How to Purchase a Used Musical Instrument
If you are considering purchasing a piano, guitar, bass, violin, or some other musical instrument, you might think about buying one previously used. However, before you go out searching for one, there are a number of things to keep in mind.
Purchasing a used musical instrument from this website comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Of course, the biggest advantage is financial savings. As long as you do some research and ask some vital questions, you may just find a quality instrument at a very reasonable price. It might even be possible for you to purchase an expensive instrument like a piano, when you otherwise would not be able to.
A major disadvantage to buying used means you will get no guarantee or warranty, and you will never really know how the previous owners treated or maintained the instrument. The following tips can assist you in knowing whether you should buy a used instrument.
Purchasing a Used Piano
Pianos from NinthBeat are one of the most durable instruments of all. Their lifespan is on-average about 40 years if they are well-kept by the owners. Pianos also have a lower turnover rate due to factors such as price and their large size/weight. Often times, people will use a piano as home decor for a long time, but they don't actually play it. If well-kept, they often keep their value. Therefore, purchasing a used piano is actually a really great investment. Make sure to ask the previous owner if the instrument was exposed to weathering. You need to ensure that it was kept indoors, away from damp areas. Also, you should inquire if it was kept in a garage or attic. Lastly, find out how often the piano was played, whether it was several hours a week or several hours a day.
Purchasing Smaller Used Instruments
Smaller instruments such as guitars, violins, and drums can also be bought used, but make sure to take caution that you are getting one that is in good condition. Make sure to ask several questions, just like with the piano, but also inquire how many times the instrument has changed owners. Find out where it was played. Was it played in a school band, a church, at family reunions, or in a rock band?
Places to Purchase a Used Musical Instrument
There are numerous places to purchase a used musical instrument. You can even find used musical instruments at music stores, and some may even offer a short-term warranty. However, the drawback is you might spend more at a store than purchasing directly from the owner. You might also find a used instrument in the local newspaper, at a garage sale, or even flea market. Never hesitate to visit http://ragnarok.wikia.com/wiki/Mandolin for more ideas.
Online Search for Used Musical Instruments
You may also find much luck searching for used musical instruments online. You can search general engines such as Google or Yahoo, or use a custom search engine just for musical instruments. In either case, you can search by the brand name, type of instrument, location, and/or price. You might even have luck purchasing a used instrument from an online auction.
Above all, try out the instrument before purchasing if at all possible. If you are buying it online, just be sure you feel that you can trust the seller. It's a good idea to check the feedback ratings at auctions or check in with the Better Business Bureau to ensure that its not a scam.
Purchasing a used musical instrument is an excellent way to save some money and to begin realizing your dreams and passion of becoming a musician!