Understanding the Average Cost of a Full Guitar Setup by a Luthier

The average cost of a full guitar setup by a luthier typically ranges from $50 to $150, depending on several factors including the type of guitar, the location, the services included, and the luthier's experience.

Factors Influencing the Cost of a Guitar Setup

Type of Guitar: Electric guitars may be less expensive than acoustic guitars due to differences in setup complexity. Location: Prices can vary significantly by region, with urban areas often having higher rates. Services Included: A full setup usually includes adjusting the truss rod, action, intonation, and possibly fret polishing and string replacement. More extensive work like fret leveling or repairs can increase the cost. Luthier's Experience: More experienced luthiers may charge higher rates for their services.

Pricing Details and Sample Data

Depending on the level of detail involved and what specifically is included in a "full set up," the cost can vary. The term 'luthier' is sometimes overused; the individual doesn't necessarily have to build guitars to perform many guitar setups.

Historical Context and Current Prices

In the past, a basic setup was often included in the purchase of a guitar. However, with online purchasing and the requirement for hands-on playtesting, these baseline setup services may no longer be included.

There isn't a definitive average, but here are a couple of data points:

When I brought my 12-string guitar to the luthier for a setup, he charged me $75, which included resetting the neck (a straightforward job due to the Taylor's neck design) and a small amount of work on the saddle and nut. When I purchased a guitar from the same luthier, the setup was included in the price, reflecting that it is part of the overall cost of the instrument.

Depending on where you live, a full setup should range from approximately $35 to $50 U.S. dollars. This price may have increased somewhat due to recent wage increases.

In addition to the setup cost, you will also need to factor in the cost of a set of strings.

Hourly Rates and Services Range

The cost per hour for a luthier can range from $50 to over $100 or more. Some luthiers won't charge less than a half hour or an hour regardless of the amount of work needed, as they charge by the labor time rather than the specific tasks.

The level of work required depends on how detailed you want it to be and the condition of the instrument. Minor tasks like tweaking the truss rod and changing strings are quick. Lowering the action takes a little more work, but making and filing a new nut, making and compensating a new bridge saddle, fixing a poorly intonated guitar, and fixing uneven or worn frets can be quite different.

The only way to accurately assess how much work is needed is to have a qualified guitar technician or luthier conduct a thorough inspection.