Wanting to learn to play the guitar is good but what’s better is purchasing the right kind of guitar at the very beginning of your musical journey. Using this guide, we will give you insights into the technical aspects, commonalities and differences between acoustic vs. electric guitar based on your musical preferences and aspirations. So dive right in!
Playability and feel: Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar
Now, to be clear, the fundamentals of both guitars remain more or less the same. Both have mostly 6 strings, tuned from low to high string notes – E, A, D, G, B, E and the chords and scales learnt on one guitar can be replicated on another. However, with all these similarities, let’s explore this guitar-buying guide that covers the differences between acoustic and electric guitars.
Electric guitar strings are thinner and usually made of steel or nickel. These strings typically run from a light .009 to a heavy .001 through a magnetic electric guitar pickup that converts the string vibrations into a voltage and then a sound. Due to this, heavier strings aren’t needed to fill out the sound. Whereas, for acoustic guitars, the strings go from a light 0.11 to a heavy 0.14 and its sounds are naturally emitted from the soundhole of the guitar.
When it comes to the feel, an electric guitar’s neck is thinner than an acoustic one, making it easy for you to hold on to.
Which Guitar is Easier to Learn On: Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar
It is imperative to pick the right guitar at an early stage of learning. While there is a general norm that electric guitars are easier to learn, let us tell you why learning on an acoustic guitar is seemingly better. A few basic advantages of choosing the right guitar, such as an acoustic, are not having to worry about effects pedals, high volumes, and other peripherals that help with sound output. A guitar capo to barre the frets and strum the guitar in different keys is just enough. Let’s get into the details of it at the later end of this article.
Choosing a Guitar: What Sort of Music Do You Like?
Knowing which music interests you the most is important before purchasing a guitar. The reason is that an acoustic vs. electric guitar delivers music differently for different genres. For instance, if you’re into metal, then an electric guitar should be your go-to, but if pop or country music entices you, then acoustic is the right choice.
Acoustic Guitar Essentials: Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar
The shape of the body, such as in dreadnought and jumbo acoustics, is better at emitting bold, loud sounds, while both dreadnoughts and jumbos are brilliant for strumming. As for size, smaller-sized acoustic guitars such as the parlor and 00 help well in articulating notes and are one of the best beginner guitars. Additionally, a guitar strap, gigbag and picks are essential when purchasing an acoustic guitar.
Electric Guitar Essentials: Acoustic vs. Electric Guitar
In terms of shape, your first beginner guitar purchase should be in the Les Paul, Stratocaster and Super Strat style, as it has a classic shape that makes it easy to hold, sitting down or standing up. Look for single coil pickups to play a bright and precise tone and a humbucker for a warm and thick tone. Consider your electric guitar having a tremolo or a vibrato system that adds a pep to your playing experience, while an amplifier that’ll help you experiment with various tones.
After Choosing the Right One: Learn How to Play the Guitar
Selecting the right guitar is just the beginning; learning how to play guitar for beginners effectively is the next important step. In this article, “How to Play Guitar: 14 Steps to Start Playing,” you’ll find a detailed guide covering the essential techniques, exercises, and tips you need to start your guitar-playing journey. From holding the guitar correctly to mastering your first chords, this step-by-step guide will help you build a solid foundation. At Artium Academy, we complement your learning by offering expert guidance, structured lessons, and interactive digital tools to support your practice and ensure steady progress.
Conclusion
To summarise, choosing the right guitar between an acoustic vs electric guitar while keeping in mind what to look out for before purchasing your first guitar and the differences between the two will turn your learning journey into a breeze! There’s never been a better time. Check out our online guitar courses and book a free trial at Artium Academy today!
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