THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO CHOOSING YOUR FIRST GUITAR : ACOUSTIC VS ELECTRIC

For new guitarists this is one of the biggest questions. We’re here to help you choose the right path and find the right guitar for you.

Congratulations! You have just decided to learn to play the guitar, quite possibly the best decision you’ll ever make. But now what? Well, you’re going to need a guitar, and there is one fundamental choice you have to make before you can get started: should you get an acoustic guitar or an electric guitar?

To be clear, there’s no right or wrong answer. You can learn on either. Both have six strings (let’s not concern ourselves with 7- and 8-string guitars just yet) and are tuned low to high EADGBE in standard tuning. The notes are the same. The scales and chords you learn on one can be applied to the other with no problem. Some techniques and approaches to playing vary, but the fundamentals are the same, and whether you choose electric or acoustic you will be amazed at the progress you can make in a short space of time.

But what are the most important differences between the two instruments?

PLAYABILITY AND FEEL

When comparing the feel of acoustic and electric guitars, the electric generally feels easier to play. This is because electric guitar strings are thinner and don’t require as much tension, thanks to magnetic pickups that convert string vibrations into sound. Electric guitar strings usually range from a light .009 to a heavy .011 gauge, though some players use even heavier strings. In contrast, acoustic guitar strings are thicker, ranging from .011 to .014, as their vibrations are amplified naturally through the guitar’s body. Using lighter strings on an acoustic would result in a tinny sound.

Playability is affected by string gauge and guitar neck design. Thicker acoustic strings create more tension, making them harder to bend and more challenging for beginners. Acoustic guitars also have thicker necks and bulkier bodies, adding to their difficulty. Electric guitars typically feature thinner necks and larger frets, which reward a lighter touch and make string bending easier. While electric guitars are heavier, they often have more ergonomic body shapes.

Fortunately, modern beginner guitars are designed to be more player-friendly with better setups and lower action, reducing strain on your fretting hand and making it an excellent time to start learning guitar.

WHICH GUITAR IS EASIER TO LEARN ON?

Although the electric guitar might seem easier to play initially due to its lighter strings and lower action, it doesn't necessarily make it easier to learn on. The electric guitar’s playability is just one aspect, and the learning curve can involve additional complexities like mastering volume controls, effects pedals, and amplifiers.

In contrast, the acoustic guitar offers a more immediate and straightforward experience. It requires only a guitar and a pick, and you can even play fingerstyle if you prefer. This simplicity makes the acoustic highly portable and reliable, even in situations like power outages. With an acoustic, you avoid the need to deal with high volume and various peripherals, focusing solely on developing your fundamental skills.

Additionally, there are many short-scale acoustic guitars designed for easier playability, especially for younger players. These guitars have a shorter distance between the nut and bridge, reducing string tension and making them more manageable. Smaller-bodied acoustics, such as parlor and orchestra guitars, also offer a more comfortable fit with shallower depths, making them easier to handle.

Ultimately, it comes down to what sort of style you envisage yourself playing.

CHOOSING A GUITAR : WHAT SORT OF MUSIC DO YOU LIKE ?

That seems obvious, doesn’t it? What music are you into? Ask yourself what inspires you. If you are a self-describing Maggot who counts Slipknot as your whole inspiration for learning guitar, then perhaps an electric guitar might be a more obvious choice. Similarly, if it’s Ed Sheeran’s phrasing and pop hooks, then the acoustic is going to be more your speed.

Country? Sheesh, that’s tough. It could go either way… But again, the principle is the same. If your hero is laying down cowboy chords on an acoustic, then there’s your answer. When learning an instrument as a beginner it’s a good idea to take the path of least resistance and follow your inspiration. Getting closer to the tones and learning the songs of your idols is incredibly satisfying. It’s addictive, too, the sort of progress that keeps you coming back for more, getting better and better…

CHOOSING THE ACOUSTIC? THESE ARE THE ESSENTIALS

So you’re thinking the acoustic is for you. Excellent. For beginners, there are plenty of affordable acoustic guitars that won’t break the bank. Choosing the right body shape depends on personal preference. Traditional dreadnought and jumbo acoustics offer bold, loud sounds with plenty of projection, making them ideal for strumming, especially with a pick. The dreadnought is the most common shape for its robust sound and versatility.

If you prefer something more comfortable and manageable, consider the smaller orchestra or auditorium shapes. These mid-sized guitars are great all-rounders and offer a balanced sound, though they may lack some of the deep bass of larger models. For those who enjoy finger-picking, smaller-bodied guitars like the 00 and parlor models provide a bright tone that helps articulate notes effectively.

Beyond the guitar itself, you’ll want a few essentials. A pick is crucial for strumming or picking, and a variety pack can help you find the one that suits you best. Thinner picks are great for strumming, while medium picks are better for single-note lines. A basic woven strap will suffice; a premium padded strap isn’t necessary for the relatively light acoustic guitar. The Ernie Ball strap, priced around RM27, is a practical choice.

A gigbag is useful for carrying your guitar. Many guitars come with a gigbag, but if not, affordable options from brands like Gator and Ritter are available. You don’t need an expensive hard case for an entry-level guitar unless you plan on extensive travel. Finally, a capo, such as the G7th C61012 UltraLight Guitar Capo for under RM50, is a handy tool for changing keys and is worth having in your gigbag.

ELECTRIC GUITAR ESSENTIALS
Choosing the right electric guitar can be as tricky as picking the perfect pasta shape. Opt for a well-balanced classic shape that feels comfortable both sitting down and standing up. This rules out more unconventional shapes like the Flying V, narrowing your search to popular styles such as the Stratocaster, Les Paul, and Super Strat.

Once you’ve selected a body shape, consider the type of pickups. Beginner electric guitars usually offer single-coil pickups, known for their bright, precise tone but with some hum when using overdrive, and humbuckers, which provide a thicker, warmer sound with reduced hum. Humbuckers also have a higher output, making them suitable for genres like heavy metal.

Features like a vibrato or tremolo system, found on models like the Fender Stratocaster, can add an extra dimension to your playing by allowing you to experiment with pitch bends.

Don’t forget, you’ll need an amplifier. A good practice amp typically costs between RM200 and RM500 and many affordable models come with onboard effects, which are perfect for experimenting with different sounds right from the start.