Is this chip/gouge a deal breaker?

I'd want $200-300 off or it would go back on their dime. I don't mind a few minor blemishes b/c they will happen in time. But, I have never had damage like that on any of my basses (and I play them out a lot). So, to me, that's not minor damage that will just happen.

 

If you really love that bass (as it seems to be something you cant easily find another of) then I don't think that the damage is the end of the world, at least they were honest about it. If you could get them to cover the costs of repairing it, then that would be perfect.

 

Damage is damage imo, even if it doesn't affect the sound or playability they should still give you a discount.

 

JMW

Somebody's had the neck off and not been careful when putting it back on. It can be quite fragile at that point, I had it happen to
me last year.

If you can't live with it don't buy the bass.I get the feeling you'll be drawn to that chip,a discount won't help with that.

Me I'd buy the bass but chips,gouges and scratches but bother me.

Hey JACink

How's things ? Good Idea about asking them to repair it.

 

@kodiakblair, still getting to grips with 2015 and the fact that I had better start doing some work soon

 

Ishibashi Is great to deal with.
That is just cosmetic. I would ask for a discount.

 

+1 on a discount. If you can get a written repair estimate it might motivate them to reimburse you. It looks like a fairly simple repair for a good finish guy, at least its not right on the face of the front where even the slightest flaw in color match would pop right out.

 

Dings don't bother me, but I kind of understand that some people would never be able to look at it the same way.

 

Good move JMW

 

I can't tell - is the wood actually gouged, or did the finish layer just chip off? Either way, sending the seller an estimate from a reputable luthier asking for a discount or something seems reasonable. Is this a remote "buy before try" deal?
Really nice looking bass, btw. Almost wish they'd left the pickguard off and rear routed the controls, that's nice wood.

 

Interesting dilemma: personally I don't care about chips and dings because it makes me less shy about actually using a bass: but on the other hand I'd expect a discount. If it's the last one and they can't get another that kind of puts them in the driving seat I guess. I'd probably still go for it if I wanted it that badly! Let us know how it turns out.

 

I wouldn't be sure it puts them in the driver's seat, they might be eager to be rid of it. You never now until you ask.

 

That's an easy fix. If they're willing to discount it for the amount of a workman like repair, I'd go for it. It's a nice piece.

 

Seems you already made your decision, so I'll simply add this.

That's a good looking freakin' bass right there. If it sounds/plays nearly as good as it looks, it will be a keeper for sure. Enjoy!

 

I too have dealt with them while I was in Japan. The rep didn't speak a word of English and I don't know any Japanese but he communicated just fine with his hands and couldn't do enough to please me. He gave me a guitar deal on a guitar, only 89,000 yen for a guitar that sells for at least twice that in the US.

Personally I'd expect a discount for that ding, not a huge one but maybe a few %. JMO

 

You mean you ain't tried to haggle 'em down any!?!?!? That's the best part about buyin' stuff. I don't think I could pass on it, to be honest. Ash & koa are 2 of my favorite woods. I'd jump ALL OVER IT. And, that clear pickguard is the ****.

 

Nice looking bass there, I wouldn't worry about the chip too much, it's not exactly an anomaly when it comes to MIJ Fenders.