When it comes to acoustic guitars, there are a lot of great options out there. But if you’re looking for the best acoustic guitar for under $500, your choices are a bit more limited.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best acoustic guitar for your needs. We’ll cover everything from body shape and size to tonewoods and electronics, so you can make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
Body Shape and SizeThe body shape and size of your acoustic guitar will have a big impact on its sound. Dreadnought guitars are the most popular type of acoustic guitar, and they’re known for their big, bold sound. Jumbo guitars are even larger than dreadnoughts, and they produce an even louder, more resonant sound. Grand auditorium guitars are a bit smaller than dreadnoughts, and they have a more balanced sound that’s perfect for fingerpicking and strumming. TonewoodsThe type of wood used to construct your acoustic guitar will also affect its sound. Spruce is a popular choice for soundboards, as it produces a bright, clear sound. Mahogany is another popular choice, as it produces a warm, rich sound. Rosewood is a more expensive wood, but it produces a beautiful, complex sound. ElectronicsIf you’re planning on playing your acoustic guitar plugged in, you’ll need to choose a guitar with electronics. There are two main types of electronics: passive and active. Passive electronics are less expensive, but they don’t provide as much control over your sound. Active electronics are more expensive, but they give you more control over your sound and can help to reduce feedback.
1. Body Shape
The body shape of an acoustic guitar is one of the most important factors that will affect its sound. Different body shapes produce different tonal qualities, so it’s important to choose a body shape that will suit your playing style and the type of music you want to play.
-
Dreadnought
Dreadnought guitars are the most popular type of acoustic guitar, and they’re known for their big, bold sound. They have a large body with a wide waist and a deep body depth, which gives them a lot of volume and projection. Dreadnought guitars are a good choice for strumming and flatpicking, and they’re also popular for use in bluegrass and country music.
-
Jumbo
Jumbo guitars are even larger than dreadnoughts, and they produce an even louder, more resonant sound. They have a large body with a wide waist and a deep body depth, but they also have a more pronounced curve to their body. This gives them a richer, fuller sound than dreadnoughts, and they’re a good choice for fingerpicking and solo playing.
-
Grand Auditorium
Grand auditorium guitars are a bit smaller than dreadnoughts, and they have a more balanced sound that’s perfect for fingerpicking and strumming. They have a smaller body with a narrower waist and a shallower body depth, which gives them a more focused sound than dreadnoughts or jumbos. Grand auditorium guitars are a good choice for all-around playing, and they’re popular for use in folk, rock, and pop music.
-
Concert
Concert guitars are the smallest of the four body shapes, and they have a more intimate sound that’s perfect for fingerpicking and solo playing. They have a small body with a narrow waist and a shallow body depth, which gives them a clear, articulate sound. Concert guitars are a good choice for classical music and other genres that require a delicate touch.
When choosing the best acoustic guitar for under $500, it’s important to consider the body shape that will best suit your playing style and the type of music you want to play. Dreadnought guitars are a good choice for strumming and flatpicking, jumbo guitars are a good choice for fingerpicking and solo playing, grand auditorium guitars are a good choice for all-around playing, and concert guitars are a good choice for classical music and other genres that require a delicate touch.
2. Tonewoods
Tonewoods play a vital role in determining the sound quality of an acoustic guitar. Different tonewoods have different tonal characteristics, which can affect the overall sound of the guitar. When choosing the best acoustic guitar for under $500, it is important to consider the type of tonewoods used in its construction.
The soundboard, or top, of an acoustic guitar is the most important factor in determining its sound. The soundboard is responsible for producing the majority of the guitar’s sound, so it is important to choose a soundboard made from a high-quality tonewood. Spruce is a popular choice for soundboards, as it produces a bright, clear sound with good projection. Mahogany is another popular choice, as it produces a warm, rich sound with good sustain. Rosewood is a more expensive tonewood, but it produces a beautiful, complex sound that is prized by many guitarists.
The back and sides of an acoustic guitar also contribute to its sound, but to a lesser extent than the soundboard. The back and sides are typically made from mahogany, rosewood, or maple. Mahogany is a popular choice for the back and sides, as it produces a warm, rich sound with good sustain. Rosewood is a more expensive tonewood, but it produces a beautiful, complex sound that is prized by many guitarists. Maple is a bright, clear-sounding wood that is often used for the back and sides of guitars that are designed for strumming and flatpicking.
When choosing the best acoustic guitar for under $500, it is important to consider the type of tonewoods used in its construction. The soundboard is the most important factor in determining the sound of the guitar, so it is important to choose a soundboard made from a high-quality tonewood. The back and sides also contribute to the sound of the guitar, but to a lesser extent. By understanding the different tonal characteristics of different tonewoods, you can choose the best acoustic guitar for your needs and budget.
3. Electronics
When choosing the best acoustic guitar for under $500, it is important to consider whether or not you want a guitar with electronics. Electronics can be a great way to add versatility to your guitar, and they can also make it easier to play in a variety of situations.
-
Piezo pickups
Piezo pickups are one of the most common types of electronics found in acoustic guitars. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, and they produce a natural, acoustic sound. Piezo pickups work by converting the vibrations of the guitar’s strings into an electrical signal. This signal can then be amplified and sent to a speaker or recording device.
-
Magnetic pickups
Magnetic pickups are another common type of electronics found in acoustic guitars. They are similar to the pickups found in electric guitars, and they produce a louder, more amplified sound. Magnetic pickups work by converting the magnetic field created by the guitar’s strings into an electrical signal. This signal can then be amplified and sent to a speaker or recording device.
-
Preamplifiers
Preamplifiers are used to boost the signal from the guitar’s pickups. This can be helpful if you are playing in a noisy environment or if you want to add some extra volume to your guitar. Preamps also typically include EQ controls, which allow you to adjust the tone of your guitar.
-
Tuners
Tuners are a handy addition to any acoustic guitar. They make it easy to keep your guitar in tune, which is essential for playing in a band or recording music. Tuners can be built into the guitar itself or they can be purchased as a separate accessory.
If you are looking for the best acoustic guitar for under $500, it is important to consider the type of electronics that you want. Piezo pickups are a good choice for players who want a natural, acoustic sound. Magnetic pickups are a good choice for players who want a louder, more amplified sound. Preamps and tuners are also useful additions to any acoustic guitar. By understanding the different types of electronics available, you can choose the best guitar for your needs and budget.
4. Price
When it comes to finding the best acoustic guitar for under $500, price is an important factor to consider. There are a number of great guitars available in this price range, but it’s important to understand how price affects the quality and features of the guitar you choose.
-
Materials and Construction
The materials used to construct an acoustic guitar have a significant impact on its sound and quality. Guitars made from higher-quality materials, such as solid wood, will typically sound better and last longer than guitars made from lower-quality materials, such as laminate wood.
-
Features
The features of an acoustic guitar can also affect its price. Guitars with more features, such as cutaways, electronics, and different pickguards, will typically cost more than guitars with fewer features.
-
Brand
The brand of an acoustic guitar can also affect its price. Guitars from well-known brands, such as Taylor and Martin, will typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands.
-
Availability
The availability of an acoustic guitar can also affect its price. Guitars that are in high demand will typically cost more than guitars that are less popular.
It’s important to keep all of these factors in mind when choosing the best acoustic guitar for under $500. By understanding how price affects the quality and features of the guitar you choose, you can make an informed decision that will help you find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, finding the best acoustic guitar under $500 can be a daunting task. To help you make an informed decision, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about acoustic guitars in this price range:
Question 1: What are the most important factors to consider when choosing an acoustic guitar under $500?
When choosing an acoustic guitar under $500, the most important factors to consider are body shape, tonewoods, electronics, and price. Body shape affects the sound and feel of the guitar, tonewoods affect the sound quality, electronics allow you to plug the guitar into an amplifier, and price is always a consideration.
Question 2: What are the best body shapes for acoustic guitars under $500?
The best body shapes for acoustic guitars under $500 are dreadnought, jumbo, grand auditorium, and concert. Dreadnought guitars are known for their big, bold sound, jumbo guitars are even larger and louder, grand auditorium guitars are a good all-around choice, and concert guitars are smaller and have a more intimate sound.
Question 3: What are the best tonewoods for acoustic guitars under $500?
The best tonewoods for acoustic guitars under $500 are spruce, mahogany, and rosewood. Spruce produces a bright, clear sound, mahogany produces a warm, rich sound, and rosewood produces a beautiful, complex sound.
Question 4: Do I need electronics on my acoustic guitar?
Whether or not you need electronics on your acoustic guitar depends on how you plan to use it. If you plan to play in a band or record your music, then electronics can be a great way to add versatility to your guitar. However, if you only plan to play solo or for your own enjoyment, then electronics may not be necessary.
Question 5: How much should I spend on an acoustic guitar?
How much you should spend on an acoustic guitar depends on your budget and needs. If you’re a beginner, you may want to start with a less expensive guitar until you’re sure that you’re committed to learning. As you progress, you can then upgrade to a more expensive guitar with better features and sound quality.
Question 6: Where can I find the best deals on acoustic guitars under $500?
The best places to find deals on acoustic guitars under $500 are online retailers, music stores, and pawn shops. You can also find used guitars for sale on websites like Craigslist and eBay.
Summary
Choosing the best acoustic guitar under $500 can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By considering the factors discussed in this FAQ, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect guitar for your needs and budget.
Next Steps
Now that you have a better understanding of the best acoustic guitars under $500, you can start shopping for the perfect guitar for you. Be sure to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. And most importantly, don’t forget to play the guitar before you buy it to make sure that it’s the right fit for you.
Tips for Choosing the Best Acoustic Guitar Under $500
Finding the best acoustic guitar under $500 can be a daunting task, but it’s definitely possible if you know what to look for. Here are five tips to help you make an informed decision:
Tip 1: Consider your playing style and the type of music you want to play.
Different body shapes and tonewoods produce different sounds, so it’s important to choose a guitar that will suit your playing style and the type of music you want to play. For example, dreadnought guitars are known for their big, bold sound, while concert guitars are known for their more intimate sound.
Tip 2: Set a budget and stick to it.
Acoustic guitars under $500 can vary in price from around $200 to $500. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend. There are many great guitars available in this price range, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs and budget.
Tip 3: Do your research.
Before you buy an acoustic guitar, it’s important to do your research and read reviews from other guitarists. This will help you narrow down your choices and find the best guitar for your needs. You can find reviews online, in guitar magazines, and even in music stores.
Tip 4: Play the guitar before you buy it.
This is the best way to make sure that the guitar is a good fit for you. Bring your favorite songs to the music store and try out different guitars. Pay attention to the sound, the feel, and the overall quality of the guitar. Don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson for help if you’re not sure what to look for.
Tip 5: Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you’re not sure what to look for in an acoustic guitar, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a salesperson or a guitar teacher. They can help you choose the right guitar for your needs and budget.
Summary
Choosing the best acoustic guitar under $500 can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect guitar for your needs and budget.
Next Steps
Now that you have a better understanding of how to choose the best acoustic guitar under $500, you can start shopping for the perfect guitar for you. Be sure to do your research, read reviews, and play the guitar before you buy it. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!
Conclusion
Finding the best acoustic guitar under $500 is a challenging but rewarding experience. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can narrow down your choices and find the perfect guitar for your needs and budget.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there is an acoustic guitar under $500 that is perfect for you. So get out there and start playing!
