Step 2
Borrow or purchase an Electric Guitar.
Electric Guitar
This one is obvious! Check out the first time buyers guide below for more info.
Tuner
There no point learning on an out of tune guitar, do yourself and your neighbours a favour, buy a tuner!
Amplifier
This is essential to amplify the sound of the guitar, you don't need a big one to start off, just a small practice amp. You can pick up a cheap one for around £90-£150.
Essential Beginner Gear
Jack Lead (Cable)
You need a 1/4" mono jack to jack cable to plug the guitar into the amplifier. (£5-£15)
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Plectrum
You could learn to play with your fingers but guitar picks are cheap (50p each). They are worth having so you're not limiting yourself to only playing fingerstyle.
It can be daunting the first time you go shopping for an electric guitar. It's recommended that you try and borrow one from a friend or family member to get familiar with holding a guitar so you have something to compare to when you arrive in a shop, hopefully a few chords under your belt too!
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If you are unable to borrow a guitar you can book an introductory lesson or two, where you can get familiar with holding a guitar and learn some basic chords. This way you can at least play something on a guitar before you buy it. Check prices/bookings page for more info.
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Read on to find about about essential gear you will need to begin learning.
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Beginner Guitar Packages
You can spend a lot of money on guitars with high end models reaching excess of £4000 and up. Low end valve amps start around £300 and guitar effects pedals range between £60-£300 each. So you can see how quickly things can add up.
In the beginning if you have to buy a guitar new, its best to go for starter packs to get the most bang for your buck. You can treat yourself to better gear as a reward for your progression. Here are the top 4 recommended packages (in no particular order) that will come pretty much with everything you need to get started:
Yamaha Pacifica Starter Pack
Model: Pacifica
Included:
Guitar
Amp
Lead
Tuner
Plectrum
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Rating:
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£132.52 (Cheapest Amazon)
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Squier Affinity Starter Pack
Model: Affinity Series Stratocaster
Included:
Guitar
Amp
Lead
Tuner
Plectrum
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Rating:
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£177.00 (Cheapest GAK)
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Epiphone Les Paul Starter Pack
Epiphone Les Paul "Slash" Pack
Please note - When purchasing guitars online they often come straight from the factory into a warehouse without seeing daylight until you open it. An unplayed guitar is not a happy guitar and it may need a bit of love and a proper setup. Check Rates/Services for guitar setup services.