When I was first looking to buy a guitar, I wasn’t sure what to look for. The only thing I was sure about, it was going to be an acoustic. What I ended up doing was going to my local music store and relying on their honesty and of course their knowledge.
At the time, they had a kit for beginners. The kit included the guitar (Jasmine by Takamine), 6 picks, an electric tuner, 6 extra guitar strings with a key, and a guitar case. I ended up buying the kit but modifying it slightly. I upgraded the guitar case, which looked pretty cheap, and replaced it with a “GIG BAG”.
Looking back now I don’t regret the purchase one bit. At the time I was questioning some of the things in the kit. 6 guitar picks. Why would I need so many picks? Well I found out that they have a habit of disappearing on you. Some eventually turn up, but others I’ve never seen again. Over 5 years later, I only have 2 left from the original 6.
The one purchase that I really appreciate is the electric tuner. I love it. It’s simple. it’s easy. I use it a lot more than I thought I ever would. I thought I’d tune my guitar once and never use it again. What surprised me was how easy it was for a guitar to become out of tune (i.e. Changes in humidity, a slight bump). I seem to have a natural ear for music and I can always tell when my guitar needs tuning.
The only thing in my kit that has been of no use to me what so ever are the six replacement strings. I’m still using the same 6 strings that came with my guitar. Why that is I’m not sure but I guess keeping the guitar properly turned doesn’t hurt.
The only thing that I bought, in terms of equipment, after my original purchase was a capo. For beginners, it’s not anything I would recommend.
That’s my first and only experience with buying a guitar however I’ve been toying with the idea of upgrading. If I do make the jump I’ll be sure to let you know about it.
Rock On.