Are you thinking of buying an acoustic guitar? Whether you are a beginner looking for a first guitar or a more experienced player looking for a high-quality instrument, the buying process can be tedious and exhausting.
The guitar market has never been more saturated than it is now. Countless brands are offering dozens of models across all price segments, and you might find it challenging to navigate this clutter.
In this short guide, you will receive some quick pointers on how to shop for the best acoustic guitar and what are the things you should look for. Guitar prices have never been more affordable, and it is the right time to buy.
The Acoustic Guitar Price Range
Compared to electric guitars, acoustic guitars generally cost lesser. But, how much does a good acoustic guitar cost? Well, it depends on a lot of factors such as the guitar’s size, its body type, the material it is made of.
Still, It is impossible to lump all acoustic guitars into one pile and then draw conclusions based on the price alone. Most of the reputable brands, like Taylor Guitars , you might be looking at have several product lines, from budget-oriented instruments to exclusive high-performance models. However, most of the guitars belong in one of the following categories.
Ultra-Budget Models
Ultra-budget models are guitars that come from either no-name or copycat brands and are the cheapest options you might find. These guitars come with plenty of compromises and often are not worth even the low price tag they have.
How much is an acoustic guitar in the ultra-budget segment? You can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $100 depending on what kind of accessories the guitar includes.
Budget Models / Beginner Guitars
Budget guitar models usually come from reputable brands. They are typically from the entry-level product lines intended for beginners or people still learning how to play the instrument. This price segment includes instruments that have basic features.
They are usually made from cheaper materials without compromising the quality too much. How much is an acoustic guitar in the budget/beginner segment? You can expect to pay anywhere from $200 – $400 for a solid instrument that will perform well but not break the bank.
Mid-Range Segment
The middle price segment of acoustic guitars is the largest and includes the biggest number of models. If you are looking for a versatile instrument that has excellent performance – and does not cut corners in the most critical areas- you will be shopping in this price segment.
How much is an acoustic guitar in the middle price segment? This is a tough one to answer, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $400 to $1,000 for an acoustic guitar in this segment. The average acoustic guitar price in this segment is around $600.
Premium Price Segment
You want nothing but the best from your acoustic guitar, and you are not willing to make any compromises. This is the price segment you will shop in. It is impossible to define the price range since some acoustic guitar models will set you back thousands of dollars.
The premium price segment usually means guitars around $2,000. Depending on the brand and model, as well as features and materials, you should be ready to shell out the big bucks for an instrument that will redefine the way you play.
General Acoustic Guitar Buying Tips
Know Your Needs
If you are a beginner, a $1,500 acoustic guitar will not make you the next Cat Stevens. You need to find a guitar that you can hone your craft on, before switching to a more advanced model.
Never Compromise on Build Quality
You need to purchase a guitar that will last, is easy to repair, and does not use suspect materials. Your budget might be extremely tight. But compromising on quality is a bad idea. It is better to be patient and save up for a good guitar or go bargain hunting for reputable used models.
Different Styles, Different Models, Different Prices
If you are looking for an acoustic guitar for classical music, Fender might not be the best way to go. Research the styles you are interested in and see which acoustic guitars fit them well. Some overall models might be very versatile, but sometimes nothing but a quality flamenco guitar will do.
