Acoustic Guitar For Dummies

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The Acoustic Guitar

Acoustic Guitars are hollow-bodied guitars that are unamplified by design, though electronics are often added to send the acoustic signal to an amplifier.  They are manufactured out of wood and are arguably one of the most popular musical instruments in the world. 

However, acoustic guitars should not be confused with their acoustic cousin, the classical guitar.  The steel-string acoustic guitar is a modern form of guitar descended from the classical guitar, however it is strung with steel strings, not nylon, and therefore gives a brighter, louder sound. The acoustic generally has a larger soundbox than a standard classical guitar.  

The 12-String

Acoustic guitars generally have six strings. However, another variation on the standard acoustic guitar is the 12-string guitar, which sports an additional, doubling string for each of the traditional six strings.  These extra six strings definitely give the twelve-string acoustic a distinctive sound. 

Vintage Acoustics 

Many of the early versions (up to the 1970's/80's) are considered "vintage guitars" and are actively sought out by collectors around the world.  Most steel-string vintage acoustic guitar tops are constructed of a type of spruce (Adirondack, Appalachian, Sitka) although not all vintage acoustic guitars are made of wood. 

Vintage acoustic guitars that have been repaired and worked on hold less value than those preserved in their original condition.  A vintage acoustic guitar that looks weathered but has its original finish will always be worth more than a guitar that looks great but has been refinished.  If you find vintage Martin guitars for a great deal, you definitely want to take advantage of such a find.  Or, if you are a true collector, you will just love the idea of having such a great instrument all to your self as a part of your vintage guitar collection. 

The Music 

Until the 1960s, the predominant forms of music played on the flat-top steel-string guitar remained relatively stable and included acoustic blues, country, bluegrass, folk, and several genres of rock.  

And, although acoustic guitars are often associated with folk music and "mellow" music in general, they are in truth in all styles of music. They are, indeed, wonderful instruments that have played a very significant part in the music revolution. 

Acoustic guitars are good options for a clean sound which is generally required in slow or country songs.  Thus, like a fine wine, acoustic guitars get better with age because the quality of the wood used also improves and gives a better, lingering sound.

 

About the Author

H.W. Ted is a musician, songwriter, guitar player and guitar teacher. He has been involved with music for many years having recorded songs and jingles for both personal pleasure and commercially.

Acoustic Guitar Instruction for Beginners


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