How Much to Spend

It may be wiser to borrow or rent an instrument for the first few months, until you determine your level of commitment to playing. On the other hand, an old, battered, poorly constructed instrument may be so difficult to play that you’ll be discouraged from learning.

It’s a good rule of thumb to purchase the most guitar you can afford. Generally, guitars hold their resale value—some in fact grow in value over the years. Buying a very cheap guitar may be self-defeating, because it may not suit your playing style or be so poorly made that it is difficult to play.