People sometimes end up in hardship or they are simply tired or bored with a particular instrument and will want to get rid of them. On the other hand some people simply sell because that device has developed a fault. So you must be on the alert. There is no doubt that acquiring one in a situation where the owner is bored with it or where he is plunged in hardship is a rewarding venture. You thus can acquire a very good quality instrument at little or no cost. If you think you must buy a used instrument, these salient points might be of help to you.
The first thing is to know who has previously been in possession of that instrument. Try as much as possible to buy from the previous owner directly. An honest dealer will make known to you why he is giving it away, how long and how frequent it has been used. This information will help you to know the state of affairs of the good.
Look carefully for any form of alteration, modification or repairs of that item. Modifications tend to alter and lower the quality and even the appearance of the item. A dealer can easily modify and polish the item to make it seem new. Critically inspect the writings and other engravings on...