Are you about to buy your first guitar? Before making a decision, it’s important to understand what to look for. I’ve personally made the mistake of buying a bad first guitar and ended up not playing for about 7 years (really, I thought I was the problem.) Whether you’re a complete beginner or an intermediate player, this guide will help you make an informed choice.
Where Should You Buy Your Guitar? Online vs. Offline
Buying Online: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Convenient – delivered straight to your doorstep
- Wider variety of options
Cons:
- You can’t test how the guitar sounds or feels
- Higher risk of receiving a defective or low-quality product
Buying Offline: The Recommended Choice
Pros:
- You can try the guitar before purchasing
- Expert guidance from store staff
- No risk of shipping damage or defects
Verdict: Buying from a physical store is the best option unless you have no alternatives.
Acoustic vs. Electric: Which One Should You Choose?
Guitars fall into two main categories:
Acoustic Guitar (Recommended for Beginners)
- Produces sound naturally through a hollow body
- No need for additional equipment like an amplifier
- Builds a strong playing foundation
Electric Guitar
- Requires an amplifier to produce sound
- More suited for rock, metal, and other high-energy genres
- Best if your teacher specifically recommends it
Verdict: An acoustic guitar is the best starting point. You can always switch to electric later.
Choosing the Right Brand
The quality of your guitar depends heavily on the brand. Based on price and reliability, guitars can be categorized into three groups:
1️⃣ Local Guitars (Below ₹4,500) – Not Recommended
- Made from low-quality wood
- Poor durability and sound quality
2️⃣ Semi-Branded Guitars (₹5,000 - ₹7,000) – A Decent Option
Reliable brands in this range include:
Jimm, Kaps, Xtag, Lyra, Aria, Kadence, Granada, Ashton
3️⃣ Branded Guitars (₹7,500 & Above) – The Best Choice
These offer better craftsmanship, durability, and sound. Recommended brands:
Yamaha, Fender, Epiphone, PRS, Ibanez, ESP, Cort
Verdict: If possible, opt for a branded guitar. If budget is a concern, a semi-branded guitar is a reasonable alternative.
Essential Accessories to Buy With Your Guitar
To avoid inconvenience later, consider purchasing these accessories along with your guitar:
- Guitar Bag – Protects your instrument from dust and damage
- Extra String Set – Useful in case of a string break
- Capo – Essential for playing songs with different chord positions
- Plectrum (Pick) – Helps with strumming and fingerpicking
Many stores offer bundle deals, so ask for discounts when buying everything together.
Pro Tips for Smart Guitar Shopping
- Look for an Unused Guitar: Many people buy guitars but never use them. Check with friends or family before buying a new one.
- Ensure the Guitar Has a Truss Rod: A truss rod inside the neck helps adjust string height (action) and prevents warping over time.
Final Thoughts
Buying your first guitar is an exciting step. Making the right choice ensures a better learning experience and long-term enjoyment. Whether it’s your first or second guitar, investing in a good-quality instrument will make a significant difference.
If this guide helped you, feel free to share it with others who might find it useful :)