What kind of guitar hero are you?
Choosing the right instrument can be tricky if you are just starting out in the world of guitar. There are two main differences between styles of guitar bodies.
Sound is energy, just like rays of light or the power that turns on your porch light. Molecules of air become charged with vibrations or waves that carry the sound until it disappears. Guitar strings can be plucked to create these vibrations and the manner which sound arrives to your ears can vary depending on the guitar you are using.
The acoustic guitar body has a sound hole located in the center of the guitar, just below where the strings are plucked. Vibrations travel into the sound hole that acts as a resonating chamber. When the sound waves travel out of the sound hole, they are amplified from bouncing around the body of the guitar. In other words, the body of the acoustic guitar makes the sound louder.
Contrary to the acoustic guitar, the electric usually has no sound hole. Electric guitar strings are made from metal and use electromagnetic energy to transmit sound. The pickup, located in place of the sound hole, is a device made from a magnet wrapped with a coil of conductive copper wire. When the metal strings vibrate, the pickup sends the electric signal to an amplifier, which make the sound louder.
So which one do I need?
Both guitars have their benefits. Acoustics can be played with out the use of electricity, making them great for outdoors, small venues, or quiet personal use. Electric guitars must use amplification and can be more versatile in situations where high decibel levels are concerned. You can also manipulate the sounds of electric guitars with effects like distortion or ‘wah-wah’ pedals. For the beginning guitar player, I would suggest starting with the acoustic. Although it may be harder to fret, the precision and muscle memory you build learning the acoustic guitar will make you a stronger electric player, should you decide to crossover.
Calling all students songwriters, musicians and singers! We are looking for submissions to be showcased in our Cleveland County Artists feature:
