So, there you stand, in front of a 2 story high wall of electric guitars. But before you can even pick a color, an over zealous sales person, driven by commission, asks if you need assistance. Before you know it, your holding a $3000, Flying V, artist signature model, plugged into a giant full stack amplifier. This may be the sales persons dream rig but, chances are, you probably aren't planning on starting a 200-decibel arena rock band just yet. Well then, where to start? Ground zero, financing. Without taking out a second mortgage or signing up for a credit card that turns to the Devil himself in 6 months, there are some great options out there to help you on your way to stardom without financial ruin.
You do not have to play the exact guitar your guitar hero plays to sound like him or her but it helps to know their basic set up and gear. With a little research online, you can find some very informative information find the right guitar for your budget. Your guitar is obviously very important to your tone. But, just because you bought a Fender Custom Shop, Stevie Ray Vaughn signature model, it does not mean you are going to sound like the blues virtuoso. However, the old adage " You get what you pay for" is very true here too. You cannot expect a $99 guitar to play the same as a more expensive model. Find your price range and play as many guitars in that range as possible. It never hurts to bring a veteran guitar friend with you. Chances are you will find your soul mate within the first few guitars you play.
As with most things in life, bigger is not always better. If you live in a one-bedroom studio apartment, you probably do not need a 100-watt full stack face melting, 300 knob, coma inducing amplifier. As matter of fact, you can use 30 watts to fill a rather large venue quite nicely and still be able to play it at home. Most of the smaller amplifiers have headphone jacks built in, a great option for that 2 a.m. jam session.
So remember as you stand there gazing at a sea of guitars, you are the customer and you are in charge of your own destiny and purchase. Don't be afraid to push yourself in playing different styles. And your new motto as a budding guitarist is ‘Practice practice practice ’! You get what you play for!
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