electric guitars online guitar shop uk

Best Electric Guitars

ELECTRIC GUITARS

At Musicstreet we have a great selection of electric guitars

from some of the worlds finest guitar manufacturers and can offer you a part exchange on your used guitar for something new from our stock. 

We always have various pre-owned Acoustic and Electric guitars so if it's a bargain you're after then check back here often for our second hand guitar section

duesenberg guitars
Duesenberg Guitars UK
epiphone guitars
Epiphone Electric Guitars
fender bass
Fender
gibson guitars
Gibson
gretsch guitars
Gretsch
prs guitars
PRS Guitars UK | Paul Reed Smith Guitars

Electric guitars are a staple in music, offering a wide range of sounds that can fit any genre, from rock to jazz. If you're new to electric guitars or looking to learn more about them, you've come to the right place. An electric guitar works by converting the vibrations from its strings into electrical signals, which can then be amplified and heard through speakers. This process allows for a variety of sound effects and volumes, making electric guitars incredibly versatile.

At Music Street UK, we offer a selection of electric guitars suitable for beginners and professionals alike. Whether you're looking for your first guitar or the next addition to your collection, we're here to help guide you through the choices and find the perfect fit for your musical journey.

How Electric Guitars Work?

Understanding how an electric guitar produces its sound can help you get more out of your playing. Let’s see How Electric Guitar Works:

  • String Vibration: It all starts when you strum or pick a string. The vibration of the string is the beginning of your guitar's sound.
  • Pickups Catch the Vibration: Electric guitars have components called pickups, located under the strings. These pickups detect the vibrations of the strings and turn them into electrical signals. Think of them as the guitar's microphone.
  • Electric Signals Travel: The electrical signals from the pickups travel through the guitar's wiring to the output jack, and then through a cable to an amplifier.
  • Amplifier Boosts the Sound: The "electric guitar and amp" combo is crucial. The amplifier takes the guitar's electrical signals and boosts them, making them loud enough for us to hear through the speakers.
  • Tone and Volume Controls: You can tweak the sound using the guitar's tone and volume controls. These adjustments can make the sound brighter, darker, louder, or softer.
  • Wood and Construction Matter: The type of wood and the guitar's construction also affect the tone. Different woods and builds can make the sound warmer, brighter, or richer.
  • Effects for More Variety: Many players use effects pedals between the guitar and amp to alter the sound further, adding reverb, distortion, or other effects to create their unique sound.

Remember, the magic of electric guitars UK lies in how these elements combine. Each guitar, amp, and player brings something unique to the sound. Whether you're jamming at home or performing on stage, understanding these basics will help you get the best out of your electric guitar setup.

The Anatomy of an Electric Guitar

Understanding an electric guitar's anatomy is like getting to know the parts of a car – each piece plays a crucial role in how the instrument sounds and feels. Here's a straightforward guide to the key components of an electric guitar:

Body

  • The body is the large part of the guitar that rests against your front when you're playing. It can be made from different types of wood, each affecting the guitar's tone. For example, a "black electric guitar" might not just be about the color, but also about the specific wood and construction that give it a unique sound.

Neck

  • Attached to the body, the neck is the long piece of wood that holds the fretboard, strings, and headstock. The shape and size of the neck can influence how easy it is to play the guitar.

Fretboard

  • Also known as the fingerboard, this is the part of the neck where you press the strings down to create different notes. The little metal bars across the fretboard are called frets.

Pickups

  • These are the heart of an "electricguitar." They're essentially magnets wrapped in wire that pick up the vibrations of the strings and convert them into electrical signals. Some guitars have multiple pickups, each offering a different sound.

Bridge

  • The bridge anchors the strings to the body of the guitar. It can often be adjusted to change the height of the strings, affecting playability and tone.

Tuning Machines

  • Found on the headstock, these are used to tune the strings by tightening or loosening them. Proper tuning is essential for a "guitar electric" to sound right.

Controls

  • Most electric guitars come with knobs and switches that let you adjust the volume and tone, as well as switch between different pickups. These are key for shaping your sound, especially when plugged into an "electric guitar and amp."

By getting familiar with these parts, you'll be better equipped to choose the right "electric guitars" for your style, whether you're browsing "guitar for sale" or considering a specific "electric guitar price." Whether you're after a "green electric guitar," a "white electric guitar," or any other type, knowing these basics will help you make an informed decision.

How to Choose the Right Electric Guitar?

Selecting the ideal electric guitar is crucial, whether you're a budding musician or a seasoned player. Here's a simple guide from Music Street UK to help you make an informed choice.

  • Purpose and Style: Your musical genre greatly influences your guitar choice. From rock and blues to jazz and metal, each style has its preferred guitar types. Music Street UK stocks a variety of electric guitars suited for different genres, ensuring you find one that resonates with your musical taste.
  • Feel and Playability: How a guitar feels in your hands is paramount. Consider the neck's shape and size, and how the strings are spaced on the fretboard. These factors contribute to the guitar's playability and your comfort while playing.
  • Sound: The sound is the essence of your decision. The guitar's pickups, the wood it's made from, and its overall build affect its tone and output. We recommend trying out various electric guitars to discover the one that sings to your soul.
  • Aesthetics: The look of your guitar is more than just vanity; it's about finding an instrument that you're proud to play and display. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of a black electric guitar or the bold statement of a green electric guitar or white electric guitar, choose a design that you connect with.
  • Budget: Quality doesn't always have to break the bank. Electric guitar prices vary, and at Music Street UK, we offer an array of options to fit your budget without compromising on the quality of your instrument.
  • Try Before You Buy: We always recommend trying a guitar before committing to it. This hands-on experience is invaluable and ensures the guitar feels right and meets your expectations.
  • Expert Advice: If you're unsure, our experienced team at Music Street UK is here to help. We'll guide you through our range of recommended electric guitars, helping you find the one that's just right for you.

Taking the time to find the right electric guitar is a journey worth embarking on. The perfect guitar should feel like an extension of your body and spirit, enabling you to express your music effortlessly.

Finding a Guitar Shop You Can Trust

When you're on the hunt for a new guitar, finding a guitar shop you can trust is as crucial as the instrument itself. Here at Music Street UK, we get how important it is to find a place that not only sells guitars but also offers guidance and support. Here's what you should look for in a trustworthy shop:

Knowledgeable Staff

  • A good guitar shop will have a team that knows their stuff. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned player, they should be able to answer your questions and guide you to the right choice.

Wide Selection

  • The best shops offer a range of guitars to suit different tastes and budgets. From acoustic to electric, entry-level to high-end, a varied selection means you're more likely to find what you're looking for.

After-Sale Support

  • It's not just about the guitars for sale; what comes after is just as important. Look for shops that offer services like setups, repairs, and maintenance advice.

Community Reputation

  • A shop with a good rep in the music community, like Guitar Guitar Glasgow, is a sign you're in the right place. Ask around or check online reviews to get a feel for what other musicians think.

Welcoming Atmosphere

  • You want a shop where you can feel at ease browsing and trying out different guitars. A no-pressure environment is key to making the right choice.

Fair Pricing

  • While prices can vary, they should be competitive. A trustworthy shop will offer fair prices that match the quality and service you're getting.

At Music Street UK, we pride ourselves on ticking all these boxes. Our locations are more than just shops; they're hubs for musicians to explore, learn, and find their perfect instrument. So, whether you're after your first guitar or the next addition to your collection, we're here to make sure you leave with a smile and a guitar that feels just right.

Finding Your Style: Electric Guitars for Different Genres

Musical Genre Recommended Electric Guitar Type Features Why It's Suitable
Rock Solid Body Lead Guitar Robust build, versatile pickups Can handle high volumes and distortion, versatile for various rock styles
Blues Semi-Hollow Body Guitar Warm, rich tones Offers the expressive, soulful sound characteristic of blues music
Jazz Hollow Body Guitar Smooth, mellow sound Produces the clean, warm tones preferred in jazz compositions
Metal Solid Body with Humbucker Pickups High output, durable Can endure heavy playing and produce the high-gain tones metal requires
Pop Stratocaster or Telecaster Bright, clear sound Versatile and capable of producing a wide range of tones for pop music
Punk Solid Body with Single-Coil Pickups Raw, aggressive sound Suitable for the energetic and fast-paced nature of punk music
Country Telecaster Twangy, bright sound Perfect for the signature sharp and twangy leads in country music


Each genre demands a specific type of electric guitar to best convey its unique sound and style. The right choice of guitar not only complements the music but also enhances the player's ability to express themselves within the genre. Music Street UK offers a range of "recommended electric guitars" for each of these genres, ensuring every musician can find their perfect match and master their desired style.

Electric Guitar Specifications

Highlighting what to look for and how each specification impacts your music. This will help you understand the technical side of electric guitar specifications.

Specification Description Impact on Music
Body Type Refers to the guitar's physical shape and construction (solid, semi-hollow, hollow). Influences the resonance, tone, and volume. Solid bodies are ideal for rock, while hollow bodies suit jazz.
Pickups Devices that capture string vibrations and convert them into electrical signals. Single-coils offer clear, crisp tones ideal for blues and pop, while humbuckers produce a fuller sound for rock and metal.
Neck Type The neck's construction can be bolt-on, set-neck, or neck-through. Affects sustain and accessibility of higher frets. Bolt-on necks offer a snappier sound, while set-necks and neck-through designs provide smoother sustain.
Wood Type Different woods (e.g., maple, mahogany, ash) are used for the body and neck. Each wood type contributes to the guitar’s overall tone, with denser woods providing warmer sounds and lighter woods offering brighter tones.
Fretboard Material Common materials include rosewood, maple, and ebony. Impacts the feel and playability of the guitar, as well as subtle tone differences (e.g., maple offers a brighter sound).
Scale Length The distance between the bridge and the nut. Longer scale lengths result in higher tension, affecting string feel and tonal characteristics (brighter tone with more clarity).
Bridge Type Bridges can be fixed or tremolo systems. Fixed bridges offer stability and sustain, while tremolo systems allow for pitch modulation effects.
Control Knobs Typically include volume and tone controls, and sometimes pickup selectors. Allow for on-the-fly adjustments to the guitar’s output and tone, enabling a wide range of sound customization.
Tuning Machines Also known as tuners, these adjust the tension of each string to tune the guitar. Higher quality tuners provide better tuning stability, ensuring the guitar stays in tune longer.
Nut Material Materials can include bone, plastic, or synthetic compounds. Affects the tone and sustain at the point where the strings meet the headstock, with denser materials providing better sustain.


Understanding these specifications will help you make a more informed decision when selecting a "electrical guitar," ensuring it meets your musical needs and preferences.

How to Maintain Your Electric Guitar?

Keeping your electric guitar in top-notch condition is crucial for its performance and longevity. Here's a straightforward guide on how to maintain your electric guitar, ensuring it remains a treasured part of your musical journey for many years.

Clean Regularly

  • Just like any valued possession, your guitar needs a good clean now and then. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the body and neck after playing to remove fingerprints and sweat, which can damage the finish over time. For the fretboard, consider using a special guitar cleaner every few months, especially if it's made of rosewood or ebony.

Change Strings Regularly

  • Strings can wear out, affecting your guitar's sound and playability. Depending on how often you play, you might want to change them every 3 to 6 months. Not only does this keep the sound fresh, but it also prevents the old strings from breaking at inconvenient times.

Store Properly

  • When you're not serenading the neighbourhood, store your guitar in a case or on a stand in a cool, dry place. Avoid leaving it near radiators or in damp areas, as extreme temperatures and humidity can warp the wood and damage the electronics.

Check the Hardware

  • Every so often, give the tuning pegs, bridge, and input jack a once-over to make sure everything's tight and secure. Loose hardware can lead to tuning problems and unwanted noise.

Monitor Humidity Levels

  • Guitars are like Goldilocks when it comes to humidity – they don't like it too dry or too damp. Aim to keep your guitar in an environment with a humidity level of around 45-55%. If you're in a particularly dry or humid area, consider using a guitar humidifier or dehumidifier.

Regular Setup Checks

  • Every year or so, it's worth getting a professional setup to ensure your guitar is playing its best. This includes adjusting the action (string height), intonation (tuning accuracy along the fretboard), and checking the neck alignment. A well-set-up guitar is easier to play and sounds better.

Handle with Care

  • Last but not least, treat your guitar with the respect it deserves. Avoid bumping or dropping it, and gently plug and unplug cables to preserve the electronics.

By following these simple tips, you can help "maintain your electric guitar" in pristine condition, ensuring it continues to provide joy and inspiration in your musical pursuits. Regular "guitar maintenance" is the key to a long-lasting and reliable instrument.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes an electric guitar electric?

A: Unlike acoustic guitars that amplify sound through their hollow bodies, electric guitars need an amplifier. They have pickups that convert string vibrations into electrical signals, which then get amplified. It's a bit like your telly needing a signal to show a picture!

Q: How often should I change the strings on my electric guitar?

A: It depends on how much you play, but a good rule of thumb is every 3 to 4 months. If you're strumming away daily, you might want to change them more frequently. Think of it like changing your trainers when they start to wear out.

Q: Do I need a specific type of amplifier for my electric guitar?

A: Not specifically, but different amps can affect your sound. Some are better for jazz, others rock or blues. It's a bit like choosing speakers for your music system; you want the best sound for your tunes.

Q: Can electric guitars be used for all music genres?

A: Absolutely! From rock and metal to jazz and blues, electric guitars are incredibly versatile. It's like how your smartphone has apps for everything, from music to fitness.

Q: What's the deal with different pickup types on electric guitars?

A: Pickups are like the microphone for your guitar. Single-coil pickups often have a brighter sound, while humbuckers offer a fuller, warmer tone. It's akin to choosing between different camera lenses for different photo effects.

Q: Is it expensive to maintain an electric guitar?

A: Not necessarily. Regular cleaning and string changes are pretty affordable. It's like keeping your car fuelled and serviced; a bit of regular upkeep goes a long way.

Q: Can I teach myself to play the electric guitar, or do I need lessons?

A: Many folks teach themselves using online resources and practice. However, lessons can speed up your progress and help with technique. It's similar to learning to drive; some can learn from family or friends, while others prefer a driving instructor.