When it comes to buying a bass amp, the question of buying a new or used one always comes up. There is no right answer and there is no short answer as the debate is much more complicated. But what we can do is point you in the right direction and help you decide for yourself.
To do that, we have an article that explains the main advantages and disadvantages of both. So let’s get started.
Things To Consider When Buying Bass Amp
Below we’ll give you the main things every guitar player should consider before heading to the guitar shop or buying from a friend.
1. Asking Price
If we look at it from a price point of view, buying used is always less expensive. Like any other item, the price of a new bass amp will quickly depreciate as time goes on. So if you’re on a budget, it might be better to go for a used bass amp.
The disadvantage with that is that you’re not the first owner. This means that the previous owner could have possibly done something wrong with it, hence why they’re selling it.
But if you have a bigger budget and have the money to go for a new model, then do it as you will get all the benefits that come with a new bass amplifier.
2. Lifecycle
One clear disadvantage of buying used is that you’re getting a bass amp that might be close to passing out. No one can really know in what condition the bass amp is once bought. Sure you might test it right there on the spot, but who knows what underlying issues the amp might have.
More so, these issues could be hidden, for the time being, revealing later on. So, in short, it’s a huge risk. The best bass amp will have a longer lifecycle. The very best models are more expensive and could potentially last longer, even going from owner to owner.
But when buying used, it’s always better to buy from a person you trust. If you’re buying from a stranger, then there is no guarantee it will last for long. But when you buy from a reliable person that you can trust, chances are they won’t lie to you.
3. Condition
Bass players are quite familiar with dents and dings on their bass amps. From kicking to misuse, bass players can get quite rough with their bass amps.
But that rule doesn’t apply to everyone. If again, you buy used from a person you trust, then it’s almost always the way to go. Another thing to take into consideration is whether or not the amp needs repairs.
If so, then make sure to deduct the price of repairs from their price. This way you make sure you’re buying a used bass amp for a fair price. The bass player should also know that no one will use broken gear.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the answer to the question mostly falls down to price. If you have the money for a bass amp and you’re a serious bass player, then you absolutely go for new. If you’re not that serious of a bass player, then go for a used one as the money you’ll save will certainly come in handy.
