Which one is right for you?
Choosing a guitar is a very personal decision. The style of music you want to play, how comfortable the instrument feels and the sound you are looking for are some of the key factors that can help you find the right one.
A guitar can stay with you for years, from your first chords to rehearsals, recording sessions and live performances. That is why, before choosing a model, it is worth learning about the main types of guitar and understanding what each one has to offer.
What should you consider when choosing a guitar?
There is no perfect guitar for everyone. Every musician has different needs, preferences and a unique way of connecting with their instrument.
Before making your decision, consider the following aspects:
- The style of music you want to play.
- Your level and experience.
- The comfort of the neck and body.
- The type of strings.
- The sound you are looking for.
- Whether you need amplification.
- Where you will be practising or performing.
Appearance matters too. A guitar you enjoy looking at will encourage you to pick it up, practise and keep improving. However, great design should always be matched by reliable construction and a comfortable playing experience.
Classical guitar: Comfort and a warm sound
The classical guitar uses nylon strings and is known for its soft, warm and balanced sound. Its neck is generally wider than that of other types of guitar, providing more space between the strings.
It is commonly used for classical music, flamenco, bossa nova and other acoustic styles. It is also a popular choice for beginners, particularly those looking for strings that feel softer beneath the fingers.
A classical guitar may be right for you if:
- You are just starting to play.
- You prefer the feel of nylon strings.
- You are interested in classical music or flamenco.
- You want a natural sound without amplification.
- You want to practise at home at a moderate volume.
Although many people see it purely as a beginner’s instrument, the classical guitar also offers enormous expressive potential for experienced musicians.
Acoustic guitar: A bright sound with plenty of character
The acoustic guitar uses steel strings, which give it a bright, defined sound with greater projection. It is widely used in styles such as pop, rock, folk, country and blues.
Its sound is powerful enough to accompany vocals and other instruments without requiring an amplifier. This makes it a highly versatile guitar for playing at home, writing songs, rehearsing or performing in acoustic settings.
It may be the right choice if:
- You want to sing while accompanying yourself on guitar.
- You are looking for a bright acoustic sound.
- You enjoy playing chords, arpeggios or using a pick.
- You need an instrument that is easy to transport.
- You want to play without depending on an amplifier.
Acoustic guitars are available in different body shapes and sizes. These characteristics affect both sound and comfort, so it is important to choose a format that suits the musician’s height and build.
Electro-acoustic guitar: Acoustic sound ready for the stage
An electro-acoustic guitar retains the essential characteristics of an acoustic guitar while adding a pickup or preamp system that allows it to be connected to an amplifier, mixing desk or recording equipment.
It is an especially practical option for musicians who want to use the same instrument at home, during rehearsals and for live performances.
Its built-in electronics make amplification easy and, depending on the model, may include volume controls, equalisation and an integrated tuner.
An electro-acoustic guitar is recommended if:
- You perform live or plan to do so.
- You need to connect directly to a sound system.
- You want a simple way to record your guitar.
- You want the versatility of an acoustic guitar with amplification.
Electric guitar: Creativity and a wide range of sounds
The electric guitar uses pickups to convert the vibration of the strings into an electrical signal. It needs to be connected to an amplifier or audio interface to reveal its full potential.
It is one of the most versatile instruments available. Depending on the guitar, amplifier and effects being used, it can produce anything from clean, delicate tones to powerful distortion.
The electric guitar is widely used in rock, blues, jazz, metal, pop, funk and many other contemporary styles.
It may be the right guitar for you if:
- You want to experiment with different sounds.
- You want to play with an amplifier and effects.
- You enjoy styles such as rock, blues, jazz or metal.
- You want to play melodies, riffs and solos.
- You prefer a generally narrower and more comfortable neck.
When choosing an electric guitar, you should also consider the type of pickups, body shape and control configuration. These elements have a direct influence on the character and sound of the instrument.
Electric bass: The rhythmic and harmonic foundation
Although it has a different role, the electric bass is an essential part of a band. Its purpose is to connect rhythm and harmony while adding depth and weight to the overall sound.
A bass normally has four strings, although five- and six-string models are also available. Its strings are thicker and its scale length is longer than that of an electric guitar.
The bass may be a great choice if:
- You are drawn to the rhythmic side of music.
- You enjoy building the foundation of a song.
- You want to play in a band.
- You are looking for an instrument with depth and presence.
- You are interested in styles such as rock, funk, jazz, soul or metal.
Playing bass does not simply mean accompanying other musicians. It is an expressive instrument with its own techniques and creative possibilities.
What is the best guitar for beginners?
The best guitar for a beginner is the one that suits the music they genuinely want to play.
If you are interested in classical music or prefer softer strings, a classical guitar may be a good option. If you want to sing while accompanying yourself, you will probably feel more at home with an acoustic guitar. If you dream of playing riffs, solos and experimenting with effects, there is no reason why you cannot start directly with an electric guitar.
Instead of searching for a supposedly universal beginner’s guitar, choose an instrument that motivates you to practise.
It should also be the right size, have a comfortable string action and stay reliably in tune. An instrument that is difficult to play can slow down the learning process, while a properly set-up guitar allows you to focus on the music.
Find a guitar that helps you express yourself
Choosing a guitar is not only about its technical specifications. What also matters is how it feels in your hands, how it responds when you play and what it inspires you to create.
At OQAN, we design instruments for real musicians, made to support them throughout the learning process, rehearsals, recording sessions and live performances. Guitars created to help you develop your sound and express your own way of experiencing music.
Explore the OQAN guitar collection and find the instrument that will help you begin your next song.
