For most online guitar shopping isn’t as comfortable as buying an acoustic guitar from a brick-and-mortar music store, which is often ideal for many customers for a simple reason: It lets them play, feel and compare actual models. That tangible playing and listening experience can be invaluable. Plus, a good store will have a knowledgeable staff that can help.
If you’re reading this, you know there are lots of online resources available for researching guitars. You can find everything from photos and specs to video demos to customer reviews and guitar forum discussions among enthusiasts. There has also been a rise in the number of online retailers who sell new guitars. Let’s set aside the category of used guitars and websites like eBay and Craigslist for the moment and focus exclusively on buying a new guitar from a music instrument retailer.
Here are four considerations for online guitar shopping:
1. Consistent quality breeds consumer confidence.
One of the obvious challenges of buying a new acoustic guitar sight unseen and sound unheard is exactly that: You don’t get to play and experience the unique nuances of a particular guitar. But as the modern manufacturing methods of some companies have brought more consistency to guitars, people have grown more comfortable buying online. If you’re considering this, be sure to find out what an online retailer’s return policy is.
2. Online retailers often offer expanded model selection.
Depending on the music stores in your general area, you might not have access to the model selection you want. A good brick-and-mortar retailer understands the value of a robust selection, but online retailers have the ability to offer an expanded inventory. If you’re interested in a specific model and a local dealer doesn’t have it, many are willing to order it for you, but online retailers can also be a good outlet, with a quick shipping turnaround.
3. Look for reputable online retailers who are authorized dealers for the brand you want.
Besides carrying a healthy selection, these retailers are likely to have a lot of good information about the models they carry on their website, and they generally have a knowledgeable staff that can answer questions and offer other helpful customer support. This will also help you avoid getting burned by a lower-quality knockoff version of what you’re looking for.
4. Many online retailers offer attractive financing options.
The availability of interest-free financing and other budget-friendly programs may broaden your options and help you get the guitar you really want.
To find an authorized Taylor dealer near you, or to access our network of premier online dealers, visit our Dealer Locator page.
