How to inspect a guitar

Although the quality and playability of even the most affordable guitars have improved in recent years, there are several factors to consider before purchasing a guitar.

First, visually inspect the guitar for any splits, chips, loose screws, dings, or other damage. Also, check the tuning machines to ensure they turn easily (but are not loose) and are securely anchored to the headstock.

While damages to a guitar’s finish may be unsightly, they usually do not affect its playability or sound. However, ensure that the damage does not indicate an underlying issue with the guitar such as breaks in the wood or structure.

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With a bit of practice, you can visually check the neck of the guitar to determine if it is straight and true. Hold the guitar with the tuners closest to you and the body on the floor and check to see if the neck is straight and does not have high or low spots.

Next, check the action, or the distance between the strings and the fretboard, to ensure that it is not difficult to play single notes and chords. The strings should be approximately 3/32″ at the twelfth fret for both acoustic and electric guitars. The action can be adjusted to a certain extent, but it’s best to choose a guitar with low action for ease of playing.

Avoid guitars that show signs of neck twist, as they can be difficult to play and tune, and can cause other problems. Also, ensure that there is no gap between the bridge and the top of the guitar, and that the six bridge pins are firmly in place without any gaps around them.

Unless a guitar is quite old and has been played extensively, there should be no issues with the frets. Make sure they are even, unworn, and have been “dressed” correctly, with no sharp edges or burs. Worn-out frets can cause strings to buzz when played, and replacing them can be costly.

Inspect the strings to see how old they are. New strings are shiny and clean, while old strings are uneven in color and have dark spots. Old strings can sound dull and lifeless, making even a great guitar sound bad. Guitar strings are inexpensive, so don’t hesitate to ask the salesperson to put new strings on a guitar you’re interested in to hear it at its best.

Lastly, inspect the body of the guitar, paying close attention to the top, bottom, and sides of an acoustic guitar for any damage. A scratch, ding, or dent is not likely to affect the sound, but any evidence that the body is pulling apart or has been dropped or abused should be a red flag. For electric guitars, make sure each pickup and its controls function properly.

By following these inspection guidelines, you can ensure that you won’t be stuck with a guitar that is difficult to play or requires costly repairs.

Manuel Marino

Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME