Buying used guitars is a popular thing to do amongst musicians because the instrument sounds better with age. Also, sometimes the old saying is true: they don’t just make them like they used to. When buying used, each instrument is unique. This is true not only because of the wear and tear that happens to each guitar differently, but even off the factory the wood is a little different and there are other slight variations. In other words, you can’t just buy one from the internet and assume you’ll know what you’re getting. There are specific things you have to look for and ask when buying a used guitar.

Has it been repaired ever? If so, where and by who? Obviously you’d rather have a guitar that hasn’t needed any repairing, but if it’s done properly you may be able to live with it. In either case, it’ll affect the price for sure, and it’s something you need to know. If there was a crack along the neck, this is a big issue! Don’t buy it. In fact, most people wouldn’t ever try to sell a guitar so badly damaged, at least not without mentioning that up front and taking a lot of money off for the damage. But if it’s had minor repair, it won’t affect the integrity of the sound. But it will affect retail value of the instrument. When a serious collector buys a used guitar he wants one in pristine condition as possible, even if the damage has no bearing on sound. If you’re a playing musician and you want a beautiful guitar for gigs, or just for making beautiful music on, getting a guitar that isn’t in mint condition but plays perfectly is a great economic way to buy! So long as it’s a cosmetic issue only and won’t change the sound in any way.

There are other concerns. Old guitars get played a lot, usually, and there are signs that indicate that it’s been used. One big giveaway is fret damage, especially on the first three frets where people play most frequently. Check under the strings and see how badly the frets have been worn. It’ll be a reliable indicator of how much it’s been used. Frets that have more wear don’t play as well, and this should be avoided. New frets can be placed on the guitar, but this is a headache you don’t need. Another question to ask is how much it’s been played. Surprisingly, you may want one that’s been played more because the vibrations are actually good for the wood. Guitars that sit in a closet get warped and play funny. Nobody likes to be neglected! It’s hard to believe that this is true, but it is. This is one of the reasons that guitars have unique personalities-they each have their own history.

The warm sounds of an old guitar can’t be duplicated in new ones-that’s the best reason to buy used. It’s worth it, so long as you’re patient and you know what you’re doing!

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