QXT electric guitar starter pack

[Gandalf]

My son has just started guitar lessons. He's only done two lessons so I didn't plan on buying him one just yet (he's using a hire guitar at the moment), but my local hardware store (of all places!!) in selling the QXT starter pack for around £60. (Same as this one, only cheaper). http://www.johnnyroadhouse.co.uk/acatal ... _Pack.html

But.... is it any good?

[Twostep13]

i havent heard anything about these, but if your son is just starting, then the cheaper the better IMO, cuz if he doesnt end up sticking with it, then you wont lose anything... get somthing cheap that he can learn with until he gets more serious would be my advice.. the quality isnt going to be great, but it doesnt really matter at this stage, as longa s it works, he can learn on it

[RunsWithBuffalo]

Everyone has to start somewhere right? I have never played that guitar but i have played some like it. The big differences in electic guitars are playablility and tone. If your son is just starting, then tone is probably not going to be a huge issue. Playability will be though. I started on a starter pack acoustic and the action (height of the strings) was so high that it litterally made my fingers bleed and become sore. I almost gave it up.

With an electric, it is typically easier on your fingers since the action is lower and the strings are lighter, so he should be alright.

My personal opinion is try to find a decent used guitar and a used amp. Ibanez makes some decent starter electrics and "made in mexico" fenders are good too, but i would stay away from Squier. I would stop using a hire guitar, youre just throwing money away.

Hope that was helpful, if you have more questions just ask.

[Gandalf]

OK guys, thanks for that.
I should add that my son has just turned eight and the hire guitar he is using is a smaller acoustic guitar hired through the school at an introductory price, so cost isn't an issue there.

I'm still torn between waiting 'til next year to see if he's still into it, or grabbing a bargain while I can.

I think I'll probably wait!?

[sfmartins]

I agree with RunsWithBuffalo: used is a good option.

I would start with an acoustic guitar though. You can play it anywhere, don't need cables nor amps and you can always switch to electric later...