Should I buy a new or used guitar? It’s a question we hear all the time, and if you’re asking it, you’re definitely not alone. Standing there wondering whether to go for something shiny and brand new, or something with a bit of history behind it, is part of the fun (and the stress) of buying a guitar.

The honest answer is that both new and used guitars can be brilliant choices. What matters far more than whether a guitar is new or used is where you buy it from and how well it’s been looked after.

There’s something very reassuring about buying a new guitar. You know exactly what you’re getting. No wear, no unknowns, no previous owner’s experiments with DIY repairs. Everything is fresh out of the box, and there’s usually a manufacturer’s warranty and straightforward returns if it’s not quite right for you. Not to mention the added assurance of the Intasound Standard! For a lot of players, especially those buying their first guitar, that peace of mind is worth a lot.

Used guitars, though, offer something different. In many cases, they offer better value. Your budget often goes much further on the used market, meaning you can afford a higher-quality instrument than you would if you bought new. Better woods, better hardware, and a guitar that’s already been played in can make a real difference. Many players find that used guitars simply feel and sound better because they’ve had time to settle and open up.

There’s also a certain romance to a used guitar that’s hard to ignore. A few marks here and there, a bit of honest wear, and the sense that this instrument has already been part of someone else’s musical journey. Deciding that the chip in the body of that fiesta red Fender strat happened at Glastonbury, in 1992, when a fan rushed the stage, is something you can't get from a new instrument. It’s not something everyone cares about, but for some players, that feeling of a guitar that “tells a story” is a big part of the appeal.

That said, buying used isn’t without its risks, especially when buying privately. What looks like a great deal can quickly become expensive once hidden issues start to show themselves. Worn frets, neck problems, electrical faults, or poorly done repairs can all add unexpected costs. And when you buy privately, there’s usually no warranty and no returns. Once you’ve handed over the money, you’re on your own.

This is why buying from a reputable seller makes such a difference. At Intasound, all used equipment is properly checked, set up, and honestly described. We also provide a three-month warranty on used gear, which takes a lot of the risk out of the equation and gives you the confidence to enjoy your guitar rather than worry about it.

So should you buy a new or used guitar? Either can be a strong option. A new guitar offers predictability and peace of mind, while a used guitar can offer better value, more character, and sometimes a better playing experience. The key is buying from someone you trust, who stands behind what they sell.

We have some fantastic options of both in-store at the minute, so if you’re unsure, come in and try a few. Often, the right guitar makes the decision for you.