There are a number of reasons to choose an acoustic guitar over electric. Acoustic guitars are easier to play for beginners and can be played almost anywhere. Electric guitars are obviously limited to areas with an electrical outlet to plug in the amplifier. Also, acoustic guitars are generally less expensive than their electric counterparts. Even if the guitar itself is the same price, you will save money by not having to purchase an amplifier.

The first thing to do is decide on the size of acoustic guitar that is best for you.

Of course, your physical size determines how large or small a guitar you can comfortable play. Within those limits, there are several sizes that will probably fit you, so the decision then becomes what type of sound you want from your acoustic guitar. Look at the size of the nut as this also indicates the width of the neck. If you have smaller hands, you may need a narrower neck to be able to reach all of the notes. Remember that the width of the neck goes up as you move upward, so be sure to test out the fit of our hands in all places along the neck.

The type of wood used in the construction of the acoustic guitar can affect the tone it produces.

The most common woods are maple, mahogany, or rosewood. Spruce gives the most balanced tone, which is why it is used on most of the popular steel-stringed models. Maple is the next most balanced tone, a little bit mellower than that produced by a spruce acoustic guitar. Rosewood instruments have a heavier, darker, tone, almost like a bass guitar. Classical guitars are generally made out of cedar and give a somewhat brighter tone. Another popular choice for guitar construction is koa wood, which produces a heavy tone that is still a bit lighter than that of a rosewood guitar.

Decide on the thickness of strings for your acoustic guitar.

Different models may come with different gauges of string, so you may want to ask if the strings can be switched out without affecting the guitar's tone. The standard string gauges are heavy, medium, light, and extra light. Along with affecting the sound, the string thickness may also need to be switched according to the size and strength of your hands. Thinner strings are easier to press down on the neck, but also do not give the full sound of thicker strings.

After you have picked out your new acoustic guitar, you will probably need a few accessories before you can get started. It is a good idea to purchase a guitar case to protect your investment. This is especially important for hollow-bodied acoustic guitars as they are much more vulnerable than a solid electric guitar would be. Another popular guitar accessory is a strap to hold the instrument while you play. This is almost mandatory if you will be playing your guitar standing up. Also, remember to get a selection of guitar picks before leaving the store. Picks come in different sizes, thicknesses, and materials, depending on the strings you have and the type of music you will be playing.

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Originally posted 2008-12-08 05:21:42. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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