Which Amazon guitar should I gift my friend?

[Mirosh]

Yamaha FG800 or FS800 gets my vote if you want to send guitar only. (I have an FG 800 and love it.) The Yamaha FD01S is a package with accessories, also for about $200 from Amazon. What a thoughtful gift, either way!

[vindibona1]

Originally Posted by Batmitestar

I don’t know if complete newbs have real preferences; but comparing a guitar to a puppy is kinda nuts. If worst comes to worst you donate the guitar or let it rot in garage.

IMO new players don't have enough experience to have a preference beyond aesthetics. The most important thing is a good setup out of the box. I will recommend the Yamaha FG800. $200 and a wonderful guitar for the money. I sent one of these to my son-in-law who is just a few notches above beginner and he loves it and now plays it every day. I haven't seen it in person as he lives 700 miles away, but he plays it every day. I thought the sunburst version is absolutely stunning.

[aeisen93]

gift card may be a better option. hard to choose a guitar for someone being there are so many factors involved in terms of personal preference...

[LeDave]

Yamaha if you have $200 to spend.

[BillyMays]

Yammy FG800

[gfa]

Originally Posted by Batmitestar

Hello good players and people like me.

I have a friend turning 40 in a few weeks. Unfortunately I cannot go see him due to current situations. But since I won’t be buying a plane ticket, I thought I might try to send him a $200 Amazon guitar to rekindle his interest.

I know there are a handful of Yamahas that seem to get endorsements at that price range.

What does the group think is the most ideal choice for a very beginner who has played a little but at least.

There are no physical restrictions for size or anything, and he’s right handed so it’s pretty simple.

I’d love to hear thoughts and advice.

Thanks. 😎

Is there a guitar/music store where he lives? If so, consider making your purchase (whether an instrument or a gift card) there. Primary reasons are 1) increased likelihood that the guitar will have a good setup, and 2) easier to exchange if need be.

[kkrell]

Originally Posted by Batmitestar

I don’t know if complete newbs have real preferences; but comparing a guitar to a puppy is kinda nuts. If worst comes to worst you donate the guitar or let it rot in garage.

Unfortunately, some people have been known to act the same way with puppies (& kittens/cats).

[Mike McLenison]

Originally Posted by Fretboard Phil

I suggest you send him a gift card and let him choose the one he wants.

Bingo! Maybe he needs it to pay rent.

[Batmitestar]

Originally Posted by Mike McLenison

Bingo! Maybe he needs it to pay rent.

I assure you he does not.

[gfspencer]

I have a guitar made of Amazon rosewood but you won't get it for $200.

[Goat Mick]

I think a guitar is going to be a great gift for your friend and he'll cherish it even if he doesn't start playing again. They Yamaha package that has a gig bag, capo, picks etc., is probably the best option because he may not be inclined to go out and buy these things himself. You're a good friend, I hope he loves his gift.

[Batmitestar]

Sounds like the Yamaha FG800 is the consensus winner. And of course, it should have the accessory pack, I mean it's not like the guy has a bunch of gear laying about. If it's a couple hairs past $200, that's fine.

Thanks for the input. You all know a great deal more than I do. Despite being a hack, I still love beating on my new Eastman, my old Alvarez, and am eagerly anticipating the UPS truck that's hauling my 224ce-DLX Koa . . .

[reeve21]

I have a brother who was in the same boat as your brother-in-law a few years ago. His professional musician buddy told him to get a Yamaha. I can’t remember which model but I’m sure it was near your price range and it plays real nice. So nice that when his son grabbed it from him and took it to the other coast he went out and bought another one. Pretty good endorsement.