I need a good acoustic guitar

Several acoustic guitar makers build some incredible instruments. A few of these companies are Martin, Guild, Taylor, Gibson and several others like Takamine, Godin, McPherson, Santa Cruz  that make incredible guitars as well. These are just a few and there are many independent luthiers in the US and other countries who are regionally know for their high quality instruments. In America it seems the prevailing attitude about almost everything is: more is better, but a good acoustic guitar need not be expensive, however the buyer needs to be alert. A good guitar has a good sound, feel and is comfortable to play.

For the most part, the more money you spend, the nicer the acoustic guitar will be. Up to a point then it’s all ego on the part of the guy pricing the guitar after that. Look for a guitar with a straight finger board. Just sight down the neck as if looking down the barrel of a rifle and see if it looks flat, straight with no unusual activity or waviness. Wood is organic and susceptible to climate and humidity changes. A lot can happen after it leaves the bench so be vigilant about finding the flaws BEFORE you buy your acoustic guitar. There are a host of companies that also sell a mid-range value acoustic guitar and very inexpensive guitars, and it is often difficult to decide.

Maybe it’s better to list the basic qualities of a good acoustic guitar:
1) All Solid Wood – solid top, solid back and solid sides
2) Light thin finish
3) Scalloped Bracing
4) Exotic woods or even Mahogany with Ebony fret board
5) Bone nut, bridge
6) Large, heavy bridge saddle
7) A straight neck, no buzzing, sturdy hardware, leveled frets
  
There are a few traits that increase the value but not the sound quality of a guitar:
1) Detailed neck or body inlays, special setups, stainless steel frets
2) Unusual transparent stains and finishes
3) Signatures of the makers and letters of authentication
Sometimes-you just have to play an acoustic guitar and listen to what you hear. 
If you love it-That’s the one!
It’s not always a matter of making the “right decision”……. It’s making a decision then making it “right”!

Haywire Custom Guitars

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