Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Review Complete Starter Kit for New Players

Description

Exceptional Design and Build Quality

The Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package (Blue) grabbed my attention right from the start with its stunning design. The high-gloss blue finish is striking and makes the guitar look far more premium than I expected from a beginner kit. Its construction features laminated basswood for the top, back, and sides, which not only adds warmth to its tone but also ensures durability. I appreciated how the fixed guitar bridge system and 6 alloy steel strings contribute to its solid feel. Despite being lightweight at just 2.8 pounds, it doesn’t feel flimsy at all. The 38-inch size is compact yet comfortable, making it an excellent choice for both teens and adults new to playing.

Incredible Sound for Beginners

I was pleasantly surprised by the bright, resonant sound produced by this acoustic guitar. The tonewoods, specifically the basswood body and fretboard, deliver a balanced blend of versatility and warmth. Whether I played soft strumming patterns or experimented with flatpicking, the notes held their tonal integrity. For a beginner guitar, the projection and clarity exceeded my expectations. While it’s not an instrument that will wow seasoned professionals, it’s perfect for anyone learning the ropes.

Complete Kit for Starters

One of the key benefits of this product is the starter kit it comes with. The package includes a nylon gig bag, digital tuner, pitch pipe, extra strings, shoulder strap, and three picks. The extras are incredibly handy because, let’s face it, as a beginner, you don’t always know what accessories to buy. I found the digital tuner to be particularly useful—it’s compact, accurate, and easy to use. The instructional sheet provides basic guidance, although it’s not as detailed as a full online tutorial or a lesson from a teacher.

Positives

• Lightweight and compact design suitable for beginners.
• Complete starter kit eliminates the need for additional purchases.
• Bright sound and good projection for its class.
• Durable laminated basswood construction for longevity.

Some Drawbacks to Consider

While I enjoyed using this guitar, it does have a few shortcomings. For instance, the action on the strings (the distance between the strings and the fretboard) might feel slightly high for beginners, making it harder to press the strings down initially. Additionally, the included strap is functional but lacks padding, which might cause discomfort over time. Finally, while the pitch pipe is a nice addition, I didn’t find it as practical as the digital tuner for tuning on the go.

Areas for Improvement

• String action could be lower for easier playability.
• The strap lacks padding, making it less comfortable for longer sessions.
• Pitch pipe is less intuitive compared to other tuning methods.

Competing Products

In comparison to other budget-friendly beginner guitars, this model stacks up well. For example, I’ve tried Yamaha’s FG800, which has a slightly fuller sound but comes at a higher price point and doesn’t include as many accessories. Another competitor, the Donner DAG-1C, offers similar features but feels bulkier and less comfortable for smaller players. What sets the Ashthorpe beginner guitar apart is its lightweight build, vibrant aesthetic, and the thoughtfulness of its bundled accessories. While some guitars in this price range may offer marginally better sound, they don’t provide the same all-in-one convenience.

True Value

As someone who has tried multiple beginner guitars, I can confidently say this one offers great bang for the buck. The package delivers everything you need to start playing immediately, saving you from additional expenses on accessories. While there are minor features that could be improved, this guitar strikes the right balance between affordability and quality. For a beginner, it’s an investment that feels worthwhile.

Additional information