Learning Guitar Questions

Hi all!

I'm interested in learning guitar. My real interest is electric, but I also enjoy classical. I think my highest motivation would be to learn electric playing rock. I've read some articles and I've read several people say that it's better to learn initially on acoustic and then switch to electric. I'm not sure exactly why. But then I read another article saying that if your interested in electric, you should start on electric. I've also read it's easier on the fingers to start on an electric guitar. Any thoughts on any of these points?

Secondly, I'd like to keep my expenses low until I have confidence I'll stick with this hobby. Can anyone recommend the best reasonably priced starter electric and acoustic guitars?

I know some/many of you will laugh, but I have seen Fender Starcaster electric and acoustic starter packs in Sams for less than $200. Are they any good or pieces of crap? I've read user comments rating them from good to very bad.

Looking for your informed opinions. Thanks!

I've heard that advice about starting on acoustic and I don't buy it. Why? Because that's what my parents were told when I was a kid, so they got me a cheap acoustic guitar. It was hard to play and it didn't ROCK. and I wanted to ROCK! So, a few months later they were kind enough to get me a starter electric (an EKO with a matching amp - wish I had kept it!) and I was off to the races.

I think that "acoustic first" theory may be around because people think it is uncomfortable to switch to acoustic at some point after learning on electric, and I'll agree with that. Acoustics are bigger, use heavier string gauges that are a little tougher on the fingers, etc. But when you're just starting out, learning guitar is challenging, and you need to have a little FUN along the way. So, if your interest is electric, I strongly recommend starting on electric from day one. You're more likely to stick with it, and you can always try acoustic guitar later if you so choose.

As far as gear recommendations, go here:

Quality guitar recommendation for beginner?

I don't know anything about the Starcaster guitars selling at Sams, but I think you're better off going to a music store and getting one of the entry-level guitars discussed in the above thread. The last thing you want is a guitar that's so cheaply made it inhibits your progress or detracts from the fun because it won't stay in tune or just sounds/plays poorly.

I agree with Badger about the motivation to "Rock" driving young players to play....BUT I just returned from Hawaii and witnessed 3 people (including my wife) learn a series of very useful chords & strumming patterns on the ukulele in less than 30 minutes. I can also see how learning "complete" songs on the ukulele can be motivating and a natural progression to the guitar.

Maybe I'm just filled with the aloha spirit, but I'm going to start teaching my son on it as soon as I get back home.

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Hey Huntn,
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