Buying Musical Instruments On Ebay: New Vs. Used

Part 1  - New  

We want to give our kids the best possible instruments along with the best chance at success without breaking the bank-- at the same time hoping they don’t lose interest in a month. EBay begins to look very appealing with the bottom dollar pricing for a beginner band instrument with an unknown brand name as compared to the high-priced new, reputable brand name band instrument. What should you be aware of on EBay when you see pages of instruments? And then all the different brand names that aren’t the ones the music teacher suggested! It’s mind boggling!

As a basic background, factories overseas buy spare or discontinued parts from other manufacturers, create an instrument and then engrave a brand name of the sellers choosing. Every batch may vary so this could lead to potential problems that can be frustrating. It is a gamble and maybe you’ll get that one instrument that always performs. Most importantly, the parts are non-replaceable for the shiny new instrument that “looks” perfect. So if you take it to your local repair technician, and need a major part, they can’t get it. Manufacturers refuse to sell parts and say the owner will need to buy a new instrument. Technicians refer to these as disposable instruments. Technicians have seen instruments come in within a few weeks of purchase with complaints that they are hard to play. Techs will make adjustments and many times the instrument won’t remain adjusted for any acceptable length of time. You’ve spent more money, and your child struggles, feels frustrated and possibly quits. So what’s another alternative?

Look for Part 2 - Buying quality brand name used instruments-- in a future Lakewood Observer!

Sharon Marrell, a Lakewood resident, owns Marrell Music and has been a repair technician for over 20 years.