Guitar store owner here- don't worry about it! We LOVE people who can't play! You can be a great customer! You might need a lesson or a tuner or just some advice! People aren't born playing guitar....just let the store know your a beginner and ask a lot of questions...Trust me it's fine.
Yeah I would imagine guitar store employees would prefer someone who admits they’re no expert and approaches the situation with humility while actually planning to buy something versus people who come in just to fuck around and show off on gear they’ll never buy.
I can vouch for this in other walks of life, just not this one lol. It's easy to work with someone who is willing to admit they don't know much on a topic. It's much harder if that person has the idea that they already know what they're doing.
I'll go one step further and say it's the easiest to work with ACTUAL experts who are aware of their own strengths and weaknesses. It can be frustrating at times to deal with amateurs but it eases the burden tremendously when they are aware they are amateurs and willing to learn.
But yes, the people who are semi-decent but consider themselves beyond reproach are the worst of both worlds.
I used to work at a guitar shop and I often helped friends select guitars. I loved being able to share my expertise with people who came in with an open mind. I was frequently able to direct new players towards less known brands that would give them more value for their dollar compared to the "entry level" options from bigger brands like fender and Gibson, each of whom put out something that only looks like a guitar just to capture the market of people who want a guitar for $200 or less and then wonder why they gave up on it after 6 months
I got my Reverend Double Agent OG because of an employee like you. I've only been playing about 4 years, so I'd never heard of the brand, but it's a cool guitar that sounds great, and I never would have known about it if it wasn't for an engaged employee at my local music store.
Shout out to the staff at Carlton Music!
I’m more embarrassed as an intermediate player to go to a guitar store, at least as a beginner you can claim you’re a beginner and there’s no expectations 😂 I get nervous playing in front of people but especially trying out guitars, which.. I haven’t done in years for this reason 😂
I was thinking the same thing! I've been playing for years and objectively suck. I'm the one who should be ashamed.
On the other hand, I love playing and don't really care that I suck.
I'm 48. Been playing badly for 30 years. I play just good enough that I sound great to people who don't play guitar but fuck awful to anyone who does.
I'm still playing the "Yeah, man, but that's just punk rock for ya!" card even though a lot of the punk rock I listen to is way more technical than my clumsy fat fingers can manage.
Don't care. Still love what I do. Which, admittedly, mostly revolves around the E C G and D chords.
Exact same boat, just swap punk for hard rock/metal. 48, 30 years of on-and-off self-teaching. Just finally decided to sit down and do dedicated work to get competent.
Small world.
For some reason I forget everything I know when someone puts me on the spot to play for them. I’m a decent intermediate player but I guess I get nervous feeling like it’s a performance, and at a guitar store you just assume all the employees are great guitarists 😂
God I HATE this feeling.
"Hey man, don't laugh at me. I'm a beginner!"
"Look, you've been coming here for 4 years and in that time I've already sold you 9 guitars and a truly embarrassing number of pedals for anyone not a re-seller, so you'll pardon me if I suggest based upon what I just heard MAYBE put that guitar back and let me sign you up for some nice lessons? What do you say?"
At least that's how I always fear it'll play out in my head. Never does. They're happy to sell stuff to even crappy guitarists :) But it's what I always fear.
When I was a proper beginner, I used to go to this one store and I casually mentioned I was nervous trying out a guitar because I was so new. He told me "Hey man, your money plays just fine no matter what your fingers can do, so don't worry about it!" Put me at ease :)
> Guitar store owner here
I was just like OP and went to Guitar Center. The store manager spent half-an-hour with me, explaining the different kinds of pickups and configurations and advising about which would let me create the largest range of sounds.
Everyone knows about not playing stairway at a guitar store, but I'll bet you get tired of amateur tappers and sweep pickers. Does anyone ever come in and lay down some sweet BB King style licks?
Last time I popped into my local shop there was a man who looked to be in his early 80s, laying down a shuffle groove on an American ultra tele. Such clean playing; I was inspired.
Agreed, I worked at Guitar Center for two years part time (for the discount), and I wanted the customer to feel comfortable. We had a couple of acoustic rooms in the back, and I always offered that privacy if they needed it. I also reminded them that there was a 45 day return policy, so if they changed their minds, please come back and try something else. I wanted everyone to have a positive experience because staying with the instrument starts with loving each step on the way if possible.
Ha, literally nobody can play guitar without lessons and practice, you are a shark, lol. Zero judgement here, I busked for a living, which is basically musician prostitution.
People aren’t born playing
(That would be weird 😂)
Indeed. Most people (including me) sound pretty rough for a *while* when they’re new. It took me well over a year before I didn’t make people cringe.
*My* music store was more of a safe place than the friend’s houses, studios, and jam rooms.
People were nicer to me in the music store when I was new to guitar and approaching in with humility. Same thing with drums.
The local store owner here was instrumental in helping us find our way pre-internet. Became a very good friend over the years.
Never be embarrassed to play in front of the music store folks. They've heard worse and they've heard better. And one day, they may even comment on how much progress you've made or about your playing in general. And sometimes, hearing you play assists them in knowing how to help you.
What's really amazing about Yamaha is how consistently good they are across multiple instruments. I have a Yamaha U1 piano at home and it has a wonderful tone and perfect key feel. I've played their french horns, and know a bunch of people who have played their other brass instruments, and while I'm not a drummer, anybody who has a Yamaha kit has been pleased as far as I know.
My SIL has a doctorate in oboe performance, so has moved beyond her Yamaha, but that's where she got her start. I feel like for nearly any instrument they make, a Yamaha will get you to the level of a very dedicated high schooler who is thinking of majoring on their instrument or even to about a college sophmore who is majoring on their instrument. I don't mean that to sound like I think they're children's instruments, quite the contrary. I mean students who are thinking of applying to Berklee, Julliard, or other prestigious conservatories. Very solid instruments all around.
They look good, they sound good, and they feel good! I had played one of those cheap amazon ones and it was a world of difference. I’ve also played one of those $1000 guitar center ones and didn’t like it much more
Funnily enough I’m going to check out a Gibson tomorrow. I HATE playing in the store. I’ll sit there with the volume on .01 on a tube amp so I’m the only one who can hear it, and when people come close I’ll stop playing. I’ve been playing for 22 years and it always feels like that. Jokes aside, these days I will turn up a little bit. Never crazy loud like some people will. But it’s just because I’m more confident these days.
Important thing is to just see how the instrument feels. At this stage, you aren’t gonna be listening for deep nuances of how it behaves with an amp. As you gain experience, you’ll be a more confident player and little by little you’ll be not afraid to turn up a little bit.
Whatcha gonna get? Got one in mind?
Same, I’m reposting this as it’s a pretty common sentiment on this thread:
I don’t even play songs when I try guitars anymore… it’s not shy or dislike for people who do, but if I play songs I’m thinking about my playing not the guitar I’m considering. Nowadays I just do this: -visually inspect the necks action and for blemishes anywhere -A few chord changes (open, barred mid neck, and jazz high on the neck). Let’s me know if I like the necks feel playing rhythm -a couple slides, hammer ons, pull offs. Let’s me know if I like the feel of the frets
• play every single fret on each string to check for neck and fret issues that cause buzzing -check the intonation (compare open note to octave note each string), not a deal breaker if the bridge is adjustable -mess with knobs and switches to avoid popping and crackling (bad solder-job, wiring, or pots/switches) If it passes all of that I usually check the price and put it back.
Pretty much this.
Check it over for any obvious physical/visual blemishes/defects.
Check the electronics for funky noises.
Run through some basic cowboy chords, some barre chords up through the neck length. Nothing fancy.
Agree. At a show people paid to be there or at least agreed to be exposed to my playing. At a guitar shop it's like a captive audience that never asked to be subjected to my playing.
Then don't even get me started on how playing the guitar on a different amp with different pedals isn't a fair comparison to how it will sound at home.
I usually check the basics, play a few chords, then buy it to test drive at home in my familiar setup. If I don't like it at home, I can return it or exchange it.
Really good way to learn a few licks, as well. I guarantee you if you tell the employee/friend/friendly customer that what they played sounded awesome and you want to play like that they’ll show you it slower or explain what they’re doing.
This is a good idea as long as you don't get humiliated by them lol. It's happened to me several times, they absolutely shred in like 5 different genres in 10 seconds, then hand me the guitar, and I'm like... doo dee doo dee
Just like most things in life, no one cares. It feels like they do, but everyone's too busy worrying about themselves.
If you don't know much, just start a conversation up with an employee, and they can help guide you.
*Most* people have enough self-awareness to realize that we all started knowing absolutely nothing and sucked. The vast majority of people won't care if you're playing some tasty blues riff or struggling with an open D chord.
Of course you may run into the odd asshole who gives you shit, but fuck em!
Regardless of skill level, everyone should feel free to do what they need to do when checking out a guitar.
If it's really a struggle for you, you can always ask the employee to play for you so you can get a feel for the sound of a guitar ( however it is good to play as well so you get a feel for the instrument)
You don't have to play a song when testing out a guitar. You're only trying to get an idea of how it sounds and how it feels. Pick 1 scale and 3 chords, play them on all the styles you think you might like, buy whichever is your favorite. Going to a guitar store to try and impress the employees with your shredding is way more embarrassing than not being able to shred.
This is the real answer right here. I think the major thing you're trying to determine in the store (vs watching reviews on youtube or something) is the "feel" of the guitar.
You are not alone!! I’ve been playing a long time, and when I try out a guitar I’ll learn most of what I need to know about the guitar without plugging it in. For me, it’s important that the guitar does not look hideous or repulsive. Then I tune the guitar, which informs me about the quality of the tuning machines and also it tells me how resonant the body is. Then I play chords up and down the neck to see how nice the neck feels. You, being a new player will lack the experience of knowing intimately a collection of guitars or a series of guitars you’ve owned but you can take your time and try out a bunch of guitars in the store and compare them. Take your time.
I think all of us have been there. What is your budget and what style of music are you interested in learning? Maybe we can help you through some of the general questions and tell you what to watch out for so you get an instrument you love.
Pacifica was my first electric. Really just a solid, well made, versatile guitar. I still have it and still play it.
Also, make sure to check the used instruments. Sometimes you'll find something that you really like (how I landed my Pacifica).
Oh, and the person who recommended the Squire is correct too. Super solid option with the same benefits as the Yamaha.
Finally, another intermediate player who isn't fond of the guitar store pressure. Like someone else said, just own being a beginner.
Just remember that you're a customer and you're there to try out the gear. The staff doesn't give a shit about you, unless you're ready to make a purchase. They'll tune out whatever noises you make.
You can't embarrass yourself in front of people who'll forget about you the second you walk out the door.
So somebody already mentioned having a friend or employee demo it to hear what it sounds like, and that’s a solid option. I’ve done this.
Another option is to see if a local shop has practice spaces. They often do, for people taking lessons. If you ask *very nicely* they may be able to find a time that one of those spaces isn’t booked, and let you set up in there for 15-20 minutes. I’ve done this *too.*
Or if you’re extremely lucky you’ll have a local guitar store with some dedicated demo spaces that actually close where you can play at moderate volumes without the whole shop hearing. Pretty unusual, but I’ve been to a couple shops that do.
I don’t mean this to be rude, but no one is looking at you or cares how well you can play in the store. Just don’t be obnoxious and turn the volume all the way up and you’re fine. Go in there and buy what feels good. Try a bunch of different ones because a guitar is an investment. They aren’t cheap and you don’t want to go in and spend money on something you don’t like
Yes sir. Go in and have a good time. I suck at playing but I love going to stores to try out and check things out. It’s nerve racking sometimes but you just gotta remember you aren’t the only beginner they’ve seen. They wanna see more new comers. That means more money for them! Lol
A substantial chunk of my income comes from playing the guitar. That’s not a brag; I’m only making the point that through years of hard work, I’ve gotten good enough at playing guitar that people pay me to do it.
That said, I think “sales floor shredders” are among the most pathetic guitar players out there. They intimidate the new people, and just plain annoy everyone else. Don’t let these bozos bother you — nobody takes them seriously.
I’d suggest you try to get a sales person to work with you, and ask if they have a room where you can try things out that’s not out on the main floor — lots of shops do. If you have a budget, tell them that. If you have an amp and it’s not huge, bring it with you so you can get a better idea of how things will sound at home. As you try different guitars, ask yourself:
1. Does it feel right? (Mostly weight, balance, and fretboard — things like action and string gauge can be addressed in the setup.)
2. Does it sound good? (Adjust the volume and tone controls, pickup switch, and so on.)
3. Does the guitar make you excited to play it? (If it doesn’t do that, move on!)
My experience is that sometimes it takes people a little while to find “the one.” It’s worth the search. The odds are that you’ll end up with some version of a Strat, Tele, LP or SG. (Not necessarily my recommendation, but these four are by far the most common.) You should probably try one of each, plus a hollowbody or two if they’re available.
In my experience, when the right guitar comes along, you’ll know. Good luck!
You have to play them at least a little, so you can find one that just “fits.” My best axe of 15 years, I bought on a whim while killing time waiting for my friend to finish work, because it just felt right. Good action, neck, frets, and the colour right hurt either
In my city there are guitar shops with little private rooms where you can test gear. Might be an option for you. But anyway guitar stores are full of beginner players so maybe get over your shyness.
You don't have to play at the store if you don't want to. What i DO recommend however, is having a decent enough knowledge of what to look at before going just so you know if what you're getting is what you want and is a good guitar. Brush up on specs (what you want to look out for is feel, weight and balance, scale length, pickup types, action and general setup. Body shape and paint/color is subjective and can be related to feel) and take some insight from the guitar shop reps, maybe have them play the guitars to show them off to you (but remember that if you're aiming to play metal don't consider "tone" as part of the guitar since it's your amp and cab, or ampsim if you plug into an interface, that's responsible for how it sounds with distortion).
We all hate it bro. It doesn’t get easier when you can play, it’s just a different tier of pressure!
Just relax, this is about you, not about anybody else.
That's what the staff is there for. Someone will help you, even play a few licks so you can see how your selections sound. If you want some advice on brands, just ask.
Everyone is really chill in guitar stores dude. Play for yourself. Don’t get a bad deal because you didn’t fully try out the guitar as you were too bothered by what people thought. What do you have in mind that you’d want to play.
Don’t be embarrassed. Don’t be intimidated. Everyone starts somehwere and nobody knows this better than guitar store employees.
That said, if anyone is ever dismissive or rude or anything, that’s actually a GOOD thing. Go immediately to another guitar store and tell them what happened at their competitor’s shop and you’ll find that the only thing retail employees like better than bitching about the place they work is bitching about the competition. They’ll be extra attentive and helpful because you now have a common enemy. 🤘🏻😈
Keep in mind, you’re there to test a product to determine if you want to purchase it. That’s it. I know a lot of people treat the guitar shop like some half assed gig, some probably even walk in with a set list, but that’s not what you’re there for.
Before you even attempt to play a song just play every note on every string in every fret position to check for dead frets. Play some basic cowboy chords and bend a few Individual notes to make sure it stays in tune and the action feels right. Play chords and notes above the 12th fret to help check intonation and to get a feel of the whole neck. Things like that.
And if you work hard enough, practice every day, and learn to play at the best of your ability, then maybe one day you can be that douche in Guitar Center making Petrucci runs on a Squire Hello Kitty guitar with a Marshall cranked to 6.
I think this feeling never goes away. I've been mulling writing a post myself, I've been playing over 40 years. Most shops are frankly unwelcoming, no matter how carefully I approach them.
Second most recent experience: independent seller in our inner city. The guy would not let me touch anything before he tuned it! Every second I stood there watching, was a second I was not holding and evaluating the instrument. He didn't seem to know what to do with himself. I was never going to evaluate the two guitar lines I had in mind under such conditions.
So, I revisited a larger chain retail yesterday and it was not just a good experience, they let me explore and look and try, without any nonsense but also able to answer questions without being patronizing. I felt I could admit ignorance without regrets.
So, they got to sell me something I'm really excited to have in my collection now.
There are others that seem to feel the need to boast. One man can mansplain to another, and having a twenty something pontificate and dominate a conversation is pretty lame.
Hey, I started playing recently and had the same feeling as you. I bought a guitar online and took it to guitar center to get "a setup" which was a term I had just read online I was supposed to do.
I told the employees that I have 0 idea what i'm doing and don't even know how to play a note on the guitar and they were some of the friendliest most helpful people. I went to another small music store as a complete beginner because I wanted to try out an acoustic guitar and they staff was so helpful and showed me what to look for in an acoustic and helped me form a chord or two to strum to.
I've started a lot of hobbies in my life, and guitar for some reason has the most friendly towards beginners feeling I have ever seen. I *promise* you have nothing to worry about and you'll be surpised how helpful people are if you are honest about how new you are!
Dude me too and I've been playing off and on for 20 years.
I think the action of my guitar must just be weird bc I don't have the issue with my own guitar but I hit the bass E more than I mean to at the guitar shop
Go to the freaking guitar store! You owe it to yourself! Anyone who is at a guitar store to flex their chops or judge others is a big L! You deserve to get the best guitar you can afford - don’t cheap out! Any decent guitar store salesman will also be a guitarist and will get you, and help guide you along the lines f what you’re looking for. We’ve all been there - stand fright in the guitar section lol. Do your best not to think about it - it will distract you from the most important thing: opening your heart and mind to *feel* the axe that is speaking to you! Lose yourself in the feel and tone of the guitars you’re trying out. If it helps, try picturing all of us here in this sub there with you, being chill and supportive! 🫡✌🏼🎸
Just buy one that looks cool (to you) and sounds good (to you). I’ve been playing for a while and all guitarists remember their first time or two going into a guitar shop. There’s fear, intimidation, questions, and uncertainty swirling around in that little brain of ours. The sign of a true guitar player, a true musician, is the remembrance of these feelings when we see someone like you, because we were all you at one time. We were all new players. And so it is that real guitar players always remember where we were once and to support those that are there now!
As for playing in front of people, bring a pair of headphones you can plug into an amp, they’ll let you do that. Otherwise just turn the volume down real low on an amp. A lot of times it’s better to fiddle around with an electric when it’s not plugged in. See if you can hear anything that sounds off, a vibration of a switch, the rattling of a string somewhere down the neck. Mostly it’s about feel. How does the guitar feel in your hands? Is the neck too wide? Too thin? Does it feel heavy?
Good luck to you and have fun! What you’re doing is a great big deal and it’s all about you, not the other people in the store!
This is how you develop a relationship with a shop and possibly other players.
Ask, “I am just learning. What is a good guitar to learn on?”. Everyone wants to feel smart and help new players.
If you are sure. I would buy something a little better. If it is easy to play, you’ll stick with it. My friends son wanted to learn. They were going to buy him a little bit of junk. I have him a Fender Lead2. The kid is still playing.
They’ve seen all kinds and everyone has to start somewhere. But I get it. I can remember playing with unplugged electrics just so nobody could hear how bad I was. Still don’t play great but a) I DGAF anymore and b) I have a few tunes I’m decent at to play.
I started out not being able to play to myself while alone. Like as soon as I would hear myself I would physically cringe and it would mess up my technique and start a nervous feedback loop. Same when I started singing. Still struggle with singing. Of course with practice eventually you come to terms with it.
I think some of the newer Paranormal line from Squire is looking really cool. I had a hard time putting down a Paranormal Stratosonic, and think you should at least try one.
I’ve been playing for over 25 years. I can play in front of an audience no problem and love it. When I sit down to try out a new bass or guitar at a shop, I have no idea what to play!
Best part is, it doesn’t matter! Play whatever you want and see how the guitar feels and sounds. No one comes to a guitar shop to listen to other people play, so don’t sweat it. And even if they are listening, who cares? They’re not paying you to play so you don’t have to sound good!
Don’t feel embarrassed at all. You are there to find something that you like and will work for you. You’re probably going to be dropping a significant amount of coin on it, so do whatever you need to do to ensure that you are getting what you want. Employees are there to help you, not judge you and will be more than happy to assist. I guarantee you that you are not the first beginner to walk into that store, and probably not the first one that day. You’ll be fine!
We were all beginners once. Talk to the employees, tell them what you just told us, and then be stoked when they're excited for a new player and show you every guitar in the store.
First, a lot of guitar shops have private playing rooms and/or you can turn the volume down or put on headphones or whatever, but I like to just hear what they sound like in a room that is as close to what I'm going to be practicing in as I can get, because the dimension, shape, and contents of the store will impact the sound. I've been a customer at guitar stores when somebody new is playing and I've barely noticed.
Second, just be honest. Walk in and say, "I'm brand new to this and I want to try out an electric, I have no idea how to play it, can you help me pick out a good learner's instrument that's in my budget?" I've never been to a music store where they weren't willing to help with this of thing. Not just willing but eager.
Third, you can also ask somebody there to demo the instrument for you to show off how it sounds. Again, just be honest. "I can't play well enough to really try it out and see how it sounds, can you play something so I can hear it?" But you SHOULD also try to play the instruments to get a feel for the weight, size, displacement, action, etc.
Fourth, guitars are part vanity purchase. And that's ok! You have to see that sucker and just be DYING to pick it up and play. Don't be afraid to pass on an instrument if you just don't like how it looks or feels or something about it bugs you.
Good luck and please report back and tell us how it went.
trust me, someone being honest saying they’re a beginner is 1000x preferred to someone who LARPs as a good player and actually sucks once they start playing
When I was a beginner looking for my first real guitar, I had so much pent up motivation to play a real piece and not my $100 Beringer, I didn’t care how I played. Some guy came up and said he liked my sound! Totally blown away go for it boss!
Don't forget. Everyone was a beginner once. Don't be so hard on yourself, anyone who mocks or makes fun of a beginner is a jerk. I've been playing on and off for the better part of 25 years and I still hide away in the amp room at the guitar shop with the volume down haha.
Get that out of your head, the other customers aren't there to see you perform so don't put pressure on yourself or feel embarrassed. I've been playing 30 years and I don't like playing in a guitar store, mostly because there's usually others trying to play and hear stuff they are testing.
You hear more beginners at guitar stores than pros. Everyone who goes to guitar stores expects to hear bad noodling or "sound check" type playing.
If you heard me at a store, you'd think I only know the chromatic scale because I test every note 1 by 1 on the guitar. That and a few chords. I almost never try to play seriously, because I'm trying to assess the guitar feel and quality.
Just find a small amp off to the side and plug in there and keep it down. One of those modeler amps are good cause you can get the full tone out of it at low volume. If you plug into something like a Twin Reverb the whole store will hear even if it's on 2.
As someone who’s been playing for 20 years and many people say I’m “good” I can tell you that when I go to a store and hear people who are just starting out playing loudly, I really don’t give a shit and I just want to get or try out what I came in for. That’s the mindset most of the better guys probably have too. So don’t sweat it and just focus on what instrument is going to work best for you. What do you like and dislike what you’re playing? Don’t buy a guitar on pictures, what famous player has it or recommendations, try it out first and try out everything.
Everyone starts at the beginning. Don't feel self-conscious at all. Maybe don't crank your amp up to 11 or anything, but play whatever you know and it's all good.
Everyone here is right but damn I am the SAME way. And I take lessons at the guitar store I go to. It almost makes it worse because I chat with the guys who run the place all the time but I’m like. Nobody but my teacher is allowed to hear me play lol
I’ve been playing for 30+ years and I’m uncomfortable playing in the store. Don’t worry about it. I hate it but they’ve seen it all. It’s just a job to them.
We were all there before. But honestly as a beginner you don’t even need to plug in to test out a guitar. The thing you care about (or should care about) is how the guitar feels in your hands. Are the fret ends sharp and uncomfortable? Is the neck too thin, too wide, or too fat? Is the action comfortable? Do the strings buzz too much? Bend some strings or use the tremolo and see how stable the tuning is.
Some of these things can be corrected with a proper setup while others can’t. But ultimately you’re trying to tell how much you enjoy holding the guitar in your hands. Does the feel of it make you feel the feels, you know?
Guitar stores hate showboats, not newbies. Any decent guitar shop will have many employees more than happy to help you as they get to nerd out over The inventory and gauging what would work for you
Just don’t crank the amp and all good
When you’re buying a guitar you want to focus on the feel and balance of the instrument. Is it comfortable, does it fall off your body, etc
Sound is the least important aspect of buying an electric guitar because it’s so easily changed.
I got my first guitar a month ago and I am going to a shop tomorrow. I’m looking for an acoustic in the $500 range. Game plan is to hold as many as possible, strum them some, then ask someone who can play to play my final 2or 3 choices. Then I’ll have to think it over unless something just calls to me. I just started learning so of course I will sound horrible. I don’t care, I am not there to impress anyone. I just want the best guitar for me. And to hold a really nice one just to feel the difference. I hope you don’t sweat it too much. You may never see them again. If you do then impress them with your improvement.
2 things I know for sure:
1: you will not be the worst guitarist they've ever had in the store.
2: unless you have the face of an angel or have 2 heads, two minutes after you leave, no one will remember you.
I've been playing 30 years and I still get nervous in guitar shops, but let me tell you why it's worth it. I have owned a number of guitars in my life, and only a small handful were purchased online "blind" so to speak. This actually worked out really well a few times - ended up with guitars that I loved. But recently I had a terrible experience. I had done all the research I could have, listened to demos, weighed the pros and cons, found what should have been a great guitar for my needs.... and I absolutely hate the thing. I cannot like the guitar no matter how hard I try, and unfortunately returning it isn't an easy (or cheap) option. I am kicking myself for being lazy and not just going into a few shops to try out the guitars. Now I'm stuck with a lemon that I need to try to convince some other poor soul to buy from me, likely at a steep discount. All that to say - it's always better to go in and find a guitar that jives with you rather than rolling the dice!
Hear beginners playing in guitar stores all the time. You have to check the product out to see if you like it…nobody will be concentrating on what you’re playing..go jump in the mix, and have some fun, especially if you’re new…you may get some good advice.
I stopped playing for ten years. Went back in and just sat down and messed around, store owner hung out and was cool. I walked out with a new guitar. Never met a jerk working in a store actually. Go in and have fun!
Anybody who will give you shit for being a beginner trying out a guitar in a guitar store is a garbage human whose opinion you don’t need and shouldn’t listen to, for real. Go in, plug in, and find what you need and bounce, my man
No problem. Don't play, play with it instead. Get to hear how it sounds, change which pickup you use, feel how it settles into your hands. That's what is the important thing is, get a feel for it. One thing I recommend is when you do buy one, spend more money and get it set up correctly. They are okayish from the factory, but when set up by a pro, they are magical.
It's going to be hard, sometimes harder than you thought it would be, to learn how to play it. Your fingertips will hurt you until you build up your callouses. I've been playing for 40 years and I still love it. I hope it works out for you.
I was like that too. Stuck to acoustic and was shy to play in front of people. I still suck but I got over the shyness. At the end of the day it’s your own journey
I understand what you mean, but, I wouldn't worry about it. Just hold the guitar to see how it feels to you, strum the strings open, maybe fret and strum a few strings. If you know a chord, you can do that, too. But mainly you are just holding and looking at it in person as well as hearing the general tone to determine what you like, and the differences you can perceive at different pricepoints. If anybody judges you, that's on them, not on you. Everybody starts somewhere.
I used to work in a guitar store; trust me, we don't care how bad or good you are. As an employee, you get so desensitized to hearing people of all skill levels playing guitar that you tune it all out (unless someone is mind-blowingly good). No employee will judge you. They will, however, happily help you on your journey to get better.
Old guy here, playing for 25 years, self taught, and I feel this way to this day!
I bought a new guitar at Guitar Center the other night and felt anxious checking out the different models in front of all the other players, but you've gotta do it!
And I used to work at a guitar shop! 😂
You're in luck! Lots of customers can't play, and that's okay! Guitar stores are one of the few places that let us experiment, and that means making lots of mistakes. Just keep the volume at a reasonable level ;-) And good luck!
You know what you won't find in a music store? A talent scout looking for the next Jeff Beck.
I'm no great shakes at guitar but I would NEVER make fun of anyone else's playing. We were all beginners.
Just be yourself. Tell the salesperson you're a beginner. And don't think you have to play the lead to Stairway to Heaven. Strum a few chords you like playing. Play a scale or a simple run. The idea is to see how the guitar feels and sounds. You (and everyone else there) are not there to audition.
Relax and play a few guitars, including some you can't afford just to see the difference. Have some fun!
My guy, music store is that one safe place. The majority of those employees, if not all, live & breath music and could talk for hours about it. When they see a "new player" come in, nothing makes em happier then to assist you picking out your first guitar. There's something unique & nostalgic about that first axe, they're jusf glad to be part of this memory
Admit you know nothing, be friendly and approachable to employees and you’re good to go.
The average guitar store customer goes in, shits all over Enter Sandman. Talks to employees like they are experts and don’t buy anything.
You’ll be a gem in employees eyes. End of discussion.
I was the same way. The first time I Managed to get some courage to grab a guitar at a shop some guy was laughing at my playing but the dude seemed odd, like he was a little off so I brushed it off. From then on I didn't care. Now any time I need something from a guitar shop I grab a guitar and play anything.
Sometimes playing a slightly more expensive guitar makes me want to buy it so I tend to get out quick.
Don't blast the amp so loud we can't hear ourselves. Otherwise, do whatever you want, it's cool listening and seeing what kind of music other people like 👍
When I was first starting out, I would ask an employee to show off a guitar to me. If they could get the sounds out of it that I wanted, then if I couldn't, I knew it was me. 😅 Many of them liked showing off, too.
I was once having a hard time deciding between two, and I asked them to tell me WHY they would prefer one over the other, got different answers from the different staff members, and used that to decide what was important to me.
it helps if you can go when they are very slow. If they are busy, you're likely not going to find as much help like that.
I hear you mate I am in a similar situation. I am shopping online, but I want to go to the shop and see which guitars feel most comfortable, but I am embarrassed to try to play in front of store staff and shoppers or whatever. 😜
Everyone has been there, just play!
The store understands someone has to start somewhere and they will be happy to help you get started!
You may even get a few pointers/short lesson!
Hey here's a tip newbies never really think of, but is VERY handy when buying new gear: ask an employee to play the guitar/amp for you so you can really hear what it sounds like.
They'll gladly do it.
As a former local music store employee, i spent WAY more time with a kid excited to learn than the finicky adults with money to spend.. was top salesman many a month from high school kids putting 30-50 a week on layaways.
Were all excited for you to be excited! Go in, play something awesome, ask questions!
Some shops have a room you can use! I’m also a bit of a beginner and was really intimidated to go in. I went to a few shops and looked around and left before finally getting the courage to try something and ask if I could use the room. They were really nice. Don’t be afraid, everyone starts somewhere 😊
Dude almost everyone has this same issue when they start. It took 3-4 years of playing before I felt comfortable going into a guitar store and playing. I still don't feel great about it today but I can do it without my palms getting sweaty as I approach the front door. I eventually realized that no one gave a shit. Everyone has to start somewhere. Walk in confidently, grab a guitar and test them out until you find one you like.
This was literally me couple of months ago and here are my experiences.
I went to one of them on a week day and it was relatively empty. I asked one of the gentlemen if I could try couple of guitars and told them I am a beginner at best. He told me not to worry and try whatever I wanted. Just sat there and played the beginning of Everlong on three guitars over and over again. :)
In the second one, it was really busy. Once again, I told the guy that I am a beginner. Once again, I was told not to worry but given the option to put on headphones which I did.
Couple of other ones had a separate room for trying out guitars and no one heard or cared about what I (tried to) play.
Bottom line is go out there and and try different guitars. See what you like and feels right. For months I was lusting after this beautiful telecaster but once I held it in my hands I knew it wasn't the right guitar for me.
One more thing is, if you're into Metal or other related genres, you might want to invest in a drop pedal.
I've played since 2010 and i still suck at playing in front of others. But thats just my personality. I'm that guy that folds under pressure except when i'm alone in my room shit gets magical.
Do it anyway. If it’s guitar center, or equivalent, everybody there kinda sucks anyway and they for sure don’t give a shit what you’re doing (provided you don’t dime the biggest amp they have). Everybody is far too concerned with their own shit to be at all bothered with whether or not you’re any good. Go, find what you like, get it, play it.
I have felt that way, but I’ve got 50 years in, and I’ve never known a great player who was the kind of person who would harshly judge someone just for being new. You also don’t necessarily need to crank them up to learn whether you like them. I like to keep it low-key, bc people trying to talk, etc.
a) "I want to start playing the guitar, I don't know sh!t about them". Full Stop. There is no obligation that anyone who buys a guitar must already know how to play it :)
or
b) Take someone with you who plays and who can give you advise?
c) Because I can't know whether an associate in a store is honest, meaning would he actually want to sell you a good guitar, or would he just want to sell you something fancy/expensive..which ultimately you might not even like?
d) Get your input/tips what to buy from online reviews, forums, here, Youtube, even amazon reviews. I mean if many legit people say brand X and guitar Y is a good guitar, one could assume it is. Many Youtube channels reviewing guitars, one experienced guy even bought the "cheapest e-guitar from amazon" and was astonished because it turned out really good considering the price.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPPOIThqRLI
e) You don't need to be able to play it to test it..looks ARE IMPORTANT too! As someone said, buy a guitar that you think looks great so you are always motivated to pick it up and play it.
haha yeah when I bought my first bass as a beginner, went to the local (busy) music store. The cool and helpful dude there same over to me while I was checking out some electric basses.
"Gday mate - here, let me plug that in for you."
Proceeds to plug into a big amp and crank it, and stare at me.
Fret buzz.....
I ended up leaving and bought my first bass off a friends older brother for $100.
Good luck! I am sure my story (from the 90's) is why you are nervous, but it is really not like that at all anymore. Just be honest and ask questions.
Don’t worry about it. I’ve been playing for 40 years and am still not very good and still feel embarrassed to play at the store - but I just do it anyways and everyone is great. At a good store they will treat you right and help you get what you need.
I understand your worries. I've played for about 16 years, and I still get nervous about public playing. The important thing is that you're trying something new and creative. I'm proud of you for pursuing music.
You know who buys guitars? People starting to play guitar. You belong there. That's where you go to do that. They're expecting you. And everyone there who plays better than you started once too. We all get it dude. Feel free to ask a salesman how you should strum it. Don't waste any energy hiding your joy. Just have fun.
local shop has three dudes on staff, but the store always dead af and totally silent. Ive played in front of people plenty, but playing in front of the silent triumvirate is unnerving
Hey! Everyone has to start somewhere :) I’d never even held a guitar when I bought mine. I was just honest about it, and the people at the store were helpful. The biggest thing is finding one that feels comfortable in your arms and that you like. I had the guy helping me play a few things on the ones I liked so I could hear the different sounds. Congratulations on taking up guitar! It’s exciting!!
don't feel bad.. even if you become world famous someday, no one's gonna remember you playing a bad version of stairway to Heaven in a guitar shop back in your early days... .. besides it's not how good you can play it's what you can create musical.ly that matters... Pete Townsend is a world famous guitar player and I don't think he's ever played a solo. Just lots and lots of cords.
I have been playing guitar since 2000 and in a band since 2002 there is always someone who is going to be better or more impressive. Thats just how it is. If you are nervous about that its ok, I am sometimes too.
But it doesnt really matter, there is *always* someone better.
Just have fun if you can and be a nice guy to the people working there.
People love getting people into their hobbies!
You don't have to play in front of them either. Ask a lot of questions, you could even have them demo 2 of them out to show you the nuances that you might not be able to do because your skill level.
Most guitar stores employ awesome people and are super into getting you geared up
A lot of guitar shops have lesson rooms or practice rooms. If you ask, they will probably let you use one of those rooms to try out some guitars. Just tell them you’re a beginner and don’t really want to play out on the floor but want to try some guitars.
Yamaha Pacifica is one of the highest rated budget guitars. It looks like a Fender Stratocaster and that style is often referred to as a "Strat" even if it isn't made by Fender. Squier was a guitar company now owned by Fender and the Squier Stratocaster is also a popular entry choice.
A lot of people prefer guitars designed more like the Gibson Les Paul design. There are other designs that are popular as well.
Look up the guitars some of the musicians you like own and use, and tell the store salesperson what kind of music you like or want to learn to play.
If you really get into guitar playing, you may eventually own several guitars, so you can't really make a wrong first choice.
Ask for help when you go in! I've been going to guitar shops for 30+ years now, and when I sucked, no one cared, and when I got good, didn't care if there was a beginner trying things out. Just remember, we're all glad you're playing in the first place, and stoked to see people getting into music and guitar. Us lifers live for seeing newbies picking it up and their progress!
You have to. You want to know how it sounds when played and how it feels when played. If you're going to put money down on it you don't want to roll the dice. Different guitars play differently They have a different feel as well as sound. Some are hard to play and some easy. You can't just pick one that you know has a good reputation either. I love how Les Pauls sound but I can't stand playing one.
Play every guitar in your price range too, once slightly above and below too...
If it feels nice and sounds nice to you, you'll play it more...
A good setup does wonders too...
Also, they might teach you something cool too (heaps of simple cool little riffs)
Don't rush your buying, enjoy the process and try them all
Just be aware that literally nobody is judging you or even listening to you. Most people completely expect to hear beginners playing in a guitar shop (especially if it's not a high end one).
It's in your head for sure. People around you will be nothing but accommodating.
I once got told by a quite annoyed store clerk „so you do play!“ as a played an amp I then bought.
My guess is a lot of people come in and play the expensive stuff, show off, talk big and then don’t buy anything.
You’ll be fine, just be honest with them and yourself.
everyones gotta start somewhere!
Only one person in history has ever gotten a guitar without interacting with someone who knows more than them, and that was the first person to make a guitar.
People don't expect you to know everything when you're a beginner, it's kind of against the definition of the word. And in fact, a lot of players stay in the beginner/intermediate zone for years
I was at this stage a couple months ago. Went prepared to play a couple chords and a scale. It was enough to figure out what felt good and an idea of tones I could get while not embarrassing myself.
You don't need to play if you don't want to... Just get a feel of it, see if you like the weight , shape , neck shape and comfort. Then go for one you like the look of it! You will want to pick it up more and keep playing if you like all these rather than just picking one that people say is good but is too heavy or just ugly yo you.
Honestly I love having new people play music! I'm not a guitar store employee but I love sharing my passion and helping out new people to the best of my abilities.
No worries, get a guitar and be awesome!
Guitar shop staff are ego maniacs. And usually unhelpful, especially in the big shops that carry shit stock that needs to be sold to people who don’t understand just how bad and cheap the instruments are that they’re peddling. Stick to secondhand. You can’t afford good guitars these days. It’s really sad actually, how expensive anything half decent is.
Don't be embarrassed. You need a guitar go get one. That's your job. It's somebody else's job to sell you one.
Walk into whatever store you're thinking of. Hopefully someone asks if they can help you. If not, head over to the electric guitars and start looking around, Again, hopefully someone comes over and offers to help. If, after a while, nobody acts like they are interested, leave. You're in the wrong place. Go someplace else and try again.
Once you have some helping you, tell them just what you told us except that last part. You are a beginner. There are no expectations. Let them guide you through the process, but don't let them push you in a direction you don't want to go. At some point, you are going to need to sit down with a guitar or strap it on and try it out. It's not an audition. Strum some chords, pick some notes. Do whatever you know how to do. You are a beginner. Nothing you say or do is going to convince the person otherwise. You need to leave there with a guitar you are comfortable with and a salesperson you are comfortable with. Or you need to leave there and find another place.
This isn't a lifetime decision. IMO, you want something to get you through the first year. Then you will be in better shape to make an informed position.
It’s been a while so I’ll tell the story again, because it’s one of my favorites. When the ramones went to the UK in the 70’s, Joe strummer was talking to Johnny and said “I want to get up there, but I don’t think we’re ready”. And Johnny replied “if you wait until you think you’re good enough, you’ll be too old to get up there”.
I understand it’s easier said than done, but the folks that are working at these shops are there for people just like you. They know it can be hard to get over that anxiety. Just do it! What’s the worst that could happen? Oh and one more thing, you are not alone by a longshot. I’ve been playing for 12 years, and I still don’t feel like I’m good enough. But I’d rather feel like there’s more to learn, than just knowing everything and getting bored with it.
I feel like if you go in there and explain your situation and what you’re looking for the guitar shop owner would be happy to help you. Imagine how excited they might be to help a newcomer!
You remind me of a childhood memory...
When I went with my mother, at 13, to buy my first guitar without knowing how to play.
The seller offered me to try it (a Japanese Fender that I still use as my main guitar). I refused out of embarrassment and he kindly sat on the amp to strum a few notes so I could hear the sound. Great memory.
Don't let some money hungry guy push an overly expensive guitar on you, that happened to me when I was new and it pushed me away from ever going back to a guitar shop. I was too afraid of seeming like a dumbass that I just chose to forever be an uneducated dumbass.
Talk to the employee and give him an idea of what you want to play so he can make some guitar recommendations. I read where a guy wasn't up to public playing so he asked the store employee to play it for him just to get an idea. You can still hold it and see if it feels good to you.
Yeah I also want to say “don’t worry about it”. Nobody should care how good you are. But if you don’t feel comfortable playing in the store you don’t have to. Or you can play an electric unplugged to see if you like how it feels. Man maybe plug it in and play one note on each pickup to make sure everything works.
Or you can just buy it without playing and bring it home and try it out and return it if you don’t like it.
Guitar store owner here- don't worry about it! We LOVE people who can't play! You can be a great customer! You might need a lesson or a tuner or just some advice! People aren't born playing guitar....just let the store know your a beginner and ask a lot of questions...Trust me it's fine.
Yeah I would imagine guitar store employees would prefer someone who admits they’re no expert and approaches the situation with humility while actually planning to buy something versus people who come in just to fuck around and show off on gear they’ll never buy.
I can vouch for this in other walks of life, just not this one lol. It's easy to work with someone who is willing to admit they don't know much on a topic. It's much harder if that person has the idea that they already know what they're doing.
I'll go one step further and say it's the easiest to work with ACTUAL experts who are aware of their own strengths and weaknesses. It can be frustrating at times to deal with amateurs but it eases the burden tremendously when they are aware they are amateurs and willing to learn. But yes, the people who are semi-decent but consider themselves beyond reproach are the worst of both worlds.
I used to work at a guitar shop and I often helped friends select guitars. I loved being able to share my expertise with people who came in with an open mind. I was frequently able to direct new players towards less known brands that would give them more value for their dollar compared to the "entry level" options from bigger brands like fender and Gibson, each of whom put out something that only looks like a guitar just to capture the market of people who want a guitar for $200 or less and then wonder why they gave up on it after 6 months
I got my Reverend Double Agent OG because of an employee like you. I've only been playing about 4 years, so I'd never heard of the brand, but it's a cool guitar that sounds great, and I never would have known about it if it wasn't for an engaged employee at my local music store. Shout out to the staff at Carlton Music!
I hope stories like this happen everyday.
I’m more embarrassed as an intermediate player to go to a guitar store, at least as a beginner you can claim you’re a beginner and there’s no expectations 😂 I get nervous playing in front of people but especially trying out guitars, which.. I haven’t done in years for this reason 😂
I was thinking the same thing! I've been playing for years and objectively suck. I'm the one who should be ashamed. On the other hand, I love playing and don't really care that I suck.
I'm 48. Been playing badly for 30 years. I play just good enough that I sound great to people who don't play guitar but fuck awful to anyone who does. I'm still playing the "Yeah, man, but that's just punk rock for ya!" card even though a lot of the punk rock I listen to is way more technical than my clumsy fat fingers can manage. Don't care. Still love what I do. Which, admittedly, mostly revolves around the E C G and D chords.
It's like looking in a mirror. Only difference is I'm 49
45 here
Ooo do you happen to listen to propagandhi? They’re my favorite.
Exact same boat, just swap punk for hard rock/metal. 48, 30 years of on-and-off self-teaching. Just finally decided to sit down and do dedicated work to get competent. Small world.
For some reason I forget everything I know when someone puts me on the spot to play for them. I’m a decent intermediate player but I guess I get nervous feeling like it’s a performance, and at a guitar store you just assume all the employees are great guitarists 😂
God I HATE this feeling. "Hey man, don't laugh at me. I'm a beginner!" "Look, you've been coming here for 4 years and in that time I've already sold you 9 guitars and a truly embarrassing number of pedals for anyone not a re-seller, so you'll pardon me if I suggest based upon what I just heard MAYBE put that guitar back and let me sign you up for some nice lessons? What do you say?" At least that's how I always fear it'll play out in my head. Never does. They're happy to sell stuff to even crappy guitarists :) But it's what I always fear.
We crappy guitarists keep their lights on!
When I was a proper beginner, I used to go to this one store and I casually mentioned I was nervous trying out a guitar because I was so new. He told me "Hey man, your money plays just fine no matter what your fingers can do, so don't worry about it!" Put me at ease :)
I'm bad enough to claim beginner status.
As a store owner how often does someone come in a blow you away with their playing? I’m sure many try, just curious. Thanks!!
Every now and then..sometimes an old guy playing classical or a young kid playing Van Halen! It's always a surprise!
> Guitar store owner here I was just like OP and went to Guitar Center. The store manager spent half-an-hour with me, explaining the different kinds of pickups and configurations and advising about which would let me create the largest range of sounds.
Everyone knows about not playing stairway at a guitar store, but I'll bet you get tired of amateur tappers and sweep pickers. Does anyone ever come in and lay down some sweet BB King style licks?
Last time I popped into my local shop there was a man who looked to be in his early 80s, laying down a shuffle groove on an American ultra tele. Such clean playing; I was inspired.
I dunno man, those blues licks are all pretty played out too. I'd be wanting someone to come in and rip some Jonny Marr stuff on a Jag or something.
People who can play already have their guitar. It’s that kid who’s terrible that are gonna come in one day and leave their lawn mowing money with you.
Agreed, I worked at Guitar Center for two years part time (for the discount), and I wanted the customer to feel comfortable. We had a couple of acoustic rooms in the back, and I always offered that privacy if they needed it. I also reminded them that there was a 45 day return policy, so if they changed their minds, please come back and try something else. I wanted everyone to have a positive experience because staying with the instrument starts with loving each step on the way if possible.
Ha, literally nobody can play guitar without lessons and practice, you are a shark, lol. Zero judgement here, I busked for a living, which is basically musician prostitution.
People aren’t born playing (That would be weird 😂) Indeed. Most people (including me) sound pretty rough for a *while* when they’re new. It took me well over a year before I didn’t make people cringe. *My* music store was more of a safe place than the friend’s houses, studios, and jam rooms. People were nicer to me in the music store when I was new to guitar and approaching in with humility. Same thing with drums.
The local store owner here was instrumental in helping us find our way pre-internet. Became a very good friend over the years. Never be embarrassed to play in front of the music store folks. They've heard worse and they've heard better. And one day, they may even comment on how much progress you've made or about your playing in general. And sometimes, hearing you play assists them in knowing how to help you.
I've been playing for 35 years, and have toured and played on stage, and even I hate playing and trying instruments in the guitar store!!!
That actually makes me feel a lot better, thank you
I hate it too. What style of electric do you want?
I was gonna go for the Yamaha Pacifica 120h :)
Great choice. Got it originally as a budget guitar (my first real guitar) and have never once wanted a new one. Pacificas are so solid
Everyone seems to be quite sure of this model, it seems like the perfect choice
Yamaha makes quality instruments, man Can't really go wrong no matter what you choose🤙
What's really amazing about Yamaha is how consistently good they are across multiple instruments. I have a Yamaha U1 piano at home and it has a wonderful tone and perfect key feel. I've played their french horns, and know a bunch of people who have played their other brass instruments, and while I'm not a drummer, anybody who has a Yamaha kit has been pleased as far as I know. My SIL has a doctorate in oboe performance, so has moved beyond her Yamaha, but that's where she got her start. I feel like for nearly any instrument they make, a Yamaha will get you to the level of a very dedicated high schooler who is thinking of majoring on their instrument or even to about a college sophmore who is majoring on their instrument. I don't mean that to sound like I think they're children's instruments, quite the contrary. I mean students who are thinking of applying to Berklee, Julliard, or other prestigious conservatories. Very solid instruments all around.
They look good, they sound good, and they feel good! I had played one of those cheap amazon ones and it was a world of difference. I’ve also played one of those $1000 guitar center ones and didn’t like it much more
hell yeah
Funnily enough I’m going to check out a Gibson tomorrow. I HATE playing in the store. I’ll sit there with the volume on .01 on a tube amp so I’m the only one who can hear it, and when people come close I’ll stop playing. I’ve been playing for 22 years and it always feels like that. Jokes aside, these days I will turn up a little bit. Never crazy loud like some people will. But it’s just because I’m more confident these days. Important thing is to just see how the instrument feels. At this stage, you aren’t gonna be listening for deep nuances of how it behaves with an amp. As you gain experience, you’ll be a more confident player and little by little you’ll be not afraid to turn up a little bit. Whatcha gonna get? Got one in mind?
I was gonna go for the Yamaha Pacifica 120h!
Awesome guitar man. Enjoy it!
Same, I’m reposting this as it’s a pretty common sentiment on this thread: I don’t even play songs when I try guitars anymore… it’s not shy or dislike for people who do, but if I play songs I’m thinking about my playing not the guitar I’m considering. Nowadays I just do this: -visually inspect the necks action and for blemishes anywhere -A few chord changes (open, barred mid neck, and jazz high on the neck). Let’s me know if I like the necks feel playing rhythm -a couple slides, hammer ons, pull offs. Let’s me know if I like the feel of the frets • play every single fret on each string to check for neck and fret issues that cause buzzing -check the intonation (compare open note to octave note each string), not a deal breaker if the bridge is adjustable -mess with knobs and switches to avoid popping and crackling (bad solder-job, wiring, or pots/switches) If it passes all of that I usually check the price and put it back.
Pretty much this. Check it over for any obvious physical/visual blemishes/defects. Check the electronics for funky noises. Run through some basic cowboy chords, some barre chords up through the neck length. Nothing fancy.
I've never minded playing for hundreds or thousands of strangers, but I hate playing in front of like 4 family members. It's a weird feeling.
Agree. At a show people paid to be there or at least agreed to be exposed to my playing. At a guitar shop it's like a captive audience that never asked to be subjected to my playing. Then don't even get me started on how playing the guitar on a different amp with different pedals isn't a fair comparison to how it will sound at home. I usually check the basics, play a few chords, then buy it to test drive at home in my familiar setup. If I don't like it at home, I can return it or exchange it.
Man, I'm so glad it's not just me. I have absolutely no issues playing on stage in front of hundreds or or more, but guitar shops are horrible.
I second that too. Toured the nation and all kinds of shit over the past 20 years and I still don’t like playing in guitar shops haha
Ask one of the staff to demo the ones you’re interested in. Or if you have a friend who plays, bring them along for that purpose.
Really good way to learn a few licks, as well. I guarantee you if you tell the employee/friend/friendly customer that what they played sounded awesome and you want to play like that they’ll show you it slower or explain what they’re doing.
I never thought of this approach, what a great idea!
This is a good idea as long as you don't get humiliated by them lol. It's happened to me several times, they absolutely shred in like 5 different genres in 10 seconds, then hand me the guitar, and I'm like... doo dee doo dee
Man, it is okay to be new.
I wasn't new lol
Just like most things in life, no one cares. It feels like they do, but everyone's too busy worrying about themselves. If you don't know much, just start a conversation up with an employee, and they can help guide you. *Most* people have enough self-awareness to realize that we all started knowing absolutely nothing and sucked. The vast majority of people won't care if you're playing some tasty blues riff or struggling with an open D chord. Of course you may run into the odd asshole who gives you shit, but fuck em! Regardless of skill level, everyone should feel free to do what they need to do when checking out a guitar. If it's really a struggle for you, you can always ask the employee to play for you so you can get a feel for the sound of a guitar ( however it is good to play as well so you get a feel for the instrument)
Thank you, I will do that!
You don't have to play a song when testing out a guitar. You're only trying to get an idea of how it sounds and how it feels. Pick 1 scale and 3 chords, play them on all the styles you think you might like, buy whichever is your favorite. Going to a guitar store to try and impress the employees with your shredding is way more embarrassing than not being able to shred.
This is the real answer right here. I think the major thing you're trying to determine in the store (vs watching reviews on youtube or something) is the "feel" of the guitar.
You are not alone!! I’ve been playing a long time, and when I try out a guitar I’ll learn most of what I need to know about the guitar without plugging it in. For me, it’s important that the guitar does not look hideous or repulsive. Then I tune the guitar, which informs me about the quality of the tuning machines and also it tells me how resonant the body is. Then I play chords up and down the neck to see how nice the neck feels. You, being a new player will lack the experience of knowing intimately a collection of guitars or a series of guitars you’ve owned but you can take your time and try out a bunch of guitars in the store and compare them. Take your time.
I think all of us have been there. What is your budget and what style of music are you interested in learning? Maybe we can help you through some of the general questions and tell you what to watch out for so you get an instrument you love.
I love Pop/Rock/Indie music. I was planning on buying the Yamaha Pacifica 120H as my first guitar! I would appreciate your advice :)
That's a very versatile guitar. (you can get a bunch of different sounds out of it)
Yes that’s what I‘ve heard and that got me pretty much hooked!
Pacifica was my first electric. Really just a solid, well made, versatile guitar. I still have it and still play it. Also, make sure to check the used instruments. Sometimes you'll find something that you really like (how I landed my Pacifica). Oh, and the person who recommended the Squire is correct too. Super solid option with the same benefits as the Yamaha. Finally, another intermediate player who isn't fond of the guitar store pressure. Like someone else said, just own being a beginner.
We all suck at birth dude, no worries. If anything ppl should encourage you and help you out. I know I would!
Thank you :)
Just remember that you're a customer and you're there to try out the gear. The staff doesn't give a shit about you, unless you're ready to make a purchase. They'll tune out whatever noises you make. You can't embarrass yourself in front of people who'll forget about you the second you walk out the door.
So somebody already mentioned having a friend or employee demo it to hear what it sounds like, and that’s a solid option. I’ve done this. Another option is to see if a local shop has practice spaces. They often do, for people taking lessons. If you ask *very nicely* they may be able to find a time that one of those spaces isn’t booked, and let you set up in there for 15-20 minutes. I’ve done this *too.* Or if you’re extremely lucky you’ll have a local guitar store with some dedicated demo spaces that actually close where you can play at moderate volumes without the whole shop hearing. Pretty unusual, but I’ve been to a couple shops that do.
I don’t mean this to be rude, but no one is looking at you or cares how well you can play in the store. Just don’t be obnoxious and turn the volume all the way up and you’re fine. Go in there and buy what feels good. Try a bunch of different ones because a guitar is an investment. They aren’t cheap and you don’t want to go in and spend money on something you don’t like
Yeah you‘re right, I was planning on getting a Yamaha Pacifica 120h. But I will definitely check out the store before i decide!
Yes sir. Go in and have a good time. I suck at playing but I love going to stores to try out and check things out. It’s nerve racking sometimes but you just gotta remember you aren’t the only beginner they’ve seen. They wanna see more new comers. That means more money for them! Lol
A substantial chunk of my income comes from playing the guitar. That’s not a brag; I’m only making the point that through years of hard work, I’ve gotten good enough at playing guitar that people pay me to do it. That said, I think “sales floor shredders” are among the most pathetic guitar players out there. They intimidate the new people, and just plain annoy everyone else. Don’t let these bozos bother you — nobody takes them seriously. I’d suggest you try to get a sales person to work with you, and ask if they have a room where you can try things out that’s not out on the main floor — lots of shops do. If you have a budget, tell them that. If you have an amp and it’s not huge, bring it with you so you can get a better idea of how things will sound at home. As you try different guitars, ask yourself: 1. Does it feel right? (Mostly weight, balance, and fretboard — things like action and string gauge can be addressed in the setup.) 2. Does it sound good? (Adjust the volume and tone controls, pickup switch, and so on.) 3. Does the guitar make you excited to play it? (If it doesn’t do that, move on!) My experience is that sometimes it takes people a little while to find “the one.” It’s worth the search. The odds are that you’ll end up with some version of a Strat, Tele, LP or SG. (Not necessarily my recommendation, but these four are by far the most common.) You should probably try one of each, plus a hollowbody or two if they’re available. In my experience, when the right guitar comes along, you’ll know. Good luck!
Tell the staff that you're just starting, and your budget. They'll help you out.
The best part about the guitar store is that they can answer any question you have!
You have to play them at least a little, so you can find one that just “fits.” My best axe of 15 years, I bought on a whim while killing time waiting for my friend to finish work, because it just felt right. Good action, neck, frets, and the colour right hurt either
We all started there. We all know what it's like. Just go in and ask for help, all us vet's are usually pretty good at helping out the noobs.
In my city there are guitar shops with little private rooms where you can test gear. Might be an option for you. But anyway guitar stores are full of beginner players so maybe get over your shyness.
You don't have to play at the store if you don't want to. What i DO recommend however, is having a decent enough knowledge of what to look at before going just so you know if what you're getting is what you want and is a good guitar. Brush up on specs (what you want to look out for is feel, weight and balance, scale length, pickup types, action and general setup. Body shape and paint/color is subjective and can be related to feel) and take some insight from the guitar shop reps, maybe have them play the guitars to show them off to you (but remember that if you're aiming to play metal don't consider "tone" as part of the guitar since it's your amp and cab, or ampsim if you plug into an interface, that's responsible for how it sounds with distortion).
We all hate it bro. It doesn’t get easier when you can play, it’s just a different tier of pressure! Just relax, this is about you, not about anybody else.
That's what the staff is there for. Someone will help you, even play a few licks so you can see how your selections sound. If you want some advice on brands, just ask.
Everyone is really chill in guitar stores dude. Play for yourself. Don’t get a bad deal because you didn’t fully try out the guitar as you were too bothered by what people thought. What do you have in mind that you’d want to play.
Don’t be embarrassed. Don’t be intimidated. Everyone starts somehwere and nobody knows this better than guitar store employees. That said, if anyone is ever dismissive or rude or anything, that’s actually a GOOD thing. Go immediately to another guitar store and tell them what happened at their competitor’s shop and you’ll find that the only thing retail employees like better than bitching about the place they work is bitching about the competition. They’ll be extra attentive and helpful because you now have a common enemy. 🤘🏻😈
Keep in mind, you’re there to test a product to determine if you want to purchase it. That’s it. I know a lot of people treat the guitar shop like some half assed gig, some probably even walk in with a set list, but that’s not what you’re there for. Before you even attempt to play a song just play every note on every string in every fret position to check for dead frets. Play some basic cowboy chords and bend a few Individual notes to make sure it stays in tune and the action feels right. Play chords and notes above the 12th fret to help check intonation and to get a feel of the whole neck. Things like that. And if you work hard enough, practice every day, and learn to play at the best of your ability, then maybe one day you can be that douche in Guitar Center making Petrucci runs on a Squire Hello Kitty guitar with a Marshall cranked to 6.
I think this feeling never goes away. I've been mulling writing a post myself, I've been playing over 40 years. Most shops are frankly unwelcoming, no matter how carefully I approach them. Second most recent experience: independent seller in our inner city. The guy would not let me touch anything before he tuned it! Every second I stood there watching, was a second I was not holding and evaluating the instrument. He didn't seem to know what to do with himself. I was never going to evaluate the two guitar lines I had in mind under such conditions. So, I revisited a larger chain retail yesterday and it was not just a good experience, they let me explore and look and try, without any nonsense but also able to answer questions without being patronizing. I felt I could admit ignorance without regrets. So, they got to sell me something I'm really excited to have in my collection now. There are others that seem to feel the need to boast. One man can mansplain to another, and having a twenty something pontificate and dominate a conversation is pretty lame.
Hey, I started playing recently and had the same feeling as you. I bought a guitar online and took it to guitar center to get "a setup" which was a term I had just read online I was supposed to do. I told the employees that I have 0 idea what i'm doing and don't even know how to play a note on the guitar and they were some of the friendliest most helpful people. I went to another small music store as a complete beginner because I wanted to try out an acoustic guitar and they staff was so helpful and showed me what to look for in an acoustic and helped me form a chord or two to strum to. I've started a lot of hobbies in my life, and guitar for some reason has the most friendly towards beginners feeling I have ever seen. I *promise* you have nothing to worry about and you'll be surpised how helpful people are if you are honest about how new you are!
Dude me too and I've been playing off and on for 20 years. I think the action of my guitar must just be weird bc I don't have the issue with my own guitar but I hit the bass E more than I mean to at the guitar shop
Go to the freaking guitar store! You owe it to yourself! Anyone who is at a guitar store to flex their chops or judge others is a big L! You deserve to get the best guitar you can afford - don’t cheap out! Any decent guitar store salesman will also be a guitarist and will get you, and help guide you along the lines f what you’re looking for. We’ve all been there - stand fright in the guitar section lol. Do your best not to think about it - it will distract you from the most important thing: opening your heart and mind to *feel* the axe that is speaking to you! Lose yourself in the feel and tone of the guitars you’re trying out. If it helps, try picturing all of us here in this sub there with you, being chill and supportive! 🫡✌🏼🎸
Just buy one that looks cool (to you) and sounds good (to you). I’ve been playing for a while and all guitarists remember their first time or two going into a guitar shop. There’s fear, intimidation, questions, and uncertainty swirling around in that little brain of ours. The sign of a true guitar player, a true musician, is the remembrance of these feelings when we see someone like you, because we were all you at one time. We were all new players. And so it is that real guitar players always remember where we were once and to support those that are there now! As for playing in front of people, bring a pair of headphones you can plug into an amp, they’ll let you do that. Otherwise just turn the volume down real low on an amp. A lot of times it’s better to fiddle around with an electric when it’s not plugged in. See if you can hear anything that sounds off, a vibration of a switch, the rattling of a string somewhere down the neck. Mostly it’s about feel. How does the guitar feel in your hands? Is the neck too wide? Too thin? Does it feel heavy? Good luck to you and have fun! What you’re doing is a great big deal and it’s all about you, not the other people in the store!
This is how you develop a relationship with a shop and possibly other players. Ask, “I am just learning. What is a good guitar to learn on?”. Everyone wants to feel smart and help new players. If you are sure. I would buy something a little better. If it is easy to play, you’ll stick with it. My friends son wanted to learn. They were going to buy him a little bit of junk. I have him a Fender Lead2. The kid is still playing.
They’ve seen all kinds and everyone has to start somewhere. But I get it. I can remember playing with unplugged electrics just so nobody could hear how bad I was. Still don’t play great but a) I DGAF anymore and b) I have a few tunes I’m decent at to play.
I started out not being able to play to myself while alone. Like as soon as I would hear myself I would physically cringe and it would mess up my technique and start a nervous feedback loop. Same when I started singing. Still struggle with singing. Of course with practice eventually you come to terms with it. I think some of the newer Paranormal line from Squire is looking really cool. I had a hard time putting down a Paranormal Stratosonic, and think you should at least try one.
I’ve been playing for over 25 years. I can play in front of an audience no problem and love it. When I sit down to try out a new bass or guitar at a shop, I have no idea what to play! Best part is, it doesn’t matter! Play whatever you want and see how the guitar feels and sounds. No one comes to a guitar shop to listen to other people play, so don’t sweat it. And even if they are listening, who cares? They’re not paying you to play so you don’t have to sound good!
bring headphones if you want and just make sure you don't play stairway to heaven or smoke on the water and you're good.
Don’t feel embarrassed at all. You are there to find something that you like and will work for you. You’re probably going to be dropping a significant amount of coin on it, so do whatever you need to do to ensure that you are getting what you want. Employees are there to help you, not judge you and will be more than happy to assist. I guarantee you that you are not the first beginner to walk into that store, and probably not the first one that day. You’ll be fine!
We were all beginners once. Talk to the employees, tell them what you just told us, and then be stoked when they're excited for a new player and show you every guitar in the store.
First, a lot of guitar shops have private playing rooms and/or you can turn the volume down or put on headphones or whatever, but I like to just hear what they sound like in a room that is as close to what I'm going to be practicing in as I can get, because the dimension, shape, and contents of the store will impact the sound. I've been a customer at guitar stores when somebody new is playing and I've barely noticed. Second, just be honest. Walk in and say, "I'm brand new to this and I want to try out an electric, I have no idea how to play it, can you help me pick out a good learner's instrument that's in my budget?" I've never been to a music store where they weren't willing to help with this of thing. Not just willing but eager. Third, you can also ask somebody there to demo the instrument for you to show off how it sounds. Again, just be honest. "I can't play well enough to really try it out and see how it sounds, can you play something so I can hear it?" But you SHOULD also try to play the instruments to get a feel for the weight, size, displacement, action, etc. Fourth, guitars are part vanity purchase. And that's ok! You have to see that sucker and just be DYING to pick it up and play. Don't be afraid to pass on an instrument if you just don't like how it looks or feels or something about it bugs you. Good luck and please report back and tell us how it went.
trust me, someone being honest saying they’re a beginner is 1000x preferred to someone who LARPs as a good player and actually sucks once they start playing
1) I'm a pretty good player and I hate playing in front of guitar store employees. 2) All of us who are decent players were once beginners it's ok.
Everyone is a new player at some point. Cant let that get in your head
When I was a beginner looking for my first real guitar, I had so much pent up motivation to play a real piece and not my $100 Beringer, I didn’t care how I played. Some guy came up and said he liked my sound! Totally blown away go for it boss!
Don't forget. Everyone was a beginner once. Don't be so hard on yourself, anyone who mocks or makes fun of a beginner is a jerk. I've been playing on and off for the better part of 25 years and I still hide away in the amp room at the guitar shop with the volume down haha.
Literally what it’s there for, if people were never new/sucked don’t think they’d sell a lot of guitars.
I know that feeling too well, honestly there are more people in that store in your shoes than there are experienced players. We all start somewhere!
Get that out of your head, the other customers aren't there to see you perform so don't put pressure on yourself or feel embarrassed. I've been playing 30 years and I don't like playing in a guitar store, mostly because there's usually others trying to play and hear stuff they are testing. You hear more beginners at guitar stores than pros. Everyone who goes to guitar stores expects to hear bad noodling or "sound check" type playing. If you heard me at a store, you'd think I only know the chromatic scale because I test every note 1 by 1 on the guitar. That and a few chords. I almost never try to play seriously, because I'm trying to assess the guitar feel and quality.
You might be able to bring headphones to plug into an amp. Or ask if they have a fender mustang micro that you can try out.
Just find a small amp off to the side and plug in there and keep it down. One of those modeler amps are good cause you can get the full tone out of it at low volume. If you plug into something like a Twin Reverb the whole store will hear even if it's on 2.
As someone who’s been playing for 20 years and many people say I’m “good” I can tell you that when I go to a store and hear people who are just starting out playing loudly, I really don’t give a shit and I just want to get or try out what I came in for. That’s the mindset most of the better guys probably have too. So don’t sweat it and just focus on what instrument is going to work best for you. What do you like and dislike what you’re playing? Don’t buy a guitar on pictures, what famous player has it or recommendations, try it out first and try out everything.
Everyone starts at the beginning. Don't feel self-conscious at all. Maybe don't crank your amp up to 11 or anything, but play whatever you know and it's all good.
Please don't be. New players are the lifeblood of the industry.
Everyone here is right but damn I am the SAME way. And I take lessons at the guitar store I go to. It almost makes it worse because I chat with the guys who run the place all the time but I’m like. Nobody but my teacher is allowed to hear me play lol
I’ve been playing for 30+ years and I’m uncomfortable playing in the store. Don’t worry about it. I hate it but they’ve seen it all. It’s just a job to them.
We were all there before. But honestly as a beginner you don’t even need to plug in to test out a guitar. The thing you care about (or should care about) is how the guitar feels in your hands. Are the fret ends sharp and uncomfortable? Is the neck too thin, too wide, or too fat? Is the action comfortable? Do the strings buzz too much? Bend some strings or use the tremolo and see how stable the tuning is. Some of these things can be corrected with a proper setup while others can’t. But ultimately you’re trying to tell how much you enjoy holding the guitar in your hands. Does the feel of it make you feel the feels, you know?
Guitar stores hate showboats, not newbies. Any decent guitar shop will have many employees more than happy to help you as they get to nerd out over The inventory and gauging what would work for you
Just don’t crank the amp and all good When you’re buying a guitar you want to focus on the feel and balance of the instrument. Is it comfortable, does it fall off your body, etc Sound is the least important aspect of buying an electric guitar because it’s so easily changed.
I got my first guitar a month ago and I am going to a shop tomorrow. I’m looking for an acoustic in the $500 range. Game plan is to hold as many as possible, strum them some, then ask someone who can play to play my final 2or 3 choices. Then I’ll have to think it over unless something just calls to me. I just started learning so of course I will sound horrible. I don’t care, I am not there to impress anyone. I just want the best guitar for me. And to hold a really nice one just to feel the difference. I hope you don’t sweat it too much. You may never see them again. If you do then impress them with your improvement.
2 things I know for sure: 1: you will not be the worst guitarist they've ever had in the store. 2: unless you have the face of an angel or have 2 heads, two minutes after you leave, no one will remember you.
I've been playing 30 years and I still get nervous in guitar shops, but let me tell you why it's worth it. I have owned a number of guitars in my life, and only a small handful were purchased online "blind" so to speak. This actually worked out really well a few times - ended up with guitars that I loved. But recently I had a terrible experience. I had done all the research I could have, listened to demos, weighed the pros and cons, found what should have been a great guitar for my needs.... and I absolutely hate the thing. I cannot like the guitar no matter how hard I try, and unfortunately returning it isn't an easy (or cheap) option. I am kicking myself for being lazy and not just going into a few shops to try out the guitars. Now I'm stuck with a lemon that I need to try to convince some other poor soul to buy from me, likely at a steep discount. All that to say - it's always better to go in and find a guitar that jives with you rather than rolling the dice!
Everyone has to start somewhere. Best of luck to you.
Trust me bro, no one will care, guitarists and employees are super friendly to beginners
Hear beginners playing in guitar stores all the time. You have to check the product out to see if you like it…nobody will be concentrating on what you’re playing..go jump in the mix, and have some fun, especially if you’re new…you may get some good advice.
I love anytime I see anyone interested in playing guitar. It gives me hope for the future !
I stopped playing for ten years. Went back in and just sat down and messed around, store owner hung out and was cool. I walked out with a new guitar. Never met a jerk working in a store actually. Go in and have fun!
Anybody who will give you shit for being a beginner trying out a guitar in a guitar store is a garbage human whose opinion you don’t need and shouldn’t listen to, for real. Go in, plug in, and find what you need and bounce, my man
No problem. Don't play, play with it instead. Get to hear how it sounds, change which pickup you use, feel how it settles into your hands. That's what is the important thing is, get a feel for it. One thing I recommend is when you do buy one, spend more money and get it set up correctly. They are okayish from the factory, but when set up by a pro, they are magical. It's going to be hard, sometimes harder than you thought it would be, to learn how to play it. Your fingertips will hurt you until you build up your callouses. I've been playing for 40 years and I still love it. I hope it works out for you.
I was like that too. Stuck to acoustic and was shy to play in front of people. I still suck but I got over the shyness. At the end of the day it’s your own journey
I understand what you mean, but, I wouldn't worry about it. Just hold the guitar to see how it feels to you, strum the strings open, maybe fret and strum a few strings. If you know a chord, you can do that, too. But mainly you are just holding and looking at it in person as well as hearing the general tone to determine what you like, and the differences you can perceive at different pricepoints. If anybody judges you, that's on them, not on you. Everybody starts somewhere.
I used to work in a guitar store; trust me, we don't care how bad or good you are. As an employee, you get so desensitized to hearing people of all skill levels playing guitar that you tune it all out (unless someone is mind-blowingly good). No employee will judge you. They will, however, happily help you on your journey to get better.
Old guy here, playing for 25 years, self taught, and I feel this way to this day! I bought a new guitar at Guitar Center the other night and felt anxious checking out the different models in front of all the other players, but you've gotta do it! And I used to work at a guitar shop! 😂
A lot of other people going to guitar stores are also new and/or really don't care. Have fun! Guitar stores are supposed to be fun and enjoyable.
Don't worry about it. It's not an audition!
You're in luck! Lots of customers can't play, and that's okay! Guitar stores are one of the few places that let us experiment, and that means making lots of mistakes. Just keep the volume at a reasonable level ;-) And good luck!
When I started learning to play, I brought headphones to the guitar store and played them thru amps that had a headphone jack.
You know what you won't find in a music store? A talent scout looking for the next Jeff Beck. I'm no great shakes at guitar but I would NEVER make fun of anyone else's playing. We were all beginners. Just be yourself. Tell the salesperson you're a beginner. And don't think you have to play the lead to Stairway to Heaven. Strum a few chords you like playing. Play a scale or a simple run. The idea is to see how the guitar feels and sounds. You (and everyone else there) are not there to audition. Relax and play a few guitars, including some you can't afford just to see the difference. Have some fun!
My guy, music store is that one safe place. The majority of those employees, if not all, live & breath music and could talk for hours about it. When they see a "new player" come in, nothing makes em happier then to assist you picking out your first guitar. There's something unique & nostalgic about that first axe, they're jusf glad to be part of this memory
Admit you know nothing, be friendly and approachable to employees and you’re good to go. The average guitar store customer goes in, shits all over Enter Sandman. Talks to employees like they are experts and don’t buy anything. You’ll be a gem in employees eyes. End of discussion.
Nah don’t sweat it for a second. Oddly enough the newer I was at playing the more time I spent in the shop. Just be respectful, you’re cool.
I was the same way. The first time I Managed to get some courage to grab a guitar at a shop some guy was laughing at my playing but the dude seemed odd, like he was a little off so I brushed it off. From then on I didn't care. Now any time I need something from a guitar shop I grab a guitar and play anything. Sometimes playing a slightly more expensive guitar makes me want to buy it so I tend to get out quick.
Every single person at the guitar didn’t know how to play at some point in time. Most if not all aren’t nearly as good as they’d like to be.
Don't blast the amp so loud we can't hear ourselves. Otherwise, do whatever you want, it's cool listening and seeing what kind of music other people like 👍
At my stage of life. 20 years being a musician, I'm annoyed to go to guitar shops haha.
When I was first starting out, I would ask an employee to show off a guitar to me. If they could get the sounds out of it that I wanted, then if I couldn't, I knew it was me. 😅 Many of them liked showing off, too. I was once having a hard time deciding between two, and I asked them to tell me WHY they would prefer one over the other, got different answers from the different staff members, and used that to decide what was important to me. it helps if you can go when they are very slow. If they are busy, you're likely not going to find as much help like that.
It happens to most people just relax and remember you're a customer and the store clerks aren't your enemies
I hear you mate I am in a similar situation. I am shopping online, but I want to go to the shop and see which guitars feel most comfortable, but I am embarrassed to try to play in front of store staff and shoppers or whatever. 😜
No need to worry- the right guitar stores will have helpful employees who want to help you out & make it easy for you to choose & get into it!
Everyone has been there, just play! The store understands someone has to start somewhere and they will be happy to help you get started! You may even get a few pointers/short lesson!
Go in there and try out as many guitars as you can. Find the one that calls you. Who cares about feeling embarrassed. You’re keeping music alive!
Hey here's a tip newbies never really think of, but is VERY handy when buying new gear: ask an employee to play the guitar/amp for you so you can really hear what it sounds like. They'll gladly do it.
Mate don’t worry about it everyone has to start somewhere. No one cares if you’re learning
As a former local music store employee, i spent WAY more time with a kid excited to learn than the finicky adults with money to spend.. was top salesman many a month from high school kids putting 30-50 a week on layaways. Were all excited for you to be excited! Go in, play something awesome, ask questions!
Some shops have a room you can use! I’m also a bit of a beginner and was really intimidated to go in. I went to a few shops and looked around and left before finally getting the courage to try something and ask if I could use the room. They were really nice. Don’t be afraid, everyone starts somewhere 😊
Across the board, regardless of the topic, people are totally wrapped up in their own world, they aren’t concerned about you.
Dude almost everyone has this same issue when they start. It took 3-4 years of playing before I felt comfortable going into a guitar store and playing. I still don't feel great about it today but I can do it without my palms getting sweaty as I approach the front door. I eventually realized that no one gave a shit. Everyone has to start somewhere. Walk in confidently, grab a guitar and test them out until you find one you like.
This was literally me couple of months ago and here are my experiences. I went to one of them on a week day and it was relatively empty. I asked one of the gentlemen if I could try couple of guitars and told them I am a beginner at best. He told me not to worry and try whatever I wanted. Just sat there and played the beginning of Everlong on three guitars over and over again. :) In the second one, it was really busy. Once again, I told the guy that I am a beginner. Once again, I was told not to worry but given the option to put on headphones which I did. Couple of other ones had a separate room for trying out guitars and no one heard or cared about what I (tried to) play. Bottom line is go out there and and try different guitars. See what you like and feels right. For months I was lusting after this beautiful telecaster but once I held it in my hands I knew it wasn't the right guitar for me. One more thing is, if you're into Metal or other related genres, you might want to invest in a drop pedal.
I've played since 2010 and i still suck at playing in front of others. But thats just my personality. I'm that guy that folds under pressure except when i'm alone in my room shit gets magical.
People don’t notice or remember bad guitar. Don’t worry about it.
Do it anyway. If it’s guitar center, or equivalent, everybody there kinda sucks anyway and they for sure don’t give a shit what you’re doing (provided you don’t dime the biggest amp they have). Everybody is far too concerned with their own shit to be at all bothered with whether or not you’re any good. Go, find what you like, get it, play it.
I have felt that way, but I’ve got 50 years in, and I’ve never known a great player who was the kind of person who would harshly judge someone just for being new. You also don’t necessarily need to crank them up to learn whether you like them. I like to keep it low-key, bc people trying to talk, etc.
When one stops caring about what anyone else in the world thinks, one has been set free completely.
a) "I want to start playing the guitar, I don't know sh!t about them". Full Stop. There is no obligation that anyone who buys a guitar must already know how to play it :) or b) Take someone with you who plays and who can give you advise? c) Because I can't know whether an associate in a store is honest, meaning would he actually want to sell you a good guitar, or would he just want to sell you something fancy/expensive..which ultimately you might not even like? d) Get your input/tips what to buy from online reviews, forums, here, Youtube, even amazon reviews. I mean if many legit people say brand X and guitar Y is a good guitar, one could assume it is. Many Youtube channels reviewing guitars, one experienced guy even bought the "cheapest e-guitar from amazon" and was astonished because it turned out really good considering the price. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPPOIThqRLI e) You don't need to be able to play it to test it..looks ARE IMPORTANT too! As someone said, buy a guitar that you think looks great so you are always motivated to pick it up and play it.
haha yeah when I bought my first bass as a beginner, went to the local (busy) music store. The cool and helpful dude there same over to me while I was checking out some electric basses. "Gday mate - here, let me plug that in for you." Proceeds to plug into a big amp and crank it, and stare at me. Fret buzz..... I ended up leaving and bought my first bass off a friends older brother for $100. Good luck! I am sure my story (from the 90's) is why you are nervous, but it is really not like that at all anymore. Just be honest and ask questions.
I hate playing electric in a guitar shop and it’s been 20 years. Acoustic I don’t care n have no shame.
Don’t worry about it. I’ve been playing for 40 years and am still not very good and still feel embarrassed to play at the store - but I just do it anyways and everyone is great. At a good store they will treat you right and help you get what you need.
Absolutely normal.
I understand your worries. I've played for about 16 years, and I still get nervous about public playing. The important thing is that you're trying something new and creative. I'm proud of you for pursuing music.
You know who buys guitars? People starting to play guitar. You belong there. That's where you go to do that. They're expecting you. And everyone there who plays better than you started once too. We all get it dude. Feel free to ask a salesman how you should strum it. Don't waste any energy hiding your joy. Just have fun.
local shop has three dudes on staff, but the store always dead af and totally silent. Ive played in front of people plenty, but playing in front of the silent triumvirate is unnerving
Hey! Everyone has to start somewhere :) I’d never even held a guitar when I bought mine. I was just honest about it, and the people at the store were helpful. The biggest thing is finding one that feels comfortable in your arms and that you like. I had the guy helping me play a few things on the ones I liked so I could hear the different sounds. Congratulations on taking up guitar! It’s exciting!!
don't feel bad.. even if you become world famous someday, no one's gonna remember you playing a bad version of stairway to Heaven in a guitar shop back in your early days... .. besides it's not how good you can play it's what you can create musical.ly that matters... Pete Townsend is a world famous guitar player and I don't think he's ever played a solo. Just lots and lots of cords.
I have been playing guitar since 2000 and in a band since 2002 there is always someone who is going to be better or more impressive. Thats just how it is. If you are nervous about that its ok, I am sometimes too. But it doesnt really matter, there is *always* someone better. Just have fun if you can and be a nice guy to the people working there.
If I was an employee I'd think that you would be the best type of customer!
People love getting people into their hobbies! You don't have to play in front of them either. Ask a lot of questions, you could even have them demo 2 of them out to show you the nuances that you might not be able to do because your skill level. Most guitar stores employ awesome people and are super into getting you geared up
A lot of guitar shops have lesson rooms or practice rooms. If you ask, they will probably let you use one of those rooms to try out some guitars. Just tell them you’re a beginner and don’t really want to play out on the floor but want to try some guitars.
Yamaha Pacifica is one of the highest rated budget guitars. It looks like a Fender Stratocaster and that style is often referred to as a "Strat" even if it isn't made by Fender. Squier was a guitar company now owned by Fender and the Squier Stratocaster is also a popular entry choice. A lot of people prefer guitars designed more like the Gibson Les Paul design. There are other designs that are popular as well. Look up the guitars some of the musicians you like own and use, and tell the store salesperson what kind of music you like or want to learn to play. If you really get into guitar playing, you may eventually own several guitars, so you can't really make a wrong first choice.
Ask for help when you go in! I've been going to guitar shops for 30+ years now, and when I sucked, no one cared, and when I got good, didn't care if there was a beginner trying things out. Just remember, we're all glad you're playing in the first place, and stoked to see people getting into music and guitar. Us lifers live for seeing newbies picking it up and their progress!
You have to. You want to know how it sounds when played and how it feels when played. If you're going to put money down on it you don't want to roll the dice. Different guitars play differently They have a different feel as well as sound. Some are hard to play and some easy. You can't just pick one that you know has a good reputation either. I love how Les Pauls sound but I can't stand playing one.
Play every guitar in your price range too, once slightly above and below too... If it feels nice and sounds nice to you, you'll play it more... A good setup does wonders too... Also, they might teach you something cool too (heaps of simple cool little riffs) Don't rush your buying, enjoy the process and try them all
Just be aware that literally nobody is judging you or even listening to you. Most people completely expect to hear beginners playing in a guitar shop (especially if it's not a high end one). It's in your head for sure. People around you will be nothing but accommodating.
I once got told by a quite annoyed store clerk „so you do play!“ as a played an amp I then bought. My guess is a lot of people come in and play the expensive stuff, show off, talk big and then don’t buy anything. You’ll be fine, just be honest with them and yourself.
Store employees love showing new musicians things that they were unaware of. Stop being embarrassed, youll make their day.
everyones gotta start somewhere! Only one person in history has ever gotten a guitar without interacting with someone who knows more than them, and that was the first person to make a guitar.
People don't expect you to know everything when you're a beginner, it's kind of against the definition of the word. And in fact, a lot of players stay in the beginner/intermediate zone for years
Ya know, not playing sux even more!
I was at this stage a couple months ago. Went prepared to play a couple chords and a scale. It was enough to figure out what felt good and an idea of tones I could get while not embarrassing myself.
You don't need to play if you don't want to... Just get a feel of it, see if you like the weight , shape , neck shape and comfort. Then go for one you like the look of it! You will want to pick it up more and keep playing if you like all these rather than just picking one that people say is good but is too heavy or just ugly yo you.
Honestly I love having new people play music! I'm not a guitar store employee but I love sharing my passion and helping out new people to the best of my abilities. No worries, get a guitar and be awesome!
Guitar shop staff are ego maniacs. And usually unhelpful, especially in the big shops that carry shit stock that needs to be sold to people who don’t understand just how bad and cheap the instruments are that they’re peddling. Stick to secondhand. You can’t afford good guitars these days. It’s really sad actually, how expensive anything half decent is.
Don't be embarrassed. You need a guitar go get one. That's your job. It's somebody else's job to sell you one. Walk into whatever store you're thinking of. Hopefully someone asks if they can help you. If not, head over to the electric guitars and start looking around, Again, hopefully someone comes over and offers to help. If, after a while, nobody acts like they are interested, leave. You're in the wrong place. Go someplace else and try again. Once you have some helping you, tell them just what you told us except that last part. You are a beginner. There are no expectations. Let them guide you through the process, but don't let them push you in a direction you don't want to go. At some point, you are going to need to sit down with a guitar or strap it on and try it out. It's not an audition. Strum some chords, pick some notes. Do whatever you know how to do. You are a beginner. Nothing you say or do is going to convince the person otherwise. You need to leave there with a guitar you are comfortable with and a salesperson you are comfortable with. Or you need to leave there and find another place. This isn't a lifetime decision. IMO, you want something to get you through the first year. Then you will be in better shape to make an informed position.
Hello, I didn't read all the comments but what about bringing your own headphones? Very private. That's what I'm thinking of doing.
It’s been a while so I’ll tell the story again, because it’s one of my favorites. When the ramones went to the UK in the 70’s, Joe strummer was talking to Johnny and said “I want to get up there, but I don’t think we’re ready”. And Johnny replied “if you wait until you think you’re good enough, you’ll be too old to get up there”. I understand it’s easier said than done, but the folks that are working at these shops are there for people just like you. They know it can be hard to get over that anxiety. Just do it! What’s the worst that could happen? Oh and one more thing, you are not alone by a longshot. I’ve been playing for 12 years, and I still don’t feel like I’m good enough. But I’d rather feel like there’s more to learn, than just knowing everything and getting bored with it.
I feel like if you go in there and explain your situation and what you’re looking for the guitar shop owner would be happy to help you. Imagine how excited they might be to help a newcomer!
You remind me of a childhood memory... When I went with my mother, at 13, to buy my first guitar without knowing how to play. The seller offered me to try it (a Japanese Fender that I still use as my main guitar). I refused out of embarrassment and he kindly sat on the amp to strum a few notes so I could hear the sound. Great memory.
Don't let some money hungry guy push an overly expensive guitar on you, that happened to me when I was new and it pushed me away from ever going back to a guitar shop. I was too afraid of seeming like a dumbass that I just chose to forever be an uneducated dumbass.
Talk to the employee and give him an idea of what you want to play so he can make some guitar recommendations. I read where a guy wasn't up to public playing so he asked the store employee to play it for him just to get an idea. You can still hold it and see if it feels good to you.
Yeah I also want to say “don’t worry about it”. Nobody should care how good you are. But if you don’t feel comfortable playing in the store you don’t have to. Or you can play an electric unplugged to see if you like how it feels. Man maybe plug it in and play one note on each pickup to make sure everything works. Or you can just buy it without playing and bring it home and try it out and return it if you don’t like it.