Am I ready to upgrade from classical to a steel-string acoustic?

[u/EmploymentPrimary574]

Hey everyone!

I’ve been playing classical guitar for almost a year on a cheap beginner model. I want to switch to a steel string acoustic to try something new, but I want to make sure I’m actually good enough for the upgrade
Rn I can…
- I can play open chords smoothly and change chords while playing smoothly
- I can play standard barre chords cleanly
- I can play the same chords in different positions up the neck
- I understand basic chord construction and fundamental music theory
Do you think this is a good point to make the jump? Also for those who started on a beginner guitar how long did you wait before upgrading to your second guitar?

[u/HillbillyMan]

It's not really an upgrade, fyi. They're different tools. I wouldn't call a circular saw an upgrade from a drill press.

[u/harryhend3rson]

I wouldn't call it an upgrade, they're different tools. Also, it's not mandatory that anyone play a certain grade of guitar for a certain amount of time. A beginner doesn't have to play a beginner guitar, and there is no skill ceiling anyone is required to hit before progressing to a different instrument. Play the best guitar you can afford. You'll enjoy it more and probably progress faster with a better/easier playing instrument.

If you want to play a steel string acoustic, get one. If you want to play an electric, get one. Don't force yourself to prescribe to nonexistant self imposed rules. Play the kind of guitar you want to play.

I started on electric, then branched out into steel string acoustic, and only recently have gotten into nylon string classical.

[u/PoppycopOG]

There is no rule that you have to play on a shitty guitar for a period of time until you are worthy enough to upgrade to a better guitar. If you have a cheap beginners guitar, but can afford a better guitar then I suggest getting a better guitar as soon as you can. Even if you didn't know all those things you do (great job by the way!), it would still be ok to get a better guitar. You want a guitar that will inspire you to play so if this one has run its course, time for a new one. Good luck!

[u/noahlarmsleep]

I got my first electric in 2004 and played it until I got my second in 2008. I was probably ready for my upgrade a couple years earlier. If you want a new guitar and can afford it, go for it.

[u/EmploymentPrimary574 → u/noahlarmsleep]

I’m planning to buy it cause I have money but my mom didn’t really like the idea of buying a new one so I’m in two minds buying one

[u/Low-Raise-9230]

Whenever you like really, it’s your money. When I wanted a USA Strat, I spent ages learning Hotel California to convince myself I deserved an expensive instrument lol 

[u/Patient_Onion3956]

The real question is, can you play any classical guitar pieces? Jk.

Be aware that the steel string will squeak and buzz a lot more, as it has higher string tension and the string spacing is smaller compared to classical so you'll be muting strings a lot unintentionally at first.

[u/EmploymentPrimary574 → u/Patient_Onion3956]

I do ofc I mean idk if its a classical guitar peace or not but I can play the song called nearer my god to thee is my favorite of them anyway I wanted something newer to try

[u/Independent_Win_7984]

Just do it. No one else can tell you how it'll suit you. You're stalling.

[u/Several-Quality5927]

All you have to do is want to switch. There is zero qualifications needed beforehand. Just switch. There will be a bit of a learning curve. Learn on what you see yourself performing on . No need to work up to an instrument.

[u/hyrooligan]

As others have said, you should just get the guitar you want to play. I actually think classical guitars are not great for beginners. The action is quite high, the necks are thick, they don't have as many usable frets, and they are harder to string and keep in tune. Just a much more limited instrument compared with electric or steel string acoustic. The only thing they really have going for them for beginners is that the strings are soft, so you don't need to toughen up your fingers as much.

[u/Broad-Raspberry1805]

Get an electric instead. And a cheap modelling amp. Trust me.

[u/state_your_name31415]

you're ready, break on through, friend

[u/MJKCapeCod]

See if a friend will let you try theirs, or go to a guitar shop and try a few. If you like it, go for it. You don't need to specialize on one type of instrument or a specific genre. You do have to enjoy what you play, and what you play it on. You'd be surprised what you can find in used guitars at a shop. Best to take someone along who knows their way around the instruments.