Detail 01
Encyclopedia, not a method book
Organized for lookup by chord name and root, so there's no lesson sequence to follow.
Product detailSKU #1288217329576
AlfredGuitar Chord Encyclopedia
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
A print chord reference for guitarists — look up a shape, play it. Best for players who read chord names faster than they recall fingerings.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Learning songs that call for chords you don't know yet
- Keeping on a music stand as a bench reference
- Songwriters hunting for a voicing they can't name
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Players wanting lessons — this teaches lookup, not technique
- Anyone who prefers a phone app with audio playback
- Readers of standard notation looking for repertoire
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Guitar-specific
Shapes are fretboard diagrams for six-string guitar; they don't transfer to keyboard or ukulele.
Detail 03
$29.99
Priced above a pocket chord chart, which buys breadth of chord types rather than a starter selection.
Detail 04
Print book
Stays open on a stand and needs no battery or screen, but gives no sound to check yourself against.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01A book only — no strings, picks, stand or online access included
- 02You need to already read basic chord diagrams to use it
- 03Reference depth means most chords in it you'll never play
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01Does this teach you how to play guitar?
No. It's a lookup reference for chord shapes. You'll want a separate method book or lessons for technique, rhythm and how to change between chords.
02Do I need to read music for this?
No. You need to read fretboard chord diagrams, which show which fingers go on which frets. That's a different and much simpler skill than standard notation.
03Is it good for a beginner?
It works as a companion once you know a handful of open chords. As a first purchase alone it gives you shapes with no guidance on using them.
04Is this for acoustic or electric?
Both. Chord shapes are identical on any standard-tuned six-string, so the book applies to acoustic, electric and classical guitar alike.
Reference
Full specifications
The complete catalog record, organized around the decisions musicians make when comparing gear.
1 detailsBody & build
- Color
- Red
