An acoustic guitar is defined as one that is most likely not amplified by electrical means. Normally made with metal strings, they are most popular in the pop or country music industry and are a favorite with beginners. Familiarizing yourself with the fundamental elements of a quality acoustical guitar will provide beneficial knowledge if you are considering a purchase. The following are terms to keep in mind.

• Soundboard – The piece of wood on the top or front of the guitar.
• Sustain – The amount of time the note or chord will ring before fading out.
• Pickups – Allow you to plug the acoustic guitar into an amplifier.
• Intonation - Determines if the instrument is in tune as you play up and down the fingerboard.

Tonewood – The most important element in determining how an acoustic guitar will sound is its top. Generally a laminate top will be more affordable than a solid top. Laminates are pressed woods that are durable but do not resonate sound well. Solid tops are made from a single piece of wood, and while generally more expensive, they resonate a louder and clearer sound that sounds better with time. Different types of wood will produce different tones. Some woods such as Brazilian rosewood are in short supply and some are handmade by luthiers which may reflect higher prices.

• Tops - Spruce is common and considered excellent for tops. Lightweight, yet strong, it provides good sustain and clarity. It provides a warm low end, enhanced mids and added resonance. Mahogany is also a good choice for tops. Its low velocity of sound provides a solid tone (good for country blues play).
• Backs and Sides – Mahogany, maple and rosewoods are popular for backs and sides. Mahogany gives snap to mid range tones. Maple provides a dry tone. Rosewoods are known for high velocity and broad range. Koa carries a low velocity of sound for solid tones and responds best at the upper end of the dynamic range (excellent for Hawaiian slide playing).

Strings – Acoustic guitars use either steel strings or nylon strings. Nylon strings are not as loud as steel and offer a warm, mellow tone best suited for classical or folk music. Steel strings have a strong, bold sound appropriate for blues, rock, country or jazz.

Neck – The neck should feel comfortable based on the size of your hands. Necks for Acoustic guitars are usually listed as 12 or 14 fret depending on what fret the neck joins the body. The best necks are tight, rigid, and straight for consistency. Most acoustic guitars use a glued neck.

Body Style – The body style should also feel comfortable. Buy a ¾ size guitar if you are on the small size. Children’s guitars are available in ½ sizes. Keep in mind that the larger the soundboard, the more low-end tone and volume the guitar will generate.

Acoustic / Electric Guitars – Traditionally, acoustic guitars were amplified by placing a microphone near the soundhole or by a standard magnetic pickup that spanned the soundhole. However, this limited the performer’s range of movement. Players who want to play live and want the freedom to move about while they play, may want to consider and acoustic-electric guitar.

Many beginners will decide to buy a less expensive guitar until they have determined their style of play or desire to continue. Inevitably, the player will then outgrow it and wish to purchase one of higher quality. You should consider whether it is wise to start with a lower quality acoustic guitar, but keep in mind that the sounds will be poor and will not resonate as well. In either case, purchasing the best quality with the money you can afford to spend will be worthwhile.