For any learner starting to play guitar the question is often raised whether they should start on acoustic or electric guitar. For some, this choice is easy as they will be drawn to one based on the type of music they like.

But the question still stands about which provides a foundation in technique that will form a basis for improving guitar skills? If you are going to teach yourself guitar then which guitar type does not hide your faults?

There are pros and cons to each at different stages of a guitarist learning so any evaluation needs to take into account the short term and long term benefits of each. I started on acoustic guitar. My brother started on electric. Over the years I have mentored other guitarists who brought along to sessions whatever guitar they had to hand. What I noticed, is that you can almost tell from a guitarist’s technique whether they started on electric or acoustic, just by watching them play.

So here are the advantages and disadvantages of both.

Starting On Electric Guitar

Pros

* Narrower gauge strings and guitar neck make it easier to play.

* Easier to develop a subtlety of playing as amplification of what you play permits various effects and nuances in your play.

* It is possible to practice using earphones (neighbors will appreciate this).

Cons

* Don’t build up muscle strength in the fingers.

* Using effects hides faults (string buzz, poor left hand placement).

* Natural tendency for incorrect placement of the left thumb on the guitar neck.

Learning On Acoustic Guitar

Pros

* Lower cost starting option.

* An amp is not required, which allows you to play and practice anywhere.

* Builds up finger muscle strength.

Cons

* Strong temptation to strum through all songs. Beginners should take the time to learn subtle finger picking styles.

* Guitar solos can get lost if playing in a group which may put off some beginners.

* Using earphones with an acoustic is not an option.

Guitarists who start to learn on electric build up speed of playing solos and chord changes which is to be admired, but it is often at the cost of good playing technique. Playing the electric guitar hides faults like incorrect placement of the thumb and not holding down strings solidly. This can result in strings buzzing or being muted during play.

In comparison, the acoustic guitarist builds up the finger strength, learns better hand placement on the frets and fosters clear sounding play.

That said, if you can handle the bill for buying both electric and acoustic guitars then you could split out the beginners training on both instruments and they will benefit from both approaches.

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