peace of mind knowing that you are protected in the event of damage or defects. This is especially important for beginners, who may not be as experienced in handling and maintaining a guitar.
| Warranty Length | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 1 year | Defects in materials and workmanship |
| 2 years | Defects in materials and workmanship, plus accidental damage |
| 3 years | Defects in materials and workmanship, plus accidental damage and wear and tear |
8. Accessories
In addition to a guitar, there are a few essential accessories you’ll need to get started playing electric guitar. These include an amplifier, a guitar cable, and a tuner.
- Amplifier: An amplifier is necessary to make your guitar audible. It takes the electrical signal from your guitar and amplifies it, producing sound. Amplifiers come in a variety of sizes and wattages, so you’ll need to choose one that is appropriate for your needs. For beginners, a small practice amplifier will be sufficient.
- Guitar cable: A guitar cable is used to connect your guitar to your amplifier. It is important to use a high-quality cable to ensure good sound quality. Guitar cables come in different lengths, so you’ll need to choose one that is long enough to reach from your guitar to your amplifier.
- Tuner: A tuner is used to tune your guitar. This is important to ensure that your guitar is in tune, which will make it easier to pl
ay and sound better. There are a variety of different tuners available, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Once you have all of the necessary accessories, you’ll be ready to start playing electric guitar. With a little practice, you’ll be able to master the basics and start playing your favorite songs.
9. Lessons
For beginner guitarists, taking lessons from a qualified instructor is highly recommended and considered an essential component of “beginner electric guitar recommendations.” Lessons provide a structured and effective approach to learning the fundamentals of guitar playing, fostering good habits and technique from the outset.
A skilled instructor can guide you through proper hand positioning, strumming and picking techniques, essential chords, scales, and music theory. By establishing a solid foundation, lessons minimize the risk of developing bad habits that can hinder progress and make learning more challenging in the long run.
Moreover, lessons offer personalized guidance tailored to your individual needs and learning pace. The instructor can identify areas where you need more support and provide targeted exercises and feedback to help you improve. This tailored approach accelerates your progress and enhances your overall playing ability.
While self-learning resources can be helpful, the benefits of structured lessons with a qualified instructor cannot be overstated. By investing in lessons, beginner guitarists lay the groundwork for a successful and enjoyable musical journey.
| Self-Learning | Lessons with a Qualified Instructor |
|---|---|
| Unstructured and may lead to bad habits | Structured and focused lessons minimize bad habits |
| Limited personalized guidance | Tailored instruction to meet individual needs |
| Slower progress due to potential mistakes | Accelerated progress with expert guidance |
FAQs on Beginner Electric Guitar Recommendations
This section addresses frequently asked questions regarding beginner electric guitar recommendations, providing concise and informative answers to empower aspiring guitarists in making informed decisions.
Question 1: What factors should I consider when choosing a beginner electric guitar?
When selecting a beginner electric guitar, several key factors merit consideration: price range, playability, sound quality, features, brand reputation, and availability of reviews and warranties.
Question 2: What is the ideal price range for a beginner electric guitar?
Beginner electric guitars typically range from $100 to $500, offering a wide selection at varying price points. It’s advisable to set a budget before shopping to avoid overspending.
Question 3: How do I assess the playability of an electric guitar?
Playability encompasses the guitar’s neck shape, action (string height), and weight. A comfortable neck shape, low action, and balanced weight contribute to an enjoyable playing experience, especially for beginners.
Question 4: What are the essential features to look for in a beginner electric guitar?
Essential features include a tremolo bar for vibrato effects, a pickup selector for tonal variations, and volume and tone controls for adjusting output and shaping the sound.
Question 5: Are there specific brands recommended for beginner electric guitars?
Squier, Epiphone, and Yamaha are reputable brands known for producing high-quality and affordable guitars suitable for beginners.
Question 6: Why is it important to read reviews and consider warranties when purchasing a beginner electric guitar?
Reviews from other users provide valuable insights into the guitar’s performance, while warranties offer peace of mind by protecting against manufacturing defects or damage.
In summary, carefully considering these factors and seeking guidance from experienced individuals or reputable sources will assist beginner guitarists in making informed choices and selecting the most appropriate electric guitar for their needs and aspirations.
Transitioning to the next article section: Selecting the right accessories, such as an amplifier, guitar cable, and tuner, is crucial for a complete electric guitar playing experience.
Tips for Choosing the Best Beginner Electric Guitar
Selecting your first electric guitar is an exciting step in your musical journey. To help you navigate the options and make an informed choice, here are some valuable tips to guide you:
Tip 1: Set a Realistic Budget
Beginner electric guitars range in price from affordable to professional-grade. Determine your budget before shopping to avoid overspending or limiting your options.
Tip 2: Prioritize Playability
A comfortable guitar makes learning easier. Look for a guitar with a neck shape that fits your hand, low action (string height) for effortless fretting, and a balanced weight for extended playing sessions.
Tip 3: Consider Sound Quality
The sound of your guitar is crucial. Choose a guitar with a clear and balanced tone, suitable for the genres you aspire to play. Listen to samples or visit a music store to experience different guitars in person.
Tip 4: Select Essential Features
Essential features for beginners include a tremolo bar for vibrato effects, a pickup selector for tonal variations, and volume and tone controls for adjusting output and sound shaping.
Tip 5: Explore Reputable Brands
Established brands like Squier, Epiphone, and Yamaha offer high-quality and affordable beginner electric guitars. Their guitars are known for reliability, durability, and playability.
Tip 6: Read Reviews and Seek Advice
Read reviews from other guitarists and consult with experienced musicians to gain insights into different guitar models and their suitability for beginners.
Tip 7: Ensure a Proper Setup
A proper setup by a qualified guitar technician optimizes the guitar’s playability and sound. This includes adjusting the intonation, truss rod, and pickup height for the best possible playing experience.
Tip 8: Invest in Essential Accessories
In addition to the guitar, you’ll need an amplifier, guitar cable, and tuner. These accessories are essential for producing sound, connecting to an amplifier, and keeping your guitar in tune.
Remember, choosing the right beginner electric guitar is a personal decision. Consider your budget, playing style, sound preferences, and the tips outlined above to make an informed choice that will jumpstart your musical journey.
Conclusion
Choosing the right beginner electric guitar is a crucial step in embarking on your musical journey. This article has explored various aspects of beginner electric guitar recommendations, providing valuable insights and practical tips to guide you in making an informed decision.
Remember to consider your budget, playing style, sound preferences, and the factors discussed throughout this article. Prioritizing playability, sound quality, essential features, and reputable brands will lead you to a guitar that suits your needs and aspirations as a beginner guitarist.
As you progress on your musical path, your guitar will become an indispensable companion. Embrace the learning process, seek g
uidance from experienced musicians, and explore different genres to expand your musical horizons.
The world of electric guitar playing is rich and rewarding. With the right guitar and dedication, you can unlock your musical potential and embark on a fulfilling musical journey.
