Buy a Used Musical
Instrument
Should Your Musical Instrument be New or
Used?
In today's world, it seems that almost
any topic is open for debate. While I was gathering facts
for this article about buying used instruments, I was quite
surprised to find some of the issues I thought were settled
are actually still being openly discussed.
If you are thinking of buying a piano,
guitar, bass, violin or some other instrument, you might
consider buying a used musical instrument. But before you go
shopping, there are a few things you should know.
Things to Consider when Buying a Used
Musical Instrument
There are advantages and disadvantages
of buying a used musical instrument. The major advantage, of
course, is money savings.
If you do a little research and ask
lots of questions, you can find a quality instrument at a
very low price. Also, you might be able to buy a high-dollar
instrument such as a piano when otherwise you wouldn't be
able to afford a new one.
The disadvantages are no guarantees or
warranties, and you can never know for sure how the
instrument was treated by previous owners.
Use the tips below to determine if
buying a used instrument will be beneficial.
Buying a Used Piano
Pianos are probably the most durable
of all instruments. They have an average lifespan of 40
years if well-kept by the owners. Also, pianos have a low
turnover rate due to pricing and the large size and weight.
Many people will use a piano in their home decor for years,
but will rarely play it. Also, pianos will usually hold
their value if well-kept. Therefore, buying a piano is
definitely a great investment even as a used musical
instrument.
Before buying a used piano, ask the
previous owner if the piano has been exposed to weathering.
Was it kept indoors and away from damp areas? Was it ever
stored in a garage or attic? Did the owner have indoor pets?
Also, ask how often the piano was played - several hours per
week or per day?
Buying Smaller Used
Instruments
Guitars, violins, drums, and other
smaller instruments can also be bought as used instruments,
but you should use extra caution to be sure you're getting
one that's in good condition. Ask lots of questions such as
with the piano, but also find out how many times the
instrument has changed hands. Also, try to find out who
owned it before if possible. Where was it played? In a
church, school band, at family gatherings, or in a teenage
rock band?
Now that we've covered those aspects
of used musical instruments, let's turn to some of the other
factors that need to be considered.
Where to Buy a Used Musical
Instrument
There are many places to buy a used
musical instrument. Some music stores carry used
instruments, and might even offer some sort of short-term
warranty. The only drawback is you may pay more at a store
than when buying directly from an owner. You can also check
your local newspaper classifieds, garage and yard sales,
church yard sales, and flea markets.
Search Engine for Used Musical
Instruments
Another great place to find used
musical instruments is online. You can use a general search
engine such as Google or Yahoo, or you can use a custom
search engine for used musical instruments provided by a
specialty music site. Either way, you can search by brand
name, type of instrument, price, location, etc. to narrow
your search. Online auctions can also be a great source for
used instruments.
Try Before You Buy!!
Most importantly, try out the
instrument before buying if possible. Or, if buying online
be sure the seller is one you feel you can trust. Use
feedback ratings at auctions or check with the Better
Business Bureau Online to be sure it's not a
scam.
Buying a used musical instrument is a
great way to save money and start realizing your dreams as a
musician!
That's how things stand right now.
Keep in mind that any subject can change over time, so be
sure you keep up with the latest news.
Now that wasn't hard at all, was it?
And you hare learned a wealth of knowledge about buying used
musical instruments, just from taking some time to study
what a music expert has to say.
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