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What is your favorite music? Rock? Folk music? Jazz? The Classics? Rap? Music is universal; loved by virtually everyone, although many are unaware of the ways in which these diverse styles are similar. Are you aware, for instance, that almost all of the musical types mentioned above can be played with an electro acoustic guitar?

The versatility of the guitar is evident in instruments such as the electro acoustic guitar. This type of guitar allows you to play many different types of songs, anything from the most quiet and soothing lullaby to a frenetic and invigorating rock anthem. While you can use this instrument as an acoustic guitar for a more low-key effect, you can also take advantage of its electric capabilities to really grab someone's attention.

The main difference between acoustic guitars and electric guitars is that the former can be played without an amplifier or cables. Thus, the acoustic has been traditionally used in genres that call for a quieter, more soothing sound. It is sometimes played with a guitar pick, or sometimes strummed with the fingertips. Either way, its tones are mellow and calming.

The electric requires an amplifier and cable to connect it to the guitar. It is almost always played with a pick. The electric can arguably be used to create a greater range of sound styles than the acoustic, because it has one important advantage: it can be used with an effects pedal.

The pedal is placed between the instrument and the amp. When pumped during a performance, it alters the tones from the instrument. One of these alterations involves overlaying the signal with a copy of itself a fraction of a second later. This pedal effect, sometimes referred to as "distortion" can be found on many popular recordings these days.

This difference is significant, but there is a way of bridging the gap: the electro acoustic guitar. This guitar frequently looks like an acoustic, but it has what is called a "pick up" that allows the musician to plug his instrument into an amplifier. The musician can thus achieve the best of both worlds: he marries the soothing tones of the acoustic with the effects and volume possibilities of the electric. For any player who wants to bridge genres, the electro acoustic guitar is a must-have!

The Guitar Center showcases hundreds of electro acoustic guitars and amps! Whether you're just looking for one to learn on or you're a veteran wanting to upgrade, you'll want check out the unique & beautiful acoustic guitars and electric guitars added every day from names like Fender, Martin, Ibanez, Gretsch, Gibson, and many more!