Western guitar sets

What's included in a western guitar set?

A western guitar set consists of an acoustic guitar with steel strings and one or more accessories. With various VDS bundles, for example, you get a guitar stand and a tuner. More extensive sets may also include a gig bag. The exact contents vary by product, so always check the list on the product page.

A complete guitar set is useful if you don't have any accessories yet. With a guitar tuner, you can tune the strings before playing. A guitar floor stand gives the guitar a fixed place at home. If the chosen set doesn't include a bag, check out the western guitar bags.

Which western guitar set is right for you?

Dreadnought for volume and powerful chords

A dreadnought has a relatively large body. This body shape generally provides a lot of volume and a powerful low sound. This makes a dreadnought guitar set suitable for strumming rhythms, accompaniment, pop, country, and singer-songwriter use. The larger body might feel a bit bulky for smaller players.

Auditorium for comfort and a balanced sound

An auditorium or OM model has a slimmer body. This shape is often comfortable and offers a good balance between low, mid, and high tones. An auditorium guitar set is therefore interesting for beginners, fingerstyle, light strumming rhythms, and players who find a large dreadnought less comfortable.

Grand auditorium for versatile use

A grand auditorium is often between an auditorium and dreadnought in terms of size and sound. This body shape is suitable if you play both chords and individual melodies and are looking for one versatile western guitar.

Cutaway for higher notes

A cutaway is the indentation where the neck meets the body. This makes it easier to reach higher frets. If you mainly play open chords, a cutaway is not necessary. For solos and melodies higher up the neck, it can be practical.

Acoustic or electro-acoustic

A regular acoustic western guitar uses its soundbox for volume. This is sufficient for practicing at home, lessons, and small-scale ensemble playing. An electro-acoustic guitar also has a pickup and preamp. You can then connect the guitar to an amplifier, audio interface, or PA system.

If you want to perform, record, or play with a band, choose an electro-acoustic guitar set. Check if you also need an instrument cable and an acoustic guitar amplifier.

Solid or laminated top

The top has a significant influence on the sound of an acoustic guitar. A laminated top is made of multiple layers of wood. This type is stable and widely used in affordable beginner models. A solid top consists of solid tonewood and generally reacts more dynamically to playing.

For your first lessons, a solid top is not a requirement. If you play regularly and pay close attention to sound, resonance, and dynamics, then a western guitar set with a solid top is a logical step. Fully solid guitars also have a solid back and sides and are usually in a higher price range.

Choosing a western guitar starter set

For a beginner, playing comfort, tuning, and a suitable body shape are more important than decorative details. When comparing, pay attention to the width of the neck, the size of the body, and the included accessories. An auditorium can be pleasant if you want a compact sitting posture. A dreadnought is a good fit if you mainly want to play powerful chords.

• Choose a size that rests comfortably on your lap.
• Check if a tuner, stand, and bag are included.
• Only choose electronics if you want to play amplified.
• Use the filter for left-handed models if you play left-handed.
• Budget for picks, a capo, and replacement strings.

For your first exercises, also check out learning to play guitar in 22 lessons. With a few guitar picks, you can try different thicknesses. A capo for western guitar helps you easily move songs to a different key.

Maintenance and replacement strings

Western guitars use steel strings. Over time, they lose brightness and can feel rougher. How often you need to replace strings depends on how often you play, how much you perspire, and how you store the guitar. When replacing, check the western guitar strings and determine which string gauge suits your model and playing style.

Why buy a western guitar set from VDS?

At VDS, you'll find western guitar sets for various playing styles and levels. You can filter the assortment by body shape, cutaway, brand, and left-handedness, among others. Orders from €75 are shipped free of charge. For personal advice, you can contact us or visit our 400 m² music store in Wolvega.

Doubting between two models? First, compare the body shape, top, electronics, and contents of the bundle. Then choose the set that suits your posture, playing style, and plans for amplified playing.

Frequently asked questions about western guitar sets

Is a western guitar suitable for beginners?

Yes. A western guitar is a good choice if you want to play pop, rock, country, folk, or singer-songwriter music. The steel strings feel stiffer than nylon strings at first. Regular short practice sessions will help your fingers get used to them.

Which western guitar is best for a beginner?

Above all, choose a guitar that sits comfortably and fits your body type well. An auditorium is often compact and balanced. A dreadnought offers more volume and a powerful bass sound. The best choice depends on your posture and musical style.

Do I need an electro-acoustic guitar as a beginner?

Not if you only play at home or during lessons. A model with a pickup and preamp is especially useful for performances, recordings, or rehearsals where you want to amplify the guitar.

Is there always a bag included with a guitar set?

No. The contents vary per bundle. Some sets only include a stand and tuner. Other models also come with a gig bag. Therefore, always check the bundle contents on the product page.

What is the advantage of a solid top?

A solid top can react more sensitively to different picking strengths and offer more dynamics and resonance. It's not a requirement for a first beginner guitar, but for regular players, it can be a worthwhile investment.