Guitar packages are a great value for someone just starting out on guitar. Beginner guitar players need a few basic tools and it's nice not having to shop around.
It goes without saying that the most important part of the guitar package is the guitar itself. Just about all of these guitars are sold separately. Usually they are the “bargain” model but that doesn’t mean they're poor quality. The big guitar manufactures have a reputation to maintain. They don't want to sell you junk and risk their reputation.
Mass produced guitars being built today are for the most part are pretty good quality. The whole process with lasers pinpointing the exact spot to attach, drill and glue has made for constantly good guitars. Machines eliminate a great deal of human error. Of course the human element does play a part. Occasionally you read a review about the poor quality of an instrument but that seems to be the exception. Quality control is an issue that all companies address in their own way.
The reason most guitar packages cost about the same is the cost of building the guitar. Simple things that add cost but little to the sound quality are the binding and inlay on the fretboard.
The more important features to look at are solid wood as opposed to laminated top the type of woods used in the over all construction of the guitar. The machines or tuners also play a part but as long as they keep the guitar tuned I'm not too concerned.
If you're buying an electric guitar package the amp is a totally different issue. You can look for special features like a reverb setting but the basic settings of treble, bass and overdrive are the most common.
The speakers are usually small, between 6 to 8 inches and a 10 watt or so drive. Try to find something with a headphone jack so you can practice without disturbing the neighbors.
The other items in these packages are all a matter of personal taste.
Extra set of strings guitar strap, picks, tuner, guitar stand, gig bag and instructional book or DVD are pretty standard.
I personally can't imagine not having a guitar strap. The strap has a few advantages for me. I have a bad back and while I can't stand for long periods of time my vertebrate tend to compress and it can get very uncomfortable. The other advantage is singing. When I stand I'm a little more elongated. Seems I have more room in my lungs and I can sing better.
All in all guitar packages are a good value to the beginner guitar player and a great way to get you started.
