June 3, 2025

How to Purchase a Guitar : A Beginners Guide

​Thinking about buying your first guitar? That’s an exciting step—but it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. Before you head to the music store (or start scrolling online), here are a few helpful things to consider.
You Don’t Need a Guitar to Start LessonsFirst things first: if you’re brand new to guitar, you don’t need to own one before starting lessons. At our studio, we have both acoustic and electric guitars available for students to try out during their sessions. This can be a great way to get a feel for what kind of guitar you enjoy before committing to a purchase.
What Kind of Guitar Should You Buy?To figure out what kind of guitar to purchase, it’s helpful to know what kind of music or playing style you’re most interested in. Here's a quick guide:

• 🎸 Acoustic Guitar (steel/nickel strings): Great for beginners and those who want to strum, sing, and play popular songs.
  
• 🎸 Electric Guitar: Ideal for those who want to play rock, jazz, blues, or anything that needs an amp and some distortion.
  
• 🎸 Classical Guitar (nylon strings): Perfect for classical music and fingerstyle playing.
  
• 🧒 Smaller Guitars for Kids: For children under age 9, consider a smaller-sized guitar that’s easier to hold and play.
  

Visiting a Music StoreOnce you know the type of guitar you’re looking for, visiting a store like Guitar Center can be an eye-opening (and fun!) experience. You’ll be able to try out a variety of guitars and amps, and it can be incredibly motivating to physically hold and hear the instruments in action.
Even if you don’t buy anything, the trip is worth it. It’s a great way to explore what feels and sounds right for you. That said, wouldn’t it be even better if you already knew a few chords or riffs before stepping into the shop? That’s why we often recommend taking a few lessons before making a purchase—it gives you more confidence and helps you make a better-informed choice.
Shopping Online or Buying UsedIf you prefer shopping online, there are some great options out there:

• Guitar Center’s used section is reliable and offers a return policy.
  
• Amazon can be convenient, but be sure to read reviews carefully and avoid no-name brands with poor feedback.
  
• Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and OfferUp can offer amazing deals—but proceed with caution. Always inspect the guitar thoroughly for structural issues and playability before buying.
  

Still Unsure? We’re Happy to Help!
If you or your child is considering learning guitar but aren’t sure where to start with buying an instrument, feel free to ask us for advice! Whether you're testing guitars during your lessons or need help evaluating an online find, we’re here to make sure you start off on the right foot.