Adding Value

[nhaight]

Whats the best way to add value to my guitars?

[lowfreq33]

Solid gold hardware?

[jmattbassplaya]

*assuming you mean add value so you can sell them*

Honestly, any addition you put into a guitar is going to net a loss for you. For example, say you upgrade the pickups and throw in a $100 set you'd be lucky to make back $70 if you were to sell the guitar. You might say, "it's a $100 set of pups," but a buyer will come back with, "sure, but if I don't like them and want to get rid of them for something else I'd only be able to sell them for $70."

[spaz21387]

dont play it leave it in a case untouched for 50 years. Then sell it

[darkstorm]

Generally you cant add value. Upgrades are concidered devalueing since top dollar is generally only given for stock instruments in mint condition. Upgrading pups, hardware etc can make it more valuable to you, but not to others in general terms.

[Nev375]

Become an internationally famous superstar.

[bunnykeeper]

+1 to multiple posts. Depending on the instrument, you can actually get more parting it out.

As for adding personal value, to me, improving playability is top priority. There's nothing that endears me more to a bass or guitar.

[Ayce]

Originally Posted by Nev375

Become an internationally famous superstar.

+1

[Lee H]

I am kind of wondering if the op has an inexpensive instrument, and wants to trade up. I see this with kids in cars and motorcycles all the time, and it really is a great dream. It is revived with every generation, and every retelling of exaggerated "fish stories", but it is just not realistic

If this is the case, that dream is unattainable. Everyone would like to be able to do this, and if it was possible everyone would. The reality is that most "hobby" builds are a money loss. You put more into it than you get out of it... My advise would be that if you want to customize your gear, do it because it is what you want. Make it your own. Make it unique. Just realize that while the value man increase to you, and while your investment increases, resale value will not hold the same. If you are using it, it depreciates in value

[spade2you]

Originally Posted by Nev375

Become an internationally famous superstar.

Then die.

[gumbynotpokey]

Originally Posted by Nev375

Become an internationally famous superstar.

Or get backstage passes to a show by someone who is, and plays that model of guitar, and get that person to sign it...then put 'er on the Bay.