Our advice for buying a second-hand guitar

- General appearance: Look for scratches, dents and cracks.
- The handle: Make sure it is straight and not deformed.
- Head: Check for cracks, especially in the area where the handle meets the head.

2. Gameplay:
- Action: Check the height of the strings above the fingerboard (action). It should be comfortable, neither too high nor too low.
- Fret Wear: Look for worn or lifted frets that could affect playability.
- Handle relief: Examine the edge of the handle to make sure it is not arched.
- String buzz: play each string on each fret to check that there is no buzz.

3. The sound:
- Sound: Play the guitar and listen to its tone - is it rich, dull, bright or muffled?
- Sustain: Check how long notes are sustained.
- Intonation: Make sure the guitar stays in tune on the fretboard by playing the same note in different octaves.

4. Electronics (for electric and electro-acoustic guitars):
- Microphones: Make sure they are working and listen for buzzing or other unwanted noises.
- Controls: Check the correct operation of the volume and tone controls, as well as the switches.
- Input jack: check that it is solid and does not come loose or crack when a cable is inserted.
- Wiring: Look inside the electronic cavity (if possible) to see if everything is soldered well and if everything seems to be in order.

5. Material:
- Tuning Forks: Make sure they are working properly.
- Bridge: Check that it does not lift and is not damaged.
- Nut: check it for cracks and the slots for excessive wear.
- Strap buttons: Make sure they are secure and not loose.

6. Aesthetics:
- Finish: Check for cracks, checks or bubbles in the finish.
- Inlays and fixings: Make sure they are intact and not lifted or damaged.

7. Origin (if it is important to you):
- Modifications: Ask if there have been any non-original modifications or replacements.
- Serial number: Check and validate the serial number to verify the age and authenticity of the guitar.

8. Accessories:
- Case: is it included and in what condition?
- Cables, straps, etc. : Sometimes sellers include them.

9. The price:
- Fair price: Make sure the asking price is fair and compares to similar models in similar conditions.
- Negotiation: Be prepared to negotiate, but be fair and realistic.

10. Origin:
- History: Find out about the history of the guitar, such as previous repairs or problems.
- Receipts: Check to see if there are receipts for work done on the guitar.

Another tip:
- Trusted Seller: Buy from a reputable seller or platform like Replay Music.

Keep in mind that a used guitar may show some wear and tear, but it should be in good playing condition. If it requires minor adjustments or new strings, that's usually acceptable. On the other hand, significant issues, especially structural issues such as cracks in the neck or body, can be deal-breaking unless you are looking for a project instrument.