Buying your first guitar can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. Here are some tips to help you make the best purchase:
Set a budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on your first guitar. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending. There's no need to spend any more than $700 MAX for a starting instrument these days.
Decide on the type of guitar: There are several types of guitars, including acoustic, electric, classical, and more. Consider what type of music you want to play and what type of guitar would be best suited for that style. In my experience the electric guitar is a bit easier for many students.
Try before you buy: Visit a music store and try out different guitars to get a feel for what you like. Play a few chords and scales to see how the guitar sounds and feels in your hands. If you are a complete beginner ask a store associate for assistance and see if they can demo some guitars for you.
Check the quality: Look for a guitar that is well-built and has good intonation (i.e., the notes sound in tune when played). Check for any cracks, dents, or scratches on the body, neck, and fretboard. Make sure the strings are not more than about two credit cards distance from the fretboard.
Consider the size: If you are a smaller person, you may want to consider a smaller guitar, such as a ¾ or ½ size, which will be easier to handle and play. Acoustic guitars especially, vary greatly in size and sound.
Get the necessary accessories: You will need some basic accessories to get started, such as a capo, picks, and a tuner. Consider purchasing a gig bag or case to protect your guitar when you're not playing it.
Take lessons: Finally, consider taking guitar lessons to help you get started and improve your skills. A good teacher can help you learn proper technique and develop good habits from the beginning.
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