Guitar Stores - How to Buy
Your Musical Instrument
Buying Your New Guitar - The
Beginning
When shopping at guitar stores, there
are some things to look for and some things to avoid. Have a
little patience and don't jump on the first "great deal" you
find. Shop around a little for your new guitar.
Do some research online to learn what
brands are available and to compare guitar quality and
pricing. If you have a friend that plays guitar, ask them
about which guitars are best.
Don't allow the salesperson to sway
you into buying something that doesn't suit you. Use this
quick guide to find that perfect guitar for you.
Make a List of
Questions
Most guitar stores employ a
knowledgeable staff that can help you find a great guitar
and many of the clerks are stringed instrument players
themselves, but you should ask lots of questions to be on
the safe side. If they don't know the answer, ask them to
find out for you.
Among others, here are six
questions to ask the salesperson:
- What are the manufacturer's name
and model number for this guitar?
- What type of wood was used to make
this guitar?
- Where was the guitar made - in the
United States or another country?
- Is the guitar already pitched to
standard tuning or concert pitch? (So you can try it out
in the store.)
- Does the guitar come with a
warranty?
- Does it come with a new set of
strings, a case, and/or a tuner?
Determine Your
Budget
Before shopping around, determine how
much you can spend including the guitar accessories and a
case or stand. When looking around, you can ask the
salesperson to show you guitars within your price range.
This will save lots of time because
brands can range anywhere from $100 to $3000 or more
depending on the type of instrument. Once you determine a
budget, stick with it. Never spend more under pressure just
because a salesperson wants to make extra
commissions!
Try Out Several Instruments from
Multiple Guitar Stores
Make it a point to visit several
guitar
stores if there are a few
nearby. It may be worth it to drive out of town to compare
as well. Play a variety of different types of cheaper and
name brand guitars at each store to see which one feels and
sounds right.
Have a friend guitar player go with
you if possible so he can play it as you listen. Ask the
salesperson for a strap and pick so you can test each guitar
properly.
While trying out the guitars, listen
for any buzzing, popping, or other odd noises. If you notice
the slightest noise, ask the salesperson to retune and try
it again. If it still doesn't sound right, toss it and try
another one.
Play each candidate guitar sitting and
standing to see which feels comfortable in both positions.
Be sure to strum the guitar as hard as you would if playing
at home.
No Need to Feel
Insecure
Don't allow other guitar players in
the store or the salesperson to intimidate you - even if you
aren't very good at guitar playing yet. It's an important
(and expensive) decision, so you should be able to try each
instrument with passion.
More Tips for Guitar
Stores
Consider the wood material that makes
up a guitar. Cheaper acoustic guitars might save money now,
but usually do not last as long as a high quality guitar.
Ask to see the high end guitars for your maximum spending
amount. This will allow you to get the best possible
instrument for your money.
How is a Guitar Made?
Popular types of wood used in quality
guitars include Asian rosewood, basswood, swamp ash, alder,
walnut, mahogany, koa, korina, soft maple, hard maple,
spruce, and lacewood. The tops of guitars are often made of
a different type of wood than the body to give a
contrasting, decorative look.
Research - Then Buy
You've researched before shopping; now
it's time to research a little more. Avoid buying a guitar
on your first day. Leave the guitar stores and think about
your decision before buying.
Write down information about each
potential guitar while shopping, and research those
particular guitars online. This will help you narrow your
choices even more so you can pick the right one for
you.
Buying Guitars
Online
If buying online, try out that
particular guitar in a store first to be sure you like it.
You might save money by shopping online, but it's not worth
the savings if you get a guitar that you don't enjoy
playing.
Also, be sure to shop with a
trustworthy retailer. Look for a secure website ordering
system, friendly customer service, and a good standing with
the Better Business Bureau Online.
Negotiating with Musical Instrument
Stores
Once you've decided on your musical
dream machine, make a reasonable price offer at guitar
stores that carry this particular style or brand. Some
stores won't bargain, but some will. It doesn't hurt to try,
and you'll soon be holding your very own guitar and playing
all your favorite songs with just a few lessons!
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