We get it: the process of finding the right guitar can feel daunting. The breadth of the Taylor guitar line alone tells you a bit about how many options are out there, and we’re just one manufacturer. So, what’s the secret to sifting through the choices and picking a guitar that’s right for you?
There’s no one answer, but we’ve built and sold enough guitars over 50 years to know a thing or two about matching a player with an instrument that will inspire them. The good news is that some of the most player-friendly traits of a good acoustic guitar, such as consistent build quality, an easy-to-play neck, and a guitar’s ability to stay in tune and produce a pleasing musical voice, are found across the entire Taylor line, so by considering a Taylor, you’re already off to a great start! Beyond that, in our experience, the key lies in understanding what kind of guitar player you are — even if you’re completely new to the instrument — and what you aspire to do with it.
Here are a few basic questions you can think about that should help you home in on some good options.
What size and shape of a guitar are you most comfortable holding and playing?
Your physical relationship with a guitar will impact how you interact with it. The answer to this question might relate to your physical stature or the size of your hands. For a more in-depth run-through of the different options offered in our guitar line, see our guide to body shapes.
What’s your playing style?
Every player has their own signature touch, and you’ll want something that facilitates your own style. To simplify the question, you can think about two main variables. First, do you use a pick, or are you more of a fingerstyle player? Novices may want a guitar that supports both styles, since you’re still figuring out how you like to play. More experienced players are likely to have a more defined style, which can allow you to focus your search on a guitar geared toward one or the other.
The second factor is your attack: How hard do you strike the strings? A player with a heavier attack may want a larger guitar that can handle all the energy you generate and translate it into clear sound without being overdriven. Players with a softer touch might prefer a smaller instrument that’s more responsive to a lighter attack, sounds clear and articulate, and delivers plenty of separation between notes.
One other tip: If you use a pick, the type you use makes a difference in both feel and sound. You’ll find an array of pick materials, shapes and thicknesses out there (including some good options that we sell). We encourage people to experiment to discover what they like best, so buying a variety pack is a good option.
Where will you primarily play your guitar?
Time to start thinking about practical questions. Will this guitar stay at home? Do you plan to travel with it? Both? If you think you’ll mostly play at home, you might have more flexibility in size and body shape since you won’t have to worry about transporting the guitar, although if you like to play on the couch, maybe a smaller guitar you can comfortably curl up with is right for you. If you plan to travel, you might want something compact that can be easily packed into the trunk of a car or fit in the overhead bin on an airplane.
Do you plan on gigging with your new guitar?
Thinking ahead about your aspirations for your new guitar will help you focus on the most important variables. If you’re a working musician who regularly plays out at clubs or other venues, you’ll want to think about how your guitar will sound through an amp or PA and whether you want an onboard pickup so you can plug in. It’s also important to consider how your guitar will sound in a mix with other instruments. Solo players might favor a guitar with a broader sonic palette for more expressive range. If you’ll also be singing, look for a sound that complements your voice. If you plan to play with other musicians/instruments, you might look for a guitar with a more articulate sound that sonically stays in its lane and won’t take up too much space in a mix. If you’re not planning on gigging or if you’re a novice player, we suggest focusing on playing comfort.
Do you plan on recording your guitar?
Similarly, if you plan to do any recording — either at home or in a professional studio — you’ll want to consider guitars with onboard pickups, which provide the easiest, simplest means of recording a guitar. However, some musicians prefer to use microphones for recording applications; in that case, focus on finding a guitar that will cooperate with industry-standard recording mics. Smaller guitars tend to sound more articulate through a microphone.
Is there a tonal “flavor” that sounds especially good to you?
Think about how the guitars featured in your favorite music sound. Are they clear and vibrant, or woody and warm? Do you like a punchy sound, or something mellower? Also, remember, we all hear and process sound in different ways, so this is often subjective. Taking these things into account will help you land on a tonewood pairing. Rosewood tends to sound rich at both ends of the musical spectrum, mahogany guitars tend to sound a bit “drier” and woodier with a midrange emphasis, and maple and Hawaiian koa might be a bit more vibrant. Likewise, spruce tops tend to generate a dynamic response, while hardwood tops like mahogany and koa tend to have a slightly darker, more compressed response.
How high up on the neck do you plan to play?
If you like to have easy access to the highest notes on the fretboard, we recommend a guitar with a cutaway. Players who mostly strum open chords fretted closer to the headstock may not need the cutaway.
Finally, what inspires you visually?
Besides feel and sound, a guitar’s visual aesthetic is another legitimate consideration because it reflects your personal or artistic tastes. Or, as we like to say, people often hear with their eyes. Whether it’s the beautiful wood grain of Hawaiian koa or sinker redwood, a vintage-look sunburst top, or the guitar’s elegant inlays and other detailing, a guitar’s appearance can be a great source of inspiration.
Remember, these questions are only intended to help you find a place to start on your guitar search. Guitars, like all instruments, are highly subjective, and the best way to find the perfect one for you is to play a wide range and stick with what sounds and feels right. You’ll find more details on body shapes, tonewoods and how the two come together throughout this guide.
