How to buy acoustic guitar

Acoustic guitars may seem the same, but just a short inspection may surprise you as to their differences. If you are choosing your first guitar and are lost, or are looking for some answers, count on us.

What is the difference between an acoustic and a classical guitar?

This is a question that everybody asks themselves in the beginning. An acoustic guitar is bigger, louder and has a more intensive sound. This is mainly due to its metal strings, which are harder and can gain you a few bruises in the beginning. Classical guitars are usually quieter and have a softer sound. Their nylon strings caress the hand, you are therefore not going to suffer so much. However, at the next campfire, all your colleagues with acoustic guitars will drown you in their play. Volume and expression are not the only advantages of acoustic guitars. Their neck is narrower than those of classical guitars, so you can play the acoustic guitar faster. If you plan to try an electric guitar, it will be easier to advance from an acoustic than a classical guitar. Consider, try and choose!

Why did I choose to buy a guitar and what do I want to play?

The music you wish to create is locked in your mind, and if you decided to actually use an acoustic guitar to unlock it, it is important to pick the right one. Consider, if the sound you wish to achieve is full and heavy or more sweet and should accompany other music instruments? The shape and the size of an acoustic guitar are key characteristics that influence the overall sound. Big bodies of Jumbo-type guitars give a strong response in the field of bass and mid-range frequencies. The classic called Dreadnought (or also Western guitar) is more balanced, strong, natural and has a clear sound. If you are looking for something more compact or not so disruptive, focus on a Parlor-type guitar.

• Dreadnought guitars– the absolute classic among the acoustic guitars, it stands out due to its big body and a similarly big sound. Dreadnought is an instrument strong in bass, clear in the field of pitch and due to its big body also loud. There is also a version with a cut, which cuts its heavy bass.
• Jumbo guitars – the increased backside of this guitar influences bass frequencies. If you are looking for an instrument with an intensive, thick sound with a solid volume, it is very likely that it will be the Jumbo that will satisfy you.

• Parlor guitars – these instruments are known manly for one characteristic, their compactness. If you are a guitarist on the move, consider investing into this nice, small, but totally fully-fledged instrument.

What to watch out for when choosing an instrument?

All the guitars purchased at Muziker pass a final inspection, so you can forget about all the problems with poor tuning and focus only on what is most important. The shape of the body is not the only factor that has a major impact on the sound. Sound is also influenced, in a major way, by the woods used and the model of the soundboard. The soundboard is the front board that garnishes the body of your guitar. The board can be a glued or a solid construction. You may already suspect that a solid front board transfers vibrations better and makes therefore sound more natural, lauder and more beautiful. This does not mean that a glued front board is without value. With a solid front board, it is important to use a so-called humidifier. Our geographical location significantly influences fluctuations of humidity throughout the year, which means that the soundboard expands and contracts. And since the strings put a great pressure on the board, it can fracture – mainly in the winter months. The humidifier is the perfect solution for this problem.

Wood and your style

The soundboard can significantly help you to fully develop your personal style. If you prefer strumming and a quieter play, look for a guitar with a cedar soundboard. If you want to give it your all and strung with your soul on the line, then pine should be your number one choice. The other woods, from which the instrument is built, are also important and through their integration with the front board create the unique sound of your guitar.

• Mahogany – mid-hard, dense and highly resonant wood, known for its strong response in mid-range and bass frequencies. Used in guitar necks and bodies.
• Lime – soft and relatively light wood. Lime is known for its rich dynamics with a strong resonance in mid-range frequency and due to its availability, it is found in cheaper models.
• Rosewood – hard wood with a high resonance, mainly used in guitar fingerboards.
• Maple – a very hard wood which is a build stone of many a neck. Maple is renowned for its great resonance with high-range frequencies.
• Ebony – a beautiful and hard wood, soft to touch and mostly used to make fingerboards for more expensive guitars. Ebony is wonderful for bass frequencies.

It needs some electronics

There is clearly a need for more options, yes? Take your pick from acoustic-electric guitars. These instruments are basically general acoustic guitars enhanced by a mini-preamplifier and a pickup. Just connect them to an amplifier and you can make use of all the benefits of both an acoustic and an electric guitar.

Is there an instrument that is universally considered as a good choice?

If you are still not sure and are looking for a general instrument, one that is a true classic among acoustic guitars, take a look at the Dreadnought-type guitar, also known as a Western Guitar. This instrument has a classic shape and provides a versatile, very nice sound, which immediately captures your attention.

Is a guitar sufficient for me, or do I need anything else?

An acoustic guitar is an instrument that provides great freedom, just sling it over your shoulder and follow your heart. We would, however, recommend a guitar case, just to make sure it does not get wet. A humidifier would also be of use, it should keep the guitar fresh for months and years. Stay tuned!