Is an electric guitar too loud for an apartment?
Sarah Duran
Updated on February 25, 2026
Whether a plugged-in guitar is too loud for a flat will depend on the amp and the volume you set it. The key is to play at low levels having the proper setup and settings, if you do so, you will be able to play electric without being a nuisance for your neighbors.
Are electric guitars good for apartments?
Electric Guitars are Your Best RoommateYour favorite acoustic can anger the neighbors just as much as a distorted electric when strummed hard. For quick jamming at home, semi-hollow guitars and Stratocasters work great; you can really dig in and not worry about waking anyone up.
Can my neighbors hear my electric guitar?
The short answer to your question is YES, it is possible to hear unplugged electric guitars through walls. Even a solid body will make enough noise to penetrate some walls.Can you practice guitar in an apartment?
Consider Your Practice SpaceIf your apartment is like mine, there will be certain rooms which are bordered by fewer (or more tolerant!) neighbours than others. Consider moving your gear to one of these locations for practice. If you can't easily move your practice rig, it's probably overkill for apartment guitar-ing.
How loud is too loud for an apartment?
For residential environments, the accepted decibel level is lower. Any noise exceeding 70 dB is considered disturbing. Residential limits usually start at 60 or 55 dB (the equivalent noise of a regular vacuum cleaner). Time limits usually apply after 10 pm and until 7 am.How loud can you play music in apartment?
The accepted standard is that people should not be playing loud music (50 decibels or higher) between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. Many feel that it is acceptable to push that to midnight or 1 a.m. on weekends and holidays. While these are good rules of thumb, none of these guidelines are laws.How do I know if Im being too loud in my apartment?
4 Signs You're the Noisy Neighbor (& What You Can Do About It)
- You don't have rugs, live on the top floor and love to wear high heels.
- You like to turn up the volume with every favorite song that comes on.
- You entertain often, late at night on weeknights, in spots where the sound carries.