Some considerations when looking at paying for a professional guitar setup. 

Ability 

Professional guitar techs have the skills, tools, and years of experience to their advantage. 

Expense 

Of course, that knowledge does come at a price.  

Generally, guitar setups are not that expensive (it’s all relative), but the cost does vary depending on who it is and/or where they are, and it can become costly if it’s something you have done regularly. 

Perfection 

In exchange for the cost of a setup though, you will in return get a perfectly intonated, playable guitar.  

Simplicity 

Although you may not have the right tools to do more specific jobs, there are many tasks a guitarist can do from home to better setup their guitar. 

Things like changing strings or adjusting the action slightly can easily be done with basic tools and minimal know-how. 

Complexity 

On the flip side, there are some jobs too big or complicated for most guitarists. Addressing uneven frets, buzzing, neck warp, etc is something better left to a professional to diagnose and fix. 

Learning 

Understanding how to set up your guitar is a valuable skill, and something every guitarist should have at least a basic understanding of. 

And the more complex and difficult tasks are something every guitarist can learn – after all, most guitar techs began as guitarists themselves. 

Maintenance 

Much like a car, guitars can benefit from a regular service. Frets wear down, potentiometers deteriorate, jack sockets lose their tightness. Taking a guitar to a professional every now and then will help keep it in tip-top shape.  

Convenience 

It can take time waiting for a professional setup: drop-off and collection, booking appointments, work-time, etc. If you can do some of the maintenance/setup work yourself, it will certainly help you if you’re in a hurry. 

And there you have it; a few considerations to make when deciding whether to pay for a professional guitar setup.