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Should I buy an Acoustic or Electric Guitar?

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The answer to this question will be different for everyone. It has been told to students just starting out, that it is better to become comfortable with a true acoustic guitar before moving on to an electric. There is some validity to this. Playing an acoustic guitar allows the player to hear a truer representation of guitar tone. There is no manipulation or modulation on an acoustic guitar. The sound you get out of it is its true sound. Thus making an acoustic guitar a good choice for a beginner who wants to become familiar with the guitar in its purest form.

However, some may argue that an acoustic guitar is a bit harder to start out playing than an electric. An electric guitar has thinner gauge strings that make chord forming a bit more manageable for younger players. In addition, electric guitars typically have less action on the neck than their acoustic counterparts. ‘Action’ refers to the space between the string and the neck. If the guitar has high action, the strings are harder to press down. If the guitar has low action than it is much simpler to form chords and play lead riffs.

Aside from these generic differences in the two types of guitars, it really comes down to preference. The notes and chords are formed the same way on both instruments. If you would rather have a guitar that you can take with you on trips or camping then the acoustic guitar is the best way to go. If your cup of tea is rock-n-roll and loud music than the electric guitar is your baby.

Next Page: How much can I expect to spend on an electric guitar?

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