first guitar.......

All depends on what sort of music you want to play Clare. Classical guitars have nylon (often called 'gut') strings which sound very mellow, perfect for finger picked notes, not loud but expressive. You can strum a classical but you won't get the bright, sparkling sound of a steel strung acoustic. The strings are easier to press down on a classical and don't need changing as often.

The guitar you are being offered is bigger. Dreadnought is larger than full size, perfect for being heard at a folk pub. It also has a hidden acoustic pickup that allows you to plug one of those little brown acoustic amps in. With this it should sound even sweeter, you can also add effects like 'chorus' to really get a big sound.

Here are some reviews of the basic model although I suspect they are for one without the additional electronics. Sounds like a decent starter instrument.

http://reviews.harmony-central.com/revi … CD-60/10/1

Great guitar for someone starting out: Taylor Big Baby. I bought one for my daughter this Christmas and I do pick it up to play when she's not home... This relatively small guitar has a crystal clear sound + enough low-end for a well-rounded tone. Playability is super easy. Taylors are usually expensive, but this one retails here for $400 (bag included).

Steel strings on a concert guitar will eventually ruin the neck, because these guitars don't have a metal truss-rod in the neck. The tension of the steel strings is just too much for a Spanish/Concert guitar.