Beginner Guitar Buying Guide
Start Your Guitar Journey with Confidence
Whether you're learning to play or helping someone else get started.
We are here to make the process simple, supportive, and fun.
🎸 Electric vs. Acoustic Guitar: Which One is Right for You?
Electric Guitars
Great for rock, blues, pop, and more. Electric guitars are easier on the fingers, lighter in touch, and connect to an amplifier for volume and effects.
Pros:
Comfortable to play
Wide range of sounds
Perfect for modern music styles
Consider:
Requires an amp and cable
Slightly higher initial cost
Acoustic Guitars
Ideal for folk, country, and singer-songwriter styles. No amp needed—just pick up and play.
Pros:
Simple and portable
Warm, natural tone
Perfect for unplugged playing
Consider:
Can feel firmer on the fingers
Smaller range of sounds
Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Offers the best of both worlds—play unplugged or plug into an amp with built-in pickup and tone controls.
✅ What to Look for in a First Guitar
Tuning Stability – Holds tuning after playing
Straight Neck – No warps or bows
Action (String Height) – Lower is easier for beginners
Fretwork – Smooth edges, no buzzing
Electronics (if electric) – Test all knobs and switches
💡 Every guitar sold at GIG Guitars is professionally inspected and set up for playability.
🆕 New vs. 🆗 Used Guitars
New Guitars
Covered by manufacturer warranty
Modern designs and materials
Great for first-time players
Used Guitars
Often more affordable
Unique vintage tone and feel
Ideal for second guitars or upgrades
Not sure? We’ll happily guide you through both options in-store or online.
🏆 Beginner-Friendly Guitar Brands We Recommend
We’ve handpicked guitars that balance sound, comfort, and value from trusted names:
Tanglewood
Takamine
Aria
Martinez
Timberidge
Sigma
Cort
🎒 Must-Have Accessories to Get Started
Practice Amp (for electric guitars)
Instrument Cable
Clip-On Tuner or Tuning App
Medium Guitar Picks
Adjustable Strap
Spare Strings
Gig Bag or Hard Case
💬 Need Help Choosing?
Whether you're buying for yourself or someone you love, GIG Guitars is here to help. Call, message, or drop in-store—we’ll make sure you walk away with the perfect match.