What You Need to Know and What to Avoid When Buying an Electric Guitar at a Guitar Store

Buying an electric guitar at a guitar store can be an exciting and sometimes overwhelming experience. To ensure you make a wise purchase, it's essential to consider several important factors and avoid common pitfalls. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process.

What to Know

Budget

Before you visit the store, it's crucial to determine your budget. Electric guitars can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, and setting a budget will help you focus on your options. Remember, a higher price doesn't always equate to better quality, so prioritize what matters most to you.

Types of Guitars

Familiarize yourself with different types of electric guitars and their typical genres. Here are a few popular options:

Solid Body - Known for their versatility and durability, suitable for a wide range of genres including rock, metal, and indie. Famous brands like Fender and Gibson offer excellent solid body guitars. Semi-Hollow - Combines the warmth of a hollow body and the attack of a solid body, making them ideal for blues, jazz, and pop. Brands like Ibanez and Martin are known for their semi-hollow guitars. Hollow Body - Often associated with classic jazz and pop sounds, these guitars have a warm, rich tone. Brands such as Epiphone and Gretsch offer hollow body electric guitars.

Playability

It's crucial to test the guitar for comfort. Pay attention to the following aspects:

Neck Width - A narrow neck is more comfortable for beginners, while a wider neck offers more support for advanced players. String Action - The height of the strings from the fretboard should be at a comfortable level, neither too high nor too low. Overall Weight - Ensure the guitar feels balanced and comfortable to play.

Sound

Listening to the guitar's tone and experimenting with different pickups and settings can help you find the sound that best suits your style. Here are some basic terms:

Single-Coil - Known for their bright and clear sound, often preferred for electric blues and rock. Humbucker - Offers a warmer and fuller tone, ideal for heavier genres like metal and hard rock.

Play through a variety of settings, including different pick ups and amp configurations to get a true sense of the guitar's capabilities.

Brand Reputation

Research reputable brands known for quality:

Fender - A classic brand known for its legendary Stratocaster and Telecaster models. Gibson - Famous for iconic models like the Les Paul and SG. Ibanez - Offers a wide range of affordable and high-quality instruments. PRS (Paul Reed Smith) - A premium brand known for its handmade craftsmanship and unique designs.

Each brand has its unique characteristics, so it's beneficial to do a bit of research and see which one resonates with you.

Features

Consider the features that matter to you, such as:

Pickup Configuration - The setup and type of pickups can significantly affect the guitar's sound. Common configurations include single coil, humbucker, and a combination of both. Tremolo Systems - These systems allow for dynamic tonal changes and can add a lot of expressiveness to your playing. Brands like Fender, Ibanez, and ESP are known for their high-quality tremolo systems. Fretboard Materials - Options include rosewood, maple, mahogany, and more. Each material affects the tone and playability differently. For example, rosewood is warm and mellow, while maple is bright and clear.

Condition

If buying used, check for any signs of wear or damage, such as:

Scratches Dents Neck Warping

These issues can affect the playability and overall condition of the guitar.

Warranty and Return Policy

Understand the store’s warranty and return policy in case the guitar doesn’t meet your expectations after purchase. A good warranty can provide peace of mind, and a flexible return policy is a significant advantage.

What to Avoid

Rushing the Decision

Taking your time to try multiple guitars is essential. Don’t settle for the first one that catches your eye. This will help you find the guitar that’s right for you, not just the one that looks the best.

Ignoring Setup

Be aware that many guitars may need a professional setup to play optimally. Ask the store if they offer setup services or if the guitar has been recently set up. A properly set up guitar will play much better and feel more comfortable to play.

Overlooking Accessories

Necessary accessories can significantly impact your playing experience. Don’t forget to consider the cost of:

Casing - A good case protects your guitar and ensures its longevity. Bags and Straps - Quality straps can make a big difference in comfort and stage presence. Tuners - A reliable tuner is essential for staying in perfect tune, especially when practicing. Picks - Different types of picks can enhance your playing, so it's good to have a variety.

Believing All Recommendations

While store staff can be helpful, they may push certain brands or models. Do your own research based on your specific needs and preferences. Trust your instincts and make a decision that feels right for you.

Neglecting Your Skill Level

Choose a guitar that matches your skill level. Beginners may want to avoid overly complex models or high-end instruments, as they can be overwhelming. Opt for a guitar that is easy to play and suits your current skill level.

Ignoring Online Reviews

Even if you're buying in-store, check online reviews for the specific model you're considering. Online reviews can provide valuable insights into any common issues or standout features that may not be obvious in the store.

Not Testing Amps

If possible, test the guitar with an amplifier to get a true sense of its sound. Different amplifiers can significantly alter the tone, so it's important to find a compatible setup that brings out the best in your guitar. Amps like Fender, Marshall, and Kemper are popular choices for guitarists.

Final Tips

Bring Your Own Gear

If you have pedals or an amp you use, bring them to test how the guitar interacts with your setup. This will give you a more accurate representation of the guitar's range and tonality. Many stores have demo amps where you can test the guitar without bringing your own equipment.

Ask Questions

Don't hesitate to ask the staff about features, maintenance, and anything else you're unsure about. Staff members are knowledgeable and can provide valuable insights, but you're the one who will be using the guitar, so it’s important to have all the information you need.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, choose a guitar that feels right to you. The connection between you and your instrument is crucial to enjoying playing. Listen to your instincts and choose the guitar that resonates with you the most.

By keeping these considerations and tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to making an informed and satisfying purchase when buying an electric guitar.