Advice buying used

[timothyandrew]

Hello there. I've been playing bass for the past year (or so), and I've just saved up enough to get my first bass. Everyone on Talkbass advised me to go the used route, and I think atm that would be better value.
There is this *sweet* Blue Sparkleburst 4-string EBMM Sterling on the Talkbass classifieds at the moment. The only thing holding me back from buying it right now is the fact that it was made in '96. Far as I know, I would it's third owner. For $800, do you think this is a smart purchase? If any age-related issues come up, I probably wouldn't be able to afford a bass for another year. Then again, I don't want to let this deal/bass go; such a nice color too.

What do you think I should do?

 

[mynan]

There shouldn't be any age-related issues as long as it hasn't been abused in any way. It might even have some nice birdseye in the neck.

 

[bdgotoh]

I've had old and new Sterlings and no problems with any of them. $800 is a good deal, if you like how it feels and sounds you should go for it!

 

[timothyandrew]

Okay then, thanks for your advice. I'll post pics here soon.

(What does birdseye mean? I've seen the word used around a lot, never understood.)

 

[timothyandrew]

Welcome, Timothy!

Hmmm.. just because it is from '96 doesn't make it a bad instrument. Can the seller guarantee the stability of the electronics? Have you seen lots of photos?

You may just want to wait just a few weeks more for the new line of midrange instruments by Music Man...Sterling by MUSIC MAN

Yes he can, actually. He says it's in very good condition; perfect playability. I was just wondering whether there'd be any problems say, a year down the road. The 'Sterling by MusicMan' was my initial choice, but for a couple of reasons I have to buy the bass before the 4th of April, and those are coming out on the 10th, right?

 

[timothyandrew]

Mmm, that's sweet.

 

[timothyandrew]

Thanks for your quick replies, Beth…really appreciate it!

 

[five7]

Old is good!

 

[timothyandrew]

Just another quick question. What would you say is the average life of a music man instrument, especially the one I'm looking to buy?

 

[Aussie Mark]

Just another quick question. What would you say is the average life of a music man instrument, especially the one I'm looking to buy?

I've got one that was made in 1976, and it's still going strong.

In theory, the only components on a bass guitar that ever require replacement through normal wear and tear are the frets and the input jack, and occasionally the nut.

 

[DrGonzo5150]

In theory, the only components on a bass guitar that ever require replacement through normal wear and tear are the frets and the input jack, and occasionally the nut.

+1

'96 is not old. One of my best sounding and playing axes is a '94.

Even if you are looking at a bit of mojo... Mojo is where it is at

 

[Sweat]

If you treat it nicely and buy it flowers for its birthday and everything, it will probably outlast you!

Thats funny Beth but also very true!!

 

[Mogee]

There are some good deals on Stingrays on ebay all the time. I have a friend with a Bongo for sale in your price range. I have only owned one EB, and I have never had a problem with used. But its a disease... You can never have just one.

 

[scottbass71]

and don't forget to replace the battery at least every year with a new duracell

 

[Mogee]

Don't let the bunny hear you say that.

 

[timothyandrew]

Deal fell through, unfortunately.
Well, I'm still looking for a Music Man!

 

[bovinehost]

Check the For Sale thread up top.