Electric Guitars

Explore solid-body, semi-hollow, hollow-body, left-handed, extended-range and electro-acoustic models, supported by friendly advice from experienced musicians. Used, vintage, ex-display and one-off guitars can sell quickly, so browse the latest arrivals while they are available.

New and Used Electric Guitars, Bass Guitars and Electro-Acoustic Guitars

Find your next guitar at Fair Deal Music, Birmingham’s largest independent music retailer and a trusted destination for musicians since 1987. This extensive collection includes new electric guitars, second-hand electric guitars, bass guitars and electro-acoustic guitars for complete beginners, advancing players, working musicians, collectors and recording professionals.

From affordable starter guitars and dependable instruments for regular rehearsals to premium USA-made models, Custom Shop guitars and rare pre-owned finds, our range is designed to help every musician find an instrument that feels right, sounds inspiring and suits the way they play.

Our stock changes regularly as new instruments arrive and pre-owned guitars are bought, sold and traded. This means you can discover everything from current production models to discontinued finishes, vintage-inspired designs, unusual specifications and genuinely individual used guitars.

Explore Electric Guitars for Every Style of Music

An electric guitar can shape the way you play, write, perform and record. Body construction, pickups, neck profile, scale length, bridge design and control layout all influence the feel and sound of an instrument, which is why choosing the right guitar is about more than simply choosing a colour or brand.

Our new and used electric guitar collection may include:

• Solid-body electric guitars for rock, blues, pop, indie, punk, metal, funk and modern alternative music
• Single-cut guitars offering powerful sustain, warm tones and a substantial playing feel
• Double-cut guitars designed to provide comfortable access to the higher frets
• Strat-style electric guitars known for versatility, clarity and expressive tremolo sounds
• Tele-style electric guitars valued for their direct response, definition and distinctive character
• Semi-hollow and hollow-body guitars for blues, jazz, rockabilly, soul, indie and classic rock
• Offset electric guitars with distinctive styling, alternative tones and comfortable body shapes
• Metal and high-output guitars created for powerful rhythm playing, fast lead work and lower tunings
• Seven-string and extended-range guitars for modern metal, progressive music and expanded chord voicings
• Headless guitars offering modern ergonomics, compact dimensions and excellent balance
• Left-handed electric guitars made specifically for left-handed players
• Travel and compact guitars for practice, touring and playing away from home

Electric Bass Guitars for Beginners, Performers and Producers

The bass guitar provides the connection between rhythm and harmony, giving a band its foundation, movement and weight. Whether you play rock, funk, soul, jazz, metal, pop, reggae, worship music or electronic-influenced styles, the right bass should feel comfortable, respond evenly and deliver the sound your music needs.

Our collection can include four-string, five-string, short-scale, long-scale, passive and active bass guitars. You may also find new and used basses suited to home practice, live performance, touring, studio recording and professional production.

Choosing Between Passive and Active Bass Guitars

A passive bass uses a straightforward pickup and control system that often produces an organic, responsive sound. An active bass includes powered electronics that can provide additional output and greater control over frequencies. Neither is automatically better; the right choice depends on the tone, flexibility and playing experience you prefer.

Short-Scale and Full-Scale Bass Guitars

Short-scale basses have a reduced scale length and can feel easier to reach around, making them popular with younger musicians, guitarists moving to bass and players who prefer lower string tension. Full-scale basses provide the familiar feel, response and definition used across countless recordings and live performances.

Electro-Acoustic Guitars for Home, Stage and Studio

An electro-acoustic guitar combines the natural character of an acoustic instrument with a built-in pickup or microphone system for amplification. It can be played acoustically at home, connected to an acoustic amplifier for performance or plugged into suitable recording and live-sound equipment.

Electro-acoustic guitars are ideal for singer-songwriters, solo performers, worship musicians, acoustic duos, gigging bands, buskers and recording artists who need a versatile instrument that can move easily between unplugged practice and amplified performance.

When comparing electro-acoustic guitars, consider:

• Body size and playing comfort
• Acoustic volume and tonal balance
• Neck width, profile and string spacing
• Cutaway or non-cutaway body design
• Pickup and preamp controls
• Feedback resistance at performance volume
• Solid or laminated tonewood construction
• Suitability for strumming, fingerstyle or mixed techniques

Leading Electric Guitar and Bass Brands

Fair Deal Music stocks a broad and regularly changing selection of respected guitar manufacturers. Depending on current availability, the collection may include instruments from Fender, Gibson, PRS, Gretsch, Squier, Epiphone, Ibanez, Jackson, Charvel, Schecter, Yamaha, Rickenbacker, Music Man, Cort, Vintage, ESP, EVH, Reverend, Guild, Danelectro, Hagstrom and other established, boutique and specialist brands.

Popular designs may include Stratocaster and Telecaster-style guitars, Les Paul and SG-style instruments, offset guitars, semi-hollow models, modern high-performance guitars, signature instruments, Custom Shop models and professional bass guitars.

Brand availability changes as products sell and new stock arrives. Use the collection filters to narrow the current range by product type, brand, body shape, colour, condition and other available specifications.

New, Used, Ex-Display and Open-Box Guitars

This collection can include instruments in several different conditions, helping you compare brand-new guitars with pre-owned, ex-display, B-stock and opened-box opportunities.

New Guitars

A new guitar is an excellent choice when you want a current model, factory specification and the widest possible selection of available colours and configurations.

Used and Second-Hand Guitars

A used electric guitar or bass can provide exceptional character and value. Pre-owned instruments can also offer access to discontinued models, older specifications, rare finishes and guitars that are no longer available to purchase new.

Because every used guitar has its own history and condition, customers should review the individual product description and photographs carefully. Any available information about condition, cosmetic wear, modifications, included accessories and the instrument’s background will be shown on its product page.

Ex-Display, B-Stock and Opened-Box Guitars

Ex-display, B-stock and opened-box instruments can offer an opportunity to purchase quality equipment at a reduced price. Their condition can vary, so each product should be assessed using the specific description and photographs provided.

How to Choose the Right Electric Guitar

Consider How the Guitar Feels

Comfort is one of the most important parts of choosing a guitar. Think about the instrument’s weight, body shape, neck profile, fret size, scale length and balance. A guitar that feels natural in your hands can encourage longer practice sessions and more confident playing.

Choose Pickups for the Sound You Want

Single-coil pickups are often associated with clarity, detail and an open response. Humbuckers generally produce a fuller sound with greater output and reduced electrical hum. P-90-style pickups sit between these approaches, offering a broad, lively tone with plenty of character.

Many guitars combine different pickup types or use switching systems that provide several sounds from one instrument. This can be useful for players who perform multiple styles or want one guitar to cover rehearsals, gigs and recording sessions.

Compare Fixed Bridges and Tremolo Systems

A fixed bridge provides a straightforward playing experience and can make string changes and alternative tunings easier. A tremolo system allows pitch effects ranging from gentle movement to dramatic dives, although it may require more setup and maintenance.

Think About Your Amplifier and Effects

Your amplifier, speaker, pedals, strings and playing technique all contribute to your finished sound. The best guitar is therefore not always the model with the most features; it is the instrument that works most effectively with your wider setup and musical goals.

Who Is This Guitar Collection For?

• Complete beginners choosing their first electric guitar, bass or electro-acoustic guitar
• Improving musicians looking for a more responsive and inspiring instrument
• Gigging players who need dependable equipment for rehearsals and live performance
• Recording musicians searching for a specific pickup sound, tuning or tonal character
• Professional guitarists and bassists adding specialist instruments to their working collection
• Collectors looking for discontinued, unusual, vintage-inspired or premium guitars
• Singer-songwriters who need an electro-acoustic guitar for writing, performance and recording
• Left-handed musicians searching for dedicated left-handed models
• Parents and teachers choosing a suitable instrument for a new learner

Buying Your First Electric Guitar or Bass

A beginner guitar should be comfortable, properly suited to the player and inspiring enough to encourage regular practice. It does not need to be the most expensive instrument in the collection, but it should offer reliable tuning, manageable playability and a sound that suits the music the player wants to learn.

Before ordering, consider whether you also need an amplifier, cable, strap, tuner, case, stand, picks or spare strings. Some musicians prefer to choose these items separately, while a suitable guitar bundle can provide the essentials needed to start playing.

If you are unsure which instrument is right for you, Fair Deal Music’s experienced team can help you compare different guitars, basses, pickup configurations and price points.

Used Guitar Inspection and Product Information

Our experienced team assesses pre-owned guitars before they are offered for sale. Used instruments are presented with individual product information and photographs so customers can make a more informed buying decision.

As used guitars can vary in age, specification and condition, normal signs of previous ownership may be present. Please check the individual listing for confirmed details relating to cosmetic condition, playability, modifications, electronics, hardware, cases and accessories.

Where a pre-owned guitar is rare, discontinued, vintage or unusual, it may be the only example available. Once a one-off instrument has sold, an identical replacement may not become available.

Buy, Sell, Trade In or Part Exchange Your Guitar

Fair Deal Music has helped musicians buy, sell and trade musical instruments since 1987. If you have an electric guitar, bass guitar, electro-acoustic guitar or other music equipment that you no longer use, you may be able to sell it directly to us or use its agreed value towards another instrument.

• Sell your guitar: turn unwanted equipment into money without creating private listings or arranging viewings
• Trade in: use the value of your current instrument towards another guitar or piece of equipment
• Part exchange: reduce the amount needed to purchase your next instrument
• Trade up: move from your current guitar to a higher-specification or more suitable model

All purchases and valuations are considered individually and depend on the instrument’s condition, specification, demand and current resale value.

Guitar Finance Options

Finance may be available on eligible electric guitars, bass guitars, electro-acoustic guitars and related purchases, allowing qualifying customers to spread the cost of their chosen instrument.

Available finance options, minimum purchase requirements and repayment terms can vary. Credit is subject to status and affordability, and terms and conditions apply. Please review the current finance information before applying and only choose a repayment option that is affordable for you.

UK Guitar Delivery and Birmingham Collection

Order your chosen guitar online for delivery or arrange collection from Fair Deal Music in Birmingham. Available delivery services, charges and estimated timescales depend on the product, destination and selected service.

Always check the individual product page and checkout information for the delivery options currently available for your order. Customers who prefer to see an instrument in person can also visit our Birmingham city-centre showroom, subject to the product being available at that location.

Why Thousands of Musicians Choose Fair Deal Music

When you buy from Fair Deal Music, you’re choosing one of the UK’s most established independent family-run music retailers, proudly helping musicians since 1987.

• Expert advice from a knowledgeable team of musicians
• A wide choice of new, used and specialist musical instruments
• Electric guitars, basses and electro-acoustic guitars for every level of player
• Opportunities to buy, sell, trade in, part exchange and trade up
• Secure online ordering with UK delivery options
• A Birmingham city-centre showroom where customers can explore instruments in person
• Friendly support before and after your purchase

Whether you are buying your first guitar, searching for a dependable gigging instrument or adding a rare model to your collection, our goal is to help you make the right choice with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Electric Guitars, Basses and Electro-Acoustic Guitars

What is the best electric guitar for a beginner?

The best beginner electric guitar is one that feels comfortable, stays in tune and suits the music you want to play. Popular beginner choices often include versatile solid-body guitars with straightforward controls, comfortable necks and access to both clean and driven sounds.

Should I buy a new or used electric guitar?

Choose a new guitar when you want a current model, factory specification and a broad selection of finishes. Choose a used guitar when you value character, potential savings or access to older, rare and discontinued instruments. The right option depends on your budget, priorities and the condition of the individual guitar.

Are used electric guitars inspected before sale?

Fair Deal Music’s experienced team assesses pre-owned guitars before they are offered for sale. Review the individual product description and photographs for the confirmed condition, specification and included accessories of a particular instrument.

What is the difference between single-coil and humbucker pickups?

Single-coil pickups commonly produce a clear, detailed and responsive sound. Humbuckers generally provide a fuller tone, higher output and reduced electrical hum. Many guitars combine both styles or offer additional switching for greater versatility.

What is a semi-hollow electric guitar?

A semi-hollow guitar combines a resonant body with a solid internal centre section. This can provide some of the warmth and openness associated with hollow instruments while improving sustain and helping control feedback at louder volumes.

Do I need an amplifier for an electric guitar?

You can practise an unplugged electric guitar quietly, but an amplifier or another suitable amplification system is needed to hear its full electric sound. Headphone amplifiers, modelling units and audio interfaces can also provide practical alternatives for home practice and recording.

What is the difference between an electric guitar and an electro-acoustic guitar?

An electric guitar relies primarily on magnetic pickups and amplification to create its sound. An electro-acoustic guitar is an acoustic instrument fitted with electronics so its natural acoustic tone can be amplified or recorded more easily.

Can an electro-acoustic guitar be played without an amplifier?

Yes. An electro-acoustic guitar can be played like a standard acoustic guitar without connecting it to amplification. Its electronics are available when you need to perform, record or connect to compatible sound equipment.

Should a beginner start on electric or acoustic guitar?

Either can be suitable. An electric guitar may feel easier to fret because it commonly uses lighter strings, while an acoustic guitar provides a simple pick-up-and-play experience without an amplifier. Beginners should choose the instrument that best matches the music they are excited to learn.

Is a four-string or five-string bass better?

A four-string bass offers the traditional range and familiar layout used across most styles of music. A five-string bass adds an extended lower range, which can be useful for modern styles, lower keys and arrangements that require deeper notes.

Are short-scale bass guitars good for beginners?

Short-scale basses can be an excellent choice for beginners because their reduced scale length can make stretches more manageable. They are also popular with experienced players who enjoy their compact feel and distinctive response.

Do you sell left-handed electric guitars?

Left-handed models may be available within the collection. Use the available product filters and check current listings, as brands, specifications and stock levels can change.

Can I trade in my current guitar?

Fair Deal Music considers guitars and other musical equipment for trade-in and part exchange. Any valuation will depend on the specific model, condition, demand and expected resale value.

Can I finance an electric guitar?

Finance may be available on eligible purchases, subject to status and affordability. The available options and qualifying order values can change, so review the current finance terms before applying.

How quickly do used guitars sell?

Popular, rare and competitively priced used guitars can sell very quickly because only one example may be available. If you find a suitable one-off instrument, delaying your decision may mean the same guitar is no longer available later.

Find Your Next Guitar at Fair Deal Music

Explore the latest new and used electric guitars, bass guitars and electro-acoustic guitars available from Fair Deal Music. Compare trusted brands, body styles, pickups, conditions and price points to find an instrument that matches your sound, your playing style and your ambitions.

Our collection is updated as guitars arrive, sell and become available through trade-ins and part exchanges. Browse the current range today and discover the instrument that inspires your next riff, song, recording or performance.