Best Acoustic Guitars for Beginners in New Zealand: Sigma, Martin & Benavides

When starting your journey into the world of acoustic guitars, choosing the right instrument is crucial. A beginner guitar needs to offer the right balance of quality, playability, and price to ensure a smooth and enjoyable learning experience. The last thing you want is to buy something used off TradeMe, only to give up on your guitar journey because the action on the guitar is too high, making it almost impossible on your fingers! You are much better off buying a new acoustic guitar that has been set up well, ready to play, and enjoy for years to come, knowing that it comes with a warranty and support should you need it. 

If you're based in New Zealand and looking for the best acoustic guitars for beginners, you’ve come to the right place. At Studio 1 Vintage Guitars, although we specialize in high-end and vintage acoustic guitars, we do offer a range of high-quality instruments perfect for new players. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at three brands that we stock that are perfect for learning guitar: Sigma, Martin, and Benavides.

Why Choosing the Right Beginner Guitar Matters

Learning to play the guitar should be an enjoyable experience. A poorly made or old guitar, or one that has not been set up correclty (or left sitting on the shelf, where the setup can change) can lead to frustration and even discomfort, discouraging beginners from continuing. On the other hand, a well-crafted guitar that has been set up well can make learning easier, more enjoyable, and more inspiring. Factors like the action (the height of the strings from the fretboard), neck profile, and overall sound quality are critical in making a guitar beginner-friendly. You might also want features like an electronic pick up system or on board tuner to make life easier!

1. Sigma Guitars: Affordable Quality. Great Tone on a Budget

Sigma Guitars are renowned for providing exceptional value for money, making them an excellent choice for beginners. Founded in 1970 as a subsidiary of Martin Guitars, Sigma offers instruments that mirror Martin's quality at a more affordable price point. Sigma guitars are known for their solid construction, good playability, and rich sound. They are Made in China, but undergo rigorous quality controls. We stock a full range of Sigma guitars in 00, 000, OM and Dreadnaught styles, as well as 12 string models.

• Sigma DT-1: $675
  This model is a great choice for beginners. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, which provides a bright and clear tone. The laminate back and sides add warmth and depth, making it versatile for different music styles. Its dreadnought body shape offers a full sound and volume, ideal for strumming and fingerpicking alike.

• Sigma 000M-15: $699
  Another popular model among beginners, the 000M-15 has a smaller body size, which is easier to handle, especially for younger players or those with shoulder pain issues (perfect for us older learner guitar players!). It has a solid mahogany top, back, and sides, offering a warm, mellow tone that’s perfect for blues and folk music.

• Sigma DM-SG5: $1,195
  The brand new Sigma DM-SG5 is an exciting addition to the Sigma lineup - with a classic Gibson Hummingbird inspired sunburst and pickguard - stunning! This model features a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, which provide a balanced tone with clarity and warmth. Its square sholudered dreadnought body shape delivers a full sound, making it suitable for various styles of playing. The DM-SG5 is perfect for beginners looking for a versatile guitar that can grow with them as they progress in their playing skills.

Shop the Sigma Collection

2. Martin Guitars: Legendary Craftsmanship

For those who are serious about their musical journey, Martin Guitars offers an iconic name synonymous with quality and heritage. While they are often known for high-end, professional-level guitars, Martin also produces a range of more affordable options that are perfect for beginners. These are made by Martin in their Mexico factory, and carry all the weight of the Martiun reputation in their fit and finish.

• Martin LX1E Little Martin $1,295
  Despite its smaller size, the Little Martin offers the same quality and sound that the brand is famous for. It’s a compact guitar, making it comfortable for beginners and children / kids to play. The solid Sitka spruce top ensures a crisp, bright tone, while the high-pressure laminate back and sides provide durability. This model is also equipped with Fishman electronics, making it a great option for those who might want to perform or record.

• Martin 000-X2E-01 $1,650
  A great addition to the Martin lineup for beginners, the 000-X2E features a solid Sitka spruce top and high-pressure laminate back and sides, offering a rich, resonant tone. Its 000 body shape is slightly smaller than the dreadnought, making it easier to handle while still delivering a full sound. The built-in Fishman MX electronics provide great amplified sound for performances.

• Martin D Jr-10E-02 $1,650
  The Junior series by Martin offers the dreadnought sound in a more manageable size. The D Jr-10E features a solid spruce top and sapele back and sides, producing a balanced, rich tone. It’s slightly smaller than a standard dreadnought, making it easier to play for kids, or an excellent travel guitar, while still delivering a powerful sound. The built-in Fishman Sonitone electronics allow for easy amplification.

• Martin D12E $3,250
  For beginners who are looking for a more robust sound, the Martin D12-E offers a solid Sitka spruce top with siris back and sides, creating a deep, resonant tone that’s perfect for strumming. It comes equipped with Fishman MX-T electronics, which include a built-in tuner for added convenience.

Shop the Martin Collection

3. Benavides Guitars: Handmade Excellence; If you want a Guitar for Life

Benavides Guitars might not be as widely known as Sigma or Martin, but they are a gem in the acoustic guitar world, offering handmade excellence. Based in New Zealand's Far North, David Benavides crafts instruments with a focus on quality and attention to detail. Each guitar is a piece of serious craftsmanship, providing rich, tone and top quality materials and finishing. 

• Benavides Vintage Series & Blue Collar Series from $4,995 (used options available)
  These guitars are specifically designed with for those who want the very best, without paying the premium for big brand names. They offer a solid premium Sitka or Adirondack top for improved sound quality, as well as solid back and sides sets, and are handcrafted to ensure ease of playability. The attention to detail and use of quality woods make these guitars a delight to play and a solid investment for any beginner who wants something that will be equally rewarding for an advanced player in years to come.

Shop the Benavides Collection

Essential Accessories for Beginners

Don’t forget to pick up a few essential accessories to enhance your playing experience:

• Guitar Tuner: Helps keep your guitar in tune, which is crucial for learning.
• Picks: Experiment with different sizes and materials to find what feels best.
• Strap: A comfortable strap is essential for playing while standing.
• Gig Bag or Case: Protect your guitar when you're not playing or transporting it.
• Strings: For beginners, starting with Light strings is recommended while your fingers get used to the instrument. Silk and Steel or Folk Style strings are even softer and more forgiving to new players.

Finding Your Perfect Beginner Guitar

Choosing the right acoustic guitar as a beginner is an important step. Whether you’re drawn to the affordable quality of Sigma, the legend of Martin, or the handmade excellence of kiw made Benavides, you’ll find a guitar that fits your needs and budget at Studio 1 Vintage Guitars. Each of these brands offers models that are well-suited for beginners, ensuring that your first steps in playing the guitar are as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Visit our store in Auckland or explore our online collection at Studio 1 Vintage Guitars to find the perfect acoustic guitar for your musical journey. We’re here to help you make the right choice, with expert advice and a passion for quality guitars.