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Where to Sell Used Musical Instruments: Music Stores That Buy Your Gear

Apr 16, 2025

Where to Sell Used Musical Instruments: Music Stores That Buy Your Gear

Introduction: The Benefits of Selling Used Instruments

As a musician, I’ve always had a soft spot for musical instruments. Over the years, I’ve accumulated quite a collection, and some of them no longer see the light of day. While I love them all, I eventually realized that some instruments could find new homes with musicians who would appreciate them. That’s when I started looking into selling used instruments. Whether you’ve upgraded to a newer model, no longer play a certain instrument, or simply want to declutter, selling used musical instruments can be a great way to make some extra cash while passing along your gear to others who will enjoy it.

The best part? You don’t have to go through the hassle of setting up a garage sale or dealing with sketchy buyers. There are plenty of reputable music stores and platforms that will buy your used instruments, either in-store or online. In this article, I’ll walk you through the best places to sell your used musical instruments, tips on getting the best price, and how to prepare your gear for sale. Let’s dive into it!

Why You Should Sell Your Used Musical Instruments

Many musicians, like myself, often find themselves with instruments they no longer use. Over the years, I realized that holding on to unused gear didn’t serve any purpose. Selling my instruments allowed me to free up space in my home and fund my next musical purchase. But selling isn’t just about decluttering—it’s also about getting your instruments in the hands of someone who will use and appreciate them. There’s also the added bonus of receiving cash for your used gear, which can be reinvested into something new or exciting.

Selling used instruments also makes sense from an environmental perspective. Rather than letting your old guitar or trumpet gather dust, selling it means that it gets a second life. Many musicians are looking for quality used instruments that are no longer available in stores or are too expensive for a new model. By selling your instrument, you are contributing to the sustainability of the music community and supporting musicians who are just starting out or who need a more affordable option.

If you’re thinking about selling your used musical instrument, several well-known music stores offer the option to sell or trade in your gear. I’ve had personal experience with some of these, and they provide a reliable and easy process for selling instruments. Here are some of the best places to check out:

3.1. Guitar Center

One of the most popular and trusted places to sell used instruments is Guitar Center. With locations all over the United States, Guitar Center buys, sells, and trades used musical instruments. I’ve sold several instruments here, including guitars and amplifiers, and the process was simple and straightforward. Guitar Center offers an online tool that allows you to check the value of your instrument before heading into the store. They’ll evaluate your instrument’s condition and make you an offer on the spot.

3.2. Sam Ash Music

Sam Ash Music is another well-known chain that buys used musical instruments. Similar to Guitar Center, they offer both in-store and online options for selling your gear. I sold a keyboard through Sam Ash once, and their customer service was excellent. They provided me with a fair offer based on the condition and market value of the instrument. They also accept a wide range of instruments, from guitars and drums to brass and woodwinds.

3.3. Sweetwater

Sweetwater is a major online retailer known for its exceptional customer service and high-quality gear. While Sweetwater doesn’t have physical locations like Guitar Center or Sam Ash, they do offer trade-in options for used instruments. I’ve never personally traded with them, but I’ve heard great things about their trade-in program. Sweetwater will evaluate your instrument, offer you a price, and give you store credit or cash. It’s a fantastic option for those who prefer doing business online and want a straightforward experience.

Selling Your Instruments Online

If you prefer a more personal or potentially more lucrative selling experience, online marketplaces can be a great alternative to music stores. Websites like eBay, Reverb, and Craigslist are some of the most popular options. Selling through these platforms can help you connect directly with buyers, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Here’s what you need to know:

4.1. Reverb

Reverb is a fantastic platform specifically designed for buying and selling musical instruments. It’s a community-based site that caters to musicians, and it allows you to list your used instrument for sale with clear pricing and shipping details. I’ve used Reverb myself to purchase instruments, and it’s an excellent marketplace for sellers as well. Reverb takes a small fee for each sale, but it’s a great place to connect with other musicians who are interested in quality used gear.

4.2. eBay

eBay is another widely-used platform for selling musical instruments. It provides an auction-style format, where you can either set a fixed price or let buyers bid on your instrument. While eBay has a large audience, it’s essential to be cautious when listing your instruments. Be sure to include detailed descriptions and high-quality images to attract serious buyers. Additionally, you’ll need to consider shipping costs and fees when setting your price.

4.3. Craigslist

Craigslist offers a more localized approach to selling used instruments. This platform is great for avoiding shipping costs and connecting with local buyers. While Craigslist is more informal than other platforms, it’s a good option if you want to sell an instrument quickly and directly. The downside is that you’ll need to handle negotiations and meet up with buyers in person, so always be cautious when arranging a sale.

How to Prepare Your Instrument for Sale

Before you sell your instrument, it’s crucial to get it ready for the buyer. Over the years, I’ve learned that the condition of the instrument can significantly affect its selling price. Here are some tips to ensure your instrument is in the best shape for sale:

5.1. Clean and Polish

Cleaning your instrument not only helps it look more appealing but also increases its value. I always make sure to give my instruments a thorough cleaning, including wiping down the body, polishing any metal parts, and ensuring the strings (if applicable) are in good condition. A clean instrument will show that you’ve cared for it and make it more attractive to buyers.

5.2. Check for Repairs or Maintenance

If your instrument has any issues, it’s a good idea to fix them before selling. For example, if you’re selling a guitar, check the tuning pegs, clean the fretboard, and make sure the electronics are functioning properly. Taking care of any necessary repairs before listing the instrument can help you get a better price and avoid negotiations that could lower the value.

My Experience Selling a Used Musical Instrument

One of the most memorable experiences I had selling a used instrument was when I decided to part ways with my vintage electric guitar. After years of being my go-to instrument, I realized it wasn’t getting the attention it once did, and I felt it was time for someone else to enjoy it. I decided to list it on Reverb, and the process was seamless. I took detailed photos, wrote an honest description, and priced it competitively. Within a week, I received multiple offers and ended up selling it for a fair price to a buyer who was ecstatic to own it.

Overall, selling my used instrument was a rewarding experience, and I’ve since used the proceeds to fund a new addition to my collection. Whether you’re looking to declutter or make some extra money, selling your musical instrument can be a great option.

Conclusion

If you’re ready to part with your used musical instrument, there are many options available for selling it, from music stores to online marketplaces. With the right preparation and research, you can ensure that your instrument finds a new home while making some extra cash. Whether you choose a trusted music store like Guitar Center or sell directly to a buyer through Reverb, the process is easier than you might think. So go ahead, clean up that old gear and turn it into something valuable!