When you want to learn the guitar, there is more than likely a specific type of music you want to be playing. Each genre of music utilizes a different type of guitar and styling when playing.

There are free music guides and resources online to help with learning basic chords so you can play along with your favorite songs.

But before you get started, let’s break down the fundamental basics of learning the guitar for beginners when looking at the three main types: Acoustic, Electric, and Classical.

Guitar Body Basics

First, you’ll want to understand the basic structure of a guitar. The body of the guitar is the main part you hold. The strings start at the bridge, are strung tightly along the neck which holds individual fretboards, and are then twisted around the tuning pegs.

The order of the strings (from top to bottom, or thickest to thinnest) are as follows: E, A, D, G, B, E

Each element of the guitar is crucial towards achieving the unique sound between the different types of guitars. For instance, both the acoustic and classical guitar has a soundhole whereas an electric guitar does not. This creates a more naturally amplified sound.

Acoustic

Acoustic guitars are one of the best options for someone who is just starting to learn to play. It has a hollow body that allows you to hear the vibrations made from the strings so it can be played anywhere you want.

Different types of strings will create a unique sound. For example, nylon strings have a warmer and fuller sound than steel which sounds more sharp and crisp.

Acoustic guitars will also vary in sound based on their body shape and size. There are a variety of shapes such as jumbo, travel, dreadnought, or auditorium to name a few.

Electric

Electric guitars are unique from acoustic or classical. These guitars use magnetic pickups which sit underneath the strings. It’s then sent from the guitar and out to the amplifier. You can play an electric guitar without an amp, but it’s too quiet for anyone to properly hear and won’t have the same effect. These guitars have the widest variety of shapes and sizes out of all three.

Classical

A classical guitar, also known as a Spanish guitar, is unique for a few reasons. It’s primarily used for a certain style of music and only comes in one shape and size. The strings are always made of vinyl, the fretboard is usually a bit wider than the average acoustic guitar, and the neck is slightly shorter.

You’ll also always find a decorative design known as a rosette around the soundhole. While it doesn’t serve a specific purpose, it’s a unique trait solely to classic guitars.

Classical guitarists all use similar techniques when playing. They use plucking rather than a strum which can be done with a pick. However, most professionals tend to use their fingernails instead. It’s an extremely intricate style of playing and may not be best suited for a beginner. 

Which Style Is Right For Me?

When deciding between the different types of guitars, you’ll want to first think about the type of music you intend to play. Metal music, for instance, is probably better suited for the electric guitar whereas coffeehouse blues may sound better with an acoustic.

You’ll also want to consider what your end goal is for learning the guitar. If you want to learn more intricate picking, an electric or classical guitar might be better suited. If you want to strum and sing covers of your favorite songs, an acoustic might be best.

Take some time with your decision. Head over to your local guitar store, which usually has a showroom where you can try out different guitars at your leisure. You can try them on and play a few chords to see what style and size will best suit you. Visit this website.