Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, choosing the best acoustic guitar for your level can go a long way toward improving your sound. A great guitar is easy to play and designed to produce beautiful, rich tones. But how do you choose the right guitar? Start with price; your budget is a big consideration. If you’re a beginner, you might experience an easier learning process with a model that’s designed for newbies. Other things to look for include the reputation of the manufacturer, the tonewood, body shape, and string type. Don’t forget about construction — is the guitar made from solid wood or laminate? A solid-wood top will give you a better sound.
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1. Martin LX1E Acoustic Guitar
Designed with a six-string configuration, the Martin LX1E acoustic guitar is a beautiful option for beginners and casual players. This is a compact guitar, so it’s easy to play even for smaller people. Since the top is constructed from solid Sitka spruce, this guitar can produce a robust tone — if you have a relatively forceful playing style, that is. The top also allows a wide dynamic range to create a more nuanced musical style. With its mahogany laminate back and sides, this instrument balances sound and price well. We recommend it for traveling, practice, or occasional playing.
2. Fender Squier Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
With its classic dreadnought shape, the Fender Squier acoustic guitar is an affordable option for new players. The secret is the bundle; this model comes with all of the supplies you need to get started, including a strap, picks, tuner, and a hard case. The reasonable price tag is down to the all-laminate construction, which offers a nice, big sound when you’re learning to strum. The slim neck is easy to reach, even for smaller hands, and the steel strings deliver a robust tone. The best part? This bundle includes a DVD that can help you get started on your guitar journey.
3. Acoustic Guitar Bundle Junior
The best junior guitar on the market, this model from Hola! Music is a low-cost way to break into playing. The guitar itself is ¾ sized, so it’s easier for kids and smaller people to wrap their arms around. The included strings, gig bag, strap, and picks allow you to get playing right away. The spruce top and mahogany body provide a nice blend of crisp, bold tones that’s perfect for beginners. This model comes pre-strung, so you don’t have to worry about stringing on your first day. With the range of beautiful color options, it’s a breeze to find one that delights you or your child.
4. Ranch Beginner Acoustic Guitar
Discover the magic of the guitar with the Ranch Beginner Acoustic bundle. This set is engineered specifically for people who are brand new to playing; it comes with all of the things you need, including a capo and a tuner. Built with a solid spruce top, this guitar offers a clean, rich sound that’s surprisingly refined for the price. The traditional shape and beautifully manufactured contours help you look professional and make it easy to hold and maneuver this instrument. Carry the guitar in the included case, and sling it over your shoulder with the strap.
5. Taylor 114ce 100 Series Acoustic Guitar
Ready to take your playing to the next level? This Taylor 114ce 100 Series acoustic guitar is a great way to do it. The thin neck is a breeze to play, so you can do complicated licks with ease. Manufactured with a walnut back and sides and a Sitka spruce top, this guitar delivers a beautiful, nuanced sound that’s ideal for a wide range of music styles. This model features a grand auditorium body, which means that it’s perfect for live performances in bars, coffee shops, and on stage. Want to connect to a sound system? The ES-T electronics have you covered.
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6. Ibanez AW54OPN Artwood Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
Tackle classic down-home music with this Ibanez AW54OPN Artwood acoustic guitar. It’s crafted with a solid mahogany top, which delivers a punchy tone that’s perfect for country music, bluegrass, and more. The dreadnought body shape gives you plenty of volume and power, and the rosewood bridge helps give the higher register a bit of extra bulk. Finished in an open-pore natural color that highlights the wood grain, this guitar looks as beautiful as it sounds. With the included pickguard and tuners, this model gives you the chance to customize your setup.
7. Yamaha JR1 FG Junior
Get your little one started in music with the Yamaha JR1 FG Junior set. This is one of the best acoustic guitar bundle options on the market; it comes with all of the straps, picks, and supplies you need, as well as folk guitar strings. Best of all, this bundle includes an instructional DVD, so your child can start learning right away. Adjust each string with the help of the included tuner. With its small body, this acoustic guitar is engineered for children or very small adults.
8. Fender FA-115 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
Protect your instrument while you travel with this Fender FA-115 Dreadnought acoustic guitar with hard case. This is an affordable model for a beginning player; plus, with the included tuner, strings, pick, and straps, you don’t have to worry about investing in other supplies. The dreadnought body shape and the spruce top combine to deliver a big, bold Fender sound, so you can hear every note clearly.
9. Jameson Guitars Full-Size Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Make a statement with this full-size acoustic-electric guitar from Jameson Guitars. With the included electronics, you can play this instrument as a full acoustic, or plug it into a sound system for a larger venue. The included gig bag keeps everything safe. With the wide variety of brilliant finishes, you can match your music to your personality.
10. WINZZ 40 Inch Cutaway Acoustic Guitar
With its stunning blue top, this WINZZ acoustic guitar looks gorgeous on stage or in your practice room. This is a great option for a new player — it’s handcrafted with a durable body that’s easy to handle for teenagers and adults. The included bag, tuner, strap, and other supplies allow you to get going immediately.
When you’re looking for a new guitar, it’s important to consider your skill level and the guitar itself. By finding a balance of price, quality materials, and design, you can find the best option for your budget. By starting your search with the best acoustic guitar models, it’s easier to pinpoint the right instrument for you.
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By BCR Staff
September 2019