What is your favorite music? Rock? Folk music? Jazz? The Classics? Rap? Music is universal; loved by virtually everyone, although many are unaware of the ways in which these diverse styles are similar. Are you aware, for instance, that almost all of the musical types mentioned above can be played with an electro acoustic guitar?

The guitar is very versatile, and the existence of the electro acoustic guitar proves that. This instrument can be used to play a variety of song styles - everything from soothing meditations or lullabies to invigorating rock and roll anthems. You can use the instrument's acoustic capabilities to complement any low-key musical composition, or if you're looking for something more attention-grabbing, you can use it as electric.

The main difference between acoustic guitars and electric guitars is that the former can be played without an amplifier or cables. Thus, the acoustic has been traditionally used in genres that call for a quieter, more soothing sound. It is sometimes played with a guitar pick, or sometimes strummed with the fingertips. Either way, its tones are mellow and calming.

The electric requires an amplifier and cable to connect it to the guitar. It is almost always played with a pick. The electric can arguably be used to create a greater range of sound styles than the acoustic, because it has one important advantage: it can be used with an effects pedal.

The pedal is placed between the instrument and the amp. When pumped during a performance, it alters the tones from the instrument. One of these alterations involves overlaying the signal with a copy of itself a fraction of a second later. This pedal effect, sometimes referred to as "distortion" can be found on many popular recordings these days.

The electro acoustic guitar combines aspects of both acoustic and electric guitars into one versatile package. This guitar may look like a traditional acoustic, but it also has a pick-up which allows the guitar to be plugged into an amplifier. An electro acoustic guitar offers the different effects and volume options of an electric guitar, while retaining the more mellow tone of an acoustic. This type of guitar is a particularly good option for a guitarist who is looking to bridge genres.