How To Buy Your First Electric Guitar? A Beginner's Guide

Buying your first electric guitar can be exciting, and this guide from guitarplayers.net will equip you with the knowledge to make the best choice for your musical journey. We’ll break down essential considerations, from budget to aesthetics, ensuring you find an instrument that inspires you to play and keeps you motivated to learn. Dive in to discover the perfect electric guitar to start your musical adventure, explore diverse guitar lessons, sheet music, and join our active community.

1. What is Your Budget When Buying an Electric Guitar?

Your budget is a primary consideration when purchasing an electric guitar. Electric guitar prices can range from under $200 to over $2,000, so setting a realistic budget helps narrow down your options. Generally, spending more within the beginner range translates to better quality materials, hardware, and overall craftsmanship.

1.1. How Does Budget Affect Guitar Quality?

Spending more money typically results in superior components and construction.

Woods: More expensive guitars often use higher-quality tonewoods like mahogany, alder, or maple, which contribute to better sound and sustain.
Hardware: Upgraded hardware, such as tuning machines and bridges, can improve tuning stability and overall playability.
Setups: Better guitars often receive more meticulous setups from the factory or retailer, making them easier to play right out of the box.

1.2. What About the Law of Diminishing Returns?

The law of diminishing returns applies to guitars as well. While a $1,000 guitar will likely be significantly better than a $300 one, the difference between a $2,000 and a $4,000 guitar might be less noticeable, especially to a beginner. Therefore, focus on maximizing quality within your budget rather than chasing the most expensive option.

1.3. What Additional Costs Should You Consider?

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of an amplifier and accessories. Amplifiers vary in price depending on wattage and features.

Amplifier: You’ll need an amplifier to hear your electric guitar properly. Prices range from small practice amps ($50-$150) to larger, more powerful amps for gigging ($200+).
Accessories: Other essential accessories include a cable, picks, a strap, a tuner, and a case. These can add another $50-$100 to your initial investment.

1.4. Can You Start Without an Amplifier?

Yes, you can start playing electric guitar without a traditional amplifier. There are several alternatives:

iOS Apps: Apps like GarageBand or AmpKit can be used with an audio interface to hear your guitar through headphones or speakers.
Headphone Amplifiers: Compact headphone amplifiers like the Vox amPlug offer a convenient way to practice silently.
Acoustic Practice: Playing unplugged allows you to focus on technique without the distraction of amplification.

1.5. What Are Guitar Packs?

Guitar packs provide a convenient and cost-effective way to get started. These bundles typically include:

Guitar: A basic electric guitar suitable for beginners.
Amplifier: A small practice amplifier.
Accessories: Cable, picks, strap, and sometimes a gig bag.
They are designed to provide everything you need in one package, simplifying the purchasing process.

2. Do Guitar Aesthetics Matter When Buying an Electric Guitar?

The look of your guitar can significantly influence your motivation and enjoyment. Choosing a guitar that appeals to you aesthetically can make practicing more enjoyable. If you find a guitar that inspires you, be sure to check out guitarplayers.net for lessons, tips, and a supportive community to fuel your passion.

2.1. How Does Your Favorite Guitarist Influence Your Choice?

Imitating your favorite guitarist is a great way to find a guitar that suits your style.

Research: Identify the guitars your favorite players use.
Emulation: Look for similar models or brands.
Sound: This can help you achieve a similar tone and feel.

2.2. What Are the Popular Guitar Body Styles?

Electric guitars come in various body styles, each with its own look and feel:

Body Style	Description	Common Genres
Stratocaster	Comfortable body shape, versatile sound	Rock, Blues, Pop
Telecaster	Simple design, bright and twangy tone	Country, Rock, Blues
Les Paul	Thick, warm tone with good sustain	Rock, Blues, Hard Rock
SG	Lightweight, aggressive tone	Rock, Hard Rock, Metal
Hollow Body	Warm, resonant tone, often used in jazz and blues	Jazz, Blues, Rockabilly
Super Strat	Modern design with high-output pickups and tremolo systems	Shred, Metal, Hard Rock

2.3. What Finishes and Colors Are Available?

Electric guitars come in a wide array of finishes and colors, allowing you to express your personal style. Some popular options include:

Solid Colors: Black, white, red, blue, etc.
Sunburst: A gradient finish that fades from one color to another.
Natural: Shows the natural grain of the wood.
Metallic: Sparkly finishes that catch the light.

2.4. What About Guitar Hardware and Cosmetics?

Details like the color of the hardware (chrome, black, gold) and the style of the pickguard can also affect the overall look of the guitar. Consider these elements when making your decision.

2.5. Why is Personal Preference Important?

Ultimately, the best-looking guitar is the one that you find most appealing. Choose a guitar that inspires you to pick it up and play.

3. What Type of Music Do You Want to Play on Your Electric Guitar?

The type of music you want to play should influence your choice of electric guitar. Different guitars are better suited for certain genres due to their design, pickups, and overall sound.

3.1. How Do Different Pickups Affect Sound?

Pickups are a crucial factor in determining a guitar’s sound.

Humbuckers: These pickups produce a thick, warm tone with high output, making them ideal for rock, metal, and blues.
Single-Coil Pickups: These pickups offer a bright, clear tone that’s well-suited for country, pop, and funk.
P-90 Pickups: These pickups provide a combination of warmth and bite, making them versatile for rock, blues, and punk.

3.2. Which Guitars Are Best for Rock Music?

Rock music encompasses a wide range of styles, and several guitars are well-suited for the genre.

Les Paul: Known for its thick, warm tone and sustain, the Les Paul is a classic choice for rock and hard rock.
Stratocaster: The Strat’s versatility and bright tone make it a great option for classic rock, blues rock, and indie rock.
SG: The SG’s lightweight design and aggressive tone make it a favorite among hard rock and metal players.

3.3. What About Metal Music?

Metal music typically requires guitars with high-output pickups and aggressive tones.

Super Strat: These guitars often feature humbucker pickups, Floyd Rose tremolos, and fast necks, making them ideal for shredding and heavy riffs.
Flying V: The Flying V’s aggressive look and powerful sound make it a popular choice among metal guitarists.
Explorer: Similar to the Flying V, the Explorer offers a unique look and a thick, heavy tone.

3.4. Which Electric Guitars Are Good for Blues Music?

Blues music often calls for guitars with warm, soulful tones.

Stratocaster: The Strat’s smooth, bluesy tone and comfortable playability make it a favorite among blues guitarists.
Telecaster: The Tele’s twangy tone and simple design make it a great option for country blues and rockabilly.
Hollow Body: Hollow body guitars offer a warm, resonant tone that’s perfect for jazz blues and traditional blues styles.

3.5. What if You Want to Play Multiple Genres?

If you want to play a variety of genres, consider a versatile guitar with a flexible pickup configuration. A Stratocaster with a humbucker in the bridge position can be a great option.

4. What Scale Length and Neck Profile Do You Prefer on an Electric Guitar?

Scale length and neck profile are crucial factors in determining a guitar’s playability and feel. Understanding these aspects can help you choose a guitar that’s comfortable and easy to play.

4.1. What is Scale Length?

Scale length is the distance from the nut to the bridge saddle.

Shorter Scale Length: Shorter scale lengths (e.g., 24.75″ on a Les Paul) result in a looser string tension, making bending easier.
Longer Scale Length: Longer scale lengths (e.g., 25.5″ on a Stratocaster) provide a tighter string tension, offering a brighter tone and better note definition.

4.2. How Does Scale Length Affect Playability?

The scale length affects string tension and overall feel.

Smaller Hands: Players with smaller hands may find shorter scale lengths more comfortable.
String Bending: Longer scale lengths can require more effort for string bending.

4.3. What is Neck Profile?

Neck profile refers to the shape of the guitar’s neck.

C-Shape: A rounded shape that’s comfortable for most players.
V-Shape: A more pronounced V-shape that fits well in the hand.
D-Shape: A flatter shape that’s popular among shredders.
U-Shape: A thicker, rounder shape that’s common on vintage guitars.

4.4. How Does Neck Profile Affect Comfort?

The neck profile can significantly impact your playing comfort.

Hand Size: Choose a neck profile that fits comfortably in your hand.
Playing Style: Some profiles are better suited for certain playing styles.

4.5. How Do You Find Your Ideal Neck Profile?

Try different guitars to determine which neck profile feels best to you. Visit your local guitar store and experiment with various models.

5. What Type of Bridge and Tremolo System Do You Need?

The bridge and tremolo system affect a guitar’s tuning stability and vibrato capabilities. Understanding the different types can help you choose a guitar that suits your playing style.

5.1. What is a Fixed Bridge?

A fixed bridge is a stationary bridge that provides excellent tuning stability and sustain.

Types: Tune-o-matic (Les Paul), hardtail (Telecaster), and string-through-body.
Advantages: Simple design, reliable tuning.

5.2. What Are Tremolo Systems?

Tremolo systems allow you to bend notes and create vibrato effects by moving the bridge.

Vintage-Style Tremolo: Found on many Stratocasters, these systems offer subtle vibrato effects.
Floyd Rose Tremolo: These locking tremolos provide extreme pitch bending capabilities and excellent tuning stability.

5.3. How Does a Floating Tremolo System Work?

A floating tremolo system allows you to raise and lower the pitch of notes.

Setup: Requires careful setup to maintain tuning stability.
Maintenance: May require more maintenance than fixed bridges.

5.4. What Are the Advantages of a Floyd Rose?

Floyd Rose tremolos offer several advantages.

Extreme Bending: Allows for deep dive bombs and squeals.
Tuning Stability: Locking mechanisms help maintain tuning even with heavy use.

5.5. How Do You Choose the Right Bridge?

Consider your playing style and desired effects when choosing a bridge. If you prefer simple, reliable tuning, a fixed bridge is a great option. If you want to explore vibrato effects, a tremolo system is necessary.

6. Where Can You Try Out Electric Guitars?

Trying out guitars in person is crucial for finding the right instrument. Visiting local guitar stores or attending guitar shows provides opportunities to play different models and get a feel for their sound and playability.

6.1. What Should You Look for in a Guitar Store?

A good guitar store should offer a wide selection of guitars, knowledgeable staff, and a comfortable environment for trying out instruments.

Selection: Look for a store that carries a variety of brands and models.
Expertise: Staff should be able to answer your questions and provide recommendations.
Environment: The store should have a quiet area where you can play guitars without distractions.

6.2. How Can You Prepare for Your Visit?

Before visiting a guitar store, research different models and brands to narrow down your options. Bring a list of questions to ask the staff.

Research: Read reviews and watch videos of guitars you’re interested in.
Questions: Prepare a list of questions about features, specifications, and pricing.

6.3. What Should You Do When Trying Out Guitars?

When trying out guitars, take your time and play a variety of riffs, chords, and scales. Pay attention to the feel of the neck, the sound of the pickups, and the overall comfort of the instrument.

6.4. Can You Negotiate the Price?

Many guitar stores are willing to negotiate prices, especially on used or discontinued models. Don’t be afraid to ask for a discount or a package deal.

6.5. What About Buying Online?

Buying online can be convenient, but it’s important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase.

Reputable Retailers: Buy from reputable online retailers with good return policies.
Reviews: Read customer reviews to get an idea of the guitar’s quality and playability.

7. What Are Some Recommended Electric Guitars for Beginners?

Several electric guitars are particularly well-suited for beginners due to their playability, affordability, and versatility.

7.1. Squier Stratocaster

The Squier Stratocaster is a popular choice for beginners due to its comfortable body shape, versatile sound, and affordable price.

Features: Three single-coil pickups, tremolo bridge, and maple neck.
Price Range: $200-$400.

7.2. Yamaha Pacifica

The Yamaha Pacifica offers excellent value for money, with good build quality and a versatile pickup configuration.

Features: Humbucker and two single-coil pickups, tremolo bridge, and comfortable neck.
Price Range: $300-$500.

7.3. Epiphone Les Paul

The Epiphone Les Paul provides a classic Les Paul tone and feel at an affordable price.

Features: Two humbucker pickups, tune-o-matic bridge, and mahogany body.
Price Range: $400-$600.

7.4. Ibanez GRX70QA

The Ibanez GRX70QA is a great option for beginners who want a guitar with a modern look and feel.

Features: Two humbucker pickups, tremolo bridge, and thin, fast neck.
Price Range: $200-$300.

7.5. Jackson Dinky

The Jackson Dinky is a popular choice for metal and hard rock players, with a comfortable neck and high-output pickups.

Features: Two humbucker pickups, tremolo bridge, and slim neck profile.
Price Range: $300-$500.

8. What Accessories Do You Need to Get Started with Your Electric Guitar?

In addition to the guitar and amplifier, several accessories are essential for getting started.

8.1. Guitar Cable

A guitar cable is needed to connect your guitar to your amplifier.

Quality: Invest in a high-quality cable to avoid noise and signal loss.
Length: Choose a cable length that suits your playing space.

8.2. Guitar Picks

Guitar picks come in various thicknesses and materials.

Thickness: Experiment with different thicknesses to find what feels best for you.
Material: Celluloid, nylon, and Delrin are common pick materials.

8.3. Guitar Strap

A guitar strap is needed to play your guitar while standing.

Material: Leather, nylon, and cotton are common strap materials.
Adjustability: Choose a strap that’s adjustable to your preferred length.

8.4. Guitar Tuner

A guitar tuner is essential for keeping your guitar in tune.

Types: Clip-on tuners, pedal tuners, and smartphone apps are available.
Accuracy: Choose a tuner that’s accurate and easy to use.

8.5. Guitar Case or Gig Bag

A guitar case or gig bag is needed to protect your guitar during transport.

Case: Hardshell cases offer the best protection.
Gig Bag: Gig bags are lighter and more portable.

9. How Do You Maintain Your Electric Guitar?

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping your electric guitar in good condition and ensuring its longevity.

9.1. Cleaning Your Guitar

Regular cleaning helps remove dirt and grime from your guitar’s finish and hardware.

Materials: Use a soft cloth and guitar polish.
Frequency: Clean your guitar after each playing session.

9.2. Changing Strings

Changing your guitar strings regularly improves tone and playability.

Frequency: Change your strings every 1-3 months, depending on how often you play.
Tools: You’ll need a string winder and wire cutters.

9.3. Adjusting Intonation

Intonation refers to the accuracy of your guitar’s tuning across the fretboard.

Symptoms: If your guitar is in tune at the nut but out of tune at higher frets, you may need to adjust the intonation.
Professional Setup: Consider having a professional setup done by a qualified technician.

9.4. Adjusting Action

Action refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard.

Low Action: Lower action makes the guitar easier to play but can cause buzzing.
High Action: Higher action can improve tone but can make the guitar harder to play.

9.5. Storing Your Guitar

Proper storage helps protect your guitar from damage.

Temperature: Store your guitar in a stable temperature and humidity.
Case: Keep your guitar in a case when not in use.

10. Where Can You Find Guitar Lessons and Resources?

Numerous resources are available to help you learn to play the electric guitar.

10.1. Online Guitar Lessons

Online guitar lessons offer a convenient and affordable way to learn.

Websites: Guitarplayers.net, Fender Play, and TrueFire are popular online lesson platforms.
YouTube: Many free guitar lessons are available on YouTube.

10.2. Private Guitar Teachers

Private guitar teachers offer personalized instruction and feedback.

Local Teachers: Search for local guitar teachers in your area.
Online Teachers: Many teachers offer online lessons via Skype or Zoom.

10.3. Guitar Books and DVDs

Guitar books and DVDs provide structured lessons and exercises.

Beginner Books: Hal Leonard Guitar Method and Guitar For Dummies are popular beginner books.
DVDs: Many instructional DVDs are available for various styles and techniques.

10.4. Guitar Tabs and Sheet Music

Guitar tabs and sheet music provide a way to learn your favorite songs.

Websites: Ultimate-Guitar.com and Musicnotes.com offer a vast library of tabs and sheet music.

10.5. Guitar Communities and Forums

Guitar communities and forums provide a place to connect with other guitar players, ask questions, and share your progress.

Online Forums: Guitarplayers.net, Guitar Forums, and The Gear Page are popular online forums.
Local Groups: Look for local guitar groups in your area.

Ready to embark on your electric guitar journey? Visit guitarplayers.net for a wealth of resources, including lessons, reviews, sheet music, and a vibrant community of fellow guitar enthusiasts. Our address is 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States, and you can reach us at +1 (617) 747-2261.

FAQ: How To Buy Your First Electric Guitar

1. What is the most important factor when buying your first electric guitar?

Budget is the most important factor when buying your first electric guitar, as it determines the quality and features you can afford, so remember to factor in the cost of additional gear.

2. How much should I spend on my first electric guitar?

Expect to spend between $200 and $500 on your first electric guitar to get a decent quality instrument.

3. What are the best electric guitar brands for beginners?

Squier, Yamaha, Epiphone, and Ibanez are great electric guitar brands for beginners, offering quality instruments at affordable prices.

4. What type of pickups are best for beginners?

Versatile pickup configurations like humbucker-single-single (HSS) or two humbuckers (HH) are best for beginners, allowing them to explore different tones and genres.

5. What is the difference between single-coil and humbucker pickups?

Single-coil pickups produce a bright, clear tone, while humbucker pickups offer a thick, warm tone with high output.

6. What is a good scale length for a beginner guitar?

A scale length of 24.75″ to 25.5″ is suitable for a beginner guitar, providing comfortable playability and balanced tone.

7. What is the best neck profile for a beginner guitar?

A C-shape neck profile is generally the best for a beginner guitar, offering comfort and ease of play for most hand sizes.

8. Do I need to buy an amplifier when I buy an electric guitar?

Yes, you need to buy an amplifier when you buy an electric guitar to hear the instrument properly, but there are also alternatives like iOS apps or headphone amplifiers.

9. What essential accessories do I need to buy with my first electric guitar?

Essential accessories include a guitar cable, picks, a strap, a tuner, and a case or gig bag, making it easier to play and maintain your instrument.

10. Where can I find guitar lessons and resources for beginners?

guitarplayers.net, online platforms like Fender Play, private teachers, and guitar books are valuable sources for guitar lessons and resources for beginners, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.