First Act ME4018 ME-4018 Electric Guitar Pink w/White Flames
- First Act ME-4018 ME4018 electric guitar with two Humbucker Pickups and three way switch and master volume and tone controls. All Original. Neck straight. Plays Great Sounds Great
Everything you need to know before purchasing this fun and stylish beginner guitar
The First Act Pink Electric Guitar is the perfect choice for any aspiring guitarist looking to buy their first electric guitar. With its eye-catching pink design and quality construction, this beginner guitar allows you to learn the basics of guitar playing in style.
But before you purchase the First Act Pink Electric Guitar, there are some key factors to consider to ensure you select the right model for your needs and budget. This comprehensive buying guide provides an in-depth look at the First Act Pink Electric Guitar, covering everything from its standout features to real customer reviews.
Standout Features of the First Act Pink Electric Guitar
The most notable features of the First Act Pink Electric Guitar that make it a great starter instrument include:
- Vibrant pink design – This guitar comes in a bright, vibrant pink color for a fun, stylish look. The pink glossy finish gives it a sleek, eye-catching aesthetic.
- Stratocaster-style body – It features a classic double cutaway Stratocaster-style body for great playability and access to higher frets.
- ** maple neck** – The maple neck provides durability and smooth feel when moving up and down the fretboard.
- Rosewood fingerboard – The rosewood fingerboard adds visual appeal and gives a comfortable surface for fingering notes and chords.
- Three single coil pickups – With three single coil pickups, this guitar offers versatility in producing both clean and overdriven tones.
- Tremolo bridge – The tremolo bridge allows for fun effects by raising and lowering the pitch. Great for beginners wanting to experiment with sound.
- Volume and tone knobs – Convenient volume and tone knobs allow quick adjustments to the guitar’s output and sound.
- Gig bag included – It comes complete with a lightweight gig bag for safe transportation and storage.
Where to Buy the First Act Pink Electric Guitar
The First Act Pink Electric Guitar is sold through various music equipment retailers, both in-store and online:
- Amazon – Amazon carries the First Act Pink Electric Guitar with free shipping for Prime members. Frequently ranks among the top sellers in electric guitars on Amazon.
- Musician’s Friend – Musician’s Friend is a major online musical instrument retailer that stocks the First Act Pink Electric Guitar. Offers competitive prices and financing options.
- Sam Ash – This large music gear retailer sells the First Act guitar in their stores across the US and also online. Provides helpful customer service.
- First Act – You can buy directly from the First Act website. Good for finding sales and deals directly from the manufacturer.
- eBay – Search eBay and you can often find used and new First Act guitars for sale from various sellers. Allows you to find discounts.
- Local music stores – Check with local guitar shops and chains like Guitar Center to see if they carry the First Act Pink Electric Guitar in stock in your area.
How Much Does the First Act Pink Electric Guitar Cost?
As an affordable, entry-level instrument, the First Act Pink Electric Guitar has a very reasonable price point:
- MSRP around $200 – The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is approximately $200. This is the list price set by First Act.
- Retail price $100 – $175 – At most major retailers, the sales price ranges from $100 to $175.
- Used price $50 – $150 – On the used market, expect to spend between $50 and $150 based on age and condition.
- Price may fluctuate – Sales and limited-time offers can bring the price below $100 when shopping online.
Overall, the First Act Pink Guitar provides amazing value given its quality components and stylish design, making it one of the best beginner electric guitars under $200.
Ideal for Beginners Just Learning Guitar
With its comfortable feel, vibrant style, and versatile sound, the First Act Pink Electric Guitar is an excellent choice for those who are just starting to learn guitar. Here are some of the reasons it’s great for beginners:
- Playability – Low string action and small, easy-to-grip neck make it very playable for beginners still developing finger coordination.
- Lightweight – Weighing under 8 pounds, its lighter weight helps prevent fatigue when practicing for extended periods.
- Smaller scale – With a scale length around 22.5 inches, the shorter neck is perfect for smaller hands.
- Accessible controls – The basic control knobs are intuitive and allow beginners to easily shape the guitar’s sound as they learn.
- Fun style motivates practice – The fun pink design and approachable vibe make beginners excited to pick it up and practice more.
- Versatile tones – From bright jangly tones to harder distorted crunch, this guitar lets you explore different genres of music.
- Affordable price – Friendly cost lowers investment in case guitar playing ends up not being their passion.
Thanks to these beginner-friendly features, the First Act Pink Guitar helps new players build skills and explore guitar playing before upgrading to a more advanced instrument.
What Guitar Experts and Customers Are Saying
Most guitarists who have played or tested the First Act Pink Electric Guitar give it high marks, especially considering its budget-friendly price for a beginner electric guitar. Here are some highlights of guitar gear reviews:
- “Surprisingly decent for the super affordable price” – A review in Guitar Advise praised the guitar’s solid construction and great sound.
- “Perfect for little rockers ready to tackle their first guitar” – Music Critic favorably reviewed the guitar for having a comfortable feel ideal for smaller learners.
- “An absolute steal in my book�€”can’t find any major faults” – A satisfied customer review on Amazon said it’s an amazing starter guitar for the money.
- “My 10-year-old loves it and is really progressing with her lessons” – Parent review from Guitar Center highlighted that it keeps their young beginner motivated.
- “Stays in tune better than I expected. The pink is gorgeous too!” – Review from a mom who bought the guitar for her daughter on Musician’s Friend.
While you can’t expect the same quality as a professional guitar costing over $1000, the First Act Pink Guitar earns praise for its playability and solid sound at a student-friendly price point.
Durable Wood and Hardware for Proper Function
The materials and hardware used in the First Act Pink Guitar allow it to function properly as an entry-level instrument for learning the fundamentals:
- Maple neck & rosewood fingerboard – This wood combination provides stability and decent tone. Rosewood is common on budget guitars.
- Solid body – Made of laminated wood, the body offers enough weight and resonance when amplified.
- Chrome tuners – The chrome tuning keys hold the strings in tune adequately, especially with proper stringing technique.
- Tremolo bridge – The tremolo bridge handles basic bends and effects without going out of tune excessively.
- Single coil pickups – The three standard single coil pickups capture tones from bright to full distortion.
- Plastic knobs & switch tip – While not premium, the plastic components work fine and help keep costs down.
- Gig bag – The included gig bag protects the guitar for travel and storage. Padded for safe transportation.
While not built to the same standards as professional instruments, the materials suit a beginner guitar in this price range.
Helpful Accessories Included for Getting Started
The First Act Pink Guitar ships with a few helpful accessories right in the box to get beginning players started:
- Guitar picks – You get an assortment of multi-colored guitar picks in various thicknesses. Useful while building pick playing technique.
- Spare strings – Extra strings are handy for when strings break or you want to experiment with different gauges.
- Guitar strap – A pink polka dot nylon strap is perfect for playing while standing up.
- Electronic tuner – Tune the guitar accurately with the included electronic tuner with visual readout.
- How-To DVD – An instructional DVD covers tuning, maintenance, and playing basics. Makes the learning curve easier.
- Amp cord – With the guitar to amp cord, you can plug into an amplifier to hear your playing through a speaker.
Having these accessories bundled maximizes the value and lets you start practicing right away.
Tuning the Strings and Getting Started Playing
Learning proper tuning technique helps keep the First Act Pink Guitar sounding its best as you start playing:
- Use the electronic tuner – For beginners, tuning with the included electronic tuner is easiest. Pluck each string and turn the matching knob until the tuner shows the string is in tune.
- Tune to standard EADGBE tuning – Tune the guitar to standard tuning, with the lowest string at E and thinnest high E string. This makes learning basic chords easiest.
- Tune before each practice session – Get in the habit of checking the tuning each time before you play to prevent learning with poor intonation.
- Change strings if necessary – Old strings that won’t hold their pitch may need replacement. Try Ernie Ball 2215 Earthwood Light strings.
- Learn basic open chords – Once in tune, you can begin learning open chords like G, C, D, A, and E minor. Barre chords will be too difficult at first.
- Practice finger dexterity – Work on finger independence by practicing picking patterns on each string to improve coordination.
Take the time master tuning and you’ll get the most enjoyment out of your practice sessions on your new First Act guitar.
Compact Size Makes It Playable for All Ages
The First Act Pink Guitar features a compact body size and shorter scale length that make it a very playable electric guitar even for smaller players:
- Full scale length around 22.5″ – The shorter 22.5 inch scale length means less stretching for smaller hands.
- Slim neck profile – At the nut, the neck measures just over 1″ in width for a slim playing feel.
- Lightweight at under 8 lbs – Weighing under 8 pounds total makes the guitar comfortable for extended playing periods.
- Smaller Strat-style body – The reduced size double cutaway body style is easier to handle compared to larger guitar styles.
- Low string action – Action around 4/64″ makes pushing strings down to fret notes easier for beginners.
- Strap and light gauge strings – The included strap and factory .009 gauge strings further optimize playability.
The First Act Pink Guitar’s size works well for grade schoolers through adults, accommodating a wide range of players starting their guitar journey.
Caring for Your Guitar for Long-Term Use
To help this beginner guitar last for many practice sessions, gigs, and jam sessions, here are some tips for proper care:
- Store in the included gig bag – Use the padded gig bag when transporting and storing the guitar to prevent bumps and scratches.
- Keep away from heat/humidity – Avoid exposing the guitar to direct sunlight, excessive humidity, or other temperature extremes.
- Clean strings/frets routinely – Wipe down the strings after playing and polish the frets a few times per month. This reduces dirt buildup.
- Inspect electronics – Check that jacks, knobs, and pickups aren’t loose or damaged before playing.
- Adjust truss rod if needed – Have a guitar tech adjust the truss rod internally if strings buzz or are hard to fret.
- Consider upgrades down the road – Upgrading tuners, nut, and electronics can extend the guitar’s life over many years.
With proper care and maintenance, your First Act Pink Guitar can continue looking and playing great for years of musical enjoyment.
Finding Discounts and Sales on the Guitar
While the First Act Pink Guitar is already priced low for a beginner electric guitar, you can often find even better deals:
- Shop holiday sales – Look for the best discounts around peak shopping holidays like Christmas, Black Friday, and Cyber Monday.
- Buy used/refurbished – Consider a used version or factory reconditioned model to save – check sites like Reverb and eBay.
- Look for coupons – Retailers will sometimes offer extra discounts by using coupon codes found on deal sites.
- Open box deals – Stores will discount open box showroom models – great if you’re fine with a gently used instrument.
- Price match policies – Take advantage of price matching if you find the guitar listed lower somewhere else.
- Buy in a bundle – Retailers often create starter bundles with picks, an amp, strings, etc for one low price.
With the right sale or discount, you could potentially get this beginner-friendly guitar for under $100!
How It Compares to Other Major Brands
The First Act Pink Guitar is very competitively priced against other beginner-class electric guitar models from top brands like:
- Squier – Made by Fender, Squier Stratocasters are priced similarly but may have slightly better components. Popular starter option.
- Epiphone – Epiphone Les Paul models offer an alternative shape but may be a bit pricier for comparable quality.
- Ibanez – Entry level Ibanez guitars are crafted for shredding and music such as metal. Not as versatile.
- Yamaha – Comparable Pacifica starter Strat-style guitars from Yamaha will be in the same affordable bracket.
- Jay Turser – Jay Turser guitars are found at extremely low prices but quality can be hit or miss.
While these bigger brands do offer very solid beginner models, the First Act Pink Guitar competes very favorably on features, quality, and playability for newbies.
Manufacturer Warranty Protects Against Defects
The First Act Pink Electric Guitar is backed by the following manufacturer warranty:
- 90 day manufacturer’s warranty – The guitar is covered against defects in materials and workmanship for the first 90 days.
- Does not cover user damage – Damage caused by improper use, mods, or accidents is not covered.
- Return to retailer or First Act – To make a warranty claim, the guitar must be sent back to the original seller or directly to First Act.
- May receive free repair or replacement – If found defective, First Act will repair the guitar or send a replacement free of charge.
- Secondhand sales still valid – The 90 day warranty applies even if buying used from an authorized reseller.
While a fairly standard short warranty for this class of instrument, it does give you peace of mind while you evaluate the guitar as a new player.
Finding Replacement Parts for DIY Repairs
Over its lifetime, you may need to replace certain parts on a First Act Pink Guitar, whether due to wear and tear or accidental damage. Here are some tips for finding compatible replacement components:
- Tuning keys – Generic chrome sealed tuners with a compatible shaft size can easily swap out to keep the guitar holding tune.
- Nut – Purchasing a blank nut and shaping/cutting to the correct specifications allows upgrading the nut material.
- Bridge – A compatible vintage-style tremolo bridge can be found as a drop-in replacement part.
- Knobs and switch tip – Generic plastic control knobs and switch tips serve as inexpensive replacements.
- Pickguard – A new plastic pickguard matching the shape installs easily for a fresh look.
- Electronics – Aftermarket pickups, pots, caps, and other wiring can enhance tone and sounds.
- Hardware – Strap buttons, jack plate, and other misc. hardware pieces are simple fixes.
With a bit of research and basic DIY skills, you can source parts to keep your First Act guitar rocking.
Restringing and Intonating for Best Playability
As strings age and wear out through regular playing, you’ll need to restring and intonate your First Act Guitar for optimum playability:
- Change strings every few months – Replace old strings with fresh strings – Ernie Ball Super Slinky strings are a good starting point.
- Carefully remove old strings – Unwind old strings from the tuning pegs and bridge, removing slowly to avoid bridge damage.
- Install strings one at a time – Thread each new string through the hole and bridge, pulling tight and locking in place at the tuning pegs.
- Tune strings to pitch – Use the electronic tuner and tuning knobs to tune each string precisely to pitch. Stretch and re-tune strings.
- Set intonation – Adjust the bridge saddles as needed so notes fretted at the 12th fret match the 12th fret harmonic.
- Check neck relief – Sight the neck curve to ensure very slight forward bow for good playability. Adjust truss rod if needed.
Take the time to properly restring and intonate periodically and the guitar will play much easier.
Built to Withstand Regular Use and Practice Sessions
While designed for beginners, the First Act Pink Guitar is constructed of durable materials to hold up well through consistent practice and play:
- Quality hardware – The chrome hardware is rust-resistant and the bridge/tuners withstand tension.
- Solid woods – Hard maple neck and pine body stand up over time, unlike cheaper plywood.
- Polyurethane finish – Thick polyurethane paint coat resists chipping and protects the tonewoods.
- Reinforced neck joint – Bolt-on neck joint ensures the neck stays stable and attached to the body.
- Plek’d frets – Fret ends are precision cut for smooth feel and to prevent sharp edges from poking out.
- Shielded electronics – The pickups and controls are shielded to prevent unwanted noise.
- Gig bag for protection – The included gig bag shields the guitar during transport and storage.
While any guitar needs care, the construction allows this model to take normal wear for the price.
Available Case Options for Safe Travel
The included gig bag offers basic protection, but you may want to invest in a hardshell case for maximum security:
- Standard guitar case – A padded rectangular case designed for Strat-style guitars fits the First Act model nicely. Most affordable option.
- Deluxe molded case – For even more protection, go with a molded case with custom cutouts for the guitar’s unique shape.
- Hard flight case – A road case with plush lining and hard outer plastic shell prevents any damage for frequent fliers.
- Used cases – Check online classifieds and resale shops for quality used guitar cases to save money.
- Waterproof case – If wanting to play outdoors or in inclement weather, look for a watertight guitar case.
- Case humidifier – In dry climates, use a humidifier in the case to prevent the wood from drying out.
Investing in a hard case ensures your guitar stays protected so you can focus on playing!
Helpful Resources for Learning to Play
Starting on your guitar playing journey? Take advantage of these helpful resources to progress quickly:
- Guitar lesson DVD – The included instructional DVD covers the basics to get started.
- YouTube tutorials – Find step-by-step lesson videos on YouTube showing beginner techniques and songs.
- Private lessons – Consider booking lessons with a guitar teacher to receive personalized instruction.
- Chord diagrams – Look up chord charts online to quickly learn new chords. Use these as references while practicing changes.
- Play along songs – Playing along with simple songs you like helps improve timing and technique.
- Music theory – Learn fundamentals like scales, notes, and intervals to expand your understanding of guitar.
- Guitar tab books – Purchase guitar tablature songbooks matching your ability level for structured practice.
With quality instruction matched to your skill level, you’ll be mastering chords and playing songs in no time!
Extra Help for Younger Beginners
For grade school-aged kids just starting out, parents can provide extra guidance and resources:
- Assist with holding the guitar – Help your child get the guitar positioned correctly until they build coordination.
- Set up professional lessons – Enroll your child in lessons with an instructor experienced teaching kids for structured learning.
- Make learning fun – Incorporate games, songs from TV shows, guitar coloring books and use rewards to keep practice motivating.
- Be patient – Understand that progress may be slower with developing fine motor skills. Keep practice sessions shorter to start.
- Buy a 3/4 size guitar – If struggling with full size, try a smaller 3/4 scale guitar tailored for kids. The First Act also comes in a 3/4 size.
- Use a music stand – Allow your child to practice sitting with a music stand to make reading chords and lyrics easier.
With patience and an engaging approach, the First Act Guitar is the perfect tool for fostering a lifelong love of music in your child.
Compatible with All Standard Guitar Amps
A great companion to the First Act Pink Guitar is a beginner guitar amplifier – small practice amps help new players hear their playing more clearly:
- Beginner amps under $100 – Great starter amps like the Fender Frontman 10G provide decent tones at an affordable price point.
- Solid state amps – Durable solid state amps offer simplicity of use for novices. Easier than tube amps requiring maintenance.
- Low watt amps – A smaller 10-15 watt guitar amp prevents overwhelming volume levels as a beginner.
- Amp with multiple channels – Look for different channels like clean and distortion to produce different types of guitar tones.
- Headphone jack – Playing through headphones lets you enjoy playing guitar without disturbing others.
- Aux input – Aux input allows playing along with music on a phone, tablet, etc.
Learning proper amp settings provides a big motivation boost from hearing your guitar playing sound even better.
Start Your Guitar Journey in Style with the First Act Pink Electric Guitar
With its cool pink rocker aesthetic your beginner guitarist will love and its quality construction ensuring good playability right from the start, the First Act Pink Electric Guitar is ready to launch any aspiring player on a lifelong passion for guitar.
Its versatile sound, comfortable feel, and budget-friendly price make this a perfect choice as your first electric guitar. The included instructional tools like the DVD, chord booklet, and free online lessons help speed your learning curve. And the durable build withstands regular use – you’ll keep rocking out on this ax for years!
Let your creativity shine and inspire a next generation picker by bringing home the First Act Pink Electric Guitar today. With the tips in this in-depth buying guide, you can be confident you’re making the best choice. Now grab your pick and get ready to make some music!