1. Do Your Research Before You Go

Before you head to the store, it’s helpful to do some research on the types of guitars you’re interested in. This will give you a clear idea of what to look for and help you narrow down your options.

Research Tips:

• Know Your Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend. This will help you focus on guitars within your price range.
• Consider Your Playing Style: Think about the type of music you play and the features that matter most to you, such as pickup configuration, body shape, or neck profile.
• Read Reviews: Look up reviews and watch demos of the guitars you’re considering. This can give you insights into their strengths and weaknesses.

2. Start with a Visual Inspection

When you first pick up a guitar in the store, take a moment to visually inspect it. This will help you identify any potential issues before you start playing.

What to Look For:

• Finish Quality: Check the guitar’s finish for any imperfections, such as scratches, dents, or uneven paint. A well-applied finish indicates good craftsmanship.
• Neck and Fretboard: Look down the length of the neck to ensure it’s straight. Check the fretboard for any uneven frets, sharp edges, or gaps between the frets and the wood.
• Hardware: Inspect the hardware, including the tuning machines, bridge, and pickups. Make sure everything is securely attached and free of rust or corrosion.
• Electronics: If the guitar has electronics, such as pickups or preamps, check that the knobs and switches move smoothly and feel solid.

3. Check the Action and Playability

The action of a guitar refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. Action affects playability, so it’s important to test this before making a decision.

How to Check Action:

• String Height: Press down on each string at the first fret and at the 12th fret. The strings should be close enough to the fretboard to be comfortable to play, but not so low that they buzz against the frets.
• Neck Relief: Hold down a string at the first fret and the last fret simultaneously. Check the gap between the string and the middle frets (around the 7th fret). There should be a small gap, indicating the neck has the proper amount of relief.
• Fret Buzz: Play each string on each fret, listening for any buzzing sounds. Fret buzz can indicate high frets, low action, or a poorly adjusted neck.
• Comfort: Feel the neck profile and check if it’s comfortable for your hand size and playing style. Make sure you can easily reach all the frets, especially in the upper registers.

4. Test the Tuning Stability

Tuning stability is crucial, especially if you plan to perform or record with the guitar. Testing this in-store will help you avoid issues down the road.

How to Test Tuning Stability:

• Tune the Guitar: Start by tuning the guitar to standard pitch using a tuner. Ensure that all strings are properly tuned.
• Play for a Few Minutes: Spend a few minutes playing the guitar, including bending notes, using vibrato, and playing open chords.
• Check the Tuning: After playing, check the tuning again. If the strings have gone out of tune, the guitar may have tuning stability issues, possibly due to the tuners, nut, or bridge.

5. Evaluate the Guitar’s Tone

The tone of a guitar is one of the most important factors to consider. Different guitars have different tonal characteristics, so it’s important to choose one that suits your musical style.

How to Evaluate Tone:

• Play Different Styles: Test the guitar by playing a variety of styles that you typically play, such as strumming, fingerpicking, soloing, and power chords. This will give you a sense of the guitar’s versatility.
• Test Pickup Positions (Electric Guitars): If you’re testing an electric guitar, switch between the different pickup positions (neck, middle, bridge) and listen to the tonal differences. Each position should offer a distinct sound.
• Check Acoustic Resonance (Acoustic Guitars): For acoustic guitars, listen to how the guitar resonates when played unplugged. The guitar should produce a balanced, full sound with good projection.
• Volume and Sustain: Play notes and chords at different volumes, from soft to loud, and listen for clarity and sustain. A good guitar will maintain tonal clarity at all volume levels and have a natural, long-lasting sustain.

6. Plug It In (For Electric and Acoustic-Electric Guitars)

If you’re testing an electric or acoustic-electric guitar, be sure to plug it into an amplifier to hear how it sounds amplified.

How to Test When Plugged In:

• Amplified Tone: Listen to how the guitar sounds through an amp. Test it with a clean tone, as well as with effects like distortion or reverb, to see how it responds.
• Check the Controls: Adjust the volume and tone controls on the guitar to see how they affect the sound. Make sure the controls are responsive and offer a range of tonal options.
• Noise and Hum: Pay attention to any unwanted noise, such as hum or buzz. This could indicate issues with the guitar’s electronics or grounding.

7. Test for Versatility

A versatile guitar can handle a range of musical styles, making it a good investment for players who like to explore different genres.

How to Test Versatility:

• Play Different Genres: Test the guitar by playing different genres, such as rock, blues, jazz, and metal. This will help you gauge how well the guitar adapts to different playing styles.
• Experiment with Effects: If possible, test the guitar with different effects pedals or amp settings to see how it handles various sounds and tones.
• Check Response: Pay attention to how the guitar responds to your playing dynamics. A versatile guitar should sound good whether you’re playing softly or digging in with more intensity.

8. Consider the Overall Feel

The overall feel of a guitar is subjective, but it’s an important factor in your decision. The guitar should feel comfortable and inspire confidence when you play.

How to Assess Feel:

• Weight: Consider the guitar’s weight and balance. It should feel comfortable to hold, whether you’re sitting or standing.
• Ergonomics: Pay attention to the guitar’s ergonomics, including how it fits against your body, the contour of the body, and the reach of the controls.
• Comfort: Make sure the guitar feels comfortable in your hands, and that you can play it for extended periods without discomfort.

9. Ask Questions and Take Your Time

Don’t hesitate to ask the store staff any questions you might have about the guitar. They can provide valuable information about the guitar’s features, setup, and maintenance.

Questions to Ask:

• Setup Details: Ask if the guitar has been set up recently and if any adjustments can be made to suit your preferences.
• Warranty and Return Policy: Inquire about the store’s warranty and return policy in case you encounter any issues after purchase.
• Guitar History (Used Guitars): If you’re buying a used guitar, ask about its history, including any repairs or modifications that have been made.

Take Your Time:

• Don’t Rush: Take your time when testing a guitar. Play it for as long as you need to get a good sense of its strengths and weaknesses.
• Compare Multiple Guitars: If possible, test multiple guitars within your budget. Comparing them side by side can help you make a more informed decision.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. If a guitar feels right and sounds great, it’s likely the right choice for you.

Trust Your Gut:

• Connection: Choose the guitar that you feel the strongest connection with. It should inspire you to play and feel like an extension of your musical expression.
• Don’t Settle: If you’re unsure or something doesn’t feel right, don’t settle. There are plenty of guitars out there, so take the time to find the one that truly suits you.

Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Guitar

Testing a guitar in-store is an essential step in finding the perfect instrument. By following this step-by-step guide, you can thoroughly evaluate each guitar’s playability, tone, and overall quality, ensuring that you make an informed decision.

Remember, the right guitar is one that not only meets your technical requirements but also feels comfortable and inspires you to play. Take your time, trust your instincts, and you’ll find the perfect guitar that will bring you joy for years to come.