Budget Electric/Acoustic guitar for my old man's Christmas. Help appreciated.

[NesNeedsGear]

*christmas gift.

need a great sounding ac/elec guitar for my dad. I'm looking at a $500 budget.

I know he'd like a Spanish sounding guitar or one that is good for stuff like Paco Delucia-style Flamenco music...and also sounds good for Mariachi, or south american style music as well. Basically i'm asking for an all-arounder at $500, i may be able to afford another $100 if there's something i HAVE to get at that price.

Thanks so much GS.

-Nestor

[Kiwiburger]

Does he want nylon or steel strings? That's a huge consideration - and i'm thinking maybe nylon?

Guitars are so personal - I wouldn't suggest anyone try to buy a real instrument for a musician. Why not get him a voucher - maybe design your own "voucher" for that personal touch, so you can ensure the money only gets spent on a guitar.

Color, shape, sound - it's all so personal.

Ovation make some nice cheaper guitars, including nylon string.

http://www.zzounds.com/item--OVACC059 (I can't vouch for this dealer, just to show you an example in your price range)

The case is extra - you will need a case.

[NesNeedsGear]

kb, that's a great idea. i'm just rushing now since i have less than a month left.

Oh, and yes...nylon strings would be best. thanks in advance guys.

[matt thomas]

Yes, I too STRONGLY suggest that you don't chose an instrument for someone else. don't even be tempted to buy one and say that they can exchange ot for a different one, because of course they won't.

Although it is a very nice thought.

I would agree that making a personalised voucher is a great idea, and if you live somewhere with a decent guitar shop (with a wide selection) perhaps you could even set up a "test drive" session, that way it would show effort, and it make the recipient feel less like they were just taking money off you.

Although to make things even more difficult, I always sugget buying second hand when buying anything other than high end guitars, this wil give you better value for money

good luck with it
narco

[NesNeedsGear]

k, i think I know what to do now.

I'll trick him into trying some real nice guitars at a local GC or other store. then let him find one he LOVES to play, and then just play it off like "i wish I could afford it for ya."


thanks guys. thumbsup

[Jules]

When buying a new guitar, make them let you play as many of the model you want as possible. What you are looking for it the 'best one' in the shop. keep swapping from one to another untill you find your favorite!

If you cant play guitar, take a guitar player friend with you to help.

You can also 'make' (ask) the sales assistant play different ones till you find the one you like the sound of best...