🎸 The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Buying Your First Guitar

Dylan Kendrick
Jun 16
3 min read

Everything You Need to Know Before You Play Your First Note

By the Experts at Musicians’ Alley – Sandusky, OH

🎯 Why Your First Guitar Matters

Buying your first guitar is a big deal. The right one motivates you to practice and grow. The wrong one? It’s likely to end up in a closet.

At Musicians’ Alley, we’ve been helping players find their sound for over 35 years. Whether you're strumming your first chord or just picking it up again, here's what you need to know to get started the right way.

🔌 Electric vs. Acoustic: What’s Right for You?

🎸 Electric Guitar

Great for: Rock, metal, blues, funk, and effects-based playing
Needs an amp? Yes
Perks: Easier string tension, tone-shaping potential
Best if you like: Technology, gear, and plugging in to explore sounds

🎶 Acoustic Guitar

Great for: Folk, country, worship, singer-songwriter styles
Needs an amp? No (though some models have electronics)
Perks: Simpler setup, more portable
Best if you like: Simplicity, natural tone, and on-the-go playing

💡 Still unsure? Stop in and play both. You’ll feel the difference right away.

❌ 5 Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

Buying too cheap online – Many warehouse guitars arrive with poor setups and frustrating playability.
Skipping setup – Every guitar we sell is adjusted and tested. That makes a world of difference in comfort.
Neglecting accessories – Missing a tuner, strap, or gig bag can seriously slow your progress.
Ignoring comfort – Looks aren’t everything. The guitar that feels right will get played the most.
Going it alone – Our team is here to help guide you, explain gear, and offer pro advice with zero pressure.

💵 How Much Should You Spend?

Skill Level	Price Range	Notes
True Beginner	$150–$400	Solid quality, playable, reliable tuning
Intermediate	$400–$800	Better tonewoods, build quality, longer-term gear
Ready for Stage	$800+	Pro-level tone, hardware, and feel

🧠 Invest in what you can afford—comfort and tone matter more than brand names.

✅ Top Entry-Level Options We Stock

We keep a curated selection of beginner-friendly guitars in stock at all times, including:

Yamaha Pacifica (Electric) – Legendary for beginner comfort and reliability
Ibanez Gio Series (Electric) – Slim neck, modern rock tones
PRS SE (Electric) – Great tone and tuning stability for serious learners
Yamaha F/FG Series (Acoustic) – Warm tone, low action for easy fretting
Martin Junior Series (Compact Acoustic) – Pro tone in a small body

🎸 We invite you to try these in-store and feel what fits best in your hands.

🎒 Must-Have Accessories for Beginners

You don’t need a ton of gear to start—but these are essentials:

Gig Bag or Hard Case – Protects your guitar from the start
Clip-On Tuner – Keeps your sound clean and in key
Extra Strings – Strings break; always have a spare set
Guitar Picks – Try a variety of thicknesses to find your preference
Strap – For practicing standing or live performance
Amp (for electric players) – We stock starter combos from Nux, Fender, and Orange
Instrument Cable – You’ll want a solid, noise-free signal path

🧰 Ask us about beginner bundles—we can get you everything you need in one go.

🏪 Why Buy From Musicians’ Alley?

🎯 Try before you buy – Feel, hear, and test multiple guitars in-store
🛠 Free professional setup – Every guitar is tuned and adjusted before it leaves
🧑‍🏫 Knowledgeable staff – No pushy sales, just people who love music and know gear
🧰 Full service – From lessons to repairs, we’re with you through your whole journey
📍 Local + connected – Proud to serve Sandusky and the regional music community

🎸 Final Tips From the Alley Crew

Pick what feels right to your hands and ears
You’ll sound better (and progress faster) with a guitar that’s been set up
Don’t worry about knowing everything—we’re here to guide you
It’s not about being flashy—it’s about being comfortable and inspired

📍 Ready to Begin?

Visit us at 151 Columbus Ave, Sandusky, OH or give us a call at 419‑625‑3688. Whether you’re just browsing or ready to buy, our team is here to get you playing—confidently, affordably, and joyfully.