Used Musical Instruments: Why They’re A Great Choice & How To Choose Them

Key Takeaways

• Used musical instruments can save you 30-50% compared to buying new while often offering superior sound quality and character.
• Vintage instruments often develop unique tonal qualities over time as wood ages and components settle.
• When buying used, always inspect for structural issues.
• Budget for potential repairs—even well-maintained used instruments typically need at least a basic setup ($60-100).
• Sam Ash offers an extensive selection of quality pre-owned instruments that have been professionally inspected.

Used Instruments Save 30-50%: Better Value for Your Money

Need your dream instrument without the steep price tag? The used market makes this possible. When you buy pre-owned, your musical budget stretches significantly further, often saving 30-50% compared to buying new. That Martin guitar or vintage Fender that seemed financially unreachable?

The numbers make sense. Most new instruments drop 20-30% in value the moment they leave the store, similar to new cars. By purchasing used, you skip that initial value loss while accessing higher-quality craftsmanship and materials that might otherwise exceed your budget, explains online musical instrument store Sam Ash.

Many professional musicians with unlimited budgets still prefer used instruments. Touring artists often rely on decades-old instruments despite having access to any new model they want. Why? They recognize both the value and unique qualities that well-maintained pre-owned instruments deliver.

The used market also includes discontinued models and limited editions no longer made. This gives you many more options compared to new instrument stores, which only carry current production models.

Why Old Instruments Often Sound Better Than New Ones

Vintage instruments maintain their appeal for good reason. This isn't just nostalgic thinking – actual science explains why many older instruments sound better than newer ones.

As wood ages, it changes at the cellular level. The cellulose fibers become more crystalline and the moisture content settles at an ideal level. These natural changes create what musicians call 'opening up' – the wood vibrates more freely, producing richer overtones and greater tonal complexity.

Older instruments also benefit from years of vibration. Each note played helps develop the instrument's voice as vibration gradually relaxes internal tensions in the wood. This explains why that 1970s dreadnought might project more powerfully than its modern counterpart – its wood has been conditioned to resonate.

Many vintage instruments were built using traditional hand methods with exceptional attention to detail. Builders spent more time selecting and matching tonewood, hand-carving components, and fine-tuning each instrument individually. These traditional building techniques often prioritized sound quality over production speed.

Hidden Gems vs. Money Pits: What to Look For

The used market offers great opportunities but also comes with risks. Finding a true hidden gem requires knowing how to spot potential problems before they become your expensive repair bills.

The Pre-Purchase Inspection: What to Bring

Before examining any used instrument, gather these essential tools to help you spot potential issues:

• A small flashlight or penlight for seeing inside the instrument
• A thin straightedge or ruler (18 inches is ideal)
• A feeler gauge to check neck relief (0.010 inch is useful)
• A small mirror to examine internal components
• Your smartphone for taking reference photos

Other Factors To Think About

When you find an instrument that passes your physical inspection, the final and most important test is how it sounds and feels in your hands. Even at stores where instruments undergo professional inspection, nothing replaces your personal connection with an instrument. Take time playing it in different styles and positions. Listen for sustain, clarity, and how evenly it projects across all registers.

Plus, when shopping for a used instrument, anticipate some restoration costs. Even well-maintained vintage pieces typically need some attention to perform their best.

Online vs. In-Person: Making Smart Buying Decisions

Your search for the perfect used instrument can lead to many different sources, each with its own advantages and potential drawbacks.

Brick-and-Mortar Music Stores:

Nothing beats playing an instrument before purchasing it. Established music retailers offer used instruments that have been professionally evaluated and set up. While prices might be slightly higher than private sales, you're paying for peace of mind, expertise, and often some form of warranty.

The staff at these stores can be valuable resources. They've likely seen hundreds of similar instruments and can point out typical issues or highlight special features you might miss. This guidance is especially valuable for beginners or those trying unfamiliar instrument types.

Online Marketplaces:

When buying online, protect yourself by:

• Requesting detailed, high-resolution photos of all angles, including any damage
• Asking about repair history, modifications, and known issues
• Confirming the return policy before purchasing
• Checking seller ratings and previous feedback carefully
• Getting the serial number and researching it when applicable

Private Sales:

Buying directly from another musician can yield the best prices but comes with the highest risk. Always meet in a public place, take your time inspecting the instrument, and if possible, bring along a more experienced friend to help with evaluation.

Vintage Specialists:

For rare or collectible instruments where authentication matters, specialist dealers offer expertise that can prevent costly mistakes, though their prices reflect this premium service.

The Long-Term Value: Why Used Instruments Are Worth the Investment

Beyond immediate savings, used instruments often represent smarter long-term investments. Unlike new instruments that depreciate immediately, quality used pieces have typically already experienced their major depreciation. Many actually appreciate over time, especially those from respected makers.

Consider the market for vintage Martin guitars or 1950s Fender instruments. These have consistently outperformed many traditional investments over decades. While not every used instrument will become a valuable collector's item, quality pieces tend to at least hold their value when properly maintained.

Used instruments also offer environmental benefits by extending an instrument's useful life and reducing demand for new production, which consumes significant resources from exotic hardwoods to metals.

Perhaps most importantly, used instruments carry stories and history. They've been played, loved, and have developed their voice through years of music-making. This character is something no new instrument can replicate, regardless of price. When you purchase a used instrument, you're not just buying a tool – you're becoming part of its ongoing story.

Sam Ash has helped musicians find their perfect instruments, both new and pre-owned, since 1924, with their knowledgeable staff and selection of quality instruments.