I'm really confused about acoustic guitars.?

Question:So I want so pick up the an acoustic guitar, but there are so many types! I want to play contemporary music but I can't seem so see which type of acoustic guitar is suited for it. I've read about the electric acoustic, semi-acoustic, acoustic, THERE ARE SO MANY TYPES. Can someone tell me what music they're usually used for?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: So I want so pick up the an acoustic guitar, but there are so many types! I want to play contemporary music but I can't seem so see which type of acoustic guitar is suited for it. I've read about the electric acoustic, semi-acoustic, acoustic, THERE ARE SO MANY TYPES. Can someone tell me what music they're usually used for?

I hear where you're coming from. Fortunately, it's not as bad as you think. Basically, acoustic guitars vary in size, shape, whether they are electronically amplified, and/or specific to a particular genre or style of playing. I highly recommend acoustic/electric for contemporary music, because you may need the additional volume some day. Size and shape should be determined by your particular comfort levels. Some guitar shapes are more common in a particular genre, such as a dreadnaught shape in bluegrass, country, rock, etc. These are the guitars that have a wider "waist" -- the area between the upper bout (shoulders) and lower bout (hips). As a woman, I find them uncomfortable to play. They tend to be larger all the way around. I prefer a grand concert or grand auditorium size and shape and play mainly jazz, blues and rock.

You may want to visit:

http://www.musiciansfriend.com

to see a wide selection of acoustic/acoustic-electric guitars. An even better idea is to go to a guitar shop and just look around. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Most salespeople in guitar shops love to talk about guitars in general.

You can also Google:
"acoustic guitars"
"acoustic guitar body shapes"
"acoustic-electric guitars"
and other similar phrases to learn more.

Feel free to contact me through my profile page if you need further help.

Kabum (instructor/performer/collector)

There are 2 main types of acoustic guitars: Nylon string, made for picking Spanish and classical music. Or, steel string, which is made for strumming, like an electric guitar.

Acoustic guitars can have a built-in amplification system. This is essentially a small microphone or pickup inside the hollow body of the guitar. This is very different than a standard electric guitar.

In general, electric guitars cannot be played acoustically at all. They are designed for amplification.

Well i have an acoustic with an electric plugin.
You don't really have to worry about what kind of music it's "suited for" unless you're going to be a classical guitarist- In which case, go straight for the wide fingerboard, round body 'classical' acoustic guitar- NO plugin.

If you want to play country, rock or basically anything modern, you'll probably want an electric acoustic with a cutout on top for riffs. I didn't go for the cut out, and now I'm paying for it.

The personell at your local guitar shop could tell you the difference, aswell.
:))

Good luck!!

You want a steel string acoustic guitar (6 strings)

like this :

http://www.dealsdirect.com.au/p/acoustic...

There are basically two main categories of acoustic: nylon-string, or steel-string.

Nylon-strings are meant to be played without a plectrum (pick), and instead, played with fingers. Those are mainly used in classical & flamenco styles.

Steel-string acoustics can be finger-picked as well, and sound good, but different. People tend to use picks more with these. They are more versatile and more commonly used.

Semi-hollow-bodies are often used in jazz or blues and are electric.

Electric acoustics aren't meant for a different type of music. They just have electric capabilities for volume.

Brand-wise, it's just a matter of taste and how deep your wallet or purse is. Old Gibsons and Martins sound really good to me, but can be expensive at times.

When buying any guitar, it's good to check the neck for humps and other problems. Hold the guitar so that the headstock lines up under your nose and look straight down the sides of the fretboard. If it looks good and straight, you're in luck.

Ovation are the leaders in electric acoustics for their "turtle-shell" backs and high quality. The back isn't wood, and it's designed for comfort. They can lack somewhat in sound because of that, but for live performance especially, they're always a winner.

Test as many as you can for best feel and tone. A nice rich, warm tone is most often preferred and you probably won't get that out of say, an Ibanez.

The only way you can find the "right" guitar is to go to the guitar store and try out a bunch. Trust me! You're gonna want to look for a steel string, as nylon string guitars aren't for contem. music. Every guitar has its own feel and sound, and it'll even change with two seemingly identical guitars. Most quality guitar stores (i.e. Guitar Center) have a separate room with small amps for people trying out acoustics. The more you try out guitars, the better one you'll find.

In short, the best guitar is something that suits you and your ear and your feel. For example, my acoustic is an Ibanez thats thinner and has a wide fretboard because i hate the normal acoustic size body and neck.