This is for anyone who’s thinking of buying a starter guitar, either for themselves or as a present for someone else.
There have never been so many guitar manufacturers out there. And so many sources of reviews. But the basic questions remain the same: how do you avoid making a potentially costly mistake. This is where I can help.
Where to buy from
Undoubtably it’s best to go in person to a bricks and mortar shop where you can actually see the guitar before you commit to buying. And where you can ask questions from hopefully helpful and knowledgable staff. If you already know of such a shop locally - then that’s your answer.
If you absolutely can’t visit a physical shop, then you can buy online. But again, you need a reliable outlet. One who will sort out any problems that may arise and is in it for the long term. They may be good for many things but Amazon is definitely NOT the place to choose.
In the south of England there is one shop that is the best choice for both scenarios: Andertons in Guildford. I have no connection with them but they have the best reputation of anywhere I know.
What to buy
Eastcoast Guitars is the obvious choice at the budget end of the market starting at £99 for electric and £79 for acoustic. The overwhelming reason is that every instrument is checked by their in-house technicians before it goes out the door. This is definitely not the case everywhere and especially at that price point. To quote well known YouTube guitar instructor Justin Sandercoe “by far the best bang for buck I’ve tried”.
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