Should You Buy a Used Guitar? The Pros and Cons Explained 

Music has a place in every single culture and tradition on earth, from the stages of Broadway to uncontacted tribes in the rainforest. Musical traditions and instruments are often passed down through the generations.

Any used guitar you encounter was probably touched by many hands and is likely full of stories and memories – but should you buy a used guitar when a brand new guitar is an option? 

When choosing to bring an instrument into your home, you’ll need to consider everything from quality to price. Purchasing second-hand guitars can be a great compromise that allows you to own a high-quality instrument at a more affordable price point.

Do you know what to look out for when choosing a used guitar to ensure that you’re not wasting your whole guitar budget on a dud? 

We’ve created this guide to help you learn the pros and cons of buying a guitar, used or new. Keep reading to figure out exactly what to keep in mind when you’re investing in a guitar! 

Buying Used Guitars: The Pros

Many guitars are not only instruments but works of art in their own right. They are carefully constructed, often by hand, and intended to last many years. A high-quality guitar is a high-quality guitar, whether you’re buying it off the shelf or from a friend. 

Used Guitars Are Less Expensive

The first reason to buy a used guitar is the price. Even if the instrument has some bangs and dings, a well-made instrument will still sound great for a fraction of the price. For many musicians, buying used is the only way to get a truly incredible instrument at a comfortable price point. 

Often, you can buy a used guitar from someone locally, which can save on costly shipping expenses. Once you meet someone face to face, it’s possible to negotiate and buy the instrument for a lower price. You won’t have much luck haggling for a new instrument at a big box store, and an individual seller is far more likely to be flexible. 

Used Guitars Have a Story

Second, a used guitar comes with a sense of history. It might have already exchanged hands across generations. A guitar owned by a successful musician may have received play at all sorts of venues, festivals, and concerts!

It’s common for used guitars to come into your life through friends and relatives. Buying a used instrument from someone you know is another great way to keep things affordable. Best of all, you will have access to the memories that imbue the guitar with its many stories. 

Used Guitars Hold Their Value

A used guitar is a wonderful option for new musicians who are just beginning to embark on their musical journey. A used guitar makes a great “starter guitar” for those who aren’t yet sure they’re going to stick with music. If you buy an instrument of high enough quality, it will hold its value and can easily be resold. 

Buying Used Guitars: The Cons

If you’re a more serious player, you may have some reservations about buying someone else’s instrument. You might want the opportunity to buy a pristine guitar and make it your own. In some cases, a new instrument might even be the better investment!

If this is the case for you, you can click to learn where to buy a guitar. 

You Know What You’re Getting

Even used guitars that seem to be in good shape can have hidden damage. This can include damage you might not think to check for when you’re inspecting the instrument before you buy it. 

When buying a new guitar, you will be getting a brand new instrument, and the odds of extant damage are very low. In an instance in which you do find something wrong with the guitar, you can usually return it to the store where you purchased it. If you buy it directly from a luthier, they will most likely repair the damage free of charge. 

You Will Have Your Pick

If you truly love guitars, then you probably have a “dream guitar” in mind. If you’re picky, it can be hard to wait around for the perfect used guitar to come up for sale. For those who know exactly what they want, it can be a lot easier to go into a music store and buy that dream instrument right off the shelf! 

There is a lot less “settling” involved when you choose to buy new. If you have the money, there is no reason not to get exactly what you want!

There Are Fewer Hidden Costs

Even if you manage to find a used guitar in pretty good shape, it might need some maintenance. Everything from new strings to a new finish can cost money, and add to the overall cost. It might cost you more than you think to get your used guitar ready for lessons or a show. 

When you buy new, you won’t need to deal with maintenance at all. All of the costs involved will be right on the price tag. That way, added expenses can’t suddenly pop up and surprise you – you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and exactly what you’ll get!

Are You Ready to Buy a Used Guitar?

New or used, purchasing your own instrument is an exciting step in the life of a musician. Once you have an instrument of your own, you can put in the time and practice you need to become an incredible guitar player. For those just starting out, there is no reason not to buy a used guitar and embark on this musical journey! 

Looking for more ways to bring some music into your life? Check out the blog for more posts about entertainment that will keep you inspired!