Gear: New or secondhand?

Depending on genre, this will range from guitars and drums right through classical instruments to synthesisers, computers and other electronic devices. Most insurance companies will not insure musical equipment for a working band, unless it stays in one secure place at all times or unless one is prepared to pay such a huge premium that it is effectively unaffordable. So take care of this kit. It represents the only way in which the project can make money and further its aims. Without it all one really has is a bunch of ideas and ambitions.

 

Despite what some people believe, it’s not how fancy or expensive equipment is, but what goes into the music that makes the real difference. It is true that certain brands deliver better performance than others, have more features and are more versatile. But in the beginning what is needed is equipment that is affordable and reliable.

 

 

Factors to be considered

 

Cost is always an important factor to be considered and there is a big market in second-hand instruments. So the question often asked is: how good an idea is it to buy gear secondhand? There is no short answer to this, as there are various factors to be considered depending on what it is that you are looking to buy. With our exchange rate, import taxes and the like, buying new can be prohibitively expensive. The problem with secondhand is, of course, one of condition. How equipment has been treated can make all the difference and being able to spot the obvious defects becomes an important purchasing skill. Make sure that equipment is in good condition by either researching carefully yourself or taking a better informed person with you when buying.

 

Next week: PA or not to PA?

 

Originally published in David Chislett's One, Two, One, Two: A Step By Step Guide To The South African Music Industry. Download a free copy of the book at www.davidchislett.co.za.