The Ultimate Gift of Rock, and Joy
Drop in to Musicmaker to see and feel guitars.
Ah, Christmas. The lights, the tunes, the unmistakable smell of pine and new guitar strings.
For generations, the first electric guitar has been the gift that sparks a lifelong love affair with music — the moment when curiosity turns into creativity, when dreams get plugged in and turned up loud.
But let’s be honest: choosing that first electric guitar can feel like walking into Willy Wonka’s factory — dazzling, exciting, and just a little overwhelming.
Fear not, fellow music lover. This guide will help you cut through the noise, understand what matters most, and find the perfect first guitar — one that sounds great, feels right, and inspires endless hours of joyful noise.
And yes, you’ll find them all right here at Musicmaker Dublin, fully set up, ready to play, and just waiting to be wrapped.
Step 1: Pick the Right Size and Style
Electric guitars come in all shapes and flavours. For beginners, comfort is everything — the best guitar is the one that makes you want to keep playing.
- Full-size guitars (like most Strat and Les Paul styles) are perfect for teens and adults.
- ¾-size or short-scale guitars are ideal for younger players or smaller hands.
Top tip: Try before you buy. The difference in neck width and body shape can be huge — what feels natural to one player might feel awkward to another. That’s why a trip into Musicmaker Dublin is worth its weight in riffs.
The Jet Guitars JS-300 MINI models are perfect for smaller hands.
Step 2: Choose Your Style — The Shape of Your Sound
Different guitars don’t just look cool — they sound and feel different, too.
- S-Style Guitars (like the Jet JS-300 in our Jet Packs) – bright, snappy, perfect for pop, funk, and blues.
- T-Style Guitars (like the Jet JT-300) – twangy, punchy, and great for rock, indie, and country.
- Single-Cut Guitars (like the Epiphone Les Paul Standard) – thick, creamy tone with loads of sustain.
Ask yourself what sound you love: the clean sparkle of John Mayer, the crunch of Foo Fighters, or the growl of AC/DC. That’ll tell you where to start.
Step 3: Don’t Forget the Essentials
A guitar alone is just the start. You’ll need a few bits and bobs to complete the setup — and this is where Musicmaker’s Jet Pack Guitar Promo Bundles come in to help out.
Each pack includes:
- A Jet Guitar (choose your style — S or T)
- Laney LX10 10W Amp – Compact, punchy, and perfect for home use
- Stagg Cable & Tuner – Reliable, essential gear
- Musicmaker Sustainable Strap & Picks – Because comfort (and the planet) matter
It’s everything you need to get started, wrapped in one tidy, affordable package.
Hint for parents: these bundles are the easiest way to get a full setup without the stress of picking individual bits. Plug in and play, straight out of the box.
Step 4: Feel Matters More Than Price Tag
It’s easy to get lost in brand names and specs, but for your first guitar, feel is everything.
A €300 guitar that fits your hands and inspires you to play every day is far better than a €1,000 one that intimidates you.
Every guitar at Musicmaker Dublin is set up and loved before it hits the wall — Tuned and ready to rock. You’ll walk out with an instrument that feels amazing, no matter your budget.
Step 5: Make It a Christmas to Remember
There’s nothing like the excitement of plugging in that first guitar on Christmas morning. The glow of the fairy lights, the first buzz of the amp, the slightly out-of-tune first chord — it’s pure magic.
This Christmas, give the gift that starts a story. Whether it’s for someone you love or the rock star hiding inside you, an electric guitar is more than a present — it’s an open door to creativity, confidence, and community.
And hey — it’ll look absolutely gorgeous under the tree. And the rest of the time too.
Beginner Electric Guitar FAQ – Everything You Need to Know
Q. Is an electric guitar good for beginners?
A. Absolutely! Electric guitars are easier on the fingers than acoustics, the strings are lighter, and the necks are slimmer — perfect for beginners. You’ll learn faster, stay inspired, and enjoy every chord you play.
Q. Should I start on electric or acoustic guitar?
A. It depends on what excites you most. If you dream of rock riffs, clean pop tones, or soaring solos — go electric. If you’re into singer-songwriter strumming or fingerpicking, acoustic might suit you better. But there’s no wrong choice — just play.
Q. What’s the difference between single-coil and humbucker pickups?
A. Single-coils (like on the Jet JS-300) give you that bright, snappy sound heard in funk, pop, and blues. Humbuckers (like on the Vintage Statesboro or Epiphone Les Paul) are thicker, smoother, and perfect for rock or heavier tones. Both are amazing — it’s just about what makes you grin when you hit a chord.
Q. Do I need an amp to play electric guitar?
A. Yes — but it doesn’t have to be massive. A small, solid practice amp like the Laney LX10 or Laney LX10B (for bass) gives you tone, volume control, and headphone options for quiet practice. Many starter bundles include one, so you’re set from day one.
Q. How much should I spend on my first electric guitar?
A. A great beginner electric can start around €250–€400, with full Musicmaker Jet Packs offering everything you need (guitar, amp, strap, tuner, and cable) for unbeatable value. It’s the sweet spot between affordability and lasting quality.
Q.What size guitar should I buy for a child or smaller player?
A. Look for ¾-size or short-scale models — lighter, smaller, and easier to play. We stock options that fit all ages and hand sizes, from younger beginners to adult learners who prefer something more compact.
Q. Can I buy online or do I need to visit the store?
A. Both! You can order directly from musicmaker.ie with fast, free shipping across Ireland, or pop into our Dublin shop for the full experience — try different guitars, chat with the crew, and maybe plug into an amp or two.
Find Your First Electric Guitar at Musicmaker Dublin
Our walls are filled with Jet, Vintage, Epiphone, Rapier, and more, all hand-picked for playability and tone. From affordable starter guitars to professional setups that’ll last a lifetime, we’ve got you covered.
Try them out in-store on Exchequer Street, or browse online.
Gift vouchers are available too — for those who’d rather choose their own weapon of sound.
Got any questions? Get in touch via the Intercom button below, we are always happy to help out.
