Practically every web-site, oriented to musical auditory of people, or those who is interested in this sphere, tries to explain in plain language how to choose a guitar. I have read tons of information in due time. But taking into account my own rather rich experience in the choosing of instruments, I decided to invest my 5 cents into this boundless range of information and share my knowledge with you.
First of all I have to say that this article is expected to be read by people who search for a choice of a rather reasonably priced guitar or even their first one because such models as Ameracan Fender, Gibson or Gretsch electromatic can be bought without even looking at the price, and only choosing a preferred color. Whereas the professionals, seriously thinking over the purchase of a guitar at the price of 2000 Euro and more, know the matter better than I do.
So, you decided to buy a guitar. Congratulations! First of all you should calculate your budget, as price dispersion in the music shops can be astonishing. Don't forget that in this sum besides the cost of a guitar there should be also included combo (if you don't have one), a new cord, a belt (if you want to play not only in a sitting position), new strings, a set of mediators, guitar holder, case, and so on. So, at least 150 dollars should be subtracted from the sum and the rest of the money you may spend on a guitar. For example, you can by Gretsch electromatic for 860 dollars, so the whole sum must be at least $1000.
What is the most awful thing in the majority of music stores? The most awful thing is that in practically all of these stores you can't find sellers - there more often than not work music "geniuses", musicians, whom you try to distract with your "nasty" money from the creating of the next "masterpiece", or testing of new devices that will be of a necessary use for them. If you are lucky to stumble on an individual who is interested in your money and ready to spend his "precious" time on you, the process of choosing will become just a formality - specially educated person will show you variants, offer the best of them and tell you about their advantages and disadvantages based on the sum of money that you have. Thanks to one professional seller it was exactly Gretsch electromatic that I have chosen. A seller tried so hard literally licking the soles of my feet, I couldn't resist buying this guitar.
But often you won't be able to find such a professional without taking pains. Usually you should attract the attention of a maintenance staff (no kidding), and you success in it doesn't depend on your appearance. Whether you are wearing a rocker-style leather jacket or Armani suit, it doesn't matter. The main task on this stage is to make a seller show you the biggest variety of variant in your price bracket.
For justice' sake I should note that before buying a guitar you should decide the guitar of what ideology you want - with signals or hum buckers, with what bridge and form and so on. It will promote mutual understanding between you and a seller and make a process of choosing much easier. And, by the way, taking out a cord from a tried guitar, first beforehand switch off a combo, this will add some respect for you from shop personnel's side. The ideology depends on music of what styles you are going to play. As I can say Gretsch electromatic will be good for almost all of them. Remember, if you play hard styles like rock you should choose a guitar with hum bucker in a bridge. If not - other variants are possible. Also don't forget to take into account a guitar's appearance. It is also a very important factor.