Whether you're just getting started or you've been playing for years, choosing the right guitar for your playing style can make a massive difference to how you play, and how much you enjoy it.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer, but there is a guitar out there that feels like it was made just for you.
Let’s break it down...
For the Strummers & Singer-Songwriters
If you love strumming along to acoustic tunes or writing your own songs, a dreadnought or grand auditorium acoustic is a solid shout. These guitars give you a full, balanced sound with enough volume to carry your chords – perfect for open mics or home jams.
Try something like a Taylor Grand Auditorium or a Sigma dreadnought for a comfy feel and lovely projection.
For the Blues & Fingerpickers
Playing with more dynamics and detail? You might prefer a parlour or OM-style acoustic with a slightly smaller body and a more focused tone. These are brilliant for fingerpicking and give you more nuance, especially when you're not hammering the strings.
Look at the Tanglewood Heritage series or a smaller-bodied Taylor – ideal for bluesy vibes and expressive play.
For the Rockers & Shredders
Craving big riffs, fast licks, and crunchy tones? You’ll want something electric with solid build quality, comfy access to the upper frets, and humbuckers for that powerful sound. Think Gibson-style or Super Strat shapes.
Fender Stratocasters (or Players), Yamaha Revstars, and PRS models are all great picks depending on whether you lean classic or modern.
For the Indie & Alt Crowd
If you're into jangly chords, quirky tones, or retro-inspired gear, check out guitars with single coils, offset bodies, or semi-hollow designs. They’ll give you that distinct sound and vibe that stands out from the crowd.
Something like a Fender Jazzmaster or Duesenberg Starplayer could be your new best mate.
For the All-Rounders
If you like a bit of everything – from strumming to soloing – a versatile guitar is the way to go. Think about something with coil-splitting pickups or a hybrid acoustic-electric.
Taylor’s electro-acoustics or a Strat-style with HSS (humbucker/single/single) pickup configuration gives you plenty of tonal flexibility.
Not Sure What Your Style Is Yet?
That’s totally fine. Sometimes, you need to get hands-on to figure it out. At Austin Guitars, we always say: play a few, see what feels right, and don’t overthink it.
Pop down to the barn, have a mooch, plug in, unplug, strum, and noodle to your heart’s content. We’ll never rush you, and we’re always happy to help you find something that suits how you play – not just what looks good online.
Visit us at Shevington’s Lane, Liverpool, L33 1XA Click to view on Google Maps
And if you find something that feels right but needs a tweak? We offer setups and servicing to make sure it plays like a dream.
