Guitar Learning Software

Mar 15, 2011

Learning to play the guitar is difficult. It takes time effort and instruction – and the instruction part can be quite expensive. Learning to play the guitar using software is much cheaper, it allows you to progress at your own pace and in your own home.

We looked at a number of software programs and we reviewed the top three below. The top three all had the following features: video lessons, a chord dictionary and a computerized guitar tuner. From all of them you can learn to read tablature, use cords and hand positions. Their practice tools all included a metronome, animated fretboard and record playback functions.

They also all had a manual and supported users by phone and email.

eMedia Guitar Method 4

(Vista, XP, Mac, 95, 98, NT, ME)

Score Ease of Use 20/20
8.9
Feature Set 18/20
Help/Support 20/20
Practice Tools 14/20
   
Our number one pick had the greatest number of lessons(165) as well as covering 70 songs.

Features unique to Guitar Method:

  • Support for left handed players
  • Teaches how to string a guitar
  • Teaches rhythm

Teach Yourself to Play Guitar

(XP, Mac, 95, 98, NT, ME)

Score Ease of Use 18/20
7.8
Feature Set 14/20
Help/Support 20/20
Practice Tools 14/20


This option is slightly cheaper than the other two. It has 100 lessons and 50 songs.

Features unique to Teach Yourself:

  • Interactive learning game
  • Guitar care
  • Teaches scales

Guitar Coach Deluxe

(Vista, XP, 98, NT, ME)

Score Ease of Use 18/20
7.3
Feature Set 16/20
Help/Support 16/20
Practice Tools 14/20
   
This one had 76 lessons and more than 100 songs.

Features unique to Guitar Coach:

  • Accompaniment
  • Printouts


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