Finding a guitar with the right construction - questions

[budda]

My first requirement is “do I find the neck shape comfortable?” Followed by “does it balance properly (not parallel to the floor/closer to classical position) on a strap?” If neither of those things happen the rest doesnt matter.

Also not mentioned: preferences change over time. In 5 10 or 20 years what may be your perfect guitar might look different.

 

[Moongrum]

which, to my mind, has coincided with an increase in tendonitis and complaints of pain from guitarists.

interesting. A big thick neck is more comfortable for me, but I also wonder if the player who gravitates towards shredder necks tends to have techniques/practice regimens that would lead to an RSI.

 

[Alberto7]

Also not mentioned: preferences change over time. In 5 10 or 20 years what may be your perfect guitar might look didifferent.

This is big. Some people take longer than others. For me, I don't know what I will like tomorrow. I kinda have to ride it out with a guitar I feel I'm not vibing with for long enough to make sure I actually don't like it. I didn't vibe with my Ibby AZ for months, until one day for some reason it was my absolute favorite guitar once again, and now I know I friggin love it, but it's a slow burning flame that will often take a background seat for something hotter and newer for a bit... but I keep going back to it.

On the other hand, I had to wait for two years of not vibing with my RGA121 to know that it just wasn't for me. Sold it a few months ago and I haven't looked back. Can't say the same for my AZ.

 

[Rubbishplayer]

interesting. A big thick neck is more comfortable for me, but I also wonder if the player who gravitates towards shredder necks tends to have techniques/practice regimens that would lead to an RSI.

Correlation does prove causation, but it is interesting.