Used electronics?

dougazbass · #1 12-25-2011, 09:24 AM

I'm fairly new to the bass world and I have purchased all of my basses and bass amps (2 smaller combos) used. I am wondering if older used amps are more of a concern as far as dependability. The basses are relatively simple and with limited use, as alot of used basses have, they seem very dependable.
I am considering purchasing top of the line older amplification equipment (70s, 80s, 90s) rather than new lower end stuff. Is this a good move in your opinion?
Merry Christmas

dukeisdog · #2 12-25-2011, 09:25 AM

I always buy gear used (basses and amps and cabs).

EX: $1000 on the used market gets you way better gear then if you were spending it on new gear.

Hopkins · #3 12-25-2011, 09:31 AM

As long as you can give it a good work out before buying it, going used is a great way to save a bunch of coin and still have very nice gear.

waleross · #4 12-25-2011, 09:52 AM

Great question. I prefer new amps with full warranty's such as the 3 year from Ampeg . That being said, you can get good deals on used amps from the mega stores and private individuals (here on TB and Craig's List) . You have to do your own legwork and decide for yourself by taking your bass and running it as hard as you can. You can find returns and blemished item at reduced prices. For me, I won't consider old amps that were new when I was still in college (1971). I know that some of the old amps sound great and are maintained like new. Buyng an antique car is one thing but not an amp.
Good luck......

sad_katz · #5 12-25-2011, 10:10 AM

To greatly reduce risk, try buying them off from TB Classifieds. The guys and girls here, being bassists and gear lovers, offer more peace of mind compared to CL or similar.

Heck I bought mine (Shuttle 6.0) and shipped it from US to Indonesia.
It's not vintage gear, but it goes to show the people here are great to deal with

I prefer buying used gears that has been proven to be quite durable and long lasting.

Just make sure you see the gear yourself and put it through its paces before buying.
"Top of the line vintage gears" sound like all-tube amps, the kind that I don't want to foot the shipping for. That's just me, and it gives me a reason to find local deals and look the gear myself. Cheaper in the end too.