Buying New Or Used Music Gear? Here’s Why Clearance Equipment May Be Better

Key Takeaways

• Used musical equipment can save you 40% to 60% compared to buying new, while often retaining better resale value
• New equipment comes with warranties, the latest features, and pristine condition, giving peace of mind to first-time buyers
• Clearance equipment offers the perfect middle ground—new gear with warranties at significantly reduced prices
• Sam Ash offers clearance deals that combine the benefits of new equipment with prices closer to used
• Consider your budget, playing level, and long-term needs when deciding between new, used, or clearance instruments

The Dilemma: New vs Used—Or Something In Between?

Every musician eventually faces the age-old question: should you buy new or used equipment? Tight budgets, evolving needs, and a wide range of options make this a challenging decision. But there's a third path that deserves more attention—clearance equipment.

Clearance gear offers the performance and security of new gear with the price flexibility of used. For musicians seeking value without sacrificing reliability, this middle ground may be the best-kept secret in the music retail world.

Let's look at why both new and used equipment have their merits, and why clearance instruments from retailers like Sam Ash may actually be your smartest option.

Why Buying Used Can Be a Smart Long-Term Move

1. Substantial Cost Savings

Used musical gear can save you anywhere from 40% to 60% compared to new purchases. A $1,700 guitar may go for as low as $1,000 used. A $500 audio interface can cost just $300 second-hand. These savings let you stretch your budget further—ideal for students, hobbyists, or gigging musicians on a tight budget.

2. Value Retention

Unlike new gear that loses 20-30% of its value immediately, used equipment has already undergone its biggest depreciation dip. This means you're more likely to resell it later at close to the purchase price. Instruments from respected brands tend to hold their value especially well.

3. Unique & Discontinued Models

The used market opens access to instruments you simply can't find new—vintage guitars, discontinued synths, or rare drum kits. These can offer tonal and aesthetic qualities not available in modern mass-market releases.

4. Played-In Character & Feel

Some musicians prefer the "broken-in" comfort of used instruments. Over time, wood in acoustic instruments becomes more resonant. Guitar necks settle into the player's grip. These subtle evolutions often create a feel and tone new gear hasn't yet developed.

5. Proven Reliability

Used equipment that's been well-maintained and still performs flawlessly has proven its durability in real-world conditions. If it's lasted this long without issue, it's likely built to last longer.

What New Equipment Offers That Used Can't

1. Warranty & Manufacturer Support

New gear usually comes with warranties ranging from 1-5 years, sometimes more. This coverage offers peace of mind—especially for electronics like mixers or digital pianos where repairs can be expensive. Customer support also tends to be easier to access when the product is registered new.

2. Cutting-Edge Features

Technology moves fast. New gear may include advanced sound modeling, Bluetooth connectivity, USB-C ports, or expanded sample libraries that weren't available just a few years ago. For digital instruments and studio equipment, newer often means more powerful and user-friendly.

3. Clean, Pristine Condition

There's nothing quite like being the first to unwrap and play an instrument. Frets are untouched, drum heads unmarked, and electronics completely fresh. No scratches. No wear. No surprises.

4. Customization & Configurations

Buying new can give you access to factory customization—from wood types and finish options to pickup configurations and hardware colors. These options are rarely available in the used market.

The Hidden Gem: Why Clearance Equipment Is Worth Your Attention

Clearance items are often brand new or like-new, sold at steep discounts. Think of them as new gear with a price tag that competes with the used market.

1. New Gear at Reduced Prices

Clearance products are usually discounted 20% to 50% because they're:

• Last year's model
• Overstocked by the retailer
• Part of a discontinued line
• They haven't been used regularly—often, they haven't been used at all beyond basic testing or display.

2. Warranty Coverage Included

Most clearance items still include manufacturer warranties or retailer guarantees, giving you the same peace of mind you'd expect with new gear.

3. Floor Models & Open-Box Units

These units may have been displayed in-store or used briefly for demos, but they haven't seen consistent use. These sell at 15% to 30% off MSRP, with minimal wear and often full functionality. They're a great way to save without truly going second-hand.

4. Where to Find the Best Clearance Deals

Retailers like Sam Ash maintain dedicated clearance sections offering:

• Fender Player series instruments
• Paul Reed Smith and Michael Kelly guitars
• Marshall amps and Shure pro audio gear
• Roland digital pianos and electronic drums

For example, a Michael Kelly Triad Port Acoustic-Electric may drop to $399.99, or Taylor 100 Series guitars may start at $199 during clearance—brand-new with warranty.

5. Extra Value with Return Policies & Support

Unlike peer-to-peer used sales, clearance deals at major retailers usually include return policies, expert consultation, and after-sales support—giving you the best of both worlds.

How to Choose: Matching the Option to Your Needs

1. Budget First

• Tight budget → Look at used or clearance.
• Mid-range budget → Clearance often hits the sweet spot.
• Flexible budget → Consider new if you want exact specs or new tech.

2. Purpose & Playing Level

• Beginners or casual players → Look at used or clearance to get reliable gear without overpaying.
• Intermediate/pro musicians → New is best, but clearance offers gear at more accessible prices.
• Collectors or vintage chasers → The used market will be your playground.

3. Long-Term Goals

• Buying for life? Get something high-quality—clearance or new.
• Planning to upgrade later? Used or clearance makes more financial sense and minimizes depreciation.

4. Always Test (Or Be Sure You Can Return)

Before committing:

• Play or demo instruments in-store if possible.
• For online buys, check return policies.
• Verify warranty status—especially for clearance or open-box items.

Verdict: Which Option Is Best?

The ideal choice between new, used, and clearance musical equipment isn't universal—it's personal and situation-dependent. Many professional musicians maintain a mix of all three types in their collection, selecting each piece based on its merits rather than adhering to a single approach.

• New equipment offers pristine condition, full warranties, and the latest features, but at premium prices.
• Used gear provides exceptional value, character, and access to vintage or discontinued items, but may come with wear or hidden issues.
• Clearance items strike a balance, offering new or like-new conditions with warranties at reduced prices.

For most musicians, clearance equipment represents the sweet spot that maximizes value while minimizing risk. You get new or nearly-new equipment with warranty protection at prices that compete with the used market.

⚠️ Before making your next musical equipment purchase, check all options to find the perfect balance of quality, features, and value for your unique musical journey.

Whether you're a beginner or professional musician, Sam Ash offers an extensive selection of new and clearance instruments to match your needs and budget.