Countless men and women today are picking up new hobbies. They want to spend their money on a skill that will last a lifetime rather than on goods they may not want or need in a few months or years. For some, learning to play electric guitar is a dream they want to realize.
This individual may be interested in an electric guitar only to discover it isn't suitable for their needs. Knowing what to look for is essential, as the right guitar for heavy metal won't be appropriate for indie or pop music. Keep the following tips in mind when making this purchase.
Visual Appeal
While a guitar's beauty doesn't affect its sound, men and women should have a guitar they love. Looks play a role in this. A good-looking guitar will encourage the new musician to practice more, allowing them to improve their skills rapidly.
Seek Guidance
When purchasing an electric guitar for the first time, take along a friend who has been playing this instrument for a while. They can make recommendations based on the preferred type of music, the guitar's body, and other factors. With their help, the guitarist will have an instrument they can easily play without overextending, providing the sound they love.
Acoustics
Avoid plugging the electric guitar in immediately. Play a few chords and single-note lines to ensure the notes are loud and lively. Acoustic properties are important when it comes to getting the right sound. Plugging the guitar in cannot improve its sound, so focus on the acoustics initially.
Wood
The body of the guitar may be constructed from several woods. Manufacturers often use maple for the neck and fingerboards because it is heavy and offers a bright tone. Mahogany, in contrast, provides a warm and smooth sound. Light woods are ideal for those who want lively acoustics. Take time to learn about different woods and their benefits before buying.
Body
Solid-body guitars come in many shapes. However, this does not mean they are suitable for all purposes. Some guitars are ideal for playing while seated, while others are best when standing. When choosing their first electric guitar, musicians should choose one that is comfortable when sitting or standing.
Necking
Before purchasing, test the neck. Grasp it with the fretting hand and run the fingers over the frets. They should feel smooth, and the neck should fit comfortably in the hand. If the edges are sharp or rough, choose a different guitar.
Hardware
Go over the guitar carefully. If any parts aren't properly aligned or the screws sit at odd angles, the guitar shouldn't be purchased. Pegs, knobs, and switches should feel solid when turned. Quality is important when buying an instrument.
Pickups
Pickups influence the guitar's tone. Individuals looking for a bright tone and moderate output need a single-coil pickup. Those who want hotter output, such as musicians who prefer heavy metal tunes, need a humbucker for warm and fat sounds.
New guitarists might choose a P-90-style pickup because it combines the features of a single-coil pickup and humbucker.
Testing
Always test a guitar by dialing in a clean tone. Set the EQ controls to a moderate level and listen for tonal qualities. Amp distortion hides many issues. Guitarists must hear the natural sounds of instruments to know which one to buy.
Consider All Options
Many new musicians look at what their favorite guitarists play and purchase the same instruments. Solid-body guitars are only one option. Look into semi-hollow and hollow-body models to find the one that feels more comfortable while producing the desired sound.
No two guitars are identical. Finding the right instrument allows a person to enjoy their new hobby fully. Spend time learning about guitars and the options to make this choice easier. People who do are more satisfied when they make this purchase.
