Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package Review: The Ultimate Budget Entry Point for Aspiring Musicians

Every guitar journey begins with a single, often stressful decision: which instrument should I buy first? For many of us, the barrier to entry isn’t a lack of passion, but the sheer cost and complexity of the market. We have seen countless students and parents search for an affordable entry point that doesn’t sacrifice playability. If you buy a guitar that is too large, too heavy, or simply painful to play because of high string tension, the “dream of rock and roll” quickly turns into a dusty ornament in the corner of the room. This is why we decided to put the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package through its paces. We wanted to see if a budget-friendly, all-in-one kit could actually provide the foundation needed for a teenager or a smaller-framed adult to succeed in those critical first six months of learning. Solving the “affordability vs. quality” puzzle is essential because a bad first guitar is the number one reason beginners quit before they’ve even learned their first C-major chord.

What to Consider Before Investing in Your First Acoustic Guitar

Choosing an acoustic guitar is more than just picking a color you like; it’s about finding a mechanical tool that matches your physical proportions and musical goals. A well-chosen acoustic guitar is a key solution for developing finger strength, rhythm, and ear training without the need for amplifiers or cables. It offers a “grab and go” musical experience that electric guitars simply cannot match. For a beginner, the instrument needs to be inviting—it should feel comfortable against the body and be easy enough on the fingers that the inevitable soreness of “developing calluses” doesn’t become a deterrent.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a student, a teenager, or an adult with smaller hands who finds a standard 41-inch dreadnought too cumbersome. It is also perfect for the “curious hobbyist” who wants to test the waters of guitar playing without a three-figure investment. However, it might not be suitable for professional musicians or those seeking a “forever instrument” with complex tonal overtones. If you are already an intermediate player, you might find the limitations of budget tonewoods restrictive and should perhaps look toward solid-top alternatives.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The 38-inch size is considered a “parlor” or “student” size. This is vital because it allows the player to reach over the body and access the fretboard without straining the shoulder. If the guitar is too big, your posture will suffer, leading to back pain and poor technique.
• Capacity/Performance: In the world of acoustic guitars, performance is measured by “action” (the height of the strings from the fretboard) and tuning stability. You want a guitar that can hold its pitch for a full practice session and strings that don’t require “Herculean” strength to press down.
• Materials & Durability: Most budget guitars use laminate woods like Basswood. While not as resonant as solid Spruce or Mahogany, Basswood is lightweight and more resistant to changes in temperature and humidity, making it a durable choice for a first instrument that might be hauled to lessons or stored in a bedroom.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A beginner kit should include everything you need to start immediately. Look for packages that provide a tuner and extra strings, as beginners often break strings while learning to tune. Maintenance should be simple—a quick wipe down after playing is usually all that’s required for a laminate finish.

While the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package is an excellent choice for those starting out, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions and Unboxing the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package

When the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package arrived, we were immediately struck by the weight—or lack thereof. At only 2.8 pounds, it is incredibly lightweight, which is a massive plus for younger students. The unboxing experience was straightforward; the guitar comes neatly packed with its accessories tucked into the gig bag. Visually, the black gloss finish on the basswood body is quite striking, giving it a sleek, modern look that belies its budget price point. We recommend that you see its full feature set and user reviews to understand the variety of colors available, though the black remains a classic favorite.

The assembly is non-existent, as it is a fixed-bridge acoustic. However, you will need to tune it immediately. The inclusion of a digital tuner and a pitch pipe is a thoughtful touch, though we found the digital tuner much more practical for a novice. One feature that really sets it apart from other “toy” guitars in this price bracket is the use of actual steel strings and a truss rod in the neck, which suggests it is built to be a real instrument, not just a prop. While the gig bag is thin and offers minimal padding, it is sufficient for dust protection and light travel to a friend’s house.

A Deep Dive into the Performance of the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package

Ergonomics and Playability: Tailored for the Student

In our extensive testing of the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package, the most prominent feature we noticed was the physical accessibility of the instrument. Traditional dreadnought guitars can feel like you are trying to hug a refrigerator. The Ashthorpe, with its 38-inch frame, allows the player’s arm to drape naturally over the lower bout. This ergonomic advantage cannot be overstated; it allows for better wrist positioning on the fretboard, which is critical for learning chords like F-major or B-minor that require more reach. We found that the neck profile is relatively slim, which helps small hands wrap around to reach the low E-string.

However, we did notice that the “action”—the distance between the strings and the frets—is set slightly higher than what you might find on a professional-grade instrument. For a beginner, this means you’ll need to apply a bit more pressure. While this helps build finger strength, it can be discouraging. We found that swapping the factory steel strings for a set of light-gauge silk-and-steel or even nylon strings (as suggested by some users) can drastically improve the comfort level. Despite this, the frets were surprisingly smooth, with no sharp edges catching our fingers as we moved up and down the neck. You can check the latest price and availability to see if this fits your current budget for a starter instrument.

Tonal Integrity and Sound Quality: The Basswood Factor

For a guitar made entirely of Basswood, the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package produces a surprisingly warm and balanced tone. Basswood is often dismissed in high-end circles, but in this application, it provides a very “responsive” sound. It doesn’t have the booming low-end of a Mahogany guitar or the sparkling highs of Spruce, but it offers a mid-range clarity that is perfect for learning to distinguish between different notes in a chord. We evaluated the resonance by playing both fingerstyle and with the included picks, and the guitar held its own in a small room environment.

One detail we confirmed during our play-test is that the guitar stays in tune relatively well once the strings have been “stretched.” New steel strings always go flat for the first few days, but the geared tuners on the Ashthorpe are sturdy enough to hold the tension. The sound is “honest”—it won’t hide your mistakes, which is actually what you want when you are practicing. It provides enough volume for home practice without being so loud that it disturbs the entire household. To hear it in action or see more technical details, you can view more technical details and options online.

Build Quality and Long-Term Durability

A common concern with budget guitars is that they might “fall apart” after a few months. We examined the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package for its structural integrity, specifically focusing on the bridge and the neck joint. The fixed bridge is seated firmly against the basswood top, and the finish is applied evenly without any “orange peel” texture or bubbling. This level of quality control is impressive for a mass-produced starter kit. We did find one user report mentioning a neck issue after six months, but in our assessment, this is often due to extreme humidity changes which can affect any all-wood instrument. Keeping the guitar in its bag with a small humidifier in dry climates would easily prevent such issues.

The alloy steel strings included are standard for this price point. While they are functional, they are the first thing we would recommend upgrading after a few months of play. The body itself is surprisingly scratch-resistant; during our “stress test” where we used a heavy pick and some aggressive strumming, the finish held up beautifully. It feels like a tool that can survive the bumps and bruises of being carried to a teenager’s bedroom or a school music room. This durability makes it an excellent value for money compared to more fragile, expensive instruments.

The “Total Package” Value: Assessing the Accessories

What truly makes the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package stand out is the sheer volume of accessories. Often, you buy a “cheap” guitar and then realize you need to spend another $50 on a tuner, a strap, and a bag. Here, everything is included. The digital clip-on tuner is surprisingly accurate—we compared it against our professional studio tuners, and it was within a few cents of perfect pitch. The shoulder strap is basic but functional, though taller players might find it a bit short, as one user noted. The inclusion of an instructional sheet and four months of free lessons (often included via promotional offers) adds significant “hidden” value to the purchase.

We especially appreciated the extra set of strings. For a beginner, breaking a string is a “disaster” that usually stops practice for a week until they can get to a music store. Having a spare set in the bag means the learning doesn’t have to stop. While the pitch pipe is a bit “old school” and likely won’t be used by most modern students, it’s a nice backup. The picks are of various thicknesses, allowing the player to experiment with how different plectrums affect the sound. All of these factors combined make this package a “no-brainer” for someone looking for a comprehensive start. It is widely available for online purchase, making it a convenient gift option as well.

What Other Users Are Saying

The general sentiment surrounding the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package is overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding its “bang for the buck.” Many parents have shared stories of their children’s excitement upon receiving the guitar, noting that the vibrant colors (especially the mint and black) are even more impressive in person than in photos. One user noted, “For the price, I wasn’t expecting how good the quality is! Easy to use, comes with strings and picks, the value is definitely there.” Another reviewer, a 17-year-old student, mentioned that the 38-inch size was “small and cute but still tactile,” making it perfect for those who struggle to reach around a full-sized dreadnought neck.

On the flip side, more experienced players who bought it out of curiosity have pointed out its limitations. A common critique involves the “action” being high, which can make the higher tones sound slightly out of tune due to string stretching when pressed. One user honestly remarked, “This guitar is good for deciding if you want to commit… however, the strings are rather buzzy.” Another warned that while it got them through nine months of learning, the neck durability might be an issue if the guitar isn’t cared for. These balanced views highlight that while it is a fantastic starter tool, it is not intended to be a professional recording instrument. This feedback is relevant because it sets realistic expectations: it’s a “learning bridge” to your next great guitar.

Comparing the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package to the Competition

While the Ashthorpe is a fantastic entry point, the market for beginner guitars is crowded. Depending on your budget and physical size, you might want to consider these three alternatives that offer different strengths.

1. Best Choice Products 41in Beginner Acoustic Guitar Set

The Best Choice Products 41in set is the “big brother” to the Ashthorpe. If the player is a full-grown adult or a taller teenager, the 41-inch dreadnought size will provide a much louder, more resonant sound with deeper bass. It features a cutaway design, which allows easier access to the higher frets—something the Ashthorpe lacks. However, for a small child or petite adult, this guitar might feel “oversized” and lead to shoulder fatigue. Choose this if you want a traditional, full-scale experience and have the wingspan to handle it.

2. Fender CD-60S Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Bundle

The Fender CD-60S is a significant step up in quality and price. Unlike the all-basswood Ashthorpe, the CD-60S features a solid Mahogany top. Solid wood vibrates more freely than laminate, meaning the sound will actually improve as the guitar “ages.” This is an instrument that could last a player through their intermediate years and into live performances. It is more of an investment, but for a student who is 100% committed to the craft, the superior playability and tone of a Fender are hard to beat.

3. Fender FA Series Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle

If you have aspirations of playing in a band or performing at open mics, the Fender FA Series Acoustic-Electric is the way to go. It includes built-in electronics (a pickup and preamp), allowing you to plug it into an amplifier or a PA system. While much more expensive than the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package, it eliminates the need to buy a second guitar once you start performing. It is a full-sized dreadnought, so it carries the same “size warning” as the Best Choice model, but it offers the most versatility for a growing musician.

Final Verdict: Is the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package Right for You?

After a thorough evaluation, we can confidently say that the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package is one of the most honest and effective starter kits on the market today. It doesn’t pretend to be a Taylor or a Martin; instead, it focuses on being a lightweight, accessible, and comprehensive “on-ramp” for new players. Its primary strengths lie in its ergonomic 38-inch size and the incredible value of the included accessories. While the high action and basic gig bag are minor drawbacks, they are easily overlooked when you consider the price point. We recommend this package specifically for students aged 10 to 16, or any beginner who wants a low-risk way to explore their musical potential.

The journey of a thousand songs begins with the first few chords. If you are looking for a gift that could spark a lifelong passion, or if you’re ready to start your own musical chapter without breaking the bank, this is the perfect place to start. Don’t let the complexity of higher-end gear stall your progress. Grab your picks, tune up, and secure your starter kit today to begin your journey with the Ashthorpe 38-inch Beginner Acoustic Guitar Package.