Buying a guitar can be an intimidating and confusing experience. With more makes and models on the market than ever, and more places to buy a guitar, education and research is the best approach for choosing the instrument that's right for you. Quality instruments are available at every price scale, and although cheaper is not always better, more expensive does not guarantee a guitar that suits you.

Choosing a Store

Online buying is easy, and you can often find bargains, but purchasing something sight-unseen is always a risk. Local retail music stores are usually staffed with experienced musicians, who can offer all kinds of advice. Developing a local relationship with a store can also reap after-the-sale benefits and future discounts, adding value to your purchase. Don't buy the first guitar you see. Shop around, trying out as many instruments as possible. Make sure you are comfortable with the salesperson, and "feel" them out to be sure they have your best interest in mind.

Research

Combine online research with salesperson claims. The Internet is an excellent source for reviews and price comparisons, but be thorough. One person's complaint may be countered by 12 others who love a certain guitar model. Take note of features and prices, and bring them into your local store for verification and explanations if needed. Many local stores will match online pricing, if provided with proper documentation.

Types of Guitars

The type of guitar you should buy is highly subjective, and based on the music and playing style you would enjoy playing. Weed through the attributes of solid and hollow-body electrics, steel or nylon string acoustics, and acoustic/electrics, to narrow down the selections. Researching the type of guitar your favorite players use can help quite a bit. Purchasing the exact make and model isn't necessary, you'll only want to get a basic idea of the particular features.

Country of Origin

While guitars made in the United States and other developed countries are usually of high-quality, they also have matching high prices. The current guitar market is hugely competitive, and quality instruments abound no matter where they are manufactured.

Brand Name

Purchasing a brand name guitar is smart for many reasons, including resale value, but it doesn't always guarantee a good investment. Many famous high-priced manufacturers offer entry-level instruments, which are often made overseas to keep prices low. While these instruments are often of good quality, the famous maker nameplate does not guarantee future value.

Sound and Playability

What buying a guitar really comes down to is sound and playability. If the guitar sounds and plays well, it's probably a good choice. Even famous guitar players use off-brand instruments, as the way the instrument performs is more important than name-brand status. Keep in mind that just because you plan on buying the same instrument your hero plays, it won't make you sound and play like that person. Music is an art, and art comes more from the individual than the tools they use.

Source:

Acoustic Fingerstyle: Buying Your First Guitar

Music With Ease: How To Buy a Guitar

Guitar Noise: How To Buy a Used Acoustic Guitar

More Information:

Guitar For Beginners: Buying Your Guitar

Paul Adams Music: Buying and Maintaining a Guita

iPLay Music: How To Buy a Beginner Guitar