The cost of restringing a guitar varies significantly depending on several factors. While you might think it's a simple process, the price can range from a DIY budget-friendly option to a professional setup that includes more than just new strings. Let's break down the costs and what influences them.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Guitar Restring?
Several factors contribute to the final price you'll pay to restring your guitar:
1. The Type of Strings:
This is perhaps the biggest factor influencing the cost. Basic guitar strings can cost as little as $5-$10, while premium brands and specialized coatings (like coated strings for longer life) can easily reach $20-$40 or more. The gauge (thickness) of the strings also plays a role, with heavier gauges sometimes being slightly more expensive. Acoustic guitar strings are generally cheaper than electric guitar strings, but this isn't always the case.
2. Where You Get it Done:
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DIY: This is the cheapest option. If you're comfortable doing it yourself, the cost is limited to the price of the strings themselves. You'll need to factor in the cost of any tools you might need to purchase initially, like a string winder, but this will be a one-time expense.
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Local Music Shop: Local guitar shops offer varying levels of service and pricing. A basic restringing might cost between $20-$40, but this can increase if they also perform a setup (discussed below).
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Guitar Technician/Repair Shop: These professionals typically charge more, often starting around $30-$50 or more, especially for more complex guitars or if additional setup work is involved. Their expertise justifies the higher price.
3. Setup Included?
A guitar setup involves more than just restringing. It usually includes adjusting the truss rod (neck relief), adjusting the bridge height (action), and intonating the guitar. This ensures the guitar plays comfortably and in tune across the fretboard. A setup can add significantly to the cost, increasing it by $30-$80 or more, depending on the complexity of the needed adjustments and the location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions people ask about restringing their guitars:
How much does it cost to restring an acoustic guitar?
The cost to restring an acoustic guitar is generally lower than for electric guitars, especially if you opt for the budget-friendly option of doing it yourself. However, the cost variations discussed above (string type, location, and setup) all apply. You can expect to pay somewhere between $10 (DIY) and $70+ (professional setup).
How much does it cost to restring an electric guitar?
The cost to restring an electric guitar will mirror the range for acoustic guitars. The main variable again is whether you’re doing it yourself or seeking professional help, and whether a setup is included. Expect costs between $10 (DIY) and $70+ (professional setup).
How often should I restring my guitar?
The frequency depends on how often you play. For regular players, restringing every 2-3 months is often recommended. However, if you only play occasionally, you might get away with restringing once every 6 months or even a year. Signs that you need new strings include dull sound, lack of resonance, and broken or corroded strings.
Can I restring my guitar myself?
Absolutely! Many online resources offer tutorials on restringing guitars, both acoustic and electric. It's a skill that's well worth learning, as it can save you money in the long run and allow you to experiment with different string types.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the cost to restring your guitar is determined by your chosen approach and the services included. While a DIY restringing can be very cost-effective, professional setups offer significant advantages in terms of playability and the overall health of your instrument. Weigh the costs against your budget, skill level, and the desired outcome for your instrument.
