Behringer is a well-known name in the music equipment industry, particularly for its affordable audio gear, mixers, and effects pedals. But beyond the realms of studio and live sound, Behringer also ventures into the world of guitars. If you’re a guitarist on a budget, or simply curious about exploring different brands, Behringer Guitars might have caught your attention. This article dives deep into the world of Behringer guitars, exploring what they offer, who they are for, and whether they are a worthwhile option for your musical journey.
Behringer’s Place in the Guitar Market
Behringer has carved a niche for itself by offering incredibly affordable alternatives to established brands. This approach extends to their guitar line as well. Often positioned as entry-level or budget-friendly instruments, Behringer guitars aim to make music accessible to a wider range of players, especially beginners or those looking for a second or practice guitar without breaking the bank.
A Behringer electric guitar showcasing their modern designs.
What Kind of Guitars Does Behringer Offer?
Behringer’s guitar catalog, while not as extensive as some dedicated guitar brands, typically includes electric guitars and acoustic guitars.
Behringer Electric Guitars
Within the electric guitar category, you can generally find models inspired by classic and popular guitar designs. These might include:
- Stratocaster-style guitars: Versatile instruments known for their comfortable playability and bright, articulate tones, suitable for various genres.
- Telecaster-style guitars: Known for their twangy and punchy sound, often favored in country, blues, and rock music.
- Les Paul-style guitars: Offering a warmer, thicker tone with more sustain, popular in rock, blues, and heavier genres.
- Modern and Unique Designs: Behringer sometimes experiments with more contemporary guitar shapes and features, offering options for players seeking something different aesthetically.
It’s important to note that model availability can vary, and Behringer’s guitar offerings might change over time.
Behringer Acoustic Guitars
Behringer’s acoustic guitar range typically focuses on standard dreadnought and folk-style acoustic guitars. These are designed for general acoustic playing, strumming, and fingerpicking. Like their electric counterparts, Behringer acoustic guitars prioritize affordability, making them accessible instruments for beginners and casual players.
The Pros and Cons of Choosing a Behringer Guitar
Like any instrument brand, Behringer guitars come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these points can help you make an informed decision.
Pros:
- Affordability: The most significant advantage of Behringer guitars is their price. They are among the most budget-friendly options available, making guitar playing accessible to those with limited funds.
- Entry-Level Friendly: For beginners who are unsure about committing to a more expensive instrument, Behringer guitars provide a low-risk entry point to learn and explore guitar playing.
- Decent Playability for the Price: While not high-end instruments, many Behringer guitars offer surprisingly decent playability for their price range. This means they can be comfortable enough to learn on and practice with.
- Suitable for Practice or Backup: Experienced players might consider a Behringer guitar as a practice instrument, a travel guitar, or a backup in case their main instrument is unavailable.
Cons:
- Component Quality: To achieve their low price point, Behringer guitars often use more basic components, including hardware, pickups, and tonewoods. This can impact the overall tone, sustain, and long-term durability compared to higher-end guitars.
- Finish and Craftsmanship: The finish and overall craftsmanship on Behringer guitars might not be as refined as more expensive brands. You might find minor imperfections in the finish or less attention to detail in certain areas.
- Resale Value: Due to their budget nature, Behringer guitars typically have lower resale value compared to more established brands.
- Potential Need for Setup: Like many guitars in this price range, a Behringer guitar might benefit from a professional setup to optimize playability, intonation, and string action.
Behringer also produces acoustic guitars and related amplifiers, catering to a wide range of musical needs.
Who Are Behringer Guitars For?
Behringer guitars are best suited for:
- Beginner Guitarists: Their affordability makes them an excellent choice for individuals starting their guitar journey and wanting to test the waters without a significant investment.
- Budget-Conscious Players: Guitarists who need a functional instrument but are working with a tight budget will find Behringer guitars appealing.
- Practice and Travel Guitars: Players who need a secondary guitar for practice, travel, or leaving at a second location might find a Behringer guitar to be a practical and inexpensive solution.
- Experimentation and Modification: Some players purchase Behringer guitars as platforms for modification and upgrades, enjoying the low initial cost and using them as a base for learning guitar tech skills.
Are Behringer Guitars a Good Choice?
Whether a Behringer guitar is a “good” choice depends entirely on your individual needs and expectations. If you are looking for a high-end instrument with premium components, exceptional tone, and meticulous craftsmanship, Behringer guitars are likely not the right fit.
However, if you are a beginner, on a tight budget, or need a no-frills instrument for specific purposes like practice, Behringer guitars can be a surprisingly viable option. They offer an accessible entry point to guitar playing and can be a stepping stone towards exploring more advanced instruments as your skills and budget grow.
Before making a decision, it’s always recommended to:
- Try before you buy (if possible): If you can visit a music store that stocks Behringer guitars, try playing a few models to get a feel for their playability and sound.
- Read reviews: Look for online reviews and user opinions on specific Behringer guitar models that interest you.
- Consider your budget and needs: Determine your budget and what you need from a guitar. If affordability is the top priority, Behringer is certainly worth considering.
Ultimately, Behringer guitars occupy a specific segment of the guitar market. Understanding their strengths and limitations will help you decide if they align with your musical goals and budget.
