Beginner Guitar for Short Fingers

by Sherry
(Snellville,GA)

I am a 57 year old woman who has decided to finally learn to play the guitar,something I've always dreamed of doing. The problem I'm having, I am 5'2" and have short fingers and have read so much on the net about this, that I am thoroughly frustrated.

I have held several different makes but my budget right now won't allow me to spend $500 on a GS Mini which felt like it was part of me. I also like the Ibanez TCY10; the neck and body style felt very comfortable.

I've been told the acoustic-electric would be easier for me to learn on and won't be as disturbing to others when I'm practicing. I would like to spend around $300 for everything I need, but when I go to the guitar stores, the sales people don't seem to be very accommodating when I ask to try so many guitars, and want push me to that $500 figure.

Maybe you could recommend 3 or 4 models that will fit me and my budget so I won't be taking up the sales person's time.

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by: Sherry

Thanks to everyone for your suggestions. I bought a Martin 000x1ae and absolutely love the sound. It was over my budget but this guitar is already my closest friend. Now its on to learning how to make her sing for me.
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by: Graham

The late, great maestro, Andres Segovia had short fingers. This is a condition, but not a problem. The sales agents were most probably not trying to 'squeeze' you. I'd bet they were only trying to save you from disappointment. You've waited this long...save a wee bit longer and buy a good guitar. For $500 you can get a nice-sounding, good-looking, decent quality instrument which won't bore you half to death within 6 months.Buy a solid top guitar. Classical guitars are easier to fret than steel-strings, and are somewhat smaller. Think Yamaha!
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by: Guitar Guru

One other model to add … While a bit pricier, you might also want to take a look at the
The Loar Lh-200 Small-Body Acoustic Guitar which is modeled after small bodied flat top acoustic guitars from the 1930’s. This one is classier in appearance and has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides and can be had for $389.
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by: Guitar Guru

I understand your concern. Finances are tight all over. Thankfully there are some options for you. There are two options I have in your price range if you are looking for an acoustic/electric.

The first model I recommend is the
Martin LX1E Little Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar. This is considered to be a small student and travel guitar. It has a solid Sitka spruce soundboard and a modified 0-14 body and a sweet tone you’ll love. At musiciansfriend.com you can get this model for just $359. That’s a tad bit over your budget, but the quality really is exceptional.

For just $339 you can get the
Martin LXME Little Martin Acoustic-Electric Guitar. This has Mini Q electronics by Fishman as well as a modified 0-14 body, though it does have a high pressure laminate top instead of a solid top. You’d really do better to spend the extra $20 and get the solid top Martin model.

If you really have to stay under $300, I suggest you stick to a straight acoustic guitar. Martin has another option in this category, the
Martin LXM Little Martin Acoustic Guitar for just $279. An excellent quality little model for an affordable price.

Another excellent option is the
Taylor 2012 Baby Taylor Acoustic Guitar which is a ¾ sized acoustic guitar with a solid Sitka spruce top and an awesome sound. And, the price (just $299) is a bargain.

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