Guitar Brands? What's better?

Martin makes a less expensive brand, I’m trying to recall the name.

From my experience Yamaha makes a totally decent beginer for the money. The advantage of inexperience is that you won’t be able to notice the minor things in a cheaper guitar that would distract others.

My advice is to go to a Guitar Center, tell the sales person that you’re interested in this guitar in this price range, and try out all the comparable brands in this range.

Get the one that feels best to you. Every guitar is different, even if they were built in the same factory.

Pick up a pair of Elixer strings. They cost a tad more but last the life of other strings five times over.

Also makes sure you get a tuner and always tune your guitar, always. It will make it much more more enjoyable for yourself, while teaching yourself proper pitch.

Hit me up if you have any other questions.

@steve6 you’re thinking of the Sigma line of guitars. They’re designs are the same as Martins, but they’re assembled by luthiers in Korea (older ones were assembled in Japan). They make the signature “Dreadnought” acoustics (steel strings) that are replicas of Martin D-Series; I bought a used HD-28, which is a Rosewood model resembling the DR28 with herringbone trim…the Japanese models were made through 1990 or so, and had a higher quality standard (including rarer woods and scalloped cross-bracing). A very punchy, powerful and bright sound with excellent action (easy to press the strings down and narrow neck for smaller or less agile hands). Worth researching IMO. I paid around $400 for mine and compared to the same model Martin was practically indistinguishable (that cost $1500 less).

You can get a good cheap Ovation. I have one and like it a lot.

@sndfreq, I had a Jap. with pearl inlay. Very nice. I lost it. I use a Fender now. They make some cheap ones but the sound is rich.

Right…it really depends on the style of music and the ability of the musician. In any case you want a guitar that is playable (low action), a bright and not tinny sound, and ergonomically should be the right size for your body. Also remember that there are classical guitars (nylon strings) and steel strings (more conventional acoustic), and then the issue of whether or not you want a guitar with a pick up.

Fenders are good quality and sound for the price, and are generally very playable even for a novice. Yes to Ovations, Ibanez, Takaminis and Taylors (although those get up in price range quickly, as do the Gibsons and obviously Martins). Your best bet is to go to a guitar shop and speak to a sales rep who plays guitar and can help you select a guitar suitable according to your budget and playing ability. When you try them out, pluck each note along the fretboard, to hear the tone and make sure that the pitch is even and consistent, and no “buzzing” strings (happens when the frets are worn down and/or when the strings are set too low).

Good luck…