I'm sure this has been asked before

[99quicksilver]

New student.

Is one of the Martin DX series guitars (DX-1k DX-1R) a good choice for a beginner?

I have heard that you should buy as good a guitar as you can afford in the beginning.

QS

[Douglas Showalter]

The key is to work within your means, and also really think about how serious you are about starting to play. You don't want to take on too much in the beginning economically speaking, but you also don't want to get something super cheap as the task of keeping the guitar in good playing shape can be a bit of a headache. Those Martin DX series guitars are great instruments, and while a little more expensive than your average beginner guitar, would be a great start. My vote is to go for it. I have played those guitars and they play great. Best of luck on the start of your path.

[99quicksilver]

Thanks Doug...I needed a bit of confirmation....

[JeffS65]

New student.

Is one of the Martin DX series guitars (DX-1k DX-1R) a good choice for a beginner?

I have heard that you should buy as good a guitar as you can afford in the beginning.

QS

Pretty much confirming what Doug said. I've always believed that you should get the best instrument you feel that you can comfortably afford. If the Martin does not feel like it is going overboard, then I think you are making a good and comfortable choice. I started out with a 'pro' instrument and my thought was that it made me not have to fight my playing but focus on learning and not have the instrument work against me. It worked...25 years later I still play....and still learn (thanks GT :) ). Moral is, Martin is a good maker and if you are good with the average $500...You and your playing probably won't regret it.

[99quicksilver]

Just ordered a Martin from Sweetwater...Thanks for the guidance...I waited very late to start but if I can get to playing a few chords and pick out a few bluegrass tunes I'll be happy.

I bought a banjo about 2 years ago but got discouraged as the speed thing just got the best of me...I never got the rolls down at speed...

Hopefully the guitar will be a little easier.

QS

[Douglas Showalter]

Pretty much confirming what Doug said. I've always believed that you should get the best instrument you feel that you can comfortably afford. If the Martin does not feel like it is going overboard, then I think you are making a good and comfortable choice. I started out with a 'pro' instrument and my thought was that it made me not have to fight my playing but focus on learning and not have the instrument work against me. It worked...25 years later I still play....and still learn (thanks GT :) ). Moral is, Martin is a good maker and if you are good with the average $500...You and your playing probably won't regret it.

I was very fortunate in this regard as well. At the age of 14, my dad traded in both of his guitars along with my amazing Flying V for an Ibanez RG270DX with a whammy bar. At the time, this was a great guitar and far beyond my ability at the time. Needless to say, it was the right choice and the rest is history. So, that being said; it doesn't always mean that a nice instrument will make it easier to learn, as it takes time no matter what approach you take. But, you will avoid having to fight a poorly put together instrument to play those beginning chords. Sounds like you made a great choice. Best of luck and Happy '10.

[99quicksilver]

Thanks for the encouragement.....

[royentsoi]

I recently bought a Martin 000X1 for $499. It's high quality built and I haven't found one thing that bother me so far. If you don't mind it's made in Mexico, I'd say go for it because you won't find a under $1k new Martin that is made in USA. Good Luck on your shopping.