The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Dream Acoustic Electric Guitar

An acoustic-electric guitar is a versatile instrument that combines the warm, resonant sound of an acoustic guitar with the ability to plug into an amplifier for greater volume and versatility. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the right acoustic-electric guitar is essential for getting the sound you want.

There are many factors to consider when buying an acoustic-electric guitar, including body style, tonewoods, electronics, and price. Body style affects the guitar’s overall sound and projection, with dreadnoughts being known for their powerful, booming sound, while smaller-bodied guitars offer a more intimate, focused sound. Tonewoods also play a significant role in the guitar’s sound, with different woods imparting different tonal qualities. Electronics are important for amplifying the guitar’s signal, and there are a variety of options available, from simple passive pickups to more complex active preamps. Finally, price is always a consideration, and acoustic-electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

With so many factors to consider, it’s important to do your research before buying an acoustic-electric guitar. Talk to other guitarists, read reviews, and try out different guitars before making a decision. By taking the time to find the right guitar, you’ll be rewarded with an instrument that you’ll love for years to come.

1. Body Style

Body Style is one of the most important factors to consider when buying an acoustic electric guitar. The body style affects the guitar’s sound, projection, and playability.

There are many different body styles available, each with its own unique sound. Dreadnought guitars are the most popular body style for acoustic electric guitars. They have a large body with a wide waist and a deep body depth. This gives them a powerful, booming sound with plenty of projection. Jumbo guitars are similar to dreadnoughts, but they have a larger body and a deeper body depth. This gives them an even more powerful sound with even more projection. Grand Auditorium guitars are a smaller body style than dreadnoughts and jumbos. They have a more balanced sound with less boom and more clarity. Orchestra Model guitars are the smallest body style for acoustic electric guitars. They have a thin body with a narrow waist and a shallow body depth. This gives them a warm, mellow sound with less projection.

The body style you choose will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. If you want a guitar with a powerful sound and plenty of projection, a dreadnought or jumbo guitar is a good choice. If you want a guitar with a more balanced sound and less boom, a grand auditorium or orchestra model guitar is a good choice.

2. Tonewoods

Tonewoods are the types of wood used in the construction of an acoustic electric guitar. The type of tonewood used can have a significant impact on the guitar’s sound, projection, and playability.

• Spruce is a lightweight wood with a bright, clear sound. It is often used for the soundboards of acoustic guitars because it produces a lot of volume and projection.
• Mahogany is a heavier wood with a warm, mellow sound. It is often used for the backs and sides of acoustic guitars because it provides a rich, resonant sound.
• Rosewood is a dense wood with a deep, rich sound. It is often used for the fingerboards and bridges of acoustic guitars because it provides a clear, articulate sound.
• Ebony is a very dense wood with a bright, sharp sound. It is often used for the fingerboards of acoustic guitars because it is very durable and provides a clear, articulate sound.

The type of tonewood you choose will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. If you want a guitar with a bright, clear sound, spruce is a good choice. If you want a guitar with a warm, mellow sound, mahogany is a good choice. If you want a guitar with a deep, rich sound, rosewood is a good choice. If you want a guitar with a bright, sharp sound, ebony is a good choice.

3. Electronics

Electronics play a vital role in the functionality of an acoustic electric guitar. They allow the guitar to be amplified, so that it can be heard by a larger audience. There are two main types of electronics used in acoustic electric guitars: passive and active.

Passive electronics are the most common type of electronics used in acoustic electric guitars. They consist of a pickup, which converts the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal, and a volume control. Passive electronics are relatively simple and inexpensive, but they can produce a weaker signal than active electronics.

Active electronics use a preamplifier to boost the signal from the pickup. This results in a stronger signal that is less susceptible to noise and interference. Active electronics also typically include a variety of tone controls, which allow the player to shape the sound of the guitar.

The type of electronics that you choose will depend on your personal preferences and playing style. If you are looking for a simple and inexpensive option, passive electronics are a good choice. If you are looking for a stronger signal and more tone control, active electronics are a better choice.

4. Price

Price is an important factor to consider when buying an acoustic electric guitar. The price of a guitar can vary depending on a number of factors, including the brand, the materials used, and the features included. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for a guitar, so that you can narrow down your choices and avoid overspending.

The price of a guitar is often indicative of the quality of the instrument. Guitars that are made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship will typically cost more than guitars that are made with lower-quality materials and craftsmanship. It is important to remember that you get what you pay for, so if you are looking for a guitar that will last for many years, it is worth investing in a higher-quality instrument.

There are a number of ways to save money on an acoustic electric guitar. One way is to buy a used guitar. Used guitars can be found at music stores, online retailers, and pawn shops. Another way to save money is to buy a guitar from a lesser-known brand. Lesser-known brands often offer guitars that are comparable in quality to guitars from more well-known brands, but at a lower price.

Ultimately, the best way to find an acoustic electric guitar that is right for you is to try out different guitars and see which one feels the most comfortable and sounds the best to you. Once you have found a guitar that you like, be sure to factor in the price before making a decision.

FAQs on How to Buy an Acoustic Electric Guitar

When shopping for an acoustic electric guitar, there are several common questions and concerns that arise. Here are the answers to six frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision:

Question 1: What is the difference between an acoustic and an acoustic electric guitar?

Acoustic guitars produce sound naturally, while acoustic electric guitars have a pickup and preamp system that allows them to be amplified. This makes acoustic electric guitars more versatile, as they can be used for both acoustic and electric playing.

Question 2: What are the different types of acoustic electric guitars?

Acoustic electric guitars come in a variety of body styles, tonewoods, and electronic configurations. Common body styles include dreadnought, jumbo, grand auditorium, and orchestra model. Tonewoods commonly used include spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. Electronics can range from simple passive pickups to more complex active preamps.

Question 3: What should I consider when choosing an acoustic electric guitar?

When choosing an acoustic electric guitar, consider your playing style, budget, and the features you want. Think about the sound you want to achieve, the comfort of the guitar, and the electronics that will best suit your needs.

Question 4: How much should I spend on an acoustic electric guitar?

Acoustic electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price will vary depending on the brand, materials, and features. Determine your budget before shopping to narrow down your options.

Question 5: What are some tips for buying an acoustic electric guitar?

Before buying, try out different guitars to find the one that feels and sounds the best to you. Consider the body style, tonewoods, and electronics that will suit your playing style. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from experienced guitarists or music store staff.

Question 6: How do I care for my acoustic electric guitar?

To maintain your acoustic electric guitar, store it in a climate-controlled environment, clean it regularly, and have it professionally set up as needed. Regular maintenance will help ensure your guitar stays in good condition and plays its best.

By addressing these common questions, you can gain a better understanding of acoustic electric guitars and make an informed decision when purchasing one.

Transition to the next article section: Choosing the Right Acoustic Electric Guitar for Your Needs

Tips for Buying an Acoustic Electric Guitar

Choosing the right acoustic electric guitar can be a daunting task, but following these tips can help you make an informed decision:

Tip 1: Determine Your Budget

Acoustic electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your choices.

Tip 2: Consider Your Playing Style

Think about the type of music you play and the sound you want to achieve. Different body styles and tonewoods produce different sounds. Dreadnought guitars are known for their powerful sound, while smaller-bodied guitars offer a more intimate sound. Spruce is known for its brightness, while mahogany is known for its warmth.

Tip 3: Try Out Different Guitars

The best way to find the right guitar for you is to try out different models and see which one feels the most comfortable and sounds the best to you. Bring a friend or guitar teacher with you to get their feedback.

Tip 4: Pay Attention to the Electronics

The electronics in an acoustic electric guitar are responsible for amplifying the sound. Different guitars use different types of electronics, so it’s important to do some research and find out which type is right for you. Passive electronics are less expensive, but they can produce a weaker signal. Active electronics are more expensive, but they produce a stronger signal and offer more tone control.

Tip 5: Don’t Forget About Accessories

In addition to the guitar itself, you’ll also need to purchase a few accessories, such as a case, strings, and a tuner. These accessories can help you protect your guitar and keep it in good playing condition.

Summary

Buying an acoustic electric guitar is a big investment, but it’s one that can bring you years of enjoyment. By following these tips, you can choose the right guitar for your needs and budget.

Transition to the article’s conclusion

Now that you know how to buy an acoustic electric guitar, it’s time to start shopping! With so many different models and brands to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect guitar for your needs.

Considerations for Purchasing an Acoustic Electric Guitar

Selecting the ideal acoustic electric guitar requires careful consideration of body style, tonewoods, electronics, and price. Each aspect significantly influences the sound, projection, and playability of the instrument. Matching your playing style and tonal preferences to the guitar’s characteristics is crucial for a satisfying musical experience.

Remember, investing in a quality acoustic electric guitar is not just a purchase but an investment in your musical journey. By following the guidance provided in this article, you are well-equipped to make an informed decision that will enhance your playing experience for years to come. Embrace the exploration, experiment with different models, and find the guitar that resonates with your musical soul.