how much does guitar center charge to restring a guitar

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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31-01-2025

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Guitar Center Restringing Prices: A Comprehensive Guide

Getting your guitar restrung is essential for maintaining its playability and tone. If you're a busy musician or simply prefer the convenience of professional service, you might consider Guitar Center for restringing. But how much will it cost you? This article breaks down Guitar Center's restringing prices, factors influencing the cost, and alternative options.

What Factors Affect Guitar Center's Restringing Costs?

The price Guitar Center charges for a restringing service isn't fixed. Several factors influence the final cost:

• Guitar Type: Acoustic guitars generally cost slightly more to restring than electric guitars due to the different string types and potentially more intricate work involved. Classical guitars with nylon strings might also fall into a different price bracket.
• String Type: The type of strings you choose significantly impacts the price. Premium brands or coated strings are more expensive than basic alternatives. This is a cost you'll see reflected in the final bill.
• Additional Services: If you request additional services like a setup (adjusting truss rod, action, intonation), the total cost will increase substantially. This is separate from a basic restring.
• Location: Prices might vary slightly between Guitar Center locations. It's always best to contact your local store directly for the most accurate pricing.

How Much Does a Guitar Center Restring Typically Cost?

While an exact price is difficult to state without knowing specifics (guitar type, string choice, location), you can expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $50 for a basic restring at Guitar Center. This price range covers most electric and acoustic guitar restringing jobs.

Adding a setup to the restring will significantly increase the total cost, potentially doubling or even tripling it. Always inquire about the total cost before the work is done to avoid surprises.

Alternatives to Guitar Center Restringing

There are alternatives to Guitar Center if you're looking for potentially more cost-effective options:

• DIY Restringing: Learning to restring your guitar yourself is the most budget-friendly option. Numerous online tutorials and resources are available for beginners. While it requires some initial investment in tools, it saves money in the long run.
• Local Guitar Shops: Smaller, independent guitar shops often offer competitive restringing prices. They might also offer more personalized service and advice.
• Friends or Fellow Musicians: If you know someone experienced in restringing guitars, they might be willing to help you out for a small fee or even for free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Does Guitar Center use my strings or do I need to provide them?

A: Typically, Guitar Center will use strings you provide. However, they also sell strings, and this is often the easiest option for customers.

Q: How long does a Guitar Center restring take?

A: A basic restring should take 15-30 minutes. However, this can be longer if you add additional services like a setup.

Q: Do I need to schedule an appointment for a restring?

A: It’s usually a good idea to call ahead and check the availability of technicians before you go to Guitar Center. Walk-in service is sometimes possible, but scheduling an appointment guarantees your guitar gets attention in a reasonable timeframe.

Q: What if I'm not happy with the restring?

A: Guitar Center typically has a satisfaction guarantee. If you have any issues with the restring, contact the store directly to discuss your options.

Conclusion: Weighing Your Options

Getting your guitar restrung is a necessary part of guitar maintenance. Guitar Center offers a convenient option, but the cost can range depending on multiple variables. Consider your budget, skills, and time constraints when deciding whether to use Guitar Center or explore alternative solutions. Remember to always inquire about pricing before the service begins to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected costs.