Newbie question

[Fishedz]

Hey, I'm looking to buy a new accoustic. I never played before but I'd like to get into it. I've been playing drums for 15 years but since I moved into my Apt. I can't play them and now looking for other means for a musical outlet . The price range I'm looking at is $100-$150. I'd like something that keeps a good sound and is not a piece of crap I've found on here that Yamaha's, Fender's and Epiphones make some good starter guitars but I'm open for more suggestions.

 

Also, can someone suggest what gauge strings would go good for a newb.

[UGB]

Commit to the $150 range and you'll be happier.

I guess your string question is regarding finger soreness? The short answer is they'll be sore no matter what gauge you use, but the thinner the string the less pressure needed to fret it. However, the thinner the string the less volume and tonal dynamics come from it. Some choose to go w/Silk and Steel strings as they can be lighter in gauge and are a tad more supple and tune w/a tad less tension. They are quiet and kind of 'folksy' mellow in tone. IF you plan on using such strings, you should make sure your guitar is set up for them as they will not be standard issue on an off-the-shelf guitar.

For $150 you're moving into the lower end of the solid top market. Two guitars I like in this range are the Cort Earth 72 and the Washburn F-10S, although it'd have to have a finish flaw to be new and in that range. A used Washburn w/a solid top can be had in that price range easy.

[PapaTom1]

The ones you named are good at your price range. Epiphone has a guitar (forget the model name) for $129 that's not bad. If you want to extend your price range another $50 you can pick up an Alvarez RD20S (solid top) or a Washburn, plus the better Yamaha models. There are also used models to consider, as sometimes there are good deals to be had on used models, like Seagulls and Art & lutheries.
Keep in mind that you generally get what you pay for. A $150 guitar likely won't be as good as a $300 guitar, which will likely not be as good as a $600.
See what suggestions that others may have.
For strings it might be good to start with .011's (extra light) until you develop calluses on your fingers.

[Fishedz]

Thanks for the imput fellas. I was out today and came across an Ariana accoustic for $79 it had a little ding in the back so I managed to talk the guy down and got it for $69 bought it on a whim. it feels good in the hands and sounds good to (at least for now). I grabbed a pack of elixrs 10 gauge for them too.

[UGB]

As long as you're happy, that's the most important thing.