With the Christmas shopping in full swing we thought we’d take a moment to talk about things to watch out for while buying instruments.
First thing to know is there are four levels of instruments.
The first are Toy Instruments: These are the instruments that you buy at a big box store and are usually in a cardboard box with a picture of young people having a great time playing the instrument on the box. These are cheaply made and usually do not stay in tune. They don’t usually last until the evening meal before something breaks.
We have bought these for our children in the past. I would advise you to not waste the money and apply it to something that can actually be played.
The next level are Starter Instruments: This is of course a great place to start.These are instruments that you buy from a music store that cost somewhere from $100 to $600. They will stay in tune and be able to played with quality sound. This level is best for people who are just getting started especially if you are not sure if they are going to stick with it.
The next level are the Pro Instruments: These instruments will probably not sound a whole lot better than starter instruments but will feature superior playability. Meaning that you will be able to play with greater ease. However, this will be lost on a beginning player until they develop some skill. They are usually made in the U.S. and are made with better materials and can handle being moved around a lot more. Cost is $600 – $2,000.
The final level is the Extravagant or Custom: These are the instruments that cost in the multiple thousands. They usually feature very specific woods or components or have the name of some famous musician written on it. The increase in money really has nothing to do with how much better it sounds but mostly has to do with how it looks. These are usually once in a lifetime type purchases.
So find what level you are and shop accordingly
You’re ready to buy – now what?
You know what level of instrument you are looking for but how do you get it? Well there is a lot to look out for. Music stores are not all created equal and many of them prey on unsuspecting parents trying to buy their kids a great gift. So we’ve got a few tips to help you navigate.
#1 Compare Prices: We are all for buying local but you can expect to pay a bit more, which is fine as long as they are not asking you to pay the artificially inflated “suggested retail price” Something I did for years before I wised up. This is the number that they put on the price tag next to their “totally blow out sale price” to make it look like you are getting a screaming deal.
So make sure you visit some websites to compare prices: musiciansfriend.com or sweetwater.com are great places that will have almost everything you’d be looking for and would be close to the cheapest price. Be aware of off brands: most local shops sell guitar brands you’ve never heard of so they can make the most money. This isn’t necessarily bad but you are flying blind if you can’t find it online to compare price.
#2 Try It Out: Unless you are trying to totally surprise someone you should have them go and try things out. An instrument is a very personal thing and they often ‘speak to you.’ If you’re going to spend the money you might as well make sure that you get something they will play and enjoy. If you don’t play the instrument, you can also take someone with you who does play the instrument to help in the selection.
#3 Ask What’s Included: Some things you should always ask are: What’s included? Does it come with a stand? Does it come with a case? Sometimes they do and sometimes they don’t so the price may be very misleading since a case can run as much as $100 or more. Err on the side of not buying enough accessories to start with and let that develop over time.
#4 Limit The Warranty: I’m not big on warranties as the promise is only as good as the promiser. Sometimes you have to pay to ship the instrument for repair which is not cheap. I’ve never had much luck with this but if you feel you should then it’s up to you. Just make sure you know what’s involved, how much it costs, and the process for a claim.
#5 Keep the receipt: Make sure you understand the return policy as instruments can be a very personal thing and there is a high chance for a return for something else.
#6 Factor in the Shipping: If you’re buying online make sure you factor in how much time shipping will take. Most places offer free shipping especially around the holidays but just make sure it will be fast enough.