Six of the best: beginner's guitar gear

Squier Vintage Modified Cabronita Telecaster

Why buy it? It looks cool, it’s great value – and no matter where you take your guitar- playing career, you’ll always find a use for the unusual Fideli’Tron/ Telecaster tone combination.

We said: “Dangerously tempting – and it’s also a fantastic platform for mods and upgrades.”

Squier Vintage Modified Cabronita Telecaster review

For more information visit the official Fender website.

Vox StompLab IG

Why buy it? It’s an inexpensive, ideal introduction to the world of guitar effects and amp modelling that can be used in rehearsals or for home headphone practice.

We said: “Excellent for just plugging in and having access to a massive range of sounds for practice, and it’s portable with it.”

Vox StompLab IG review

For more information visit the official Vox website.

Line 6 POD HD500X

Why buy it? It may not be cheap, but it’s conceivable that this incredibly versatile effects-and amp-modelling unit could be the only purchase you ever need to make for live and recording use.

We said: “The sound modelling is excellent throughout, with authentic-sounding amps and a huge spread of quality effects.”

Line 6 POD HD500X review

For more information visit the official Line 6 website.

Focusrite iTrack Solo

Why buy it? Sooner or later, you’ll want to plug into your tablet or computer to record. Focusrite has a good reputation, and this interface is built to last.

We said: “Dead easy to use, this could be your ideal choice for recording electric guitar and bass, acoustic and vocals.”

Focusrite iTrack Solo review

For more information visit the official Focusrite website.

Blackstar ID:60TVP

Why buy it? When you’re starting out on guitar, you should experiment with all kinds of styles and tones. The Guitarist Gold award-winning ID:60TVP covers the whole sonic spectrum brilliantly for practice, rehearsal, recording and gigging.

We said: “The wealth of features, astounding tone, quality and price earns our highest accolade.”

For more information visit the official Blackstar website.

Sigma S000M-15

Why buy it? Learning to play acoustic alongside electric will work wonders for your technique and progress, and Sigma’s electros are unbeatable value.

We said: “Classic looks, quality build, excellent playability and evocative sounds both acoustically and plugged in.”

Sigma S000M-15 review

For more information visit the official Sigma website.