Buying a guitar is an exciting experience for musicians of all skill levels. For some, the appeal of owning a new, shiny guitar is irresistible. However, others may find themselves drawn to the idea of buying a used guitar instead. While there are benefits to both options, this post will focus on the question of should I buy a used guitar.

On the one hand, buying a used guitar can often be more affordable than purchasing a brand-new instrument. This is especially true if you’re in the market for a high-end guitar, which can cost thousands of dollars when new. Additionally, some musicians prefer the vintage appeal of older instruments, which can have a unique sound and character that can’t be replicated by modern guitars.

However, there are also drawbacks to buying a used guitar. The condition of the instrument may be a concern, as it’s possible that the previous owner didn’t take good care of it. Additionally, buying used may mean sacrificing the protection of a warranty that comes with a new guitar. Finally, finding a quality used guitar can be a challenge, as it requires knowing what to look for and where to look.

In this post, we’ll explore these pros and cons in more detail, as well as provide tips for buying a used guitar. Whether you’re a beginner on a tight budget or a seasoned musician looking for a unique addition to your collection, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of buying used can help you make an informed decision when purchasing your next guitar.

See our blog post “What guitar should I buy?”

[SEE OUR LIST OF TRUSTED USED GUITARS SELLERS IN THE UK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE]

The Pros of Buying a Used Guitar:

Buying a used guitar can be a wise decision for several reasons. In this section, we’ll explore the pros of buying a used guitar in more detail.

Firstly, the affordability of used guitars is a major advantage. A new guitar can cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds, depending on the make and model. Used guitars, on the other hand, can be found at significantly lower prices, often for the same quality and condition as a new one. For beginners or hobbyists on a budget, buying used can be a smart way to save money while still acquiring a high-quality instrument.

Secondly, used guitars can have a unique vintage appeal. Vintage guitars have a unique sound and character that can’t be replicated by modern instruments. If you’re looking for a guitar with a certain sound or style, buying a used guitar may be the best way to find it. Although vintage, used guitars can very much cost the same (sometimes more) than a newer, less sought-after instrument. 

Finally, buying a used guitar can offer the potential for customization. If you’re interested in modifying or upgrading your guitar, a used instrument can provide an affordable starting point. With the money saved from buying used, you can invest in new pickups, hardware, or other accessories to create a truly customized instrument that suits your playing style and preferences.

In conclusion, buying a used guitar offers several advantages over purchasing a new one. It can be a budget-friendly option, provide a unique vintage appeal, and offer the potential for customization. Whether you’re a beginner, hobbyist, or professional musician, buying a used guitar is worth considering as an alternative to buying new.

The Cons of Buying a Used Guitar:

While buying a used guitar can have its benefits, there are also some cons to consider before making your purchase. In this section, we’ll explore the drawbacks of buying a used guitar in more detail.

Firstly, the condition of a used guitar can be a concern. The previous owner may not have taken good care of the instrument, which can lead to scratches, dents, or other damage. Even if the guitar looks good on the surface, there may be hidden issues that could affect its playability or sound quality. Therefore, it’s important to inspect the guitar thoroughly before making your purchase.

Secondly, buying used may mean sacrificing the protection of a warranty that comes with a new guitar. If something goes wrong with your used guitar shortly after purchase, you may not have any recourse for repairs or replacements. This can be especially problematic if you’re investing in a high-end guitar that requires specialized care.

Finding a quality used guitar can be a challenge. While there are many reputable sources for used guitars, such as music stores, second-hand shops, and online marketplaces, it can be difficult to know what you’re getting. It’s important to research the seller or store and to be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

Where should I buy a used guitar?

When thinking about buying a used guitar, these are some of the top websites that you should look at to see what’s on offer! These are all very reputable and should be considered when looking into if you should buy a used guitar.

• guitarguitar
• Andertons
• GAK
• Rich Tone Music
• Fair Deal Music
• PMT Guitars
• Peach Guitars

[See why we trust these second-hand sellers here]

In conclusion, buying a used guitar comes with some cons that you should consider before making your purchase. These include the potential for wear and tear or damage, the lack of warranty protection, and the difficulty of finding a quality instrument. However, with careful research and inspection, you can minimize these risks and find a used guitar that meets your needs and budget.

Tips When You Buy a Used Guitar

If you’ve decided to buy a used guitar, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure you get a high-quality instrument that meets your needs. 

Firstly, research the seller or store where you plan to buy the guitar. Look for reviews, ratings, and customer feedback to get an idea of their reputation and customer service. If possible, visit the store in person to inspect the guitar before making your purchase.

Secondly, inspect the guitar carefully before buying it. Check for any scratches, dents, or other damage that could affect its playability or sound quality. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as worn frets or loose hardware. If you’re not confident in your ability to assess the guitar’s condition, bring a friend or a professional to help you.

Thirdly, test the guitar’s sound quality and playability. Bring your own amp and cables if possible, or use the store’s equipment to test the guitar’s sound. Play different styles of music to get a sense of the guitar’s versatility and tonal range. Check the guitar’s action (the distance between the strings and fretboard) and intonation (how well the guitar stays in tune).

Okay, Now It’s Time to buy a Used Guitar

Finally, negotiate the price if possible. Used guitars are often priced higher than they should be, so don’t be afraid to haggle with the seller. If you’ve done your research and found similar guitars at lower prices, use that as leverage to get a better deal.

Make sure you have played that guitar before buying it! Go to your nearest music shop to see if they have it in, also watch YouTube reviews and demos to see if you like the tone of that guitar!

In conclusion, buying a used guitar can be a great way to save money and acquire a unique instrument. However, it’s important to take some precautions to ensure you get a high-quality guitar that meets your needs. By researching the seller or store, inspecting the guitar carefully, testing its sound quality and playability, and negotiating the price, you can find a used guitar that you’ll love playing for years to come.

View our competitions page to see what guitars you could win for a fraction of the price!

How do I decide what guitar I should buy?

Whether you’re an experienced musician or just starting to learn, choosing the right guitar is a crucial decision and we are very often left with the question “What guitar should I buy?” With so many different types and models of guitars available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. However, with the right information and guidance, you can make an informed decision and find a guitar that will help you achieve your musical goals. In this blog, we’ll share 10 tips to help you choose the perfect guitar for your style, whether you’re a blues guitarist, a rock player, or a fingerstyle aficionado. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for when buying a guitar and feel confident in your decision-making process.

1. Determine Your Playing Style.

The first step to finding the perfect guitar is to determine your playing style. Are you interested in playing rock, blues, jazz, or classical music? Each genre requires a specific type of guitar that produces the desired sound. For example, a classical guitar has nylon strings that produce a warm, mellow sound, while an electric guitar produces a more aggressive, distorted tone.

2. Consider Your Skill Level.

Your skill level is another critical factor to consider when buying a guitar. If you’re a beginner, you might want to start with an acoustic guitar, which is easier to play than an electric guitar. Acoustic guitars have thicker strings and a wider neck, which makes it easier to hold down the strings and produce clear notes. On the other hand, if you’re an advanced player, an electric guitar might be a better fit as it offers more versatility and allows you to experiment with different effects and sounds.

3. Set a Budget.

Guitars come in various price ranges, from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s essential to set a budget before starting your search for the perfect guitar. A high-end guitar might offer superior sound quality and durability, but it might not be necessary for a beginner or an intermediate player. On the other hand, a cheap guitar might not produce the desired sound and might break down quickly.

4. Play Different Guitars.

It’s crucial to play different guitars before making a purchase. Visiting a music store and trying out different guitars can give you a better idea of what type of guitar fits your style and skill level. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a salesperson or a guitar teacher, as they can provide valuable insight into the different types of guitars available.

Find a music shop/guitar store near you, they will always let you have a go with different guitars and try before you buy! Even though there are fewer and fewer guitar shops about, you’ll still find multiple in every city, and there will never be one too far away from the town you live!

5. Consider the Body Type.

The body type of a guitar plays a crucial role in the sound it produces. Guitars come in three main body types: solid-body, hollowbody, and semi-hollowbody. A solid-body guitar is made from a single piece of wood and is commonly used in rock music. A hollowbody guitar has a hollow chamber that produces a warm, acoustic sound and is commonly used in jazz and blues music. A semi-hollow body guitar is a combination of both solid and hollow-body guitars and offers a more versatile sound.

With all this being said, it should be kept in mind that there is no set menu and the amazing thing about music is that limits can be pushed, opinions can be different and you can create something amazing with whatever you have!

7. Check the Fretboard Material.

The material used for the fretboard can also affect the sound and playability of the guitar. Guitars come with different fretboard materials, including rosewood, maple, and ebony. Rosewood is a common material used for fretboards and produces a warm, mellow sound. Maple is a harder material and produces a brighter, snappier sound. Ebony is a dense material that produces a bright, clear sound and is commonly used in high-end guitars.

8. Consider the Pickup Type

The pickup type is a critical factor to consider when buying an electric guitar. Pickups are magnetic devices that pick up the sound of the guitar’s strings and convert them into an electrical signal. Electric guitars come with different pickup types, including single-coil, humbucker, and P90 pickups. Single-coil pickups produce a bright, twangy sound and are commonly used in country and rock music. Humbucker pickups produce a thicker, more distorted sound and are commonly used in heavy metal and hard rock music. P90 pickups are a combination of both single-coil and humbucker pickups and offer a versatile sound.

9. Check the Hardware Quality.

The hardware quality of a guitar can also affect the instrument’s sound and durability. The hardware includes the tuning pegs, bridge, and nut. It’s essential to check the quality of the hardware before making a purchase, as low-quality hardware can affect the guitar’s tuning stability and overall sound quality.

[Learn more about how to improve your guitar tone on guitar.com]

10. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations.

Finally, it’s always a good idea to read reviews and ask for recommendations before buying a guitar. Online reviews and forums can provide valuable insight into the different types of guitars available and their sound quality. You can also ask for recommendations from other guitar players or your guitar teacher, as they can provide firsthand experience and insight into the different types of guitars available.

When thinking about what guitar I should buy, this is the most important step! Look at reviews from different YouTubers, guitarists etc. and then go try them out!

So What Next?

In conclusion, finding the perfect guitar requires careful consideration of your playing style, skill level, budget, and personal preferences. Deciding “what guitar should I buy” is a personal and important decision that can greatly impact your musical journey. 

By following the 10 tips outlined in this blog, you can make an informed decision and find a guitar that is the perfect fit for your playing style. Remember to consider factors such as body shape, tonewoods, and pickups, and to prioritize the features that matter most to you. With the right guitar in hand, you can unleash your creativity and take your playing to the next level. So, take your time, do your research, and find the guitar that inspires you to create music that moves and excites you.

Check Our Competitions to See What Guitars You Could Win for a Fraction of the Price.