What to Look for in a First Guitar
What actually matters:
- Size — especially for younger players
- Playability — strings that are easy to press
- Tuning stability — stays in tune during practice
- Basic setup — adjusted so it plays comfortably
A guitar that's hard to press or stays out of tune will slow down anyone learning.
Acoustic vs. electric is a real question. The answer depends on what kind of music you want to play. We'll help you think through it without pushing you toward the more expensive option.
New or Used? We Carry Both.
We are a Fender and Martin dealer, so new guitars from both brands are available locally. We also regularly have used Fender, Martin, and other brands come through the shop. You can try both new and used in person and we'll help you decide based on your budget, comfort, and what actually plays well for a beginner.
Helping a Younger Player Get Started
For younger beginners, the right first instrument matters more than most people expect.
Size, string tension, and basic setup all affect whether it feels playable or frustrating.
Common mistakes:
- Buying a cheap guitar online that looks fine but is difficult to play
- High string height makes pressing down painful
- Poor tuning stability means constant frustration
- Rough fretwork slows progress before it starts
A bad first guitar makes learning harder.
In the shop, you can compare sizes, feel the difference between instruments, and make sure the guitar is set up so it plays comfortably from the start.
If you're planning to start lessons, getting the guitar set up before the first lesson makes a noticeable difference.
If you're not sure what a beginner in the family needs, come in and talk it through before buying anything.
How Much Should a Beginner Guitar Cost?
You don't need to spend a lot to start.
Used and properly set up is often better than cheap and new — a decent used guitar that's been gone through usually plays better than a brand-new budget guitar that hasn't.
We'll tell you what's realistic in your budget.
Do You Need a Setup Before You Start Playing?
Usually yes.
Most guitars — new or used — benefit from a setup before regular play.
A guitar that plays easily is easier to learn on. We'll tell you whether the one you're looking at needs one.
Should You Start With Lessons?
Lessons give beginners a foundation that self-teaching usually doesn't.
You learn correct technique early — which is easier than unlearning bad habits later.
We offer in-person guitar lessons at the shop for beginners of all ages, taught by Travis Gray.
What We Have for Beginners at the Shop
Used acoustics and electrics in beginner-friendly price ranges come through regularly.
Inventory changes — stop in or ask what's currently available.
How to Get Started
Come in, try guitars, ask questions. No pressure and no need to have a plan.
Paul's Guitar Hideout is located at The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls, NY. Use the Cooper Street entrance and take the stairs up. If you need assistance, give us a call and we'll come down.
The Shirt Factory
71 Lawrence St., Suite 201B, 2nd Floor
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Wednesday–Sunday, 12–5pm
(518) 217-8695 · info@paulsguitarhideout.com