Getting set up with a good instrument when you first start out can be confusing, stressful, and expensive. If you are on a budget, finding the most bang for your buck can be even more overwhelming. What to do?? Before you delve into the realm of “Violin Shaped Objects” on ebay or craigslist, first think about getting a used or blemished instrument.
We do offer used and blemished instruments here at SHAR. We offer these at discounted prices; since they are all set up to our precise specifications and since they only have cosmetic damage, they can be a great deal if you’re looking to get a good instrument on a tight budget.
Blemished instruments are brand new, but they are being sold at a discounted price because they exhibit some sort of slight imperfection (usually in the varnish). These blemishes are cosmetic only and will not affect the sound or playability of the instrument.
Trade-in instruments have been previously owned. Upon their arrival back at SHAR, we make sure to inspect them carefully for damage and do any repair work necessary in order to ensure that they still meet our precise set-up specifications. Used violins are classified and priced in three categories: A, B, and C. “A” level instruments show the least amount of wear and tear; oftentimes there’s just a nick on the varnish to indicate their previous use. “B” level instruments show a moderate amount of wear, and “C” quality instrument bear the most obvious use. “C” level instruments, accordingly, will be the least expensive. All of the trade-ins are carefully evaluated and their wear has no effect on their sound and playability.
If you purchase a blemished or used student instrument and you decide to trade it in later, you’ll still receive our standard trade-in credit: 50% of the purchase price of the instrument. This is a great deal that can enable you to work your way up through the fractional sizes.
Take a look at our stock of blemished and used instruments here! Please note that since we are unable to predict when we will receive blemished or used instruments we are accordingly unable to accept backorders on these items.
