Ashthorpe Full-Size Thinline Cutaway Acoustic vs BexGears DIY Electric Guitar Kits for TL style

Overview of Ashthorpe and BexGears

The Ashthorpe Full-Size Thinline Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar Package is priced at $163.99, while the BexGears DIY Electric Guitar Kit is available for $89.99. This makes the BexGears kit about 45% cheaper than the Ashthorpe package. While both products cater to guitar enthusiasts, they serve different purposes and offer distinct features that appeal to various skill levels and preferences.

Target Audience

The Ashthorpe is designed for both beginners and intermediate players who want a complete guitar package that includes essential accessories. Its sales rank of 14,844 indicates a solid market presence, suggesting it is well-received among players looking for an all-in-one solution. In contrast, the BexGears kit is targeted at DIY enthusiasts and those interested in building their own instruments. With a sales rank of 17,568, it appeals to a niche segment that enjoys customizing their guitars from scratch.

Features and Accessories

The Ashthorpe package includes a wide range of accessories, such as a 10 Watt amplifier, a soft nylon gig bag, picks, a guitar cable, and an extra set of strings. This comprehensive offering enhances its value, especially for beginners who may lack additional gear. On the other hand, the BexGears DIY kit comes with all necessary parts to build a complete guitar, including pre-drilled holes, strings, and an electric cord. While it lacks the added accessories of the Ashthorpe package, it provides a unique experience for those keen on crafting their own instrument.

Build Quality and Materials

The Ashthorpe features a thinline cutaway design made from X-braced A-grade Spruce and Basswood, ensuring both responsiveness and tonal integrity. This high-quality construction is ideal for players who value sound quality. Conversely, the BexGears kit uses okoume wood for the body and a maple neck with a composite ebony fingerboard. While it may not offer the same premium materials as the Ashthorpe, the BexGears kit allows for customization and personalization during the building process, catering to a different set of priorities.

Amplification and Sound

The Ashthorpe package includes a 10 Watt practice amplifier, which can peak at 20 watts, providing ample sound for home practice and warmups. The built-in 5-inch speaker and 2-band EQ for bass and treble offer control over sound quality. In contrast, the BexGears kit does not come with an amplifier, which means users will need to invest in separate equipment for sound amplification. This is a crucial consideration for those who want a plug-and-play experience versus those willing to invest time in building and customizing their guitar.

Ease of Use

For beginners, the Ashthorpe package offers an ease of use that is hard to beat. With everything included, new players can start learning immediately without additional purchases. The BexGears kit, while engaging, requires time and effort to assemble, which may not appeal to everyone, especially those looking to play quickly. Thus, the Ashthorpe is the more convenient option for immediate play, while the BexGears kit is suited for those who enjoy a hands-on approach.

Price Comparison

At $163.99, the Ashthorpe package is a more significant investment than the BexGears kit at $89.99. This price difference of about $74 showcases the additional features and accessories provided with the Ashthorpe. However, for those on a tighter budget or looking for a DIY project, the BexGears kit presents a more economical choice. Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether you value a complete package or prefer the experience of building your own guitar.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Ashthorpe Full-Size Thinline Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar Package and the BexGears DIY Electric Guitar Kit ultimately depends on your preferences and experience level. If you are a beginner seeking a complete guitar package that includes an amplifier and accessories, the Ashthorpe is the clear choice. However, if you enjoy DIY projects and want to customize your instrument, the BexGears kit offers a more affordable option. Consider your priorities—immediate playability versus the joy of building—and select the product that best suits your musical journey.