There are many things to consider when buying a second hand guitar. From the actual guitar you want, to the condition it’s been kept in and how it feels to play. For a full breakdown of how to go about buying a second hand guitar, follow the link to our blog below explaining in depth the process. 

[See our guide to buying second-hand here]

Be sure to check out OUR competitions here to win a dream guitar for a fraction of its price! We test and clean all instruments that we raffle off on our site giving you confidence in our products!

This blog post is made just to help you find dealers you can trust. 

There are several reputable used guitar sellers in the UK. Here are a few options to consider:

• guitarguitar – With multiple locations across the UK, GuitarGuitar is a popular retailer of new and used guitars. Their used guitar selection is carefully curated and often includes high-end models from top brands.

(Screenshot taken from GuitarGuitar’s website)

GuitarGuitar have an absolutely monstrous selection of guitars at a range of prices, from the low hundreds into the thousands! Every used guitar, bass, folk instrument, pedal and amplifier they take in is checked over, cleaned and tested! 

• Andertons – Based in Guildford, Andertons Music Co has a wide range of new and used guitars available. Their used selection is regularly updated and includes models from brands such as Fender, Gibson, and Martin.

(Screenshot taken from Andertons website)

Andertons too have an absolutely huge collection of second-hand guitars that is updated weekly! Be sure to keep your eyes on the website regularly when searching so you don’t miss out on a perfect deal!

GAK Guitars – GAK is a musical instrument store based in Brighton, England. They specialize in discounted new and secondhand guitars, keyboards and equipment. GAK has a wide selection of guitars to choose from, including acoustic guitars, electric guitars, bass guitars, and classical guitars. They also have a large selection of amps, pedals, and other accessories. GAK is a great place to find a good deal on a guitar or other musical instrument. They offer a wide variety of products at competitive prices. GAK also has a team of experienced staff who can help you find the perfect instrument for your needs.

GAK also offers a 28-day warranty and have been extensively tested on giving you a sense of security when buying from GAK.

richtonemusic – Rich Tone Music is a specialist online guitar and music equipment retailer based in Sheffield, England. They have been trading since 1979 and have a wide range of new and used guitars, amps, pedals, and other accessories. Rich Tone Music also offers a range of services, including guitar repairs, lessons, and hire.

“Welcome to our famous collection of Second Hand Guitars and Musical Equipment! We are well known for our love of Second Hand bargains. We update this section on a daily basis with all the new gear we have had traded in, all pre-loved and ready for a new owner. Quite often a good second hand instrument is the only way to afford a dream guitar, or grab a limited model that crops up out of the blue. Now and again, an outright bargain second hand guitar might turn up – happy hunting! All our 2nd Hand Used Guitars, Amps and FX are available to view and buy in our or simply buy online with Next Day Delivery to most parts of the UK.”

Fair Deal Music – The guitar industry goes through some drastic changes from time to time, and every guitar player has a preference on make and model. When a new guitar range is launched that you must have, you can sell your older guitars to raise some money to buy the latest and greatest. Therefore, the used guitar market is constantly littered with a large swath of guitars that allow budget conscious players to get a great deal from used electric guitars, to second hand bass guitars! We like to look at the used electric guitars for sale through our website as “preloved”.

Fair Deal Music has a fantastic pre-owned range of instruments and it’s for sure worth a look over when you are searching for your next guitar! Fair Deal also has a very impressive range of effects pedals, amps and gear!

Peach Guitars – Located in Essex, Peach Guitars has a large selection of high-end used guitars from brands such as PRS, Suhr, and Tom Anderson. They also offer a part-exchange program, allowing you to trade in your old gear for credit towards a new purchase.

Peach Guitars have got a much smaller range of pre-owned guitars than some of the other places discussed here, but it carries some much more high end stock – so if that’s your thing check it out!

Check out our current competitions 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.