Whether you are a music enthusiast or a geek of instruments, a guitar will seldom fall below your Top 5 picks. The way the guitar strap feels around your shoulder, the fingers shiver against the instrument strings, and the unique music enters your ear, the dollars you put down on the table in the music stores become almost meaningless. What matters more when you hold the instrument in your arms is the music you enjoy. A single ticket to access the finest music out there.
But still, there may be many of us who would rather do with a lazy guitar than with a lazy pocket. Time and time again, no matter how much you find a particular guitar interesting online, you have to give it up lest you struggle to make ends meet. Access to your dream guitar can become a nightmare. You might even say to yourself: how much is a guitar worth? And where can you find one?
Hence, in this blog, we will be seeing how different guitars are valued at particular prices, which guitar upgrade can you afford, and which instrument is the one for you!
Acoustic Guitars
Acoustic guitars are versatile instruments loved for their natural sound and portability. They don’t require amplification, making them easy to play anywhere. Look for acoustic guitars with solid tops for better resonance and tone. Being perfect for intimate gatherings or jam sessions in the park, they come at all sorts of prices.
1. Entry-level acoustic guitars ($100 – $300)
Let’s go with a cheap mini guitar first before we get into the big ones: the entry-level acoustic guitars. These are perfect for beginners who want to start immediately. Additionally, those looking for a casual strumming experience without breaking the bank are also welcome to flex their muscles on these. The prices here typically range from around $100 to $300, making them accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts.
2. Mid-range acoustic guitars ($300 – $1000)
Moving up a notch, we upgrade to the realm of mid-range acoustic guitars. Priced between $300 to $1000, this guitar offers a significant step up in quality and sound compared to its entry-level counterpart. You’ll notice improved craftsmanship, better materials, and enhanced tonal richness in this price range.
3. High-end acoustic guitars ($1000 and above)
Now, let’s talk about the cream of the crop – high-end acoustic classical guitars here. These are the beauties that go a step beyond just the good guitar your friend may have. They often grace the hands of seasoned professionals and serious musicians. With prices starting at $1000 and soaring into the stratosphere, these classical guitars are crafted with exquisite attention to detail in order to deliver the best performance possible, using premium woods, advanced construction techniques, and meticulous setup processes.
Why The Dollars?
An entry-level guitar is typically mass-produced using more affordable materials and simplified construction methods. While they may lack some of the bells and whistles of higher-end models, they still provide a solid foundation for learning and playing.
A mid-range guitar, even though may not be exceedingly better than the entry-level guitars, they do strike a balance between affordability and quality. Manufacturers invest in better tonewoods, improved hardware, and finer craftsmanship, resulting in guitars that sound better, play smoother, and last longer than their cheaper items.
A high-end guitar, on the other hand, is where craftsmanship meets artistry. Each instrument is often handcrafted by skilled luthiers, using top-tier tonewoods like solid spruce, mahogany, or rosewood. The meticulous attention to detail, custom features, and superior sound result in making them prized possessions for serious musicians.
Electric Guitar
An electric guitar comes in a range of styles, from sleek and modern to classic and vintage. They’re known for their versatility, allowing you to play a wide variety of genres with ease. With the right amp and effects, you can create your unique sound signature. From beginner models that make learning easy to professional ones with all the bells and whistles, electric guitars offer a world of sonic possibilities.
Beginner Electric Guitars ( $100 to $300)
Here, beginners often find themselves faced with a plethora of options online. A mini, entry-level electric guitar, priced between $100 to $300, is designed with simplicity and affordability in mind. They are perfect for those just starting on their musical journey.
Why The Dollars?
An entry-level electric guitar usually features a solid wood body, often made from basswood or agathis, which keeps costs down while providing a decent sound quality. Additionally, they come with standard hardware components such as basic tuners, a fixed bridge, and straightforward electronics, making them easy to use and maintain. Also, they are typically equipped with stock pickups, which although may not offer access to the same versatility and tonal range as higher-end pickups, are more than sufficient for beginners to learn and play different styles of music.
Intermediate Electric Guitars ($300 – $1000)
Moving up the ladder, an intermediate electric guitar priced between $300 to $1000 offers a step up in terms of features and build quality. They cater to players who have progressed beyond the beginner stage and are looking for an instrument with more versatility and better sound.
Why The Dollars?
These intermediate electric guitars often boast unique craftsmanship with solid wood bodies made from mahogany, alder, or ash, providing a richer and more resonant tone. Also, they come equipped with higher-quality pickups such as single coils or humbuckers, offering a wider range of tones and better sensitivity to playing dynamics. Additionally, they may feature advanced hardware like locking tuners, adjustable bridges, and smoother fretboards, which result in enhanced playability and tuning stability.
Professional Electric Guitars ($1000 and above)
For those committed to their craft and seeking top-notch performance, a professional electric guitar priced at $1000 and above is the ultimate choice. They are crafted with precision and attention to detail in order to meet the demands of experienced players and professionals. But the fact that you enjoy reigns supreme!
Why The Dollars?
A professional electric guitar can often use premium tonewoods like maple, rosewood, or ebony for their bodies and necks, contributing to superior resonance, sustain, and overall tone quality. They are also equipped with high-end pickups from renowned brands like Seymour Duncan or DiMarzio, offering unparalleled clarity, dynamics, and tonal versatility. They have also always required top-of-the-line hardware. These include items like locking tremolos, custom-designed bridges, and precision tuning machines, ensuring precise intonation, smooth performance, and durability under rigorous playing conditions.
Bass Guitars
Bass guitars add depth and groove to any band’s sound. They’re like the unsung heroes, holding down the low end and keeping everyone in sync. From budget-friendly options for beginners to premium models for pros, there’s a bass guitar out there for every player’s style and budget.
Budget Bass Guitars ($150 – $500)
These mini-budget bass guitars are the perfect entry point for those looking to start their musical journey with a cheap ticket. They often feature basic specifications such as a single-coil pickup, simple bridge systems, and standard tuning machines. Their body is commonly made from lightweight woods like basswood or agathis in order to keep costs down while maintaining a decent level of durability.
The reason behind their affordable price tag lies in the use of more economical materials and the result of simplified construction processes. For example, budget bass guitars may have bolt-on necks instead of set necks, which reduces manufacturing costs without sacrificing playability. Additionally, they may come with basic finishes and fewer customization options, making them easier and more cost-effective to produce.
Mid-level Bass Guitars ($500 – $1500)
Mid-level bass guitars offer a significant step up in terms of quality and features compared to budget models. They are designed to meet the needs of intermediate players who require a higher level of performance and versatility. These guitars often boast upgraded specifications such as dual-coil pickups, advanced bridge systems (e.g., adjustable bridges or active pickups), and precision tuning machines for improved stability.
The price increase in mid-level bass guitars is justified by the use of better-quality materials and enhanced craftsmanship. For instance, you may find bodies made from alder or mahogany, which offer superior tonal characteristics and resonance. The necks of these guitars may feature more intricate designs like neck-through construction or multi-piece laminates, providing added strength and sustain.
Premium Bass Guitars ($1500 and above)
Premium bass guitars represent the pinnacle of quality and unique craftsmanship in the guitar world. They are tailored to meet the exacting standards of professional musicians and enthusiasts who demand the best in terms of tone, playability, and aesthetics.
The higher price of premium bass guitars is justified by the use of premium-grade materials such as exotic tonewoods (e.g., maple, rosewood, ebony), high-end electronics (e.g., custom-wound pickups, active EQ circuits), and exquisite finishes (e.g., hand-applied nitrocellulose lacquer). Additionally, these guitars may offer extensive customization options, allowing players to personalize every aspect of their instrument to suit their preferences and playing style.
How Much is a Guitar Worth? Parting Tips For You
Choosing a guitar can be hard. Especially when you’re not sure how much your preference is actually worth. But now that you have read so far, we have something for you. To ensure that your interest reaches its end, here are a few parting tips to buy your first guitar:
Budget-Friendly Options for Beginners
If you’re just starting and looking for a cheap ticket to your passions, there are some fantastic budget-friendly guitars out there. Look for reputable brands with a recognizable company logo. They are generally offering starter packs that include everything you need to get going—guitar, accessories, and maybe even some beginner lessons. These kits can be a cost-effective way in order to start your musical journey without compromising on quality. After all, a cheap guitar isn’t always a bad one.
Value for Money in Mid-Range Guitars
When you’re ready to move up from beginner status, mid-range guitars offer a great balance of quality and affordability. Focus on online brands known for their craftsmanship and durability. Look for features like solid tops on acoustic guitars or versatile pickups on electric guitars. These guitars often provide a more refined sound and better playability than entry-level models with simple access as well.
Investing in Quality for Professionals
Professionals or serious enthusiasts might find investing in a high-quality guitar key. Consider established online brands with a reputation for excellence in craftsmanship and sound. Look for guitars made from premium materials like solid wood or high-grade electronics for electric guitars. Customization options may also be worth exploring to tailor the guitar to your specific preferences and playing style.