Leaderboard

I agree ^^.

It completely depends on what you want to play, there is no right or wrong answer. You can learn on pretty much any guitar, the principle is the same. However, if you want to play classical guitar pieces then it makes sense to choose a nylon strung classical guitar, likewise, if you want to play folk or Americana then an acoustic guitar makes sense, or if Van Halen or Eric Clapton styles are the ultimate goal then an electric guitar (like a Squier stratocaster) makes more sense overall. You can happily play electric guitar unplugged, you don't NEED an amplifier, although it helps. As a very generalisation you will find that a decent beginner electric guitar will be physically easier to play than both a regular acoustic or classical guitar, but it will be harder to bring those skills across if you actually wanted to play the other. If you can answer that question then we can guide you in the most appropriate direction.

I'd suggest that any reasonably-popular guitar, made by any reasonably-popular maker, from any reasonably-popular supplier will be fine for any beginner. There can always be a flaw in any manufactured item; guitars are no exception, but they are rare. If any guitar purchased could be vetted (played by...) a decently competent guitar-playing buddy, to check that it's all working (and it will be...), there's little chance of anything seriously wrong happening. What some reviewers might describe as 'absolutely terrible' could be really insignificant details, that don't affect playing, and wouldn't be noticed by most folk. Any described as 'absolutely fantastic' could, by the same token, have been written by someone paid to give a glowing review. Ideally, you should try out any instrument yourself, or with a competent chum, in a reputable store, and decide what's good for you and your budget. If you must order through the web, there is ample protection against bitter disappointment, and, of course, the normal legal guarantees for any faults. In short, trust yourself more, and go for whatever you like the look of, that will inspire you to learn and play, and is in your budget, from any reputable source, the closer to you the better. If we all gave a list of what's 'great' and what's 'rubbish', you'll not be more advanced. It's all good, as long as it inspires you to learn and play it. Hope this helps. Douglas