When you’re looking to buy an instrument, you’re probably wondering, should I buy a new instrument or should I buy a used instrument! Truthfully, there isn’t one correct answer - there are so many factors involved! Make sure to read below for some expert advice for individual instruments!
The first factor is of course your instrument. Some instruments get better with age so depending on what instrument you play, you might actually prefer a used instrument. Also, some instruments hold up better over time than others.
The second factor is your budget. For example, many times beginning instruments are going to be at a lower price point brand new and you won’t get as big of a discount from a used instrument. If instead you’re looking at an intermediate or advanced instrument, you will usually see a higher discount with used instruments.
Things to consider when purchasing a used instrument:
- Is there a warranty?
- Can you try the instrument before purchasing?
- Is there a repair shop that you can take it to in order to ensure that the instrument is worth what the asking price is and to double check that it is in good working condition?
Here are recommendations for many specific instruments from experts in the field:
Fernando Arroyo Garcia Lascurain | Composer and Violinist | @farroy
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
In the case of bowed strings, used instruments are often more resonant if they have been played a lot by great musicians. The caveat being that most good used instruments come at prices that are out if each did most people. Starting at around 10k and if you’re wealthy enough going into the millions. These considerations apply to the bows as well. New instruments can be more accessible and great options from a reputable maker. Ranging from 3-50k, they are more stable when it comes to tuning, can compete in quality of sound with old instruments from legendary makers, you get to mold its character and tone into your playing, and you get the added bonus of having a living luthier who made the instrument available for tune ups and anything else that may arise.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
When getting a used instrument, depending on your budget, you can go to auction houses like Tarisio or Sothebys for the higher price range discussed above. However, individual modern makers have access to these instruments as well and a large array of budgets and options, as well as connections with other musicians looking to sell their instruments. For both used and new instruments steer away from online purchases, of general music stores like Guitar Center or SamAsh. These instruments, while cheap, are mass produced with low quality of sound and are geared mostly towards very young beginners. Even jn that case its better to go to a reputable violin maker in your area who can advice you. The best way to find out who to go to is to ask a string musician in your local professional orchestra or your private teacher.
Drew Forde | @thatviolakid | Grace Notes Newsletter
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
I believe that the best instrument is the instrument you can afford/get access to. I don't think that new violas are always better than used. If one can only afford to purchase or rent a used instrument, I would say to get that viola. With all of that said, I think it is most important that one exercises patience when searching for an instrument. Try as many as you can and find an instrument that fits YOUR voice.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
I recommend getting used instruments, especially if they have been well-maintained. I personally go to Benning Violins in Studio City and Metzler Violins in Glendale.
SUUVI | @callmesuuvi | SUUVI.xyz
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
I have played on Eastman String cellos since I first started at age two. I have played on and own several Rudoulf Doestch series instruments, as well as a series+ model which is an acoustic instrument with a built in pickup that allows you to play it both acoustically and electrically. I also play on a. Bridge electric cello, which is a completely electric instrument.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
Metzler Violin Shop and Johnson String Instrument
Jules Levy | @justjules | Linktree
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
When considering an instrument upgrade during music school, it is very important to “play the field” when considering your options. Assembling a diverse set of opinions from teachers and colleagues, while also trusting your own “gut” can be a delicate balancing act. Make sure you consider the economics of both modern and vintage instruments when it comes to upfront costs and upkeep/ unforeseen repairs. I currently recommend spreading your search area across the entire country to find quality used consigned/for sale by owner double basses, as the price of modern instruments has become incredibly high in recent years.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
When shopping for a used instrument, consider the convenience of buying from an established shop vs the savings and “bang for your buck” from a private sale. While financing, trade ins, and payment can be easier at established shops , the savings from private sales and trades can be incredible and hard to beat.
Gina Luciani | LA Recording Artist, Creator of "Practice Note", and Lecturer at the Colburn Conservatory of Music | @ginalucianiflute | GinaLuciani.com
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
When looking at new or used flutes, this is what I’d recommend. If you’re looking at a beginner flute, I would usually go with a new flute. That way you can make sure that it is in good operating condition. Many times, beginning flute players are pretty hard on their instruments and the flutes don’t hold up as well. Also, the price point of new beginner flutes is usually a better deal than purchasing a used beginner flute and then having to get it repaired.
If you’re looking at an intermediate or advanced flute, used is definitely a good option if you want to get a price reduction!
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
A word of caution - I’ve seen many flutists purchase a used instrument either without trying it or without the knowledge to really determine the flute they are purchasing. Then, the flute starts having a lot of problems and they end up spending more money between the purchase of the flute and getting the repairs than just buying a new flute in the first place.
That’s why I would highly highly recommend going to a flute specific shop that consigns flutes. Unfortunately, many general music repair shops aren’t specialized enough with flutes to be able to do this in my experience. By going to a flute shop, you know they have looked at the flute and made the necessary repairs to have it in good condition. I personally would recommend the Flute Center especially because they allow you to do free trials in your home. I’ve had many friends purchase their “Certified Preowned” instruments and they were really happy with the quality of the instruments. If you happen to go to them, use my code “Gina” for an extended trial, free shipping, and extended warranty!
Claire Brazeau | Principal Oboe of Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and Faculty at Bob Cole Conservatory at California State University Long Beach | @oboejones | ClaireBrazeau.com
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
Instrument quality varies greatly, regardless of whether they are new or used. Unfortunately purchasing a new oboe does not guarantee it will be of good quality.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
It’s best to shop at specialist stores who have the biggest selections and teams of knowledgeable repair oboists. In the states I recommend RDG in Los Angeles, Midwest Musical Imports in Minneapolis, Hannah’s Oboes (otherwise known as The Oboe Fairy) in Arizona and Carlos Coelho in Texas. If you are an inexperienced oboe shopper, or even if you have experience, I think it’s really valuable to get opinions from professional oboists. It’s a big purchase, so when you’re narrowing down your options it’s helpful involve an oboe teacher who can help make sure you’re getting the best quality for your budget.”
Virginia Figueiredo, D.M.A. | @clarinet_virginiafigueiredo | VirginiacFigueiredo.com
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
It depends on the level of the students, their economic status, and their aspirations regarding music. I have amazing students who sound pretty great in not so great instruments, and have had students with top of the line instruments but not great performers. In the end, having a great new instrument is an asset but not the only factor as to one's skills and musicality. Also, students who are in transition, for instance, waiting to transfer to a 4 year university or applying for a college for the first time, might want to wait before buying a new instrument as whomever they will work with on the future might have a different preference from their current teacher.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
Absolutely. Used instruments can be great. Most of the time, top performers sell their instruments because they have switched to a different model or brand, despite their current instrument being still in great shape. Also, sometimes people just change careers and sell their instruments, but it doesn't necessarily mean that those instruments well cared for. Most music shops carry a few used instruments, but when it comes to clarinet, I can think of a couple of places in SoCal - RGD Woodwinds and Long Beach Woodwinds. Both usually have used instruments for sale and they make sure that the instruments are in top condition before advertising them for sale.
Andrew Brady | Principal Bassoon: The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra | @brady_bassoon| YouTube Channel
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
It depends on the level of the students, their economic status, and their aspirations regarding music. I have amazing students who sound pretty great in not so great instruments, and have had students with top of the line instruments but not great performers. In the end, having a great new instrument is an asset but not the only factor as to one's skills and musicality. Also, students who are in transition, for instance, waiting to transfer to a 4 year university or applying for a college for the first time, might want to wait before buying a new instrument as whomever they will work with on the future might have a different preference from their current teacher.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
Absolutely. Used instruments can be great. Most of the time, top performers sell their instruments because they have switched to a different model or brand, despite their current instrument being still in great shape. Also, sometimes people just change careers and sell their instruments, but it doesn't necessarily mean that those instruments well cared for. Most music shops carry a few used instruments, but when it comes to clarinet, I can think of a couple of places in SoCal - RGD Woodwinds and Long Beach Woodwinds. Both usually have used instruments for sale and they make sure that the instruments are in top condition before advertising them for sale.
Jacob Scesney | @antijacobclub
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
If I had any consistencies in my life I’d let ya know!
Soprano sax: Trade with a friend
Alto sax: Trade with a friend
Tenor sax: From a friend
Baritone sax: EBay
Bass sax: Bought new from Sax.Co.UK
Clarinet: EBay
Bass Clarinet: EBay
Piccolo: Bought new from Flute Center
Flute: EBay
Alto Flute: Bought new from Flute Center
So I’m all over the place, and can’t even recommend a used or vintage instrument versus as newer one. The older I get the more I seem to just want an instrument that has a relatively even intonation scale, regardless of what time period it was made in.
Ryan Darke | Finance for Musicians Blog | Los Angeles Opera Orchestra - Principal Trumpet | The Colburn School, Lecturer of Pedagogy | Cal State University of Long Beach, Bob Cole Conservatory - Adjunct Instructor of Trumpet | RyanDarke.com | Music Money Matters
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
I think 95% of the time a used instrument has been the best choice for me, and I would say 8/10 of the instruments I have purchased have been used. The only exception is when I had to (got to) buy a new instrument because I was working directly with the designer, but that came much later in my career!
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
I think it's important to try instruments before you buy them, which is becoming harder these days. So in replacement of this ability to go into a physical shop and try instruments, it is important to ask for trial periods or return policies.
Woodwind BrassWind has a very generous trail policy which I would highly recommend.
I love Dillon Music in New Jersey, they know their stuff and also have wonderful used instruments on hand.
Trumpet Herald might be your best option of all, but make sure to vet whomever you are buying from with your teacher or someone in the industry, as there are some rare instances of scams. That being said I have had students purchase dozens of high-quality instruments on that site with no problem. It is my go-to for trumpet shopping in particular.
Annie Bosler | College Prep for Musicians Specialist | French Horn Teacher | AnnieBosler.com | College Prep For Musicians
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
To find the best French horn for oneself, I recommended trying both new and used instruments. There are numerous variables to consider when selecting an instrument, such as price, quality, evenness of sound across registers and sides of the horn, pitch of certain notes, metal timbres, and more. Therefore, it is essential to find an instrument, whether used or new, that suits you within your budget.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
If you are in the market for a new or used French horn, I highly recommend attending one of the International Horn Society's symposiums. These events are great because most horn makers and consignment salespeople are present, giving you the opportunity to try out many different horns back-to-back for comparison before making a purchase.
Callan Milani | @milankalani | MilanKalani.com
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
I find every instrument to be unique, so used or new is less relevant to me. When testing out an instrument whether new or used, listen for the instrument that gives you a clearest response and purest tone.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
I find the best used instruments come from experienced performers and teachers. The instruments they choose are performed at a high level and would serve your performance needs too. In addition, I get a lot of my used instruments through Noah Gladstone’s Brass Ark. Brass Arks sells high quality used/vintage brass instruments that perform well and will last you.
P Blake Cooper, D.M.A | LA Recording Artist, Principal Tuba of the New West Symphony, Yamaha Performing Artist and Lecturer of Tuba and Euphonium at CSUN | @tubalifela | Yamaha Artist Profile
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
For young Tubist buying their first instrument, often times obtaining a used instrument is a little cheaper. When a tuba student is moving from High School to College they will usually make the switch from a BBb tuba to a CC tuba, which is more in alinement with what is played professionally in the US. Buying used allows the student to learn the new key of instrument without a huge investment while also learning what they might need instrumentally as they move to graduate studies or the “real world.”
My first tuba was used and I purchased it with the consultation of my tuba teacher at the time. That instrument served me well as I finished High School, played it in College and started my Masters degree with it before moving to a larger and more orchestrally minded instrument… which was also used! Many of my personal instruments over my career have been purchased used. However, I don’t discourage purchasing new. One must consider budget, availability and needs. I recommend a tuba student (and perhaps their parents too) always consult with a professional about any specific instrument before making a purchase. Buying a tuba is a big investment and the decision of which model to buy should be made with care and with a knowledgeable professional’s assistance.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
When I’m in the market for myself or my students I have a number of retailers or marketplaces I will search. To name a few retailers, Dillon Music, Baltimore Brass Company, The Horn Guys, and The Tuba Exchange come to mind. Tuba players also have an old school forum called “TubeNet” that has a for sale section that I’ve used as a buyer and seller many times. Facebook also has a Tuba/Euphonium specific marketplace that I’ve used with success. I’ve also had instances where I have reached out to a manufacturer directly before if I have a specific need.
Dr. Alin Melik-Adamyan | @alin.pianist
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
For piano, I would highly suggest getting a used instrument. With new instruments, it takes time to break them in and can be quite difficult to play on with the heavy action.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
In Los Angeles, the technicians at the Piano Shoppe fully restore used pianos and sell them at a much more reasonable price. You get the benefit of a used piano with a beautifully retouched and fully rebuilt new piano!
Sidney Hopson | @sidney.hopson | MalletShop.com
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
While a new instrument can provide a clean slate and might last longer before requiring costly repairs, I generally prefer instruments on the darker/fuller end of the tone spectrum—and there’s something special about woods and metals alike that have been tempered by time, use, and their environments. To date, most of my favorite instruments I’ve owned and played on were bought used, so I’ll always recommend people browse them first when shopping.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
These are more percussion specific:
- Motherland Music (Inglewood, CA)
- Mallet Shop
- Your colleagues, friends, teachers, and neighbors! You never know what gems are waiting in your community until you ask and investigate.
Alison Bjorkedal, DMA | @alisonbjorkedal | AlisonBjorkedal.com
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
There are benefits to both new and used harps. Harps get mechanical wear and the wood can warp and twist as they age, so when purchasing a used harp, it is critical that an experienced harp technician has recently issued it a clean bill of health or you have an idea of how much repairs. A new harp should be mechanically sound, but has not developed its mature sound. A used harp will usually have its true 'voice' developed and should cost less as harps depreciate with age.
If you do recommend getting a used instrument, do you have a recommendation on where to shop (any particular music/instrument stores)?
Harp dealers/shops often sell used harps on consignment. There is also a very active group on Facebook called "Sell or Buy Pre-owned/Used harps."
Evan Taucher | Classical guitarist | @evantaucher | Evantaucher.com
Do you recommend a new or used instrument for your particular instrument?
There are a lot of things that I’ve learned from both dealing high-end guitars, and being a student who went through 3 music degrees myself.
If you’re choosing your first “higher end” guitar, or any guitar for that matter, there are a couple of things that you need to remember. First a guitar that is comfortable to you is a guitar that you will make sound the best. This is especially important considering you’re a music student who will be practicing many hours.
The second most important thing, especially if buying used, is that you bring someone with you that knows much more than you. It also helps if they play well, so that you can hear the instrument from the other side.
Lastly, it’s good to know what “standard” measurements are on a guitar. 650mm is the standard scale length (though many, including myself prefer 640mm scale these days), and 52mm is the standard nut width.
If your hands are and normally big, or abnormally small, you might consider looking for a guitar that is slightly smaller in measurements for both scale length and nut width.
