By: Allen Newsom
When deciding to purchase a guitar stand there are several things to keep in mind.
How Sturdy is it?
I have found over the years that many manufacturers of quality instrument stands produce a product that will meet the expectations of the owner. But, there are very few that produce one that "Exceeds" the owner's expectations. NOW, there is one!
The instrument stand depicted in the picture above is not only versatile by adjusting to multiple lengths for a variety of styles of guitars, basses, or banjos. But, it also sports a lengthy cradle to accommodate a multitude of various body styles. It has durable tubing construction and folding tripod legs which makes it a perfect choice for either the traveling onstage performer or the garage band novice.
What should one expect to pay for a quality instrument stand?
In answering this question a couple of secondary questions must be answered. Is it affordable? And, and how long will it last? Affordability is different from one person to the next. But, it encompasses the aggregate analysis of all aspects of the stand-namely its' durability, cost, construction, as well as, the buyers need, uses, and even expectation of how well the stand will perform. Personally, I have found a less than $20.00 stand will usually and often does outlast a $50.00 stand.
A good instrument stand should have a fretboard latch.
This will work to secure the players instrument when not in use. It should have a material overlay on surfaces which will protect the instruments finish. The stand example referred to in this guide has a neoprene protected body cradle which works in perfect harmony with the glossy finishes on most instruments. Finally, the footing on a quality stand should be made of rubber not some non-friction type material such as plastic or metal. This keeps the stand right where you put it.
An ideal guitar stand should be adjustable.
If you are like most guitar players who own several guitars you're likely to need a stand at some point that will adjust to different lengths. Thus, a stand with an adjustable fret board holder is what you should look for. I would be nice to have a stand you could use for both your electrics and acoustics.
