Choosing the Best Steel String Guitar for Beginners under ?2500
Guitar enthusiasts, especially beginners, often wonder about the best guitar to start with, especially when budget constraints come into play. If you're looking for a steel string guitar for under ?2500, it's essential to consider certain features to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable learning experience.
Key Considerations for a Beginner's Steel String Guitar
When choosing a guitar, several factors can significantly impact your playing experience. Let's explore the most important considerations for a beginner looking to buy a steel string guitar under ?2500:
1. Thin Neck
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of your guitar is its neck. A thin neck makes playing much more comfortable, especially for beginners. A thin neck reduces strain on your hands and fingers, allowing you to focus on learning scales and chords rather than dealing with physical discomfort.
2. Short Scale Length
Scale length refers to the distance between the nut (where the strings are anchored) and the bridge on the guitar. Short scale guitars typically have a scale length of 25 to 26 inches, compared to the standard 25? inches of full-scale guitars. This shorter distance provides less tension on the strings, making it easier to press down and play, particularly for beginners.
3. Low Action
Action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A low action means the strings will be closer to the fretboard, making it easier to press down and play more comfortably. Guitars with low action are generally more beginner-friendly.
Why Spending ?2500 on a First Guitar Might Not Be Wise
It's essential to consider long-term value and enjoyment when choosing your first guitar. At ?2500, you may be just starting your journey, and you might not yet be sure if you'll stick with the guitar. Spending this amount initially might be too much for someone unsure about their commitment.
My advice is to double or even triple your budget when looking for a guitar that will last you long enough to learn and outgrow it. This way, you can invest in a guitar that will provide you with satisfaction and durability as you progress in your skills. Additionally, when the time comes to replace your guitar, you'll be in a better position to make a more informed and thoughtful decision.
My Personal Experience with a ?2500 Guitar
My first guitar was purchased for a similar budget but in a different currency - probably around ?2500. It was a decent option for a beginner, but I faced several challenges. The guitar had a thin neck and a short scale length, which made it easy to play. However, the neck bent over time, likely due to a combination of poor quality build, improper string choice, and my inexperience with tuning and handling the guitar.
Although this guitar eventually broke down, I continued to play and learn with it. It served as a valuable teaching tool, even if it didn't sound great. Now, years later, I still have it and occasionally try to play it. However, I limit myself to just 5 minutes at a time because it sounds terrible when played higher on the neck.
Conclusion
Your brilliance and capability as a player are not solely defined by the tool you use. A guitar is simply a tool, and the art comes from the performer. A better tool can certainly help you perform in a simpler and more accurate way, but your performance should always stand on its own, regardless of the tool you use.
I hope this advice helps guide your decision-making process as you embark on your guitar journey. Happy playing!