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  • Top 10 Acoustic Guitars for Beginners (2024 Edition)

    Top 10 Acoustic Guitars for Beginners (2024 Edition)

    Introduction

    If you’re just starting your journey with acoustic guitar, choosing the right instrument is crucial to ensuring that your experience is enjoyable and motivating. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best acoustic guitar for a beginner. This article will help you navigate through the most popular beginner acoustic guitars in 2024, examining what makes each of them special and how they cater to different needs.

    What to Look for in a Beginner Acoustic Guitar

    When shopping for an acoustic guitar, especially as a beginner, it’s important to consider several key features that will ensure your learning process is smooth and enjoyable. Here’s a breakdown of the most important factors:

    Sound Quality

    A good beginner acoustic guitar should offer a rich, clear tone. Even though you might not be able to tell the difference between high-end guitars early on, starting with a guitar that sounds great will inspire you to practice more. Look for a balanced sound, with a good mix of bass, midrange, and treble.

    Build and Durability

    As a beginner, you might drop your guitar or accidentally bang it around a bit. Durability is crucial. A guitar made from solid wood, while often more expensive, offers a longer lifespan and better sound quality. However, laminated wood guitars are typically more affordable and still sound decent, making them a great choice for beginners.

    Comfort and Playability

    The guitar should feel comfortable in your hands. Pay attention to the neck shape, size, and how easy it is to reach the frets. A guitar that feels too big or heavy might discourage you from playing. For beginners, smaller-bodied guitars like parlor or travel guitars can offer better comfort and easier handling.

    Budget Considerations

    While it’s tempting to get a cheap guitar, spending a little more can make a huge difference in terms of sound quality and longevity. However, there are plenty of affordable options that provide excellent value for money, so don’t feel like you need to break the bank.

    Top 10 Acoustic Guitars for Beginners

    Here is a list of the top 10 acoustic guitars that are perfect for beginners in 2024. These guitars offer a combination of quality, affordability, and playability to help you get started with ease.

    1. Yamaha FG800

    The Yamaha FG800 is an iconic choice for beginners due to its fantastic build quality and great sound. It features a solid spruce top and nato/okume back and sides, offering a rich, resonant sound. The guitar’s smooth action and reliable durability make it a top contender.

    Pros:

    • Excellent tone and projection
    • Solid spruce top for great sound
    • Great value for money

    Cons:

    • May feel a bit bulky for smaller players
    2. Fender CD-60S

    Fender’s CD-60S is a well-rounded, affordable guitar designed with beginners in mind. Its solid spruce top ensures great sound quality, and the easy-to-play neck makes it comfortable for new players to learn.

    Pros:

    • Solid wood construction
    • Very comfortable neck
    • Excellent sound for its price

    Cons:

    • The body is on the larger side, which may be uncomfortable for smaller players
    3. Ibanez AW54CE

    For those who prefer an acoustic-electric guitar, the Ibanez AW54CE is a fantastic choice. With a solid mahogany top and built-in electronics, it allows you to plug in for performances or practice with headphones.

    Pros:

    • Great for both acoustic and electric playing
    • Solid mahogany top for warm tones
    • Built-in pickup and preamp

    Cons:

    • Can be a bit pricey for those on a tight budget
    4. Epiphone DR-100

    The Epiphone DR-100 is an excellent budget-friendly option for beginners. It offers a rich sound with its spruce top and offers easy playability, making it perfect for those just starting out.

    Pros:

    • Affordable price point
    • Good sound quality
    • Lightweight and easy to handle

    Cons:

    • The tone may not be as rich as higher-end models
    5. Taylor GS Mini

    Taylor’s GS Mini is a great option for those who want a compact guitar without sacrificing quality. The smaller body size makes it perfect for players with smaller frames, while still offering a full, balanced tone.

    Pros:

    • Compact and portable
    • Great tonal balance
    • Easy to play

    Cons:

    • Price is a little higher compared to other beginner models
    6. Seagull S6 Original

    The Seagull S6 is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and superb tone. It features a solid cedar top and a slim neck, making it comfortable for beginners to play and produce clear, vibrant sounds.

    Pros:

    • Solid wood construction for better sound
    • Comfortable neck and playability
    • Beautiful tone and projection

    Cons:

    • The price is higher than other beginner options
    7. Gretsch G2622 Streamliner

    For those who want something a little different, the Gretsch G2622 Streamliner offers a unique design with a semi-hollow body. It provides a great sound, especially for beginners who want to experiment with different genres.

    Pros:

    • Unique look and sound
    • Great for various music styles
    • Comfortable to play

    Cons:

    • Heavier than other beginner guitars

    8. Washburn D10S

    The Washburn D10S is an affordable dreadnought guitar that’s perfect for beginners. It’s made of solid wood, giving it a great tone, and its large body offers a powerful sound.

    Pros:

    • Excellent sound quality for the price
    • Solid wood construction
    • Great for strumming and picking

    Cons:

    • Large body may not be ideal for small players
    9. Takamine GD20-NS

    Takamine guitars are known for their quality, and the GD20-NS is no exception. It features a solid spruce top and offers great sound, making it a top choice for beginners who want an affordable yet high-quality guitar.

    Pros:

    • Solid spruce top for excellent tone
    • Very comfortable to play
    • Affordable price for the quality

    Cons:

    • No electronics, so it’s purely acoustic
    10. Martin LX1E Little Martin

    The Martin LX1E Little Martin is a great choice for beginners who prefer a smaller-sized guitar. It’s compact but still offers a great tone, and it includes electronics for those who want to amplify their sound.

    Pros:

    • Compact size, easy to handle
    • Solid construction and good sound quality
    • Built-in electronics for easy amplification

    Cons:

    • The smaller size may not be ideal for everyone

    How to Choose the Best Acoustic Guitar for You

    Choosing the right acoustic guitar comes down to personal preference and your specific needs. Here are a few tips for narrowing down your options:

    Try Before You Buy

    If possible, head to a local music store to try out the guitars before making a decision. The feel of the guitar in your hands, how comfortable it is to play, and the tone it produces are all vital factors to consider.

    Online Buying Tips

    If you’re buying online, be sure to check reviews, watch video demonstrations, and make sure the guitar has a good return policy. Some brands offer virtual tryouts, allowing you to hear how the guitar sounds before making your purchase.

    Conclusion

    Selecting the best beginner acoustic guitar doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a range of options available in 2024, there’s something for every budget and preference. Whether you prioritize sound quality, playability, or budget, the right guitar can make all the difference in your musical journey. Take your time, consider what’s important for you, and choose the one that makes you feel excited to play.

    FAQs

    1. What is the best beginner acoustic guitar? The Yamaha FG800 and Fender CD-60S are two of the best beginner acoustic guitars in 2024 due to their great sound quality and ease of playability.
    2. Should I buy an acoustic-electric guitar as a beginner? It’s not necessary to get an acoustic-electric guitar unless you plan to perform or practice with amplification. The Ibanez AW54CE is a great choice if you want both options.
    3. How much should I spend on a beginner guitar? A budget of $150 to $300 is ideal for a beginner acoustic guitar. There are many great options in this price range that offer excellent quality.
    4. Can I learn to play guitar on a budget? Absolutely! There are plenty of budget-friendly guitars that sound great and are perfect for beginners, like the Epiphone DR-100 or the Washburn D10S.
    5. What is the best size guitar for a beginner? A smaller-bodied guitar, such as the Taylor GS Mini or the Martin LX1E Little Martin, is often easier for beginners to handle, especially for younger players or those with smaller frames.
  • Eastman E20OM Review: A Martin Killer for Half the Price?

    Eastman E20OM Review: A Martin Killer for Half the Price?

    If you’re a guitar enthusiast, you’ve likely heard the buzz around Eastman guitars, especially the Eastman E20OM. With its rich tone, solid craftsmanship, and attractive price point, the E20OM has been compared to the iconic Martin OM series, often described as a “Martin killer.” But is it really worthy of such praise? In this review, we’ll dive into the features, performance, and overall value of the Eastman E20OM to determine whether it’s truly the Martin killer it’s made out to be.

    Who is Eastman Guitars?

    Before we explore the E20OM in detail, let’s briefly talk about Eastman Guitars. Founded in the 1990s, Eastman is known for crafting high-quality instruments at a fraction of the cost of many established brands. With a focus on traditional craftsmanship, Eastman guitars are handcrafted in China, yet they’ve gained a strong reputation for producing guitars that rival those made in the USA or Europe. Their attention to detail and use of high-end materials have made them a favorite among players seeking professional-level sound and playability without the hefty price tag.

    What Makes the Eastman E20OM Special?

    The Eastman E20OM is a standout model in the Eastman lineup, offering a combination of vintage-inspired design, excellent craftsmanship, and superior sound quality. It’s an Orchestra Model (OM) guitar, which means it has a smaller body compared to dreadnoughts, making it a versatile choice for both strumming and fingerstyle playing. But what truly sets the E20OM apart from other guitars in its price range is its impressive tonal richness and clarity, characteristics typically associated with much more expensive brands like Martin.

    Design and Build Quality

    Tonewoods and Materials

    One of the primary factors contributing to the E20OM’s exceptional sound is the choice of tonewoods. The top is made from solid Sitka spruce, a popular choice for acoustic guitar tops due to its excellent tonal qualities. The back and sides are crafted from solid mahogany, a wood that imparts warmth and a rich midrange tone. This combination of spruce and mahogany results in a well-balanced guitar with clear highs, full mids, and a smooth, rounded low end.

    The neck of the E20OM is made from mahogany as well, providing strength and stability. The fingerboard is constructed from ebony, a dense and smooth wood that enhances both the feel and the playability of the guitar.

    Craftsmanship and Finish

    Eastman is known for its attention to detail, and the craftsmanship on the E20OM is no exception. The guitar features a hand-carved X-bracing pattern that allows for optimal resonance and tonal depth. The finish on the guitar is a beautiful satin, which not only looks elegant but also contributes to the instrument’s overall tone by allowing the wood to breathe more freely compared to a gloss finish.

    The fit and finish of the E20OM are on par with some of the best guitars in its class. The binding is neat and precise, and the inlays are well-executed, adding a touch of sophistication to the guitar without being overly flashy.

    Sound and Performance

    Tone and Clarity

    When you pick up the Eastman E20OM, the first thing you’ll notice is its clear, bright tone. The solid Sitka spruce top provides a crisp attack, while the mahogany back and sides offer warmth and depth, creating a well-rounded sound. The guitar delivers excellent tonal clarity across all registers, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of musical genres, from folk to blues to light rock.

    What sets the E20OM apart from other guitars in its price range is its ability to hold its tone across both soft and loud volumes. Whether you’re gently fingerpicking or strumming with force, the guitar remains responsive and well-balanced.

    Projection and Volume

    Although the E20OM features a smaller OM body, it still provides impressive volume and projection. The guitar’s resonance is deep, and its sound carries well in both small and medium-sized spaces. While it might not have the booming power of a larger dreadnought, the E20OM excels in delivering a focused, articulate sound with plenty of presence.

    Playability and Comfort

    The Eastman E20OM is a joy to play. The neck is smooth and comfortable, with a soft V-shape that provides a natural feel for your fretting hand. The action is set at an ideal height, making it easy to play both fast runs and slow, expressive phrases. The guitar’s body is slightly smaller than a dreadnought, which makes it a great option for players who prefer a more ergonomic design without sacrificing tonal quality.

    Eastman E20OM vs Martin Guitars

    Price Comparison

    One of the most compelling reasons to consider the Eastman E20OM is its price. While a comparable Martin OM model can cost several thousand dollars, the Eastman E20OM offers many of the same features at a fraction of the price. At around $1,000, the E20OM provides an incredible value for its quality and performance.

    Sound Comparison

    While both the Eastman E20OM and a Martin OM produce rich, clear tones, there are subtle differences between the two. The Martin OM models tend to have a more pronounced low-end response and a slightly fuller sound overall. However, the Eastman E20OM’s balance and clarity are often praised as being superior for fingerstyle playing, with more immediate response and quicker note definition.

    Build and Durability

    In terms of build quality, both brands are known for their durability. Martin guitars are legendary for their long-lasting construction, but Eastman has proven itself with the E20OM. The guitar’s solid wood construction and excellent finish suggest that it will hold up well over time, offering great longevity for players who take care of their instruments.

    Pros and Cons of the Eastman E20OM

    What We Like About It

    • Incredible value for the price: The E20OM offers premium sound and craftsmanship at a significantly lower price than most comparable guitars.
    • Rich, clear tone: The combination of Sitka spruce and mahogany produces a balanced, articulate sound suitable for various playing styles.
    • Excellent craftsmanship: The build quality of the E20OM rivals that of more expensive brands, with attention to detail in every aspect.
    • Great playability: The guitar is comfortable to play, with a smooth neck and well-set action that enhances the overall experience.

    Areas for Improvement

    • Limited low-end projection: While the E20OM offers impressive volume and projection, it may lack the deep low-end response of larger-bodied guitars, particularly in a live performance setting.
    • Smaller body: Some players may prefer a larger body for a fuller sound, as the OM design is not as booming as a dreadnought.

    Conclusion

    The Eastman E20OM is an impressive guitar that offers a fantastic blend of quality, sound, and value. While it may not replace a Martin for every player, it certainly comes close—especially considering the significant price difference. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player looking for an affordable, high-quality instrument, the Eastman E20OM should be at the top of your list.

    FAQs

    1. Is the Eastman E20OM good for beginners?

    Yes, the Eastman E20OM is a great choice for beginners who want a high-quality guitar without breaking the bank. Its easy playability and balanced tone make it a versatile instrument for players at any level.

    2. How does the Eastman E20OM compare to the Martin 000-15M?

    While both guitars offer solid mahogany construction, the Martin 000-15M has a slightly warmer, fuller sound with more emphasis on low-end response. The E20OM is a bit brighter and more articulate, making it ideal for fingerstyle playing.

    3. Can the Eastman E20OM handle heavy strumming?

    Yes, the E20OM can handle heavy strumming, but it shines the most in lighter to moderate strumming and fingerpicking. Its smaller OM body gives it a more focused tone that excels in clarity.

    4. What is the price range for the Eastman E20OM?

    The Eastman E20OM typically costs around $1,000, offering great value compared to similar models from higher-end brands like Martin.

    5. Is the Eastman E20OM a good choice for gigging musicians?

    Yes, the Eastman E20OM is durable and versatile enough for gigging musicians. Its excellent sound projection and solid build make it a great choice for live performances.