How to Pick Your First Electric Guitar

Picking your first electric guitar is like choosing a new best friend. It’s a blend of excitement and uncertainty that can, at times, feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’m here to help you navigate this journey. We’ll talk about what matters, from body shapes and pickups to neck feel and budget considerations. So, grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let’s demystify the process of finding your perfect axe.

Understanding Your Musical Style

The first step in choosing your first electric guitar is understanding your musical style. Are you drawn to the aggressive riffs of thrash metal, or do you prefer the melodic intricacies of progressive metal? Maybe it’s the relentless heaviness of death metal that calls to you. Each style has unique demands on a guitar, so knowing what you want to play can guide your choice.

For metal enthusiasts, the guitar’s ability to handle high-gain distortion without losing clarity is crucial. You’ll want something that can produce tight, punchy tones and sustain notes for those epic solos. Guitars with humbucker pickups, often found in metal genres, are a fantastic choice because they reduce unwanted noise and provide a thicker sound. On the other hand, if you’re leaning toward versatility, a guitar with a combination of humbuckers and single-coil pickups might be worth considering.

Consider your favorite bands and guitarists. What guitars do they use? Do they favor certain brands or models? While you don’t need to mimic them exactly, their choices can serve as a helpful reference point. Remember, Riffhard has incredible lessons from metal legends like Dean Lamb and Zakk Wylde, who can inspire and guide your style development. You can check out their insights here.

Body Shapes and Comfort

Next, let’s talk about body shapes. Electric guitars come in a variety of shapes, each offering different playability and aesthetic appeal. The most common shapes include the Stratocaster, Les Paul, and SG, among others. Each has its distinct feel and balance.

The Stratocaster shape, with its contoured body, tends to be comfortable for many players, especially when standing for long periods. It’s versatile and used across many genres, not just metal. The Les Paul has a heavier body with a single-cutaway design, which might appeal to those who favor a weightier instrument with a thick sound. On the other hand, the SG is known for its lighter weight and double-cutaway, making upper-fret access a breeze.

Comfort is key. A guitar that feels like an extension of yourself will encourage more practice and exploration. When you visit a store, take the time to hold different guitars, assess how they sit against your body, and consider how they feel when you play them. Are the edges comfortable against your arm? Does the neck feel good in your hand? These tactile experiences are invaluable in making your choice.

Neck Feel and Playability

The neck of the guitar is where much of the magic happens, and its feel can greatly affect your playing experience. Neck profiles vary widely, from thick and chunky to slim and fast. If you have smaller hands, you might prefer a thinner neck, which can make fast playing and complex chords more manageable.

Consider the fretboard radius as well. A flatter radius (larger number) is typically better for shredding and bending notes, often favored in metal genres. Conversely, a more rounded radius might be more comfortable for chord playing. It’s all about what feels right under your fingers.

Don’t forget about the fret size. Jumbo frets are common in metal guitars because they allow for easier bending and fast playing. Experiment with different necks to find what suits your style and comfort level. Remember, playability is personal, and what works for your favorite guitarist might not be what feels best for you.

Pickups and Their Impact

Pickups are the heart of your guitar’s sound, translating string vibrations into electrical signals. In metal genres, pickups can make or break your tone. Humbuckers are a go-to choice for metalheads. They’re known for their noise-canceling capabilities and thick, powerful sound, perfect for high-gain settings.

If you’re into subgenres like djent or metalcore, active pickups like EMG’s or Fishman Fluence are popular. They offer a higher output, providing a crisp and clear tone even under extreme distortion. However, passive pickups shouldn’t be dismissed—they can deliver warmth and a natural sound that some players prefer.

To test pickups, play with different settings on an amp. Listen to how they respond to various gain levels and playing dynamics. Do they maintain clarity in high-gain settings? Are they versatile enough for clean tones? If you’re unsure, our Riffhard instructors often discuss tone settings in their lessons, which can offer valuable insights into optimizing your guitar’s sound.

Budget Considerations

Setting a budget is a practical step that can help narrow down your options. Electric guitars come in a wide range of prices, and while it’s tempting to go for the most expensive model, it’s not always necessary for beginners.

Focus on finding a guitar that offers good value for its price. Many brands offer entry-level guitars that are well-crafted and capable of delivering great sound. Brands like Epiphone, Squier, and Ibanez have a reputation for producing quality instruments at affordable prices.

Consider the overall package. Does the guitar come with necessary accessories like a gig bag, strap, or picks? Sometimes a modestly priced guitar with a few extras can be a better deal than a pricier one without these essentials. Remember, as you advance, you might want to upgrade, so starting with a well-rounded, budget-friendly option is often wise.

Trying Before Buying

Whenever possible, try a guitar before purchasing. Visit local music stores and spend time playing different models. This hands-on experience is invaluable because it allows you to assess the guitar’s sound, feel, and weight.

Try playing standing up as well as sitting down. This gives you a sense of the guitar’s balance and how it will feel during different playing situations. Experiment with different amp settings to explore the guitar’s tonal range. Don’t hesitate to ask store staff for assistance or recommendations; they can offer insights based on your preferences and budget.

Online shopping is convenient, but there’s no substitute for physically trying an instrument. If you’re set on an online purchase, ensure there’s a solid return policy in place. That way, if the guitar doesn’t meet your expectations, you can exchange it without hassle.

Investing in Lessons and Resources

Once you have your guitar, investing in lessons is a wise step. Learning proper technique from the start can prevent bad habits and accelerate your progress. Whether you choose in-person lessons or online platforms, structured learning can make a big difference.

Remember, Riffhard offers lessons from some of the most respected metal guitarists, including Dean Lamb and Aaron Marshall. Their insights and techniques can provide a solid foundation for your journey into metal guitar. Check out their lessons here.

In addition to formal lessons, explore free resources like YouTube tutorials, which can offer a wealth of knowledge. Balance structured lessons with exploration to find what inspires and challenges you the most.

Maintenance and Care

Once you have your guitar, taking care of it will ensure its longevity and optimal performance. Regular maintenance includes changing strings, cleaning the fretboard, and checking the guitar’s setup.

Changing strings regularly keeps your guitar sounding fresh and vibrant. Depending on how often you play, you might need to change them every few weeks to months. Cleaning the fretboard with a suitable cleaner prevents grime build-up and keeps it looking nice.

Maintaining proper setup involves adjusting the action, intonation, and neck relief. While some players prefer to do this themselves, a professional setup can ensure everything is in optimal condition, especially if you’re not familiar with the process.

Store your guitar properly when not in use. Using a stand or wall hanger keeps it safe from accidental bumps. If you’re traveling, a sturdy gig bag or case provides protection. Taking these steps will keep your instrument in top shape, ready to deliver killer riffs whenever inspiration strikes.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your first electric guitar is a personal journey, shaped by your musical tastes and playing style. By considering factors like musical style, body shape, neck feel, and budget, you’ll find an instrument that inspires and grows with you. Remember, Riffhard offers lessons from top metal guitarists to help you make the most of your new guitar. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the ride!