Are you looking for a good intermediate acoustic guitar? If so, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll help you choose the perfect guitar for your needs and budget.
Editor’s Note:Choosing the right acoustic guitar is important for any intermediate player. With so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
We’ve done the research and digging, and we’ve put together this guide to help you choose the best intermediate acoustic guitar for your needs. We’ll cover everything from body size and shape to tonewoods and electronics. So whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered.
Key Differences
| Feature | Good Intermediate Acoustic Guitar |
|---|---|
| Body Size | Dreadnought, Grand Auditorium, Concert |
| Tonewoods | Spruce, Mahogany, Rosewood |
| Electronics | Optional, but recommended for live performance |
| Price | $500-$1,500 |
Main Article Topics
- Body Size and Shape
- Tonewoods
- Electronics
- Price
- Recommended Models
1. Body size and shape
The body size and shape of an acoustic guitar has a significant impact on its sound and playability. Dreadnought guitars are the most popular type of acoustic guitar, and they are known for their big, bold sound. Grand auditorium guitars are a bit smaller than dreadnoughts, and they have a more balanced sound. Concert guitars are the smallest of the three types, and they have a mellower sound. Here is a breakdown of the key differences between these three body sizes and shapes:
- Dreadnought: Dreadnought guitars are the largest and loudest of the three body sizes and shapes. They have a big, bold sound that is perfect for strumming and flatpicking. Dreadnoughts are also popular for use in bluegrass and country music.
- Grand auditorium: Grand auditorium guitars are a bit smaller than dreadnoughts, and they have a more balanced sound. They are a good choice for fingerstyle playing and strumming. Grand auditorium guitars are also popular for use in folk and rock music.
- Concert: Concert guitars are the smallest of the three body sizes and shapes. They have a mellower sound that is perfect for fingerstyle playing. Concert guitars are also popular for use in classical and flamenco music.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a body size and shape for your intermediate acoustic guitar is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you. However, the information provided above can help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect guitar for your needs.
2. Tonewoods
The type of wood used to construct an acoustic guitar has a significant impact on its sound and tone. Spruce, mahogany, and rosewood are the most common tonewoods used in acoustic guitars, and each wood has its own unique characteristics.
- Spruce: Spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. It is often used for the soundboards of acoustic guitars because it produces a strong projection and clarity.
- Mahogany: Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, rich sound. It is often used for the backs and sides of acoustic guitars because it provides a good balance of warmth and clarity.
- Rosewood: Rosewood is a dense wood with a deep, resonant sound. It is often used for the fingerboards and bridges of acoustic guitars because it provides a smooth, comfortable playing surface and a rich, warm tone.
When choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar, it is important to consider the type of wood used in its construction. The type of wood will impact the sound, tone, and playability of the guitar. By understanding the different types of tonewoods and their unique characteristics, you can choose a guitar that is best suited to your playing style and musical preferences.
3. Electronics
Electronics can be a valuable addition to an intermediate acoustic guitar, especially if you plan on playing live or recording your music. Here are some of the benefits of having electronics on your guitar:
- Amplification: Electronics allow you to amplify your guitar’s sound, which is essential for playing in a live setting. You can plug your guitar into an amplifier or PA system to project your sound to the audience.
- EQ and effects: Electronics also give you access to EQ and effects, which can help you shape your sound and create a variety of different tones. EQ can be used to adjust the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies of your guitar’s sound, while effects can be used to add reverb, delay, chorus, and other effects to your playing.
- Recording: Electronics can also be used to record your guitar’s sound. You can plug your guitar into an audio interface and record your playing into a computer or recording device. This is a great way to capture your ideas and share your music with others.
While electronics are not essential for an intermediate acoustic guitar, they can be a valuable addition if you plan on playing live or recording your music. By understanding the benefits of electronics, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to add them to your guitar.
4. Price
The price of a good intermediate acoustic guitar can vary depending on a number of factors, including the brand, materials, and features. However, most good intermediate acoustic guitars will cost between $500 and $1,500.
- Materials: The materials used to construct a guitar can have a significant impact on its price. Guitars made with higher-quality materials, such as solid wood, will typically cost more than guitars made with lower-quality materials, such as laminate.
- Brand: The brand of a guitar can also affect its price. Guitars from well-known brands, such as Taylor and Martin, will typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands.
- Features: The features of a guitar can also
affect its price. Guitars with more features, such as electronics and cutaways, will typically cost more than guitars with fewer features.
When choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar, it is important to consider your budget and your individual needs. If you are on a tight budget, there are many good intermediate acoustic guitars available for under $500. However, if you are willing to spend more money, you can get a guitar with better materials, features, and sound quality.
5. Playability
Playability is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar. An acoustic guitar with good playability will be comfortable to hold and play, and it will have a good action, which means that the strings are not too high or too low. This makes it easier to play chords and notes cleanly and accurately.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the playability of an acoustic guitar, including the neck shape, the fretboard radius, and the string height. The neck shape should be comfortable to hold, and the fretboard radius should be comfortable to play on. The string height should be low enough to make it easy to fret chords and notes, but not so low that the strings buzz against the frets.
If you are a beginner, it is important to choose an acoustic guitar with good playability. This will make it easier for you to learn to play the guitar and will help you to avoid developing bad habits.
Here are some tips for choosing an acoustic guitar with good playability:
- Hold the guitar in your playing position and make sure that the neck is comfortable to hold.
- Play a few chords and notes to see if the action is too high or too low.
- If the action is too high, you can have it lowered by a guitar technician.
- If the action is too low, you can have it raised by a guitar technician.
By following these tips, you can choose an acoustic guitar with good playability that will help you to learn to play the guitar and enjoy playing it for years to come.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Neck Shape | The neck shape should be comfortable to hold. |
| Fretboard Radius | The fretboard radius should be comfortable to play on. |
| String Height | The string height should be low enough to make it easy to fret chords and notes, but not so low that the strings buzz against the frets. |
6. Sound
The sound of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an instrument. A good intermediate acoustic guitar should have a balanced sound with good projection and clarity. This means that the guitar should produce a full, rich sound that is evenly distributed across the entire frequency range. The guitar should also be able to project its sound well, so that it can be heard clearly in a variety of settings. Finally, the guitar should have good clarity, so that the notes are distinct and easy to hear.
There are a number of factors that contribute to the sound of a guitar, including the body size and shape, the type of wood used, and the construction of the guitar. The body size and shape of the guitar will determine the overall sound of the instrument. Larger guitars, such as dreadnoughts, typically have a louder and more powerful sound than smaller guitars, such as concert guitars. The type of wood used in the construction of the guitar will also affect the sound. Spruce is a common choice for acoustic guitars because it produces a bright and clear sound. Mahogany is another popular choice, as it produces a warm and mellow sound. The construction of the guitar will also affect the sound. Guitars with solid wood tops will typically have a richer and more resonant sound than guitars with laminate tops.
When choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar, it is important to consider the sound of the instrument. A guitar with a balanced sound with good projection and clarity will be a versatile instrument that can be used in a variety of settings. Whether you are playing solo or with a band, a good sounding guitar will help you to sound your best.
Here is a table summarizing the key insights discussed in this section:
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Balanced sound | A guitar with a balanced sound will produce a full, rich sound that is evenly distributed across the entire frequency range. |
| Good projection | A guitar with good projection will be able to project its sound well, so that it can be heard clearly in a variety of settings. |
| Good clarity | A guitar with good clarity will have notes that are distinct and easy to hear. |
7. Versatility
For intermediate guitarists, versatility is a key consideration when choosing an acoustic guitar. A versatile guitar will allow you to explore different genres and playing styles, from strumming to fingerpicking to flatpicking. Here are a few reasons why versatility is important for a good intermediate acoustic guitar:
- It allows you to explore different genres: As an intermediate guitarist, you may be interested in exploring different genres of music, from folk and blues to rock and country. A versatile guitar will allow you to do this without having to buy multiple guitars.
- It makes you a more well-rounded player: Learning to play different styles of music on the guitar will help you develop your overall skills as a player. You will learn different techniques, improve your coordination, and develop a better understanding of music theory.
- It makes it easier to play with others: If you play with other musicians, having a versatile guitar will make it easier to adapt to different musical styles. You will be able to switch between strumming and fingerpicking, or between flatpicking and lead guitar, without having to change guitars.
When choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar, it is important to consider the guitar’s versatility. A versatile guitar will allow you to explore different genres and playing styles, making you a more well-rounded player and making it easier to play with others.
8. Durability
Durability is an essential aspect of a good intermediate acoustic guitar. A well-made guitar will withstand the rigors of regular playing and travel, and will last for many years to come. Here are a few reasons why durability is important:
- Protection against damage: A durable guitar is less likely to be damaged by bumps, scratches, and other accidents. This is important for intermediate guitarists who may be taking their guitar to gigs, rehearsals, and other events.
- Stability over time: A well-made guitar will remain stable over time, meaning that the neck
will not warp and the body will not crack. This is important for maintaining the guitar’s playability and sound quality. - Increased resale value: A durable guitar will hold its value better than a poorly made guitar. This is important for intermediate guitarists who may eventually want to upgrade to a better guitar.
When choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar, it is important to consider the guitar’s durability. A durable guitar will be a worthwhile investment that will provide you with many years of enjoyment.
Here are some tips for choosing a durable acoustic guitar:
- Look for guitars made from high-quality materials: Guitars made from solid wood, such as mahogany, rosewood, and spruce, are more durable than guitars made from laminate or plywood.
- Check the construction of the guitar: The guitar should be well-built, with a strong neck joint and a sturdy body. Look for guitars with dovetail neck joints and solid wood bracing.
- Consider the guitar’s finish: A guitar with a durable finish will be less likely to be damaged by scratches and other wear and tear. Look for guitars with nitrocellulose or polyurethane finishes.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Materials | Guitars made from high-quality materials, such as solid wood, are more durable than guitars made from laminate or plywood. |
| Construction | The guitar should be well-built, with a strong neck joint and a sturdy body. |
| Finish | A guitar with a durable finish will be less likely to be damaged by scratches and other wear and tear. |
FAQs on Choosing a Good Intermediate Acoustic Guitar
Choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help you make an informed decision.
Question 1: What is the difference between a good beginner acoustic guitar and a good intermediate acoustic guitar?
A good beginner acoustic guitar is typically made from lower-quality materials and has a simpler construction than a good intermediate acoustic guitar. Beginner guitars are also often smaller and have a narrower neck, which can make them easier to play for people with smaller hands. Intermediate guitars, on the other hand, are typically made from higher-quality materials and have a more durable construction. They also often have a wider neck and a longer scale length, which can make them better suited for playing more complex music.
Question 2: What are the most important factors to consider when choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar?
When choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar, there are a few key factors to consider: body size and shape, tonewoods, electronics, price, playability, sound, versatility, and durability. Body size and shape will affect the overall sound of the guitar, while tonewoods will affect the specific tone and sustain. Electronics can be useful for playing live or recording, and price is always a consideration. Playability is important for comfort and ease of playing, while sound is important for finding a guitar that suits your musical style. Versatility is important if you want to play a variety of genres, and durability is important for ensuring that your guitar will last for many years to come.
Question 3: What are the best brands of intermediate acoustic guitars?
There are many great brands of intermediate acoustic guitars on the market, including Taylor, Martin, Gibson, Yamaha, and Fender. These brands are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and materials, and they offer a wide range of guitars to choose from. When choosing a brand, it is important to consider your budget, your playing style, and the specific features that you are looking for in a guitar.
Question 4: How much should I expect to pay for a good intermediate acoustic guitar?
Good intermediate acoustic guitars typically cost between $500 and $1,500. However, there are many great guitars available for less than $500, and there are also some great guitars available for more than $1,500. The price of a guitar will depend on the brand, the materials, the construction, and the features.
Question 5: Where can I find a good intermediate acoustic guitar?
Good intermediate acoustic guitars can be found at a variety of music stores, both online and offline. When shopping for a guitar, it is important to try out several different models before making a decision. This will allow you to compare the sound, feel, and playability of different guitars and choose the one that is best for you.
Question 6: What are some tips for choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar?
Here are a few tips for choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar:
- Consider your budget, playing style, and the specific features that you are looking for in a guitar.
- Do your research and read reviews of different guitars before making a decision.
- Try out several different models before making a decision.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a or other experienced guitarist.
Choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can choose a guitar that will help you take your playing to the next level.
Transition: Now that you have a better understanding of how to choose a good intermediate acoustic guitar, you can start shopping for the perfect guitar for you. Visit your local music store or browse online retailers to find a guitar that meets your needs and budget.
Tips for choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar
Choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are five tips to help you choose the perfect guitar for your needs and budget:
Tip 1: Consider your playing style. What kind of music do you play? What techniques do you use? Consider these factors when choosing a guitar’s body size, shape, and tonewoods.
Tip 2: Set a budget. How much can you afford to spend on a guitar? Keep in mind that the price of a guitar will vary depending on the brand, materials, and construction.
Tip 3: Do your research. Read reviews of different guitars online and in magazines. Talk to other guitarists about their experiences with different brands and models.
Tip 4: Try out different guitars. The best way to find the right guitar for you is to try out different models. Visit a local music store and play a variety of guitars to compare their sound, feel, and playability.
Tip 5: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re not sure what to look for in a guitar, ask for help from a guitar teacher, experienced guitarist, or salesperson at a music store.
By following these tips, you can choose a good intermediate acoustic guitar that will help you take your playing to the next level.
Key Takeaways:
- Consider your playing style and budget when choosing a guitar.
- Do your research and read reviews before making a decision.
- Try out different guitars to find the one that feels and sounds best to you.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a guitar teacher, experienced guitarist, or salesperson at a music store.
Conclusion:
Choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar is an important decision. By following these tips, you can choose a guitar that will meet your needs and help you take your playin
g to the next level.
Conclusion
Choosing a good intermediate acoustic guitar is an important decision for any musician. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can choose a guitar that will meet your needs and help you take your playing to the next level.
Whether you are a beginner looking to upgrade your first guitar or an experienced player looking for a new instrument, there is a good intermediate acoustic guitar out there for you. Take your time, do your research, and try out different guitars before making a decision. With a little effort, you can find the perfect guitar to help you reach your musical goals.
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