When Is It Time to Upgrade Your Guitar?
Deciding when to upgrade your guitar is a personal decision that depends on several factors. It’s always an exciting experience, however, it can be easy to get carried away with the nearly unlimited amount of options that are out there. Keep in mind, a $300 guitar can sound just as good as a $3000 guitar if kept in good care - it’s not necessary to break the bank. This being said, let’s go over some of the reasons why you might be in need of an upgrade.
You Have Outgrown Your Current Guitar
This may only apply to students who have started playing at a young age and have literally outgrown their guitar. A standard size guitar is going to be too large and awkward for a child to play, which is why a 1/2 size or 3/4 size guitar is an ideal option to start out with. After a few years and a growth spurt, the smaller sized guitar isn’t going to be feasible, which leads to the next point…
Your Current Guitar Is Holding You Back
If you find that your current guitar is limiting your ability to play the music you want to play, or if it is not producing the tone or sound that you are looking for, it may be time to consider an upgrade. This could mean changing styles of guitar (such as switching from acoustic to electric), upgrading to a guitar that has additional features (such as a floating bridge, specific types of pickups, sustainiac, etc.), or buying a guitar that can serve a specific purpose (like keeping guitars in designated tunings, guitars with additional strings, etc.). Not all guitars are built and designed the same. Sometimes, having multiple guitars is necessary in order to fulfill and maintain your style of playing.
Your Playing Has Improved
If your skills have improved and you are looking for a guitar that can match your level of proficiency, upgrading to a better quality instrument can help you achieve this. Don’t expect that buying a new guitar is going to magically make you a better player - but there are some aspects of a guitar that can make playing slightly more efficient and comfortable. This can include the type of wood used, the type of finish, the style and body shape of the guitar, the thickness of the fretboard, etc.
Your Current Guitar Is In Poor Condition
If your current guitar is showing signs of wear and tear, or if it is damaged or in need of repairs that are not cost-effective, it may be time to consider upgrading to a new guitar. This could be something as serious as physical damage to the instrument, or something a little less obvious like poor intonation.
You Have the Budget for An Upgrade
If you have the financial resources to invest in a higher quality instrument, and you are committed to continue playing the guitar, an upgrade may be a good option to consider. Purchasing a new guitar always makes playing feel fresh and increases the motivation to play. Being a guitarist, know that you can never have enough guitars!
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade your guitar should be based on your personal goals, needs, and budget. It's important to do your research, try out different guitars, and consult with experienced guitarists and music store professionals to help you make an informed decision.