Is it Right to Start with a Gibson Flying V?

Starting your guitar journey with a Gibson Flying V can certainly be exhilarating due to its iconic design and high-quality sound. However, as with any choice, there are important factors to consider. While the Flying V offers unique benefits, it also presents challenges that might not be ideal for beginners. This article explores the pros and cons of starting with a Flying V and provides recommendations for those beginning their guitar journey.

Pros of Starting with a Gibson Flying V

Unique Design: The Gibson Flying V's distinctive appearance is one of its most appealing features. Its sharply angled body and innovative design make it stand out from traditional guitars, which can be inspiring for many players on the quest for their dream instrument.

Comfort and Ergonomics: For players who prefer standing or strumming while sitting with their legs hooked under the guitar, the Flying V can be comfortably supported. The body's natural angles can also make it a breeze to play standing up, as the instrument's shape creates a natural balance. However, these advantages depend on the player's posture and technique.

Sound Quality: Gibson guitars are renowned for their high-quality sound. This can be tremendously motivating for beginners, helping them to capture the essence of professional performances and encouraging them to practice more.

Cons of Starting with a Gibson Flying V

Weight and Balance: The Flying V can be significantly heavier and less balanced than traditional beginner-friendly guitars. This added weight can make it more difficult to handle for new players, particularly those who are not yet accustomed to the physical demands of guitar playing.

Playability: The sharp edges of the Flying V can make it less ergonomic for beginners. Players unfamiliar with this design might find it uncomfortable to play, especially compared to more traditional shapes like Stratocasters or Les Pauls. The body's unique angle can sometimes interfere with the fretting hand's ability to move freely, potentially hindering technique and posture.

Cost: Gibson Flying V guitars are generally more expensive than entry-level models. While this high-end look and quality are appealing, it might not be the best investment for someone just starting out, who might prefer a more affordable and versatile option to begin their journey.

Recommendations for Beginning Guitarists

If you're absolutely in love with the Look and Feel of the Gibson Flying V and are committed to learning, by all means, go for it! However, if you're still uncertain about your long-term commitment to playing or you prioritize comfort and affordability, you might want to consider a more traditional guitar shape, such as a stratocaster or a Les Paul. Ultimately, the best guitar for you is one that you feel comfortable playing and inspires you to practice regularly.

Those who want to minimize the physical strain on their arms and hands, maximize their energy for learning, and ensure a comfortable playing experience might find a more traditional guitar shape more appealing. Additionally, choosing a well-designed, affordable guitar can provide the same sense of satisfaction and support as a more expensive model, even if it's not an iconic shape.

Why the Gibson Flying V Might Not Be Ideal for Beginners

It's important to note that while any decent guitar is good enough for beginners to learn on, the Flying V and similar V-bodies might cause some ergonomic challenges. It’s not the best guitar in terms of ergonomics for a few reasons.

Sitting vs. Standing: The Gibson Flying V's shape makes it challenging to play sitting down. While some players might try to support the guitar's body by hooking it onto their leg, this technique is not ideal for learning. Your fretting hand should be focused on learning the fretboard and technique, not on keeping the guitar upright. If you're in the learning phase, it's crucial for your fretting hand to remain relaxed and free from the stress of supporting the guitar.

Standing Play: You can indeed learn to play the Flying V standing up, but it can be more tiring. Maintaining a relaxed and energized playing posture is essential. In the initial stages of learning, you should focus on conserving your energy so that you can focus on your technique and muscle memory. It's more effective to choose a guitar that allows you to practice without excessive physical strain.

Interference and Comfort: Depending on how high you strap the guitar and the angle you use, the guitar's wings might interfere with your picking forearm, causing discomfort. This can impede your technique and hinder your ability to play comfortably.

Conclusion

While the Flying V is an amazing guitar, it may not be the best choice for beginners due to its potential ergonomic challenges. It's essential to consider your comfort, energy levels, and long-term commitment before making a purchase. By choosing a guitar that aligns with your learning goals and ensures a positive learning experience, you can make the most of your guitar journey and enjoy a lifelong passion for music.