The Essential Guide to Choosing Your First Electric Guitar

When considering purchasing an electric guitar, there is a multitude of choices to sift through, which can be quite a challenge for aspiring musicians. How does each one differ from the other? What can you expect in terms of sound quality, playability and overall value? All of these questions plague the minds of new guitarists, but with some basic knowledge and research, you can make an informed decision that will leave you satisfied with your purchase.

What Is the Easiest Guitar to Learn?

Before we discuss what you need to be looking for, we are going to mention some brands that produce guitars that many musicians have opted for and bought. So, let’s look at some of those brands and help you choose the right guitar for you.

Epiphone

Epiphone electric guitar
source: guitarparadise.com.au

Epiphone is one of the oldest, most famous guitar brands out there and they carry a wide range of different models to suit most playing styles. When it comes to timeless and versatile electric guitars by Epiphone, you can find an incredible selection of iconic designs such as the most recognisable Les Paul and the kickass SG.

Les Paul, the most famous guitar design renowned for its classical design, delivers a warm and rich tone and with a solid body construction, it caters to various musical genders. Its comfortable neck ensures easy playability which is an essential feature for those just starting. They are based on their original design and include appointments such as carved maple tops and humbucker pickups.

On the other hand, the SG, which is also quite popular, is known for its lightweight design and double-cutaway body and is a favourite among rock enthusiasts. They have a classic mahogany body and neck combo. The only difference between these two is the shape itself, which makes SG more suitable for beginners. Epiphone is also great when it comes to hollow-body guitars that possess original features that make them elegant to play.

For those taking their first steps into the world of electric guitars, this brand stands out and is a reliable and budget-friendly choice compared to some other brands. They prove an excellent choice of vintage-inspired instruments and there’s something for you, whether you play rock, folk, pop or metal. They are easy to play which is more than acceptable for beginners, built to last and they are pleasant on the eye, so not only are you going to play great but also look good while doing it.

Gibson

Gibson Guitars is the parent company of the Epiphone, which makes them quite similar. The quality is almost the same, along with the tone and playability. Their Les Paul is the prototype of the so-called single-cut models and is considered a typical rock and blues instrument. They are a great investment, but the price is what makes beginner musicians opt for Epiphone electric guitars. Even in the affordable range, Gibson offers high-quality guitars that are built to last and have been used by some of the most iconic musicians in history.

What to Look For

Electric guitar playing
source: blog.sweelee.com

Now that we’ve covered some brands, it’s time to see what you should be looking for in a guitar before you decide to buy one. Choosing the right guitar for you is crucial for your journey and it can make it or break it. So, let’s dive into these factors to ensure an enjoyable and fulfilling musical experience.

Playability

One of the most critical factors for beginners is playability. A guitar that is easy to play can significantly ensure a great experience and enhance your learning process. Playability is determined by the neck shape, fretboard width and the distance between the fretboard and the strings known as action. Instruments with low action require less finger strength to press the strings down making it easier for beginners to learn.

Musical Style

The genre of music you intend to play should be considered when it comes to guitar choice. Different guitars are suited for different styles, for example, if you’re passionate about rock the electric guitars by Epiphone are a classic choice for you. The choice of guitar will influence the sound, so pick one carefully.

Shape

The shape of the electric guitar will influence the tone, the comfort, playability and the overall aesthetic. Make sure that the guitar you’re purchasing is comfortable because if it’s not that can affect your learning process and make it much more difficult. It will also affect the playing style and sound so make sure the one you pick aligns with your necessities.

Material

The material the guitar is made of makes a big difference to how the guitar feels, sounds and looks. The most frequent material used is wood and the most commonly used words are mahogany, maple, ash, alder etc. Each wood affects the sound differently, for example, mahogany is known for its warm and full-bodied tone.

Alder on the other hand offers a balanced sound. The choice of material plays a crucial role in defining the guitar’s personality, therefore it’s important to get a guitar made of materials that suit your musical style and your personality. Despite wood being the most commonly used material, there are also models made from other materials such as metal or carbon fibre. These options are often chosen for their durability and unique sound, with metal offering a sharp and edgy tone while carbon fibre produces a bright and resonant sound.