Buying used guitar equipment is a smart way to save money without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re a beginner guitarist or a seasoned player, pre-owned gear can offer exceptional value. Used guitars, amplifiers, pedals, and accessories often perform just as well as new items. The key is knowing what to look for and where to shop. This article explains how to make wise decisions when buying used guitar equipment, both in person and online.
Why Buy Used Guitar Equipment?
Used gear costs less than new models. Depreciation on musical equipment can be steep during the first few years. When you buy used, someone else absorbs that loss. You also have access to discontinued models that may not be available anymore. Some older guitars and amps are even better built than their modern counterparts.
Buying used also allows you to try more gear for the same budget. For the price of one new amp, you might buy a used amp and a few effects pedals. If you’re still experimenting with your tone or playing style, used gear gives you room to explore.
Evaluating Used Guitars
Guitars are the centerpiece of most setups. When evaluating a used guitar, look at the condition of the neck. It should be straight and free from cracks. Check for fret wear, especially if it’s an older instrument. If the frets are too worn, the guitar may need expensive repairs.
Inspect the action. This refers to the height of the strings above the fretboard. High action makes a guitar harder to play. It can often be adjusted, but extreme issues may point to underlying problems.
Look for signs of structural damage. Cracks in the wood, especially around the headstock or neck joint, are red flags. Small dings or scratches in the finish are fine, and are often expected in used guitar equipment. Small blemishes like these are often quite easy to repair.
Plug in the guitar if possible. Test the pickups, knobs, and switches. Listen for any buzzing or dead spots. Electronics can usually be repaired, but it’s better to know what you’re dealing with before you buy.
What To Check in Used Amplifiers
Used amplifiers can be a great value, but they need careful inspection. Turn on the amp and listen for unwanted noise. Hissing, popping, or crackling may suggest bad tubes or faulty capacitors. These issues are fixable, but they add cost.
Try all the channels and controls. Make sure everything works smoothly. Check the speaker for tears or damage. Older amps may have worn-out components, especially if they’ve been heavily gigged.
For tube amps, ask about the age of the tubes. Tubes wear out over time and need to be replaced. Solid-state amps usually last longer, but you should still verify their condition.
Choosing Used Pedals and Effects
Effects pedals are a fun and affordable way to shape your sound. When buying used pedals, check the jacks for solid connections. Loose input or output jacks can cause problems.
Inspect the footswitches. If they feel sticky or unresponsive, the pedal may need cleaning or repair. Battery compartments should be clean. Corrosion from old batteries can ruin a pedal.
If you can test the pedal before buying, try every setting. Make sure the controls behave as expected. Some wear and tear is normal, but everything should function properly.
Buying Used Guitar Accessories
Accessories like straps, cables, tuners, and stands are often sold used at steep discounts. Always inspect cables for damage or frayed ends. Cheap or damaged cables can create unwanted noise or dropouts.
Used tuners should be responsive and accurate. Try them on a few different instruments if you can. Guitar stands should be stable and intact. Avoid stands with worn or missing padding that could damage your guitar’s finish.
Where To Buy Used Guitar Equipment
Local music stores are a great place to start. You can inspect the gear in person and talk to knowledgeable staff. Many stores in Los Angeles carry used guitar equipment, and some even offer short-term warranties.
Pawn shops and thrift stores sometimes have good deals, but selection can be hit or miss. You may not find what you want on your first visit. Keep checking back if you’re searching for something specific.
Online marketplaces give you access to a wide range of used guitar equipment. Reverb.com is one of the most popular platforms for musicians. It specializes in musical gear, and many sellers are stores or experienced individuals. You can filter by condition, price, location, and more.
eBay is another option, though it has more general merchandise. Look for sellers with high ratings and clear return policies. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist can be useful for local finds, but they require caution. Meet in public places and test the gear if possible.
Tips for Shopping Online
Buying used guitar equipment online requires extra attention. Read every description carefully. Look for high-quality photos that show every angle of the item. If there aren’t enough pictures, ask for more.
Ask the seller specific questions. Find out how often the gear was used and whether it’s been serviced. Make sure the seller accepts returns in case the item arrives damaged or not as described.
Pay through secure methods like PayPal or a credit card. These offer buyer protection. Avoid sending money through wire transfers or apps that don’t offer purchase security.
If you’re buying from Reverb.com, take advantage of their buyer protection. Reverb has policies in place to resolve disputes and verify listings. This makes it one of the safest ways to buy used guitar equipment online.
Know Your Gear’s Value
Before you buy, do some research on current market prices. Reverb.com has a price guide that shows recent sales. Use this to determine a fair price for the item you’re considering. Some sellers may ask more than the market average, especially if the item is in mint condition or has upgrades.
Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Many sellers expect it, especially for used guitar equipment. Just be respectful and realistic with your offers.
Buying Used Gear in West Los Angeles
Buying used guitar equipment takes time and attention. But if you’re patient and informed, you can build an excellent rig for a fraction of the cost of buying new. Examine guitars, amps, and pedals carefully. Ask questions and test gear when possible. Use trusted websites like Reverb.com for safe and reliable transactions.
If you’re in Los Angeles, visit your local music store. Many offer used gear alongside rentals, sales, and lessons. You may even find expert advice that helps you choose the right piece of equipment. Shopping local supports the music community and lets you try before you buy.
Used gear can bring your sound to life without breaking your budget. Whether you’re looking for a vintage pedal, a well-worn Strat, or a reliable practice amp, the used market has something for you. Take your time, trust your ears, and enjoy the search. If you’re in Los Angeles, Adam’s Music is a great place to buy or rent guitars and guitar amps. They offer a wide selection of used and new gear, along with weekly group guitar lessons for players at every level. It’s a welcoming space where musicians can find quality equipment and improve their skills.