The Joy of Choosing: Expensive Electric Guitar or Budget Upgrade Path?
Sometimes, the decision to buy an expensive electric guitar or to invest in a budget model and upgrade it later can be overwhelming. Both choices carry their own sets of benefits and drawbacks, but the fundamental question is: is the investment the joy of playing the instrument, or the price tag behind it?
As someone who has been playing guitars for six decades, I can attest to the joy guitars bring. I have multiple American-made guitars, Asian-made guitars, and even a guitar that has been with me for more than half a century. The joy in playing these instruments is unmatched, and it is precisely this joy that should guide your decision, not the price tag.
Personal Choice and Upgrading Guitars
It really does come down to personal choice and there's no "right answer." For instance, I own a USA Standard Stratocaster, which was a great investment. However, on either side of this decision, I also picked up a MIK Epiphone by Gibson Sheraton and a Peavey Rockingham B6. The decision between a Gibson Les Paul Signature T or an ES339 was clouded by mixed reviews regarding Gibson's quality control after moving their factory to Nashville. Ultimately, I opted to refurbish the guitars I already owned. The Sheraton now features a Bigsby CT Bar P90s and Stairstep tuners, while the Rockingham got new single coils and a custom scratchguard. The Epiphone and Peavey are now irreplaceable to me, illustrating that customizing a guitar to your specs can make it feel even more special.
Investment in a Good Guitar
For those weighing their options, investing in a good-quality guitar between 400 to 2000 USD is a sensible approach. Brands like Epiphone and Squier are known for providing excellent value for money. However, if you're on a budget, consider an old guitar with DiMarzio pickups, whose sound is exceptional. The Vox Standard 25 is a brilliant example of a budget-friendly electric guitar that can provide a solid foundation for your musical journey.
The key is not to get caught up in the idea that an expensive guitar has to be the first choice. Expensive guitars come with a significant price tag and the risk that the quality might not match expectations. If you choose a cheaper guitar, you might find that the resale value is lower. This could mean that after upgrading the pickups, you end up spending more than you initially did. Additionally, cheaper guitars often have cheaper parts, including issues with the electronics, tuning mechanisms, and hardware components. Replacing these components can also affect the guitar's resale value adversely.
Learning Platform and Budget Guitar
Buying a cheap or less expensive guitar can be a valuable learning platform. It allows you to learn about fixing and maintaining guitars. If you make a significant mistake, it won't cost you much, and you can either salvage the expensive parts or resell them later. Hence, the investment in a beginner guitar isn't necessarily tied to its price but to the skills you gain from using it.
When setting a budget for your guitar, consider what features and design you value most. Start with a simple approach: two pickups and a fixed bridge, avoiding features like a tremolo bar. Pay attention to control switches and pots, and ensure the guitar has a solid build. When you're ready to buy, go cash in hand to focus on guitars within your budget. Don't forget to set aside money for a guitar case or gig bag, and consider additional accessories like a digital tuner, strap, and picks.
Remember, as a beginner, the primary goal is to learn to play the guitar, not to impress others with a fancy new instrument. This journey can take several years. Throughout this time, you can upgrade your gear and improve your skills. Once you've mastered the basics, you can make a more informed decision about your next guitar purchase. This journey is likely to be ongoing, as your skills and preferences evolve.
In conclusion, the decision to invest in an expensive electric guitar or to buy a budget model and upgrade it later is a personal choice based on your priorities and needs. The true joy in playing a guitar often lies in the experience and the skills you gain, rather than its price tag. Whether you choose a new, top-of-the-line guitar or a refurbished mid-range one, the most important thing is to find an instrument that brings you joy and inspires you to play. Happy playing!