Choosing to purchase a used instrument over buying new is a great way to get something within your budget while also giving a quality piece a new lease on life.
When choosing a used instrument you obviously want to make sure that it is in good condition before buying, as the quality will affect everything about it: The sound, the way it looks, and its structural integrity.
With used guitars, it is crucial to ensure the condition is sound and it is priced properly for the make and model. That way, you know you are getting a quality instrument that you will love without shelling out a fortune.
Ask About The Make & Model
Before buying a used guitar, research the different makes and models so you can learn to identify what you are looking for and what the best option for you may be. Then, when you head to the store or online, ask the seller about the instrument to ensure they are being truthful about the listing and any questions you have about it.
In doing so, you are determining not only the quality of the guitar, but the knowledge and professionalism of the seller. If the seller does not seem to know what they are talking about, it may be best to look elsewhere for a used guitar.
What Does The Guitar Look Like?
A used guitar will likely see a few scratches in its lifetime and that is totally normal — this often does not affect the sound or quality of the guitar in any way. However, if there are cracks that go deeper into the wood of the guitar, there could be structural damage that may be very expensive to repair.
Next, look to see if there is any rust or fretboard problems. The neck should be consistent and have no grooves, dents, or divots caused by string wear. The neck should also have no extreme bowing or cracks that will harm the integrity and sound of the guitar.
Valuing Used Guitars
If you have a specific model on your mind, it is essential that you understand the value of the guitar. Using a price guide like Reverb will help you get an idea of how much a guitar is worth. Then, you can use this average to shop around for a guitar that is in your budget while keeping an eye out for awesome deals.
Test The Guitar In Person
If possible, it is always recommended that you test the guitar out in person. This will help you see the instrument for yourself and hear how it sounds. If something sounds off or it does not feel right to you, this could be a good indication that something is wrong with the guitar or that you might want to look for a different model.
When purchasing a guitar online, it may not be possible to test it out in person, so be sure to get as much information from the seller as possible. A good seller is willing to offer as much info as you need and may even oblige to send over a video so you can see the guitar in action.
If you are unsure what to look for, our professionals here at Music Go Round St. Louis will be more than happy to help you out. We want to make sure you are purchasing exactly what you want and that the guitar is in quality condition.
Come test our awesome selection of used guitars and find your next dream guitar today!
