I'm looking for a starter acoustic electric guitar for my son.  The local shop has a Yamaha for $299 and he showed me a used Samick for $350.  I didn't get the model number.  Are these generally good guitars?

Samick is a manufactor for many different brands and their quality ranges from fine to craptastic depending on the line and pricepoint.


Yamaha guitars are a quality instrument. As with all makers some are made with better woods. Cheaper models use less solid wood.

I would look for a solid top and sides for any acoustic or at least sides. Of couse buy what sounds and feels right for you. Do not buy just because someone says it is good for them. do not impulse buy either. How does the neck feel? Clubby, thin/narrow. I can't play large bodies due to my shoulder, so I look beyond the Dreadnaughts. Take your time and look- a lot. If it fits and you like it you will play it. If something irks you, don't buy. Later you will use that as an excuse to put it down.

I found a dirt cheap 60's Yamaha Classical beat to death, but MAN-O-MAN what a sound! Look on Craigslist you can find these old Yamaha for a song.