If I Want To Buy A Guitar

I am not going to go into a huge amount of detail on selecting what guitar to buy.

• I would say the first thing you should do is set yourself a budget, this needs to include the guitar, leads & amp (I would also recommend a tuner, a couple of plectrums, a strap and a case or stand if one isn't supplied).
• Once you have set your budget (£300 for everything will give you a decent selection), search for music shops around you, if possible find ones that specialise in guitars (make sure that anywhere you do go has a selection of at least 5 guitars in your price range so you have a decent choice).
• If you know someone that already plays, try to get them to come with you, they'll be able to help you choose without the bias of a commission, if you don't, don't worry staff always know their business and are very helpful.
• When you go you should have considered a few things such as what type of music you'll want to play, whether you'll be playing with others (you are going to need a big amp if you're going to play with a drum kit regularly, but if you are just playing in your room a small practice amp will do) whether you want a solid body, semi-acoustic etc. also you might want to have a browse round the web, or buy a couple of magazines to get familiar with some better known brands. If all else fails, don't be embarrassed or afraid to ask, staff are there to help and you won't be the first beginner they've seen.
• Make sure to play any instrument before purchasing it so you know how it sounds. If possible play it using the amp you will be getting as that is how you will be hearing it most of the time.
• The last thing I say is that looks are important, this can sound very superficial but if you don't like how it looks, you aren't going to want to pick it up and play it, and that is the whole point.