Choosing
Start with how you actually play
Genre lists are noisy. Posture, hand size, and whether you sing while playing matter more than chasing someone else's rig photo.
Fit & feel
- Sit and stand with the instrument — notice shoulder, wrist, and thumb position after several minutes.
- Fret a chord shape you use often; avoid stretching pain on the first day.
- For bass, check spacing between strings and how muting feels on your picking hand.
Sound in your room
Hard floors and tall ceilings reflect differently than carpet and bookshelves. An acoustic that blooms in a shop may feel bright in a small bedroom.
Care between sessions
Wipe strings, release tension when stored for long stretches, and keep humidity swings modest. A comfortable instrument is one you return to — minor habits preserve that feeling.