How To Start Collecting Guitars: An Essential Guide for Beginners.
For guitarists, the idea of collecting guitars is one that is often met with excitement but also a certain amount of anxiety – how do you even get started? It’s not something most people are prepared to jump into, especially those who don’t have any background knowledge in the field. But never fear – it’s not as intimidating as it seems to begin your journey as a guitar collector.
With the right guidance and a bit of patience, anyone can start collecting guitars. This guide will cover the basics of what you need to know in order to become a guitar collector. We will look at things like the different factors you should consider when you’re making your first purchase, the different types of guitars available, and the ways you can look after and care for your collection. So if you’re interested in beginning your guitar collecting journey, read on.
Identifying Your Objective
The most important thing you need to do before you start your collection is set an objective and a clear plan. As with any collection, you need to have an end goal in mind – what kind of collection would you like to build? Do you want to focus on vintage guitars from a certain era, or modern models from a mix of different brands and types? Having a plan will help keep you motivated and focused when you’re looking for a new piece to add to your collection.
Budget and Price
The next thing you ‘ll need to consider is your budget. How much are you willing to spend for each guitar? Like anything, guitars come in all shapes, sizes, and prices. When you’re setting your budget, make sure you don’t just look at the upfront cost – there are other things to consider too, such as insurance, storage, and potential repairs. Also, remember to factor in the potential long-term investment value of your guitars if you plan on reselling them at some point in the future.
Types of Guitars
Now that you’ve decided on your collecting objective and your budget, the next step is to think about the types of guitars you’re interested in. Of course, this will vary depending on what kind of collection you plan to build, but there are some basics to consider.
Acoustic Guitars
This type of guitar produces a classic, full sound with a lot of body. It’s great for playing along with others and works unplugged in any space so you’ll be able to use it just about anywhere. Acoustic guitars come in a range of styles and sizes including Dreadnought, Concert, Jumbo and auditorium.
Electric Guitars
Electric guitars provide a different sound compared to acoustic guitars and are usually also used with amplifiers. They come in a variety of options such as single coil pickups, humbucker pickups and active pickups, each of which offers a different tone. Plus, electric guitars often come with more features than their acoustic counterparts, so there’s more to consider when buying one.
Bass Guitars
Bass guitars have a lower range of notes than the other guitars, and they’re typically used to provide the low-end backbone to a band. They come in many different styles, such as solid bodies, semi-hollow bodies and hollow bodies.
Buying Guitars
Now that you’ve identified what you’re looking for and set your budget, it’s time to start looking for guitars. The best place to start is online – there are many sites that specialize in selling guitars and you can also find a lot of great options on eBay and Reverb. If you’re looking for something a bit rarer, specialty guitars shops can also be a good option.
Before you buy, it’s important to do your research and make sure you’re buying from a reputable source. Google the store or individual seller – if there’s anything suspicious or if there are any red flags, it’s best to steer clear. Also, make sure you ask for photos of the guitar you’re interested in so you can get a good look at it before buying.
Inspecting and Testing Guitars
Once you’ve found a guitar that you’re interested in, it’s important to inspect it and test it before purchasing. If you’re buying online, ask the seller if they offer a warranty or money-back guarantee in case there are any issues. If you’re buying from a store, you might be able to test it out in person before buying.
When inspecting the guitar, make sure to check for obvious signs of damage such as cracks or dents, loose connections, buzzing or dull strings and an inconsistent action. You should also check the neck for straightness and see if the strings are rusty or dull. It’s also important to test the electronics to make sure everything is working properly. If it’s an electric guitar, make sure you can hear all the knobs and switches operational.
Caring for Your Guitars
Finally, if you’ve just bought a new guitar or added to your collection, you need to think about caring for it properly. This is important to ensure it stays in the best condition and retains its value. Here are some basic tips:
• Store it in a place with a consistent temperature and humidity level.
• Keep it away from direct sunlight and other sources of heat.
• Clean it regularly with a soft cloth.
• Clean strings with a soft cloth after every use.
• Keep it away from children and pets as much as possible.
• Only bring it out to play when it is absolutely necessary.
Conclusion
Collecting guitars is a rewarding and fun hobby, but it does require some knowledge and research, especially for beginners. With the right tips and guidance, anyone can begin their journey as a guitar collector and build a great collection over time. Just be sure to keep your budget and objective in mind, as well as all the other factors mentioned in this article, and you’ll have no problems getting started. Good luck!