Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar review perfect starter kit for musicians

Description

A Beginner-Friendly Acoustic Guitar with Style and Functionality

Testing the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Blue) has been quite an enjoyable experience. It’s aimed squarely at beginners and students, and after using it, I can confidently say it delivers on many fronts. Let me walk you through its features and quirks, as someone who enjoys dabbling with musical instruments.

Design and Aesthetic Appeal

The first thing that caught my eye was its striking blue finish. It’s not just a guitar; it’s a statement piece. The high-gloss finish on the laminated basswood body adds a polished look, making it visually appealing for anyone who loves vibrant colors. The 38-inch size is compact yet not too small, striking a balance between portability and usability.

What stood out was how the basswood material used for the top, back, and sides not only contributes to its lightweight design but also adds durability. Despite its modest price point, the guitar feels well built, though you can tell it’s not designed to withstand professional-grade wear and tear.

Ease of Use for Beginners

As someone who occasionally teaches kids and beginners how to play, I appreciated how this guitar is designed with simplicity in mind. The 18 smooth frets and fixed bridge system make it beginner-friendly. The neck’s shape is easy to grip, and the steel strings don’t feel overly harsh on the fingers, which is often a concern for new players.

The included digital tuner and pitch pipe made tuning straightforward, even for those unfamiliar with the process. Having an extra set of strings in the bundle was a thoughtful touch—perfect for those inevitable beginner mishaps.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight and portable design, making it easy to transport.
• Comes with a complete starter kit, including picks, strap, nylon bag, and instructional sheet.
• Clear, bright sound that’s impressive for an entry-level instrument.
• Durable laminated basswood construction ensures it lasts through countless practice sessions.

Sound Quality and Performance

This is where the guitar surprised me the most. Despite being marketed as a beginner’s instrument, its tone projection is commendable. The basswood construction delivers a versatile sound, whether you’re strumming chords or plucking individual notes. It’s not a professional-grade tone by any stretch, but it’s warm and rich enough to keep learners motivated.

That said, the steel strings create a slightly brighter tone, which might not always suit softer acoustic pieces. However, for pop, folk, or even basic classical practice, this guitar holds its ground remarkably well.

Areas for Improvement

• The strings’ initial setup can feel a bit tight, which might intimidate absolute beginners.
• The gig bag provided is thin and offers minimal protection, so investing in a sturdier case is advisable.
• While the digital tuner works fine, it feels a bit flimsy, and I wouldn’t rely on it long term.

Competing Products

In a market saturated with beginner guitars, this 38-inch acoustic model holds its own but faces competition from brands like Yamaha and Fender. Guitars like the Yamaha F310 offer a more robust build and slightly superior sound quality, but they are also heavier and more expensive.

The Ashthorpe guitar stands out with its lightweight design and included accessories, which make it a better value for those just starting out. While it may not match the tonal depth of higher-end models, it’s a cost-effective choice for someone exploring their interest in music.

Worth Every Penny

Considering its price range, I’d say this guitar delivers excellent value for beginners. It’s affordable without feeling cheap, and the inclusion of accessories makes it a complete starter pack. The price-to-quality ratio is impressive, especially for students or hobbyists who don’t want to overspend on their first instrument.

If you’re looking for a beginner guitar that’s easy to play, visually appealing, and functional, this model checks all the boxes. However, if you’re planning to transition to intermediate or advanced playing soon, you might find yourself outgrowing it quickly.

Good Aspects

• Stylish design with a unique color option.
• Lightweight and portable, ideal for younger players.
• Comes with all essential accessories, eliminating the need for additional purchases.

Drawbacks

• Limited tonal depth, making it less suitable for advanced players.
• Gig bag lacks protection, leaving the guitar vulnerable during transport.

Overall, this guitar is perfect for those looking to dip their toes into the world of music without breaking the bank. Its compact size, clear sound, and beginner-friendly features make it an excellent choice for students and teens.

Additional information