In this article, we will explore the ultimate guide to buying and selling used music gear. Whether you're a musician looking to upgrade your equipment or a savvy buyer searching for a great deal, these tips and tricks will help you navigate the world of used gear with confidence. We'll cover everything from refining your search to negotiating prices and ensuring a safe transaction. So let's dive in!
Refining Your Search
When searching for used music gear, it can be overwhelming to sift through countless listings that may not match your exact criteria. To streamline your search, consider using specific keywords and filters to narrow down your options. For example, if you're looking for a Scarlet 2i2 audio interface, include the exact model number in your search query. This will help you find more accurate results.
Comparing Prices
Once you've found a potential item, it's important to compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal. While some listings may offer the exact item you're looking for at a certain price, it's always a good idea to check other sources and see if you can find a better deal. There are many places on the internet to find what a used item is going for, but we took the time to make a helpful worksheet that will walk you through all the best steps, and make SURE you get the best deal, weather you are buying OR selling. Download It HERE. (It's a totally free download so take advantage!)
Negotiating the Price
If you find a listing for an item that is priced higher than what you've found elsewhere, don't be afraid to negotiate with the seller. We suggest contacting the seller and mentioning that you've found the same item for a lower price, including the URL of the listing in your email. By being friendly and expressing your preference for buying from a local seller, you can ask if they would consider lowering their price. This tactic can often lead to a successful negotiation and a better deal for you.
Being Mindful of Safety
When buying used gear, it's important to prioritize safety, especially when making online transactions. It's always a good recommendation to use secure payment methods like PayPal, which offers buyer protection. With PayPal, you can request a refund if the item you receive doesn't match the description or if you encounter any issues. Similarly, platforms like Reverb and eBay also provide a layer of protection when purchasing through their platforms. By using these secure payment methods, you can have peace of mind knowing that your transaction is protected.
The Benefits of Using "My Collection" From Reverb.com
In addition to the steps outlined above, if you find yourself buying and selling any good amount of used gear, we suggest you take advantage of a tool called "My Collection" offered by Reverb. Click here for a link to it. This feature allows users to create an inventory of their music gear, keeping track of the value of their items and providing a convenient way to manage their inventory. Here are several highlights & advantages of using "My Collection":
Value Tracking: "My Collection" keeps track of the value of your items, allowing you to monitor price changes and stay informed about the worth of your gear.
Inventory Management: With "My Collection," you can easily view a list of all the gear you own, making it convenient to check if you have enough cables, amps, or any other equipment you may need.
Easy Selling: When you decide to sell an item from your collection, it's just a button click away. The information you've already entered, such as the condition and details of the item, will be automatically filled in, making the selling process quick and hassle-free.
Asset Documentation: While it may be a morbid thought, having a list of your gear and its value can be beneficial in the event of an unfortunate circumstance, such as passing away. By having your inventory recorded, it becomes easier for your loved ones to handle and sell your gear, ensuring they receive its proper value.
"My Collection" is an invaluable resource that many people overlook. It provides a comprehensive solution for tracking, managing, and selling your music gear. By utilizing this feature, you can save time, stay organized, and make informed decisions about your gear.
In conclusion, this article has provided a three-step system for buying and selling used music gear, along with the added bonus of using "My Collection" on Reverb. By following these steps and taking advantage of the features available, you can ensure a smooth and successful experience in the used gear market. So, whether you're a buyer or a seller, use these tips to maximize your opportunities and get the best value for your music gear.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. I hope you found it helpful and informative. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us with your questions, or leave comments below. And if you enjoyed this article, please consider sharing it with your friends and like minded musicians, and consider going over to our YouTube channel and checking out all the great tips, how-to's, and free tool's we have for you over there. Be sure to subscribe for all of the future great free content as well. Until next time, happy music making & recording!