How to Tell if an Electric Guitar is Good Quality but Cheap
Cheap is a relative term when used in terms of value for money. While “cheap” is often associated with shoddy or lower-grade materials and workmanship, the two are not always directly linked to a guitar's price. Often, the value of a guitar depends on your financial situation and your willingness to invest. Whether a $500 or $5,000 guitar is considered expensive varies widely depending on your financial means. The key factors to consider when assessing a guitar’s value are how well it plays and sounds. A guitar that sounds and looks great but constantly goes out of tune or has a scratchy volume pot is not of good value, regardless of its price.
Understanding Value
When evaluating the quality and value of an electric guitar, it's crucial to know the details of its construction, including the materials used and the techniques applied. Proper research can help you find a good guitar at a reasonable price, but you might not find a great one for a bargain level price. High-quality instruments can be relatively cheaply made if they have modern, low-cost electronics and mechanical components.
What to Look for in a Good Quality, Affordable Guitar
Getting a quality electric guitar that is affordable requires the experience of someone who has played high-quality, expensive guitars. This experience serves as a baseline for what to look for. There are two key factors to consider:
1. Quality Sound
The guitar's sound is crucial. Expensive guitars are renowned for producing a high-quality tone, even at different positions on the neck. Notes should ring clear and melodious, with consistent volume and tone. Experience with high-quality guitars helps you recognize what a quality sound should feel like.
2. Playing Comfort
Playing comfort is sometimes more challenging to assess if you are a beginner. However, comfort is essential for long-term enjoyment. Consider the string action, or the height of the strings from the neck. It should be appropriate for pressing bar chords firmly. Incorrect string action can make playing uncomfortable and even painful, leading to a premature end to learning the guitar.
Bring someone with guitar experience to help you. They should not be biased towards certain brands but can provide valuable insights based on their own playing experience. Their recommendation can save you from expensive regrets and help you find a guitar that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
The key to finding a good quality, affordable electric guitar is to combine your budget with the experience of others, particularly those who have played high-quality instruments. Understanding the intrinsic factors like sound quality and playing comfort will guide you in making an informed decision. With some thoughtful research and a bit of expert guidance, you can find a guitar that meets your needs and budget.