Repair or Replace? When to Fix an Instrument and When to Upgrade

Not sure whether to repair a well-loved instrument or put the money toward a new one? Here is how we think it through in the workshop.

Repair when the bones are good

If the body, neck or soundboard is structurally sound, most issues — worn frets, a warped bridge, sticky keys, dead electronics — are worth fixing. A good setup can make an old guitar or piano feel new.

Consider replacing when

The repair cost approaches the instrument's value, the structure is compromised, or the instrument was very low quality to begin with and holds a student back.

Sentimental value counts

A family piano or a first guitar can be worth restoring even when the maths is close — we will give you an honest assessment either way.

Get a free assessment

Bring it in (or send a photo on WhatsApp) and our workshop will tell you honestly whether it is worth repairing, with a quote before any work starts. See our repairs service to book.

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