Used Guitars for Sale
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Find used guitars across all styles — electric, acoustic, bass, classical, resonator, and more. Search Reverb, eBay, and 10+ marketplaces in one place.
Why Search Guitars on Treblemakers?
Treblemakers aggregates used guitars listings from Reverb, eBay, and 10+ other marketplaces — all in one place, updated daily. One search covers them all.
Buying Used Guitars: What You Need to Know
When buying a used guitar, know that price can vary dramatically based on brand, age, and condition. A Fender Stratocaster from the 1960s can fetch $3,000 or more, while a more common model might only be priced around $500. Understand common condition issues like fret wear, neck warping, or electronics failures. Fret wear should be minimal; replacing worn frets can cost you $200 or more. A warped neck affects playability and may require a costly adjustment. Good deals come from fair pricing and accurate descriptions. If a seller claims excellent condition but the photos show significant wear,
What Condition Grades Mean for Guitars
An excellent guitar shows minimal to no play wear. There are no dents or scratches. Electronics function flawlessly, and the neck is perfectly straight. All original parts are intact.
Very good guitars may have slight scratches or dings, but nothing significant. Electronics are still in great shape, but you might notice minor wear on the fretboard or hardware.
A good guitar has visible signs of use. Dings and scratches are present but don't affect playability. Some fret wear is acceptable, but the guitar should stay in tune and sound good. If you hear buzzing or have tuning issues, that's a red flag.
Fair guitars show considerable signs of wear, such as deep scratches or other cosmetic issues. They may need repairs, like fret replacement or electronic work. Avoid fair condition unless you plan on extensive restoration.
What to Inspect Before Buying Used Guitars
- 1Inspect the neck relief. A straight neck is crucial for playability; significant bowing can require expensive truss rod adjustments.
- 2Check fret condition. Worn frets can lead to buzzing notes. If frets look flat, you're in for a costly refret.
- 3Look at the hardware. Rusted or corroded hardware indicates neglect. Replacing hardware can cost you as much as $150.
- 4Test electronics for noise. Hissing or crackling during play indicates wiring issues. Repairing onboard electronics can run between $50 and $150.
- 5Examine the body for cracks. Cracks can affect sound and structural integrity. If you see cracks, walk away unless you're a pro with repairs.
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Search GuitarsFrequently Asked Questions
How much should I pay for a used guitar?
Prices vary widely based on brand and condition. Expect to pay between $300 and $3,000, depending on what you want.
What should I look for in a used guitar?
Check neck relief, fret wear, hardware condition, electronics noise, and body cracks. Each factor affects playability and value.
Is it worth buying a used guitar?
Absolutely. You can save significant money and often find vintage or high-end models that are out of your budget new.
How can I tell if a used guitar is a good deal?
Compare prices online for similar models, examine its condition closely, and ask the seller for detailed photos or descriptions.
What repairs might I need after buying a used guitar?
Common repairs include fret replacement, truss adjustments, and electronic fixes. Budget at least $100 for potential repairs.