Can use advice w/ FIRST ACOUSTIC GUITAR PURCHASE

[howiedo1n]

I am looking to learn how to play the acoustic guitar and I was wondering if anyone could give me some advice on my first guitar purchase?

 

For example:

• A Preferred Brand
  
• Model
  
• Store or Site for purchase?
  

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

I am looking to spend about $150-$200. (Ok. laugh it up? I just want to be sure that I take to and enjoy playing before I dump too much money into it.)

I would be willing to go for a bit more money if there is a significant jump in quality.

 

I was thinking preferably some type of beginner package, unless of course someone feels that is the wrong way to go. I am looking to get a similar sound from the instrument as you might hear Dave Matthews or John Mayer playing. From what I am reading it seems steel string Dreadnought is the way to go. I have also read that Solid Top is a better choice for the sound quality, but I am not sure if that would be out of my price range.

 

Thanks.

[Josh]

The one I use to recommend all the time and the one all the guitar-experts would set up the beginners with is an Ovation:

 

http://www.zzounds.com/item--KAMAA215

 

Look for comfortable neck action and something you can grow into. This will be nice and comfortable for a beginner.

[HL2CROSSFIREMOD]

I can say that you can't go wrong with any Ibanez Guitar.. Had mine for about 3 years now.

[Orpheus]

Yamaha has a wide variety of high quality acoustics in that price range (and a wide variety of absolutely beautiful models that are far outa that range). They are what is commonly seen in school guitar programs here in my area and are what we recommend where I work. Your price point is perfectly fine for a beginner instrument, better to spend a littel at first, see if you enjoy it and want to continue, then drop a serious amount of cash later on a truly special instrument.

 

I'd normally reccomend avoid the beginner isntrument packages as it's usually a lesser quality instrument with a bunch of other crap thrown in, although it's not nearly as bad with an acoustic guitar as it is with electrics. Are you planning on taking lessons or going the self taught route?

 

As far as where to buy, check your local music stores. Yes, you can get screaming deals online from a place like Musicians Friend, and I wouldn't blame you for shopping there, but it's good to support your local stores, and you'll be going to them for little things like picks, lesson books, etc anyways. And in alot of cases, tehy will try to be competive with the net and catalog retailers (we certainly try to be when necessary). Also, a good knowledable salesperson should be able to help match yoyu to an instrumetn that fits your needs, something you won't get from an online retailer.

 

Good luck.

[howiedo1n]

Thanks alot for the input guys. I stopped by guitar center tonight and held a few and even played around with a couple of guitars in my price range. The one I was leaning more towards (for what reason I am not really sure) was the Yamaha FS403s. I felt that it had a nice sound and it felt good as well.... What do I know? It was like the second or third guitar I ever had held.... Here it is Yamaha FG403S Acoustic Guitar

[howiedo1n]

I almost forgot..

 

I'd normally reccomend avoid the beginner isntrument packages as it's usually a lesser quality instrument with a bunch of other crap thrown in, although it's not nearly as bad with an acoustic guitar as it is with electrics.

 

I have to agree with you on this. After reading your post, holding these guitars and just looking at these packages I have decided against this option.

 

Are you planning on taking lessons or going the self taught route?

I plan on going the self taught route :? Truly giving it my all. If I don?t feel I've made any progress by that time on my own I will then look into getting lessons.

 

The one I use to recommend all the time and the one all the guitar-experts would set up the beginners with is an Ovation:

 

I liked the look of this and plan on tring to find it on my next visit to my local store so I can check it out in person.

 

Oh and this was another I have seen online and am now considering..

 

Washburn D10S Acoustic Guitar

 

Any thoughts on this and the Yamaha from above?

Not many soild tops in this price range.

 

Is there a good site for these reviews?

 

I am still open for any advice on the instrument and or the lessons/learning.

What is the difference between Folk and Dreadnoughts? Is it just the look?..?

 

Again thank you all so much for your help.