Tips for buying a new guitar

With Black Friday just a few days away, you may be searching for a new guitar, or keyboard, or just more music gear.  If you are, cool! Here are some helpful notes when you step into the local guitar store this Friday specifically to look for a new or used guitar.

Recently I found myself in the market for a new guitar. I’d known for months that I needed a new acoustic guitar. The music I love to play just wasn’t working with what I had. I found that the guitar I had was great for singer/songwriter music, but not optimal for instrumental pieces.
 
I’d finally talked myself into looking for a new guitar. But when you’re looking for a new instrument, you’ll find yourself playing the game "20 questions" with yourself. Maybe some questions are more technical like “what type of pick-up(s) does the guitar have?” or "what type of wood was used to make it?" But the fun questions can include: “How cool does it look?” or "Is it my favorite color?"

Here are a few things I learned in my most recent endeavor!
 
What type of music are you playing?
Of course if you’re playing acoustic music, you’re probably not looking for an electric guitar! Each genre of music tends to have their guitar standards. Metal tends to lean towards Jackson or Schecter guitars.  Blues and rock players like Gibson and Fender. While Martin and Taylor guitars rule the acoustic sound.
 
What do your top 3 favorite artists play?
You might find that your favorite "guitar gods" all favor the same type of guitar. That really helps your search! In my case, I found that Steve Vai, Paul Gilbert, and Joe Satriani all play Ibanez guitars. Sold! Find out what your favorite artists prefer and that’ll help you find the sound you’re looking for!
 
Pick up a few guitars
On paper they all look great! Maybe you’ve already got your eyes set on “the guitar”. Play it first! Each guitar has a different neck, weight, bridge. There are so many factors into what makes a guitar feel good and your guitar should feel perfect! Once you think you’ve found the one, don’t be afraid to checking out another guitar or two… just to be sure.
 
Give it time
If you’re anything like me, you’ll walk into a guitar store and want to buy seven guitars right then and there. I’m always far too eager to add a new guitar to my collection. From this though, I’ve learned- take your time! Don’t rush any decisions. You want to be sure this is the guitar that’s right for you in the way it sounds, looks, and feels.
 
Keep these tips in mind next time you go check out a new guitar and I’m sure they’ll help narrow it down to the perfect guitar. Once you've picked up the new axe, visit us at Littleton School of Music and we'll help you learn to play to your potential! Come see why we are a great choice for Denver Area Music Lessons in Guitar, Voice, Singing, Drums, Piano, Bass, and more!