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Used bass condition disclosure
- Thread starter ahbradot
- Start date
I used to be in the New Only camp. I have since realized that the right approach is to buy the RIGHT bass - new, used, parts that I assemble, the idea is to get what I want at the end of the transaction.
You can't try a bass in stores these days. I've bought used and have been happy. But one advantage of new is an easy return if you don't bond with it.
Mind you, I'm not one of those guys who buys and returns just to check things out. I try to be sure before I click "buy". But sometimes I'm wrong. Other people do seem to buy, try, and return. That's how I got some good deals on "open box" specials.
Mind you, I'm not one of those guys who buys and returns just to check things out. I try to be sure before I click "buy". But sometimes I'm wrong. Other people do seem to buy, try, and return. That's how I got some good deals on "open box" specials.
I've bought two basses new, and a handful of other instruments. But I've primarily bought used; dozens of pre-owned instruments over the years have found their way into my hands. I've never had an issue, but I'm also picky and check them out before forking over any money.
But prices are down and quality is up on low-mid range instruments these days, while used prices are high. For something like a MiM Fender, you might be better off buying new these days.
But prices are down and quality is up on low-mid range instruments these days, while used prices are high. For something like a MiM Fender, you might be better off buying new these days.
I bought my first and only new amp (head and cab) in 1990 and my first new bass in 2007. Second new bass in 2020. Everything else - my entire gigging setup (5 basses, 2 GK MB500s, 2 SWR golight cabs) except of course for the cables, mic stand, bass stand and mics - was bought used.
I make my own cables. Only way to be sure.
I make my own cables. Only way to be sure.
The wild part of that video is that he picks up his guitar (or gets it from his wife) and sits right back in the chair he fell out of.... I see a headstock break in that Les Paul's future.
Buy used- You will save lots more money in the long run. Get new if they sponsor you and the basses are free!
Buy used- You will save lots more money in the long run. Get new if they sponsor you and the basses are free!
I treat my basses and guitars very well. If there is wear it’s honest player wear, not weird scars around the jack.
And IF I decided to sell a bass I’d disclose any dent or ding I could find. But most of my basses are at least good or very good condition. I would Never say anything used and unboxed and played is Mint, no matter what.
You could buy a bass from me (hypothetically) and you would get what was described.
If you buy a car from me it is shiny and dent free and kept clean and vacuumed. But it has been driven to the limit every day I owned it. Don’t be fooled by the lack of dents. Don’t buy my car. It’s gone as fast as it is able and it has stopped faster than recommended.
But my guitars are case kept. Always.
And IF I decided to sell a bass I’d disclose any dent or ding I could find. But most of my basses are at least good or very good condition. I would Never say anything used and unboxed and played is Mint, no matter what.
You could buy a bass from me (hypothetically) and you would get what was described.
If you buy a car from me it is shiny and dent free and kept clean and vacuumed. But it has been driven to the limit every day I owned it. Don’t be fooled by the lack of dents. Don’t buy my car. It’s gone as fast as it is able and it has stopped faster than recommended.
But my guitars are case kept. Always.
2 things:
1. I like buying used because if the neck was going to freak out, it would have done it by now.
2. I like buying from Guitar Center unless I can touch it before buying. You have 30 days to return it.
1. I like buying used because if the neck was going to freak out, it would have done it by now.
2. I like buying from Guitar Center unless I can touch it before buying. You have 30 days to return it.
Bought pretty much all of them used. I can't imagine being limited to new...it's just the tip of the iceberg.
Nothing I've bought new has been over €140ish (Squier Mini). Nothing I've bought used has been over €50, except for the Badtz Maru Bronco.
I take reasonable care of my instruments, and I'm not worried about scratches or dings.
I take reasonable care of my instruments, and I'm not worried about scratches or dings.
I much prefer buying used gear, but only in person and on a cash basis. No Internet, no PayPal, no Reverb, no EBay, and though I’d consider buying an amp or speaker cab here from a TBer, instruments I have to see and play before parting with the cash.
"But prices are down and quality is up on low-mid range instruments these days, while used prices are high. For something like a MiM Fender, you might be better off buying new these days."
Esteban Garcia is correct and that is "exactly why" last night I ordered the Fender Vintera® ‘70s Jazz Bass® new from Guitar Center for $934 includes Fender deluxe gig bag, 45 day return, no hassle if defective and GC is down the street from me.
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