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So you're thinking about buying your first guitar and you
don't know where to begin. The best way to choose is to play a few
guitars in your price range. If you don't know how to play yet,
we'll play the guitar for you so that you can step back and
listen to the sound. Your choice is very personal -- which guitar sounds
and looks best to you, which is comfortable to play, which meets your
performance needs and your budget. Here are some tips. New or used?
There's no rule about whether a new or used instrument is a
better investment for your first guitar. Here are pros and cons
about the options we offer at Allegro Music:
If you're a beginner, is a new guitar the best
investment?
Pro: Many first-time buyers come into our store thinking
that they can't afford a new guitar, and if they buy a used
guitar, it will be less expensive and a "better deal."
The great news is that affording a good quality new guitar is
easier than ever. With today's technology, top brand
manufacturer's are making inexpensive entry-level guitars which
are durable, stay in tune, sound beautiful and are easy to play.
You'd be surprised how well they perform. And, your new guitar
comes with a factory warranty as proof of the manufacturer's
commitment to quality. Two words: No Grief!
Con: New guitars can be more expensive than used guitars of
the same quality.
If you're a beginner, is a used guitar the best
investment?
Pro: These guitars are usually trade-ins or purchases from
other Allegro Music customers and can be less expensive than new
guitars. The price depends on many factors, like how old the guitar is,
scratches and dents, etc. Used guitars have been shop-checked by
our technicians.
Con: As far as purchasing a used guitar from a private party, there are some good buys out there.
For example, if someone needs to part with a quality $1000
guitar for say $250, it's worth it to buy used. But it takes a
careful eye and years of experience to properly evaluate a used
instrument with regard to tonal potential and hidden defects.
The guitar may look good, but a warped neck, cracks, faulty
tuners (the list goes on) can make it difficult to play. It may
also be the wrong size for you. If you
have no prior hands-on experience with guitars, go shopping with
an experienced player. Or, Allegro Music would be happy to
inspect (at no cost) any used guitar you are thinking of buying.
A word on brands
 Unless you are a musician, you are probably not familiar with
guitar brands. Therefore, it's important for you to be able to
trust the people who help you buy your guitar. We've been in
business for over 40 years and have a reputation for fine products
and for treating people well. We select our new guitar brands
based on quality, durability,
value and reliability. But when it comes to sound and looks, and
that sense of just being the "right" guitar -- trust
yourself!
Lefties
Are you left-handed? Or are you buying a guitar for someone
who is left-handed? Then read
this.
The bottom line
Buying a guitar is an investment in your creative future. Take
your time. Ask questions. Buy the very best you can afford. You will play
better and develop quicker on a good quality guitar.
We share your love
of music and want to help you find the right guitar.
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