Does a Beginner Need an Expensive Guitar to Start Learning?
When embarking on your musical journey, the initial instrument you choose can greatly influence your experience. As a beginner, it's important to remember that an inexpensive, yet properly functioning instrument, is often sufficient. The most crucial factor in your success is finding an experienced guitarist to guide you through your early lessons. Additionally, high-quality, second-hand instruments can be found for as low as €75, making quality and affordability accessible.
An Expensive Guitar Can Be a Burden
Starting with an expensive guitar can be a significant burden, especially when you're just beginning your journey. Being a novice is already challenging; the added pressure of possessing a costly instrument only increases the stress. Moreover, if you decide to quit after a few weeks, that expensive guitar has essentially become a purchased experience with no refunds. Potential buyers will likely see it as a disposable item, which can affect the resale value. I started playing on a used 3/4 sized no-name electric guitar with a plywood body for just ￡15. I didn't have an amplifier, so I played with my chin resting on the guitar's body!
Starter Guitars and Practical Choices
The more sensible approach would be to invest in a decent, affordable guitar. For instance, a Squier Affinity Telecaster is an excellent choice, as it won't cost you too much and is well worth the investment. From my personal experience, Squier guitars are user-friendly right off the bat. They come pre-tuned, and you won't encounter any nasty fret ends or intonation problems. A playable guitar is just as important as patience and determination. Electric guitars generally remain more accessible to beginners due to lighter gauge strings, which require less hand strength and have a lower 'action', making them easier to play.
The Time-Tested Cliché
A very old saying still holds true today: if a beginner guitarist is given a very expensive guitar, they will still sound like a beginner, as esteemed guitarist Albert Steptoe once said, 'Bleedin’ awful!!' Conversely, even a seasoned player can sound excellent with a cheap guitar. The instrument is a tool, not a measure of your skill or success. The focus should be on your dedication and practice, not the price tag.
Quality Over Price
While some might argue that owning an expensive guitar is necessary, there are indeed numerous excellent, budget-friendly guitars available today. These guitars can serve you well until you learn the basics and understand what you truly desire. Some budget-friendly options include the Squier Classic Vibe Double Bound Telecaster and two Squier Mini-Strats. These guitars are playable out of the box with minimal setup, offering a user-friendly experience right from the start.
Ultimately, as a beginner, focus on finding a quality instrument that suits your budget, coupled with diligent practice and guidance from an experienced guitarist. This approach will set you up for a rewarding and enjoyable musical journey.