1. Your skill level:
- If you are a beginner, an amp upgrade might be a better investment. A good amp can make even a basic guitar sound great, and it will help you develop your skills more quickly.
- If you are an intermediate or advanced player, a new guitar may be a better choice. A new guitar can give you access to new sounds and playing styles, and it can inspire you to practice more.
2. Your budget:
- New guitars and amps can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Before you start shopping, set a budget so that you can narrow down your options.
3. Your musical goals:
- What kind of music do you want to play? If you want to play heavy metal, you will need a different amp than if you want to play folk music.
- Do you want to record your music? If so, you will need an amp that has a direct output.
4. Your playing environment:
- Do you play in a band? If so, you will need an amp that can keep up with the other instruments.
- Do you practice at home? If so, you might want an amp with a built-in headphone jack.
5. Your personal preferences:
- What do you like the sound of? Do you want a clean sound or a distorted sound? Do you want a lot of features or just the basics?
Here is a general guideline:
- If you are a beginner on a tight budget, an amp upgrade is probably a better choice.
- If you are an intermediate or advanced player with a larger budget, a new guitar may be a better choice.
Ultimately, the best way to decide is to try out different guitars and amps and see what you like best. Many music stores offer lessons or practice time where you can try out guitars and amps.