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Offspring needs to move from 1/2 size to full size so looking for ideas for good models to buy. Enthusiastic beginner rather than playing the Albert Hall!
Need something that will last and that she can progress with, more the Ford version than the Bentley in terms of cost.
Thanks
are you looking for a nylon strung classical guitar or electric or steel string acoustic?
Blimey, already out of my depth! I'm guessing nylon. Certainly not electrixc, should have made that bit clear.
In terms of versatility, how do the classical and steel acoustic vary?
Rather different styles of playing between nylon and steel strings - nylon tends to be more classical style so picking strings rather than strumming chords but of course you can play it anyway you fancy really. Nylon strings are easier on the fingers but steel strings tend to be louder and brighter.
I don't have much experience with nylon strung guitars but the ones I've played are easier to fret notes on because there's less tension in the strings.
Also, why not electric? Generally slimmer necks, generally lighter gauge strings than a steel strung acoustic and, this is important, they can be turned up to 11 which is very motivational.
Yamaha C40ii is regarded very highly as a starter guitar.
Usually available as a package with soft case and tuner.
Shameless promotion - I have one for sale if interested.
this is important, they can be turned up to 11 which is very motivational.
slightly more to the point (imho), acoustic guitars make a noise and there's little you can do to chnage that noise. electric guitars have tone controls, multiple (usually) pickups and effects pedals/amps can be added to provide a range of tones/colours/noises whatever you want to call them. the big plus here is that playing with the sounds encourages the youngster to play with the guitar even if they're bored of playing the guitar
Still, never underestimate the 11 factor
OP does she have lessons at school? if she does then you'll need the instrument that works for the lessons she has.
Mariners Yamaha is a good shout, they do great starter instruments (and good pro level ones too...)
Have a look on facebook marketplace, loads of guitars on there
I'd caution against buying from Facebook market place if you don't know what you are doing. At least if you buy new or from someone who knows about guitars you stand a fair chance of it being set up correctly. A guitar with a twisted neck or the action set way too high will be horrid to play and might put a beginner off without them realising that its actually a fault with the guitar thats the issue.
Buy her a half decent acoustic and an electric. Surely that’s win-win đŸ˜‰
Mariner, drop me a pm with details, condition and price please. Seems that model would work well for her
Have a mooch in a few guitar shops and let her loose on some stuff in there, it might give you both an idea of what to look for.
how do the classical and steel acoustic vary?
Massively different, if she isn't playing classical guitar, get a steel string acoustic. You don't need to have any more complex reasoning than that.
electric is far easier on the fingers, so that tends to mean beginners are more likely to practice. the body width is also thinner than acoustic so easier to handle for those with a short reach
As said, find a decent shop and have a play on a few. My brother found with his youngest letting him choose an electric he liked over being given one helped massively with motivation to practice.
thanks all