New or Used Instrument?

New or used? One of the most common questions when choosing your musical instrument. Although it seems simple, the answer depends entirely on each musician.

In this post, we’re not aiming to provide a definitive solution but to lay out the considerations that truly matter when making your choice. What are the pros and cons of each option? What are the key factors that should influence your decision? There isn’t a single answer, but there are key elements that, depending on your needs, can make a difference. In this post, we’ll explore these key considerations to help you decide which option fits better for you.

What can we expect from a new instrument?

New saxophones or clarinets may come from brands with consistent manufacturing processes. However, they can also come from brands that lack such consistency, often from lower-quality manufacturers.

At Sax & Clarinet On, we handle this selection process for you, choosing only those brands that give us the confidence that the saxophones they produce today will remain, at the very least, similar to those they produce in a month. We avoid brands where manufacturers frequently change parts or materials to cut costs, as this impacts the instrument's durability and undermines the post-sale service that sets us apart. Without constant quality control, repairing such "patches" could even end up costing more than the instrument itself.

The advantages of choosing an instrument from a reputable brand are clear: primarily, material durability and solid guarantees from both the manufacturer and our store, which includes two free adjustments during the first year. However, what issues can arise with warranties? From our experience, the most common problems are lacquer issues in saxophones and cracks in the wood of clarinets. Brands like Yanagisawa and Selmer have experienced lacquer issues that required returning instruments to the factory, sometimes taking up to a year to resolve. Conversely, body replacements in clarinets, especially from brands like Backun and Buffet, tend to be quicker.

What drawbacks does a new instrument have? One aspect previously mentioned as an advantage—standardized manufacturing—can also be a disadvantage for those seeking a more authentic or personalized instrument, as all models tend to be very similar. This is where customization comes into play, a growing need among musicians looking to express their identity in an increasingly globalized world. Personalizing an instrument, not only aesthetically but also by adjusting its timbre or specific characteristics, has become a priority for many manufacturers, luthiers, and inventors. With Santtonio, for example, we offer customization options such as resonators or neck changes. These customizations can be reversible, as in the cases mentioned with Santtonio, or not. In the last case, it’s important to note that the instrument's resale value could decrease, as it would lose its original condition. For vintage instruments, customizations like relacquering or using a non-original neck could reduce their value by up to half.

Why choose a used instrument?

Now let’s turn to used instruments. It’s important to distinguish between second-hand instruments that are still being manufactured (or have similar models) and vintage or collectible instruments that are no longer produced and often have no comparable model in today’s market—practically extinct, like dinosaurs.

What are the advantages of a vintage instrument? Its authenticity. And the disadvantages? Maintenance. You’ll need a specialized technician capable of fabricating parts, as original replacements may not be available. Ideally, these fabricated parts should not only be functional but also aesthetically pleasing and well-crafted to honor the instrument's artistic heritage.

What are the advantages of a used instrument? Its price, as it’s usually (or should be) 40% cheaper than a new one, and it won’t depreciate as much if you decide to resell it. This is ideal for those who prefer the second-hand market over buying new—similar to those who never buy a brand-new car. A good option if you never feel the need to “break in” a new car—or saxophone. On the other hand, for a vintage or collectible instrument, the price isn’t necessarily an advantage, as these instruments are often expensive, akin to works of art. However, their value could increase over time, making them an investment—a significant advantage for many.

It’s important to apply the same caution as when buying a second-hand car. Before making the purchase, ensure an expert reviews the instrument to detect any hidden defects that neither the buyer nor the seller might know about. A flaw that, for instance, could render the instrument non-functional within weeks and make repair costs unfeasible.

Conclusion

The decision between a new or used instrument is deeply personal. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, but the most important thing is that it meets your needs, expectations, and budget. New instruments offer warranties and consistency, while used ones bring unique authenticity, requiring more specialized maintenance.

At Sax & Clarinet On, we understand that every musician has their priorities, which is why we ensure the best options are available, whether new or second-hand. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer—just the one that best suits you and your playing style.

And beyond all this, the magic remains. That inexplicable connection we feel when we find the right instrument, an attraction that can’t be put into words. Now that you know the key factors to consider, the most important thing is how it makes you feel. Because, in the end, it’s that emotion that defines your relationship with your instrument and accompanies you in every note you play.