Used Keyboard - Here is how you find it!

Used keyboard - You can definitely consider a Used, also known as "second-hand", keyboard if a particular model does not fit your budget or if you are not sure whether you would put the necessary effort to learn in order to justify the cost of a new one. Of course, it will not have the polished look that a new one has but you will definitely get it cheaper and the sound will also be good.

If you are a beginner, buying a used instrument can be a good option. You can go in for a model with decent number of sounds, styles, effects, and built-in sequencer so that you get plenty of features to play around.

Buying a Used Keyboard
There are plenty of places where you can go and look for a used keyboard. It does take time to find your particular model and to get a good price. So have some patience!

• Dealer: Go to your local dealer/outlet and check if they have some used ones. You may not get it as cheap as you would have wanted. This is because of the warranty they offer for the used keyboards, normally around 3 months. An advantage you get here is that you can expect a few choices of used keyboards if you buy from a dealer.

• Newspaper/magazine: Go through the classified ads section in your local newspaper or music magazine. If needed, place your own advertisement in the newspaper.

• eBay: Checkout eBay. Lot of used models are on display.

• Music school/Institutes: Go to a music school and leave your requirement and contact number there. If any student wants to sell his keyboard, he will surely contact you.

• Other places: You can approach someone who plays the Keyboard, he may have some references. Spread the word among your friends and relatives; they may know somebody.

What to check?: Once you find a model you like, you will have to do some checks on it. If you know someone who knows about keyboards, take him along with you. You can do some of the following checks.

• Press all the knobs, buttons and go through all the features at least once.
• Check for excessive scratches and worn out markings on the buttons and sliders.
• Check the keys. They should not be broken or sticking.
Play each and every key. Play the keys with the touch response ON/OFF. Make sure the touch response works.
• Make sure all the speakers work. Check the speakers at high volume and make sure they do not rattle a lot.

A little scratch here and there or a few loose buttons should not be a cause for concern. Used models are surely not going to look like a new one. As long as the buttons, keys and speakers are in good shape, you can definitely consider the instrument.

Usually, the more problems you find with the keyboard, the more bargaining power you get while negotiating over the price. But if there are a lot of problems, excessive scratches and markings, sticking keys, then you should skip that keyboard and check out some other used keyboard.

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