You’re likely referring to the “Ultimate Guitar Kit” — a product name used by several brands, most notably eMedia and Best Choice Products , for beginner all-in-one guitar packages. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically included and how to choose the right one. Typical Contents of an “Ultimate Guitar Kit” Most kits labeled “ultimate” aim to give you everything needed to start playing except a tuner (sometimes included) and picks (usually included). Common items:
Guitar – Usually a full-size (40–41”) acoustic dreadnought or a cutaway acoustic-electric, sometimes a starter electric (Strat-style). Gig bag – Padded nylon bag for transport. Spare strings – One extra set of light-gauge strings. Picks – 3–6 celluloid picks of various thicknesses. Strap – Basic nylon guitar strap. Digital lessons – DVD or online access code (e.g., eMedia’s interactive software). Digital tuner – Clip-on chromatic tuner (in higher-end kits). Capo – Sometimes included. String winder – Occasionally included.
Two Most Common “Ultimate Guitar Kit” Options | Feature | eMedia Ultimate Guitar Kit | Best Choice Products Kit | |--------|-------------------------------|------------------------------| | Guitar type | Full-size acoustic (steel string) | 40” cutaway acoustic-electric | | Build | Laminated spruce top, basswood back/sides | Linden wood (often with sunburst finish) | | Lessons | eMedia interactive software (Windows/Mac) – very good for beginners | DVD lessons (basic) | | Tuner | Clip-on digital tuner included | Usually no tuner | | Price range | $150–$200 | $80–$120 | | Quality | Decent starter guitar, good lessons | Cheaper, fine for very young kids or tentative beginners | What You Should Know Before Buying
Setup is critical – Most kit guitars come from the factory with high action (strings too high off the fretboard). Plan to spend $40–$60 on a professional setup at a local guitar shop, or learn to adjust the truss rod and sand the saddle yourself. ultimate guitar kit
The included accessories are low-end – The gig bag offers minimal protection, the strap is thin, and the picks are often slick/cheap. Upgrade picks immediately (Dunlop Tortex .60mm or .73mm).
The tuner (if included) works – Clip-on tuners in these kits are usually fine for home use.
Better value option – For the same total cost ($150–200), you can often buy a better used guitar (Yamaha F310, Jasmine S35) plus separate accessories, skipping the kit. But for convenience or a gift, the eMedia kit is a reasonable choice. You’re likely referring to the “Ultimate Guitar Kit”
Recommendation
For an adult or teen beginner – Get the eMedia Ultimate Guitar Kit for the decent acoustic and excellent software lessons. Then pay for a setup. For a child under 10 – Look for a ¾-size guitar kit (e.g., Jasmine S34C NEX Kit ) instead. To avoid disappointment – Skip the cheapest “ultimate” kits under $100. The guitar will likely be painful to play.
If you meant a different “ultimate guitar kit” (e.g., a specific electric guitar package or a repair tool kit), let me know and I’ll narrow the answer further. Common items: Guitar – Usually a full-size (40–41”)
This report is designed to be a definitive guide for consumers, retailers, or product developers looking to understand what constitutes a "complete" guitar package in the current market.
PRODUCT REPORT: The Ultimate Guitar Kit Date: October 26, 2023 Subject: Definition, Components, and Market Analysis of the "Ultimate" Guitar Kit Target Audience: Hobbyists, Beginner Musicians, Retail Buyers