http://tinypic.com/nqbbk0.jpg Tater, this is one of my favorite spots in the house now to answer your question...Cheap is not always good.....I have given lessons also and know that if he can't get the proper sound and has a cheap guitar that won't hold a tune, he will not be interested and dad will have to spend more $$ in the future for a better item... Now I have owned a few diffenent ones but for me and the price I now use a New York Pro electric and acustic. I took it in for some work but was included from the music store free... Go to your local music store and they should let him play any they have in the store and help him find one that fits him and your pocket......another thing for sure to get him is an electronic tuner. Even if it is tuned string by string, it has to be in the right key or he wont get proper sound...If you get him an acustic only now....he will probably "need" an electric one in the future...so kill 2 birds with one shot here with this one....I know there are better brands out there but so far, for the money, this one covers everything I need....New York Pro....I think they sell some cheap ones by that brand but if ya find one about like the one pictured, you both will be happy for the money....
lessons...by all means and I see wahnie is more than happy to lend a hand there...good luck....