which of these 2 basses would you get?

Number 2, a few small marks wouldn’t bother me.

 

Number one is out, because I wouldn’t “settle” for something that doesn’t tick all the boxes in a new purchase.

Number two just needs a little more bargaining. A one year old demo bass commands more than a 10% discount, I think.

 

Not sure what price range we are in, but maybe you can get additional merch instead of further discount.

If they don’t budge, ask for a case or maybe a strap and some strings instead. Does it make sense to say be firm yet flexible?

 

Get number two.

Any bass you buy is going to sustain some wear and tear. That’s not damage—that’s patina. It just adds to the character of a well-loved bass. Any ding on one of my instruments has a story behind it, and I wouldn’t do without any of them. (Even the tooth marks on the Alvarez. Long story.)

If they sound about the same and have no differences other than the one you’ve mentioned, I’d go with number two every time. It’ll probably be cheaper, too. Plus, the marks on number two mean that it’s been played a lot in the store. People like it.

I’d be interested to hear which one you choose.

 

But ask. My guy knocked about 10% off my brand new Fender purchase in December. I've done a lot of business with him and he knows I'm a grumpy old tightwad. He was helping me wade through cheaper P bass alternatives but finally sold me on the real deal and gave me a break. He's been well rewarded for his discount .....

Don't expect it, but it doesn't hurt to ask "is there anything you can do for me on this item?"

 

I'd be leery of a bass with wood grain issues in the neck and fingerboard, due to the potential of warping.

 

Sweetwater has a great reputation. I would order it. I don't think you'll get burned.

 

The one that sounds better.

 

Perhaps your guy reads the forums at Talkbass!

 

I hate to say "number two," but here we are.

 

Two. No question.

 

I will never ever buy a bass with a pau ferro fingerboard. PF is too ugly.

 

2

 

#2. Tell them you will only do it at 20% off. When they counter with 15%, buy it.

 

There's some ain't gotta choice.

 

I’d have to see bass 1 to see if I’d be interested in it but 10% off for bass 2 used isn’t enough off. With that little difference in price I’d just buy a new one in perfect condition. I actually did that when I bought my Dingwall. The used ones were practically the same price as the new ones so I just went ahead and bought a new one. For me used basses aren’t really a bargain until then get to down to about 50% of the new price.