Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Acoustic Guitars
Choosing the right acoustic guitar, even on a budget, can be a rewarding experience. The key is to understand the different specifications and how they affect the sound, playability, and overall experience of the instrument. By focusing on these key specs, you can find a guitar that suits your needs and helps you enjoy playing music to the fullest.Body ShapeThe body shape of an acoustic guitar affects its sound and comfort. Common shapes include dreadnought, concert, and parlor. Dreadnought guitars are larger and produce a louder, bass-heavy sound, making them great for strumming and playing in groups. Concert and parlor guitars are smaller, offering a more balanced tone and are easier to handle, especially for smaller players or those who prefer fingerpicking. Choose a body shape that feels comfortable to hold and suits your playing style.
TonewoodTonewood refers to the type of wood used in the construction of the guitar, which influences the sound quality. Common tonewoods include spruce, mahogany, and cedar. Spruce is known for its bright and clear tone, making it versatile for various music styles. Mahogany offers a warmer, more resonant sound, ideal for blues and folk music. Cedar provides a softer, mellower tone, suitable for fingerstyle playing. Consider the type of music you want to play and choose a tonewood that complements that style.
Neck ProfileThe neck profile refers to the shape and thickness of the guitar's neck, affecting playability and comfort. Profiles range from thin and flat to thick and rounded. A thinner neck is easier to grip and play for those with smaller hands or those who prefer fast, intricate playing. A thicker neck provides more support and can be more comfortable for players with larger hands or those who play rhythm guitar. Try different neck profiles to see which feels most comfortable for your hand size and playing style.
Scale LengthScale length is the distance between the nut and the bridge of the guitar, affecting string tension and playability. A shorter scale length (around 24.75 inches) results in lower string tension, making it easier to press down on the strings and bend notes. This is ideal for beginners or players with smaller hands. A longer scale length (around 25.5 inches) provides higher string tension, offering a brighter tone and more precise intonation, suitable for advanced players or those who play lead guitar. Choose a scale length that matches your comfort level and playing needs.
ActionAction refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard, impacting playability and sound. Low action means the strings are closer to the fretboard, making it easier to press down and play, which is great for beginners and those who play fast. High action requires more finger strength but can produce a louder, clearer sound, preferred by some experienced players. Consider your skill level and playing style when choosing the action of your guitar.
ElectronicsSome acoustic guitars come with built-in electronics, allowing you to amplify the sound for performances or recording. These guitars are known as acoustic-electric guitars. If you plan to play live or record music, having built-in electronics can be very convenient. However, if you only plan to play at home or in small gatherings, a purely acoustic guitar without electronics might be sufficient. Decide based on your intended use of the guitar.
