I don't think a new guitar sounds any better than a used guitar. If you can get a good deal on a guitar that is in good condition and sounds good to your ear, purchase it - those are the most important criteria initially. A guitar was purchased for me as a first guitar, and it sounded dull and annoying. I used it to learn on, but improved rapidly when I purchased a used guitar that sounded more pleasing to my ear.
You should also see if you CAN play it. I don't mean proficiency, but if there are any physical limitations to your playing that particular guitar. For instance, I have small hands, so many twelve strings are difficult for me to play.
Have a good time, and be patient with yourself!
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Buy a used one. That will be less of an investment in case you decide you don't want to keep up with the hobby, or in case you love the hobby and want to upgrade later to a better guitar. A used guitar can often be sold later for the same price as you paid for it, whereas a new guitar will have to be sold for less than you paid because it will then be used.
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The answer is Yes.
The main rule of thumb is Ease of Play, fun to hold, sweet of sound.
New Guitar solves many problems, but must become "broken-in" before you will realize its true abilities. This may take a year depending on how much you will play might take a few months, but it will have to happen. You will bond with that guitar and that is a good thing. Like the Marine Oath: This is My Guitar. There are others like it but This One Is Mine.
An older guitar will have been broken-in. Used guitars have many many positives to offer. The lighter the older. Check the Neck for warpage, frets for wear... but again: Ease of Playability First Foremost (Even if you don't know how to play).
I have been playing nearly 30 years and have never bought a Brand New Guitar. Got an Almost New one once, but all the others were Used, some were gifts. I tend to shop around and around and like a puppy just pick one up and play it and go "This is The One". Do Not Buy Guitar Without Touching First! Screw That. At least hold the guitar first.
If you decide to get a New Guitar then pony up and Buy American. Martin, Gibson, Tacoma (there are many) Your grandchildren will be playing that guitar to their newborns. They are worth the money.
But if you are just learning, just get a cheap 150 dollar job but make sure It Plays Easily.
Now if you want to get an electric guitar? Whoa! Whole nuther strange angel.
Editilla
Source(s):
30 years dedicated guitar performance/composition work.

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Definitely concentrate on how comfortable the guitar feels to play/hold and how good it sounds to you over whether it's used/new. You'll find guitars that feel and sound great of the used and new variety. Since you're just starting out I probably wouldn't buy a $3,000 Taylor Acoustic unless you have the money to spend. You should be able to find something at a used music shop and/or the classifieds for around $150-200 that you'll continue playing well past learning "Free Bird" :)

Ask around as you'll probably find a friend/relative that has a decent beginner guitar laying around that is simply not being used. Most of the time they'll be happy to let you use it while you learn or maybe even keep it for good free of charge.

Good luck!
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