Ashthorpe Full-Size Thinline Cutaway Acoustic vs MUSTAR Electric Guitar Kit with 25W Amplifier,

Overview of the Ashthorpe and MUSTAR Guitars

The Ashthorpe Full-Size Thinline Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar Package is priced at $163.99, while the MUSTAR Electric Guitar Kit is available for $165.99. This means the Ashthorpe option is about 1% cheaper than the MUSTAR. Both guitars come with amplifiers and various accessories, making them suitable for beginners and intermediate players alike. The Ashthorpe has a sales rank of 14,844, while the MUSTAR is slightly better at 10,983, indicating its popularity among buyers.

Build Quality and Materials

The Ashthorpe guitar features a fine hardwood construction, made from A-grade Spruce and Basswood. This combination is known for its tonal integrity and resilience, which is essential for producing quality sound. On the other hand, the MUSTAR guitar boasts a solid body made from FSC-Certified wood, complemented by a premium rosewood fingerboard and a Canadian maple neck. This design is aimed at providing a fantastic feel and smooth tone. While both guitars are built with quality materials, the Ashthorpe’s hardwood construction might offer a more traditional acoustic feel, whereas the MUSTAR’s solid body is designed for a more electric sound experience.

Amplifier Features

The Ashthorpe package includes a 10 Watt amplifier, which can peak at 20 watts, offering a decent sound amplification for practice. It features a built-in 5" speaker and a 2-band EQ for controlling bass and treble. In contrast, the MUSTAR comes with a more powerful 25-watt amplifier, which includes additional features like a headphone jack and auxiliary input for connecting to other devices. This amplifier allows for greater versatility, especially for those who wish to practice without disturbing others. The MUSTAR's amplifier has built-in controls for Gain, Bass, Middle, Treble, and Volume, providing a more comprehensive sound customization experience.

Design and Aesthetics

The Ashthorpe guitar showcases a thinline cutaway design, which is not only visually appealing but also enhances playability by allowing easier access to the upper frets. It has a sunburst finish that adds to its aesthetic charm. Conversely, the MUSTAR guitar features an attractive shiny green color with a unique ripple pattern, making it stand out visually, especially for younger players or those looking for a vibrant instrument. Both guitars have their own appeal, but the choice may come down to personal preference regarding color and design style.

Accessories Included

When it comes to the included accessories, both guitars come with a comprehensive set that aims to get you started right away. The Ashthorpe package includes a soft nylon gig bag, guitar picks in various thicknesses, a guitar cable, a shoulder strap, an extra set of strings, and an owner’s manual. In comparison, the MUSTAR kit is all-inclusive, featuring a gig bag, electronic tuner, capo, strap, cable, picks, extra strings, wrenches, and even a cleaning cloth. The MUSTAR’s additional accessories make it more of a complete beginner kit, which may appeal to those just starting their musical journey.

Target Audience

The Ashthorpe guitar is designed for both budding musicians and more advanced players, providing features that cater to a variety of playing styles. Its thinline design and quality materials make it suitable for a range of genres. The MUSTAR guitar, with its solid body and additional accessories, is particularly aimed at beginners and younger players looking for a fun introduction to electric guitar. The versatility of the MUSTAR may make it more appealing for those who want to explore electric guitar styles, while the Ashthorpe might attract those who appreciate acoustic elements.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of both guitars is noteworthy, given their price points. The Ashthorpe’s combination of A-grade Spruce and Basswood allows for a well-rounded sound profile, whether you are strumming or flatpicking. The built-in 4-band pickup EQ further enhances its versatility, allowing players to adjust their tone according to their preferences. In contrast, the MUSTAR guitar, with its S-S-S pickups, promises a smooth tone and an appealing sound for a range of musical styles. The 25-watt amplifier also adds depth to the sound, making it suitable for practice and casual performances.

Which should you buy?

Deciding between the Ashthorpe Full-Size Thinline Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar Package and the MUSTAR Electric Guitar Kit ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for a traditional acoustic feel with quality materials and a slightly lower price point, the Ashthorpe may be the better option. However, if you want a more powerful amplifier, a complete beginner kit, and a guitar that stands out visually, the MUSTAR is worth the extra investment. Both guitars have their strengths, making either a solid choice for anyone looking to start their musical journey.