Guitar Shopping Guide

So it’s time for a new guitar, but you don’t know where to start. Maybe it is your first time buying a guitar and you don’t know what to look for. There are a lot of choices out there, so many that it can be overwhelming. The good thing is that it doesn’t have to be that way.

Choose a store that has a reputation for selling quality brand name instruments. Guitar manufacturers such as Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, Martin, Taylor, and Takamine have developed a reputation for quality throughout the years.

A reputable store should have a knowledgeable sales staff as well as a certified guitar technician. It is imperative that your instrument leaves the store in proper playing condition. You also will need a reliable technician to perform routine adjustments throughout the year. There could also be warranty repairs, so make sure your store is certified to perform the warranty work.

New guitars come with a manufacture’s warranty that covers general defects in parts and construction. This does not however cover problems due to lack of humidity, which would fall under "neglect". Be sure to carefully look the guitar over for any finish cracks that might suggest the instrument has been damaged in any way. The neck should be straight and the strings should be easy to press down, but not so low that they buzz on the frets.

You can save yourself some money by buying used, but buyer beware because there can be many unseen problems. One thing you should remember is, never purchase a used guitar without the advice of a certified technician. As discussed above, a reputable store is a good place to buy used gear. Generally they won’t even think of selling something they won’t stand behind. Odds are that they have already examined the guitar and made any necessary repairs before it even hits the sales floor.

Whether you choose to play electric or acoustic guitar is largely dependent on what style of music you want to play. From an educational standpoint it doesn’t matter if you learn on an acoustic or an electric guitar.

Acoustic guitars are better suited for folk music, country, blues, and any other situation that does not require a great deal of volume. An electric on the other hand is perfect for rock ‘n roll, heavy metal, blues, alternative, or any other loud environment.

Once you have decided on all of the choices listed above, you need to consider the more aesthetic point of view. A guitar should appeal to your senses. It should sound good, feel good, and look good. All these are important because this is an instrument you will develop a relationship with, spending hours upon hours together. You want the guitar to inspire you to play and make the best music you have ever made.

Last but not least, have fun…