Choosing your first acoustic guitar is an exciting step on your musical journey. With so many options, it can feel overwhelming, but this advice simplifies the process into five key considerations. Let’s dive into the essentials to help you find the guitar that’s perfect for you.
1. String Types: Steel vs. Nylon
Acoustic guitars come in two primary string types: nylon and steel. Each offers a unique sound and playing experience:
- Nylon strings are often softer to the touch and produce a classical or Spanish-style tone. They’re popular for fingerstyle playing and beginners looking for a gentle introduction to guitar.
- Steel strings offer the bright, punchy sound often associated with folk and country music. These are the “campfire” chords that many beginners envision.
While nylon strings may seem easier on your fingers initially, pick a guitar based on the tone you love. Remember, all beginners experience a little finger discomfort, but it’s worth it for the sound that inspires you.
2. Body Shapes and Sizes
Acoustic guitars come in a range of body shapes and sizes, each with distinct characteristics:
- Dreadnought (Breedlove Concerto): A popular choice, offering a balanced tone with strong lows, mids, and highs. Ideal for strumming and general use.
- Concert: Mid-sized body shapes are very popular with a variety of players for their comfort and versatility.
- Parlor and smaller sizes (Breedlove Concertina & Companion): Compact and easy to handle, these are great for smaller players, travel, or those who prefer a midrange, punchy tone.
The key is comfort. Visit your local dealer to try different shapes and sizes. A guitar that feels good in your hands and fits your playing style is essential.
3. Tonewoods
The wood used in a guitar, often called tonewood, significantly impacts its sound. Here are some common examples:
- Spruce: Known for its bright, responsive tone, it’s a favorite for tops.
- Mahogany: Delivers a warm, punchy midrange.
- Rosewood: Offers a full, rich sound with deep lows and sparkling highs.
Sustainability is increasingly important in guitar building. Breedlove sources tonewood responsibly, using techniques like salvage and avoiding clear-cut forests. Unique tonewoods, such as myrtlewood, add stunning aesthetics and individuality to your instrument.
4. Construction Techniques
The way a guitar is built impacts its durability and tone. Two primary construction types include:
- Solid wood: Provides superior resonance and rich tonal quality but may be more sensitive to environmental changes.
- Laminate: Made from layered wood, it’s more durable and less affected by humidity or temperature, making it ideal for travel or outdoor use.
A compromise is a solid wood top with laminate back and sides, combining great tone with added durability. Advanced construction techniques, like Breedlove ECO Tonewoods, can also enhance the sound of laminate guitars in modern instruments.
5. Added Technology
For those who want versatility, consider an acoustic-electric guitar. These guitars come with built-in electronics, allowing you to amplify your sound. Features to look for include:
- Onboard electronics: Control your tone with bass, treble, and volume settings.
- Built-in tuners: Conveniently tune your guitar without additional gear.
Choosing your first guitar is about finding the one that feels and sounds right to you. Experiment with different options, prioritize comfort, and focus on a tone that excites you. Whether it’s a nylon or steel string, dreadnought concerto or parlor concertina size, sustainable tonewoods, or modern technology, the perfect guitar is out there waiting for you.
