Buy a Guitar – Find Your Acoustic Guitar at Zoundhouse
At Zoundhouse, we offer you a huge selection of guitars. Discover our wide range and find the classical or western guitar that suits you. Whether you are a professional or a beginner – in our online guitar shop, you will definitely find the right model at Zoundhouse.
What is an Acoustic Guitar?
Acoustic guitars are instruments where – as the name suggests – sound is produced acoustically by vibrating the strings when played. Of course, an acoustic guitar is much more than that. With its versatility, it is one of the most commonly used musical instruments. Whether rock, pop, folk, or country: an acoustic guitar can produce sounds of various genres.
Even though the acoustic guitar is a widespread and popular instrument, there are many differences to consider. From guitar size to your preferred playing style, there’s a lot to think about when buying a guitar. In the following, we will explain the different types of acoustic guitars and what you should pay attention to before buying one!
What is the Difference Between a Western Guitar and a Classical Guitar?
When looking to buy an acoustic guitar, you will quickly come across different types. Acoustic guitars can be divided into various categories. When distinguishing between a western guitar and a classical guitar, there are significant differences in sound quality, playability, and appearance.
The western guitar is also known as a steel-string guitar, as its strings are made of steel. These produce a bright and loud tone. The sound of these guitars suits a wide range of music styles, particularly country, rock, pop, and folk. In terms of construction, the western guitar’s neck is narrower than that of a classical guitar, making chord playing much easier. However, the body shape is larger and more rounded, resulting in the loud, full sound the instrument is known for.
Classical guitars use nylon strings, which produce a softer tone. The neck of these guitars is wider than that of a western guitar, making it easier to play single notes. This makes them ideal for classical music and fingerpicking styles. Playing nylon strings results in a warmer and more mellow sound, partly due to the smaller body shape of the classical guitar.
Before buying a guitar, you should not only consider the style of music you prefer but also the level of playing comfort you want. Both types can produce beautiful sounds.
Which Guitar Should Beginners Buy?
As a beginner, you might quickly wonder: western guitar or classical guitar – which is better for beginners? Once you compare different acoustic guitar types, it becomes clear that distinguishing between beginner and advanced guitars isn’t easy. The short answer: both types can be suitable for beginners; it depends on the model.
To choose the right acoustic guitar as a beginner, you should first consider your preferred music style. While a classical guitar (the “traditional” acoustic guitar) is particularly suitable for fingerstyle playing, a western guitar is ideal for genres like country, rock, blues, and many more.
The choice of the right beginner guitar depends largely on its construction and size. Both guitar types offer models suitable for learning. A classical guitar has soft nylon strings that are easier on the fingers and more comfortable to press. Its wider neck makes chord playing easier, especially for adults with larger hands. A western guitar, with its steel strings, may initially be harder on the fingers, but this discomfort is temporary. Due to its narrower neck, it can be easier for players with smaller hands, making it a good choice for learning as well.
Which Accessories Should You Buy for an Acoustic Guitar?
When buying an acoustic guitar, it’s worth also getting the necessary accessories. They not only improve your playing experience but also help you maintain your guitar for long-lasting enjoyment.
Protection & Storage
Essential gear when buying a guitar includes a gig bag and a guitar stand or wall mount. These allow for safe transportation and storage of your instrument at home.
Tuning and Playability
A tuner and a capo are essential accessories. A tuner is a must-have for every guitarist. Nowadays, there are many types of tuners, such as clip-on devices or even smartphone apps. A capo is useful for playing in different keys by clamping it onto the neck to shorten all strings simultaneously, making certain chords easier to play.
Playing Technique
While not essential for beginners, a guitar strap and picks can be very helpful. A strap is particularly useful if you want to play standing up. Picks come in various thicknesses and materials, each suited to different playing styles.
Maintenance and Care
Guitars come with strings already attached, but over time, they need replacing – especially if one breaks mid-play. It’s a good idea to purchase spare strings right away. A string cutter and winder make changing strings quicker and easier. These tools are often included in guitar care kits, which are also useful for cleaning and polishing your instrument regularly.
Learning Resources for Beginners
When buying your first guitar, consider getting learning materials such as books or apps to help you practice at home alongside lessons. This will help you progress faster.
5 Tips for Choosing the Right Guitar
Finally, here are 5 tips to keep in mind when selecting your guitar. Buying a guitar is not a quick process and should be well thought out to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Tip 1: Test the Playability Before Buying
You should always test how a guitar feels in your hands before buying it. It should feel comfortable to hold and easy to play. String action (height of strings) and neck width play a major role in this.
Tip 2: Soundcheck – Which Tone Do You Prefer?
The sound is crucial when choosing a guitar. Each acoustic guitar has a unique tone that depends on its type and construction. Compare different guitars before purchasing. Does it have clear sustain? Are highs and lows balanced?
Tip 3: Choose the Right Size
The size of the guitar greatly affects comfort. Depending on your body size, you can choose from 1/4 size to full-size models. Smaller guitars are great for young or petite players, while larger models produce louder and fuller sounds.
Tip 4: Check the String Action
String action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. It strongly affects playability. Low action is easier to play but can cause buzzing if too low. Higher action produces a cleaner tone but requires more finger strength. A guitar technician can help you adjust this to your preference.
Tip 5: Don’t Forget the Pickup
If you plan to play not only at home or around a campfire, consider buying a guitar with a built-in pickup. Pickups convert your guitar’s vibrations into an electrical signal for amplification or recording. There are different types, including magnetic and microphone-based pickups, each with its unique tonal character. Decide on this before making your purchase.
Buy Your Guitar at Zoundhouse
In our online shop, you are sure to find the perfect acoustic guitar. Our huge selection covers everything from beginner to professional models. Whether you’re looking for a classical or western guitar, our experts are happy to help you make the right choice.
You can reach us via email or phone for individual advice and any questions about acoustic guitars. Feel free to visit our store in Dresden. As Saxony’s largest music shop, you can browse and try out different guitars on-site.
Buy your guitar now at Zoundhouse!
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