help buying a used Danelectro

[darkhorse9]

I'm checking out a used Danelectro from a guy (because I always thought they were cool...whatever)

I'm not real experienced in buying quirky instruments like this. Are there things in particular I should be on the lookout for. I know very little about Danelectro. Obviously I'll play it and decide if I like the tone, but are there characteristics to watch out for?

The guy did say that the "tape" around the edge (as he called it) has been removed. I'll see what he means tomorrow.

Any advice? Suggestions on a fair price (assuming it plays well?)

 

[A-Step-Towards]

The tape is the binding around the body it is simple just tape. Just look it over like any bass, no cracks, straight neck , good frets etc.

 

[darkhorse9]

What kind of price should I expect to offer? He's starting at $200, but I'm sure he would bring that down.

 

[A-Step-Towards]

What kind of price should I expect to offer? He's starting at $200, but I'm sure he would bring that down.

I dotn think thats a bad price, i would offer 140$. If he says no tell him you can do 160$ and pull out 160$ in 20$ bills. If he still says no then say you would have paid more but he pulled off the binding, which is not a big deal but should lower the price.

 

[darkhorse9]

Thanks for the help. I pulled the trigger and got it for $140. Color me happy

 

[Turock]

I would have tried to talk him down too, but I would have still given him $200 if he wouldn't budge. You got a really good deal on a fun bass.

 

[Pilgrim]

Sounds like a great deal! Now get that binding replaced...you can probably do it with material from Stew-Mac.com if you are patient.

 

[Turock]

You can get binding tape here:
Invalid Link Removed

 

[howarddaniel]

Anyone interested in the history of Danelectro might want to check out the tribute I wrote to my father, Danelectro founder Nathan I. Daniel, at Invalid Link Removed. It has lots of information about this innovative guy available nowhere else on the Web.

 

[doc540]

Thanks for posting all the info.

I've been shopping for one today.

And a great read about your dad. Sounds like both he and Les Paul started with crystal radio sets!