How To Take The Guesswork Out Of Choosing Your First Electric Guitar And Gear
Embarking on a new journey of learning to play the electric guitar is always exciting. You need to have the right gear before you can start playing those awesome guitar riffs on your new electric guitar. Knowing a few important facts, before you shop for your first electric guitar, will help you get the equipment you need to get off to a great start minus the guesswork.
Your electric guitar
Guitars range in cost from a few hundred bucks to thousands of dollars. Choosing a less expensive guitar is best for beginners, as it allows you to keep start-up costs minimal while seeing if guitar playing is something you will enjoy. You can always add a more expensive guitar to your collection later if desired.
It is best to choose a guitar from a local shop where you can try the guitar to see if it is a good fit. Electric guitars can be heavy, and their various shapes will feel different from player to player. Choose a guitar with a fretboard that feels comfortable in your hands and is easy to navigate when changing chords.
Amplifiers and pedals
An amplifier is an essential piece of equipment, as the solid body of electric guitars does not provide amplification like the hollow body of acoustic models. Like guitars, amplifiers can cost a little or a lot. Start with a basic 15-watt amplifier when beginning, and try the amp out for sound quality, which can vary between brands.
Pedals transmit sound between the guitar and pedal before it goes to the amplifier, which causes those awesome twangs and echoes that make guitar playing fun. However, pedals can be expensive and complicated to operate, which makes them a better option for experienced players versus beginners.
Audio cables and guitar picks
You will need an audio cable to connect your guitar and amplifier. Choose a longer cable versus a shorter one to give you plenty of room to move around when playing. Get a pack of guitar picks in various thicknesses, so you can practice finding which size you prefer best.
Purchasing your first electric guitar, and the gear you need to get started, can feel like a daunting feat, but it does not have to be. Armed with the right knowledge, you will not have to guess what you need or do not need to get off to a great start on your guitar-playing adventure.
Contact a local music store to learn more about electric guitars.
