What is your favorite brand of electric guitar?  

I don't really collect them, I tend to abuse them!:) Seriously though, I've devoted the last 20 years or so of my life to music and more specfically guitar.

To answer your question though Ibanez makes quality precision instruments that are rugged, affordable and sound great. (Okay they should really endorse me at this point) It's what I usually recommend to students who are just starting out with the electric guitar.

Thanks so much for you post, and it's never too late to learn how to play an instrument.:)

You anticipated my next question, regarding student recommendations. My son has expressed an interest in learning to play. Should he learn on an acoustic guitar, first, or does it matter?

A very good question and one that is overlooked too often! The answer really depends on what kind of music he wants to play with the guitar, and how much you're willing to spend.

If he wants to play rock, blues or jazz music then definetly go electric. If he's interested in classical, folk or bluegrass then accoustic is the way to go.

Electric guitars tend to cost a little more initially because you have to add in the cost of buying an amplifier, cables and effects units or pedals he will most assuredly want and need.

If you have any other questions let me know, I'll do my best to steer you in the right direction.

He wants to play electric -- rock and all that, like his Dad. I was afraid that he would have to learn on an acoustic, first. He'll be relieved to know he can start on an electric.

When I get to the place where I'm seriously considering getting him an instrument, I'll definately ask your advice.

By the way, I can't believe you already have 40 posts! You've been very busy. :) Are you enjoying myLot?

The other upside to electric guitars is that they are easier to play also.

I am enjoying mylot, it gives me something else to do as I sit here and work on my website and stuff. Thanks. :)

I didn't realize that either an electric or acoustic would be easier to play than the other.

I always wanted to rub a metal bar over the strings of an electric guitar, like on the old Cheech and Chong movie. Can that be done?

Electrics use smaller strings so you don't have to press down as hard, also the necks are smaller so they are more comfortable to play and require less streching.

I've seen all the Cheech and Chong movies, but I don't recollect a scene where they used a metal to bar on the strings. Unless you are talking about a slide that goes over one of the fingers and is slid up and down the strings? If so that is very common in blues music and there is even a slide guitar that sits face up in your lap and is used in country music a lot.

It could have been a metal slide. I don't know. It was the Cheech and Chong movie where he's sitting on the motorcycle in the house, playing the electric guitar. I don't know. It was a long time ago. But it looked like fun. :+)

I'm really surprised you didn't get more responses on this one, filmbuff. Anyway, thanks for the Best Response. You're too kind.

I agree with you, totally. I've yet to find a better guitar for the money.