Essential Guide for Beginning Electric Guitarists: Budget-Friendly Options and DIY Tips

As a teenager, you're at the perfect age to explore the world of electric guitars. With so many budget-friendly options available, it's easier than ever to find the beginner electric guitar that's right for you. In this guide, we'll explore the best choices for startups, discuss the importance of trial and error, and offer some DIY tips to help you on your guitar journey.

Best Budget-Friendly Electric Guitars for Beginners

Two popular brands that offer excellent options for beginners are Leo Jamz and Harley Benton. These guitars provide high-quality entry-level instruments that won't break the bank. For approximately $175 to $200, you can get a superior guitar that even those from the Gen X era would be jealous of. It's impressive how manufacturers are continuously improving their entry-level models, with some of the weakest points being the stock pickups. However, as a beginner, you can still enjoy playing without worrying too much about these details. If you maintain your instrument and keep playing, you'll naturally progress to a better guitar.

Personal Experience: Starting with a Cheap Electric Guitar

When I first started playing, I purchased a cheap electric guitar from the Sears Catalog. Although not in production anymore, the guitar I got was under $100. What made it stand out was the built-in effects, which, while not the best, were fun to experiment with. It featured six effect buttons, including Phase and Flanger, allowing for creative sound exploration.

Where to Find Affordable Instruments

For those new to the world of electric guitars, it's crucial to explore various brands to find the right fit. Some manufacturers that offer high-quality entry-level instruments include:

Take the time to read reviews and visit guitar stores to test out different instruments. Finding the perfect guitar requires trying different models, which is a valuable learning process. Similarly, when purchasing firearms, I always advise potential buyers to find the right fit and do their due diligence.

Second-Hand Guitar Recommendations

One of the best ways to find a high-quality guitar at a reasonable price is to look for second-hand options with a good pedigree. Carefully check the make and models and, if possible, bring a fellow guitarist to assist in inspecting and playing the instruments. Currently, the market is buyer-friendly, making it easier to find great deals.

My Recommendations

One of the guitars I highly recommend is the Squire Affinity Series Telecaster. In just one year, I purchased three guitars from the Squire Affinity Series: a Telecaster, two Mini-Strats, and a Classic Vibe double bound Tele. After a simple tune-up, these guitars played flawlessly, with no issues related to intonation or fret ends. This suggests that the company has a solid quality control system in place.

DIY Maintenance and Tips

DIY maintenance is an essential part of the learning process. You should not fear damaging anything or dealing with non-standard parts. Consider purchasing a Squire Bullet model, which is often available for around $99. It may be a little flimsy, but you will eventually wear it down. Embrace the process and use it as a learning experience.

Another important aspect is knowing when to change your guitar strings. While it's best to replace all strings at once, you might as well have a Maka 20-pack of replacement 9 or 10 gauge E strings for $10. It's a common occurrence for strings to break, so it's better to be prepared.

With these tips and recommendations, you're well on your way to starting your electric guitar journey. Embrace the process, experiment with different instruments, and most importantly, enjoy the music!