2) Review the playability of guitar step by step

Play up and down the neck on every string to check for buzzing. Check the intonation of the instrument. That is, play the open string and then play the same note at the 12th fret. Does it sound like a true octave?

Next, simply play at the extremes of your style. Play a fast, difficult tune. Follow it with a slow, melodic piece. Listen carefully to the sound of the instrument. Does it have the treble and bass response you're hoping for in each piece? If not, evaluate whether you have the correct style of guitar for your playing style; i.e., dreadnaught, OOO, OM, etc. Is it possible that the strings are old and a restring would solve the problem?

Check the action (the distance between the string and the fretboard). If the action is high, look over the neck for bows. Also, review the saddle and bridge. How high is the bridge? Does it stand erect or bend forward or backward? Is the saddle flush to the instrument's top? Many of these problems can be overcome with simple adjustments to the truss rod, nut, bridge, or saddle. Be sure to ask for a technician's assistance.

Likewise, if the action is too low, check the saddle. Is it solidly mounted to the top or has there been some shifting? Has the bridge or nut been previously modified? Once again, many of these problems are easily correctable too, but be sure to ask all the right questions.

3) Review the facility of the instrument

This is probably the most subjective portion of the process. Play the instrument for awhile. Does the neck feel comfortable in your hands? Is the reach appropriate to the size of your hands? Does the guitar feel comfortable resting in your lap? Does your right shoulder and arm drape appropriately over the instrument? If you are going to stand to play, does the weight of the instrument wear you down?

Do your fingers move with ease over the fingerboard? Are you able to play familiar pieces accurately on this instrument? If not, can you determine a reason? All of these factors will help how you feel about this instrument 3 months from now.

4) Ask questions

It may be obvious, but it may be the most important part of this process. Undoubtably, the process you've gone through thus far has raised questions. Some you may be able to guess at the answer. Some may seem trivial. Unless you've got the ability to buy and sell guitars at will, it's likely you'll be living with this choice for some years. Isn't it worth asking for clarification?

5) Make decisions on the factual data you've gathered

Hopefully, by now you've been able to determine if the construction of the guitar meets your budget and expectations. The tone and playabilitymay have kept this instrument in the finalist category as well. Now is the time to review any doubts that were raised by your inspection. Ask a technician to review your instrument, if necessary. But, be prepared to remove the emotion from your decision. If you're not sure you've found a new "friend," think it over.

At Music Folk, we're happy to lead you through this process. We'll ask questions about your playing style and what features interest you as well as your budget. Whether you're looking at a starter instrument or a fine collector piece, we'll be happy to work with you to find it. Keep in mind too that we do all of our own set up work so any guitar* you purchase at Music Folk has received proper attention before it hits the sales floor. Minor adjustments are part of the service we offer when you buy from us as well. We look forward to seeing you soon.

* Music Folk does not set up consignment instruments. That is, they are sold on an "as is" basis. Be sure to ask about the policies related to a consignment purchase.