Which Guitar is Best for Beginners Acoustic? [2024] 🎸

a woman holding a guitar in a field

Are you ready to embark on your musical journey and learn to play the guitar? Congratulations! Learning to play an instrument is a rewarding experience that can bring you joy for a lifetime. But before you can start strumming away, you’ll need to find the perfect guitar for beginners. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s where we come in! At Guitar Brands™, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to finding the best acoustic guitar for beginners. Let’s dive in and find the perfect guitar for you!

Quick Answer: The Best Acoustic Guitars for Beginners

âś… Taylor Academy 10: Ultra playable, versatile tones, sounds superb. Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Sweetwater Sound | Check Price on Guitar Center

âś… Fender CD-60S: Great value for money, lovely neck feel, solid Spruce top. Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Guitar Center | Check Price on Walmart

âś… Martin LX1 Little Martin: Classic Martin design made smaller, sounds bigger than it looks, fun to play. Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Sweetwater Sound | Check Price on Guitar Center

âś… Yamaha FG800M: Solid top at a low price, very affordable, robust build quality. Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Walmart | Check Price on Guitar Center

âś… Tanglewood Blackbird: Perfect beginner guitar, outstanding value, comfortable neck feel. Check Price on Guitar Center | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Walmart

âś… Epiphone Hummingbird Studio: Gorgeous design, rich, deep tone, works well for fingerpickers. Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on zZounds | Check Price on Sweetwater Sound

Now that we’ve given you a quick answer, let’s dive deeper into the world of beginner acoustic guitars and explore everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind when choosing a guitar for beginners:

✅ Playability: As a beginner, it’s important to choose a guitar that is easy to play. Look for guitars with a comfortable neck shape and low action (the distance between the strings and the fretboard). This will make it easier for you to press down on the strings and form chords.

✅ Sound: The sound of a guitar is subjective, so it’s important to choose one that resonates with you. Acoustic guitars produce different tones depending on the tonewoods used, body shape, and construction. Experiment with different guitars to find the sound that you love.

✅ Budget: Set a budget for your guitar purchase. While it’s tempting to splurge on a high-end instrument, there are plenty of affordable options that offer great quality for beginners. Don’t break the bank on your first guitar, as your preferences may change as you progress.

âś… Size: Consider the size of the guitar, especially if you have smaller hands or are buying for a child. Smaller body sizes, such as 3/4 or parlor guitars, can be more comfortable to play for beginners.

✅ Brand: Established guitar brands like Taylor, Fender, Martin, Yamaha, Tanglewood, and Epiphone are known for their quality and offer a wide range of options for beginners. Stick to reputable brands to ensure you’re getting a reliable instrument.

Now that you have these quick tips in mind, let’s dive into the background and history of acoustic guitars for beginners.

Background: A Brief History of Acoustic Guitars

white electric guitar on blue guitar amplifier

The acoustic guitar has a rich history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where stringed instruments were used to create music. Over time, the guitar evolved and took on various forms, eventually leading to the modern acoustic guitar we know today.

The acoustic guitar is a versatile instrument that can be played in a variety of musical genres, from folk and country to rock and pop. It’s a popular choice for beginners due to its simplicity and portability. Unlike electric guitars, acoustic guitars don’t require an amplifier to produce sound, making them easy to pick up and play anywhere.

Acoustic guitars are typically made of wood, with the top (or soundboard) being the most important part for producing sound. Different tonewoods, such as Spruce, Mahogany, and Rosewood, are used to create different tones and characteristics. The body shape of the guitar also plays a role in the sound it produces, with dreadnought and concert shapes being popular choices for beginners.

Now that you have a bit of background knowledge, let’s dive into the key factors to consider when choosing the best acoustic guitar for beginners.

1. How to Choose the Best Beginner Acoustic Guitar for You

Video: Buying Your First Acoustic Guitar (5 Things You MUST Consider) | A Beginner's Guide.







Choosing the right acoustic guitar as a beginner is crucial to your learning experience. Here are the key factors to consider when making your decision:

1.1. Budget

As a beginner, it’s important to set a budget for your guitar purchase. Acoustic guitars come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end instruments. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. Remember, you can always upgrade to a better guitar as you progress.

1.2. Playability

Playability is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a beginner acoustic guitar. Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck shape and low action. This will make it easier for you to press down on the strings and form chords. Visit a local music store and try out different guitars to find one that feels comfortable in your hands.

1.3. Sound

The sound of a guitar is subjective, so it’s important to choose one that resonates with you. Acoustic guitars produce different tones depending on the tonewoods used, body shape, and construction. Experiment with different guitars to find the sound that you love. Consider the genres of music you want to play and choose a guitar that suits your style.

1.4. Size

The size of the guitar is an important consideration, especially if you have smaller hands or are buying for a child. Smaller body sizes, such as 3/4 or parlor guitars, can be more comfortable to play for beginners. Visit a music store and try out guitars of different sizes to find one that feels right for you.

1.5. Brand Reputation

Stick to reputable guitar brands when choosing a beginner acoustic guitar. Established brands like Taylor, Fender, Martin, Yamaha, Tanglewood, and Epiphone are known for their quality and offer a wide range of options for beginners. Choosing a reputable brand ensures that you’re getting a reliable instrument that will last.

1.6. Additional Features

Consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some acoustic guitars come with built-in electronics, allowing you to plug into an amplifier or PA system. This can be useful if you plan on performing live or recording your music. However, if you’re just starting out, you may not need these features right away.

Now that you know what to look for in a beginner acoustic guitar, let’s explore some of the best options on the market.

2. Best Acoustic Guitars for Beginners

Video: Best Acoustic Guitars Under $200 – Great Guitars For Beginners (2020).







In this section, we’ll introduce you to some of the best acoustic guitars for beginners. We’ve carefully selected these guitars based on their playability, sound quality, and overall value for money. Let’s dive in!

2.1. Taylor Academy 10

Rating: 9.5/10

  • Design: 9/10
  • Functionality: 10/10
  • Performance: 9/10
  • Cost-effectiveness: 9/10
  • Overall: 9.5/10

The Taylor Academy 10 is an excellent choice for beginners who are looking for a high-quality acoustic guitar. It features a solid Sitka Spruce top, which produces a bright and balanced tone. The Maple neck and Ebony fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience, making it easy for beginners to form chords and play melodies.

One of the standout features of the Taylor Academy 10 is its playability. The neck has a comfortable shape and the action is set low, making it easy to press down on the strings. This guitar is versatile and can be used for a wide range of musical genres.

In terms of sound, the Taylor Academy 10 delivers a rich and vibrant tone. It has a clear and balanced sound that is suitable for both strumming and fingerpicking. Whether you’re playing chords or melodies, this guitar will sound superb.

The Taylor Academy 10 is a bit on the pricey side for a beginner guitar, but its quality and playability make it worth the investment. If you’re serious about learning the guitar and want an instrument that will grow with you, the Taylor Academy 10 is an excellent choice.

Pros:

  • Ultra playable
  • Versatile tones
  • Sounds superb

Cons:

  • Pricey for a beginner guitar

Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Sweetwater Sound | Check Price on Guitar Center

2.2. Fender CD-60S

Rating: 9/10

  • Design: 8/10
  • Functionality: 9/10
  • Performance: 9/10
  • Cost-effectiveness: 10/10
  • Overall: 9/10

The Fender CD-60S is a budget-friendly option that offers great value for money. It features a solid Spruce top, which produces a bright and resonant tone. The Mahogany neck and Walnut fingerboard offer a comfortable playing experience, making it easy for beginners to learn and progress.

One of the standout features of the Fender CD-60S is its playability. The neck has a slim profile and the action is set low, making it easy to press down on the strings. This guitar is suitable for beginners of all ages and sizes.

In terms of sound, the Fender CD-60S delivers a warm and balanced tone. It has a rich sound that is suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Whether you’re strumming chords or playing fingerstyle, this guitar will sound great.

The Fender CD-60S is an excellent choice for beginners on a budget. It offers great value for money and is built to last. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable acoustic guitar, the Fender CD-60S is a solid option.

Pros:

  • Great value for money
  • Lovely neck feel
  • Solid Spruce top

Cons:

  • You might quickly outgrow it

Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Guitar Center | Check Price on Walmart

2.3. Martin LX1 Little Martin

Rating: 9/10

  • Design: 9/10
  • Functionality: 9/10
  • Performance: 9/10
  • Cost-effectiveness: 9/10
  • Overall: 9/10

The Martin LX1 Little Martin is a compact and travel-friendly guitar that offers big sound in a small package. It features a solid Sitka Spruce top, which produces a rich and resonant tone. The Rust Stratabond neck and Richlite fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience, making it easy for beginners to learn and play.

One of the standout features of the Martin LX1 Little Martin is its portability. It’s the perfect guitar to take on the go, whether you’re traveling or playing at home. Despite its small size, this guitar delivers a surprisingly big sound that is suitable for a wide range of musical styles.

In terms of sound, the Martin LX1 Little Martin has a warm and balanced tone. It has a clear and articulate sound that is perfect for both strumming and fingerpicking. Whether you’re playing chords or melodies, this guitar will exceed your expectations.

The Martin LX1 Little Martin is a great choice for beginners who are looking for a compact and travel-friendly guitar. It offers excellent playability and sound quality in a small package. If you’re always on the go and want a guitar that you can take anywhere, the Martin LX1 Little Martin is the perfect choice.

Pros:

  • Classic Martin design made smaller
  • Sounds bigger than it looks
  • Fun to play

Cons:

  • There are louder guitars out there

Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Sweetwater Sound | Check Price on Guitar Center

2.4. Yamaha FG800M

Rating: 8.5/10

  • Design: 8/10
  • Functionality: 9/10
  • Performance: 8/10
  • Cost-effectiveness: 9/10
  • Overall: 8.5/10

The Yamaha FG800M is a solid choice for beginners who are looking for a reliable and affordable acoustic guitar. It features a solid Spruce top, which produces a bright and balanced tone. The Nato neck and Rosewood fingerboard offer a comfortable playing experience, making it easy for beginners to learn and progress.

One of the standout features of the Yamaha FG800M is its affordability. It offers excellent value for money and is built to last. This guitar is suitable for beginners of all ages and sizes.

In terms of sound, the Yamaha FG800M delivers a warm and resonant tone. It has a rich sound that is suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Whether you’re strumming chords or playing fingerstyle, this guitar will sound great.

The Yamaha FG800M is a great choice for beginners on a budget. It offers solid construction, playability, and sound quality at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable acoustic guitar, the Yamaha FG800M is a great option.

Pros:

  • Solid top at a low price
  • Very affordable
  • Robust build quality

Cons:

  • Dreadnought size too large for some

Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Walmart | Check Price on Guitar Center

2.5. Tanglewood Blackbird

Rating: 8.5/10

  • Design: 9/10
  • Functionality: 8/10
  • Performance: 8/10
  • Cost-effectiveness: 9/10
  • Overall: 8.5/10

The Tanglewood Blackbird is a perfect beginner guitar that offers outstanding value for money. It features an orchestra body type and a laminated Mahogany top, back, and sides, which produce a warm and balanced tone. The Techwood fingerboard offers a comfortable playing experience, making it easy for beginners to learn and play.

One of the standout features of the Tanglewood Blackbird is its playability. The neck has a comfortable shape and the action is set low, making it easy to press down on the strings. This guitar is suitable for beginners of all ages and sizes.

In terms of sound, the Tanglewood Blackbird delivers a warm and mellow tone. It has a balanced sound that is suitable for a wide range of musical styles. Whether you’re strumming chords or playing fingerstyle, this guitar will exceed your expectations.

The Tanglewood Blackbird is an excellent choice for beginners who are looking for a reliable and affordable acoustic guitar. It offers great playability and sound quality at an affordable price. If you’re on a budget and want a guitar that delivers great value for money, the Tanglewood Blackbird is a solid option.

Pros:

  • Perfect beginner guitar
  • Outstanding value
  • Comfortable neck feel

Cons:

  • Lacking a little low-end

Check Price on Guitar Center | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Walmart

2.6. Epiphone Hummingbird Studio

Rating: 8/10

  • Design: 9/10
  • Functionality: 8/10
  • Performance: 8/10
  • Cost-effectiveness: 7/10
  • Overall: 8/10

The Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is a visually stunning guitar that offers a rich and deep tone. It features a solid Spruce top, which produces a bright and resonant tone. The Mahogany neck and Rosewood fingerboard offer a comfortable playing experience, making it easy for beginners to learn and progress.

One of the standout features of the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is its design. It features the iconic Hummingbird pickguard and Cherry Sunburst finish, giving it a unique and eye-catching look. This guitar is perfect for beginners who want an instrument that looks as good as it sounds.

In terms of sound, the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio delivers a rich and deep tone. It has a warm sound that is perfect for fingerpickers and strummers alike. Whether you’re playing chords or intricate melodies, this guitar will impress you with its sound quality.

The Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is a great choice for beginners who want a visually stunning guitar with a rich and deep tone. It offers excellent playability and sound quality, but it comes at a slightly higher price point. If you’re willing to invest a bit more for a guitar that looks and sounds amazing, the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio is the perfect choice.

Pros:

  • Gorgeous design
  • Rich, deep tone
  • Works well for fingerpickers

Cons:

  • May be too flashy for some

Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on zZounds | Check Price on Sweetwater Sound

Now that we’ve explored some of the best acoustic guitars for beginners, let’s move on to some additional tips and advice for buying a beginner acoustic guitar.

3. What Else Should You Know About Buying a Beginner Acoustic Guitar?

Video: Which Acoustic Guitar Should I Buy? (for any budget).







In this section, we’ll cover some additional tips and advice to help you make an informed decision when buying a beginner acoustic guitar. Let’s dive in!

3.1. Consider Used Guitars

If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying a used guitar. Used guitars can offer great value for money and allow you to get a higher-quality instrument for a lower price. Just make sure to inspect the guitar thoroughly and play it before making a purchase.

3.2. Get a Setup

When you buy a new guitar, it’s a good idea to get it professionally set up. A setup involves adjusting the neck, action, and intonation of the guitar to ensure optimal playability. This will make your guitar easier to play and sound better.

3.3. Take Lessons

Investing in guitar lessons can greatly accelerate your learning process. A qualified guitar teacher can guide you through the basics and help you develop good technique and habits. They can also provide personalized feedback and answer any questions you may have.

3.4. Practice, Practice, Practice

Learning to play the guitar takes time and dedication. Make sure to set aside regular practice sessions and stick to them. Consistency is key when learning any instrument, so make it a habit to practice every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

3.5. Join a Community

Joining a community of fellow guitarists can be a great source of inspiration and motivation. Look for local guitar groups or online forums where you can connect with other beginners and experienced players. Sharing your progress and learning from others can greatly enhance your musical journey.

Now that you have a better understanding of what to look for when buying a beginner acoustic guitar, let’s address some frequently asked questions.

FAQ

electric jazz guitar

Q: Which acoustic guitar is best for beginners?

A: The best acoustic guitar for beginners depends on your personal preferences and budget. Some popular options include the Taylor Academy 10, Fender CD-60S, Martin LX1 Little Martin, Yamaha FG800M, Tanglewood Blackbird, and Epiphone Hummingbird Studio. Consider factors such as playability, sound, size, and brand reputation when making your decision.

Read more about “Acoustic Guitars: A Comprehensive Guide … 🎸”

Q: How do I choose an acoustic guitar for beginners?

A: When choosing an acoustic guitar for beginners, consider factors such as playability, sound, size, brand reputation, and budget. Look for a guitar that feels comfortable in your hands, produces a sound that resonates with you, and fits within your budget. Visit a local music store and try out different guitars to find the perfect fit.

Read more about “Taylor Swift’s Guitar Journey: Unveiling Her Acoustic Arsenal …”

Q: What guitar should a beginner start with?

A: As a beginner, it’s best to start with a guitar that is easy to play and suits your musical preferences. Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck shape, low action, and a sound that resonates with you. Consider options like the Taylor Academy 10, Fender CD-60S, Martin LX1 Little Martin, Yamaha FG800M, Tanglewood Blackbird, and Epiphone Hummingbird Studio.

Q: Can a beginner start with an acoustic guitar?

A: Absolutely! Acoustic guitars are a popular choice for beginners due to their simplicity and portability. They don’t require an amplifier to produce sound, making them easy to pick up and play anywhere. Whether you’re interested in strumming chords or playing fingerstyle, an acoustic guitar is a great instrument to start with.

Now that we’ve covered the most frequently asked questions, let’s wrap up this guide with a conclusion.

Conclusion

a man sitting on a car holding a guitar

Choosing the best acoustic guitar for beginners is an important decision that can greatly impact your learning experience. We’ve explored some of the top options on the market, including the Taylor Academy 10, Fender CD-60S, Martin LX1 Little Martin, Yamaha FG800M, Tanglewood Blackbird, and Epiphone Hummingbird Studio. Each of these guitars offers excellent playability, sound quality, and value for money.

When choosing a beginner acoustic guitar, consider factors such as playability, sound, size, brand reputation, and budget. Visit a local music store and try out different guitars to find the perfect fit for you. Remember to set a budget and stick to it, as there are plenty of affordable options that offer great quality for beginners.

No matter which guitar you choose, remember that learning to play the guitar takes time and dedication. Set aside regular practice sessions, take lessons if possible, and join a community of fellow guitarists for support and inspiration. With the right guitar and a passion for learning, you’ll be strumming away in no time!

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you in your search for the best acoustic guitar for beginners. If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to us. Happy playing!

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

Articles: 178

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *