The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2003-12-08 03:37
Just wondering what people think about this. I was planning on getting a new clarinet around next year, but that's cause I figured I'd need about a year to save. At about 100 dollars a month or something I would've been able to afford one. But I was thinking about seeing what my funds were gonna be like in the year and maybe just making those monthly payments plus whatever extra I can then. That'll allow me to get a better clarinet, sooner.
There's no real reason that I NEED a new clarinet, but while my clarinet is good, I really would feel better playing a better clarinet. I feel that I've waited long enough to upgrade (playing my current clarinet, an E-13 for 7 years and playing clarinet 13 years total) and I'll be taking lessons and playing in varoius ensembles so it won't be for "no reason".
Just wanted to get some ideas. Has anyone used this? Would people recommend rather getting a loan? Or just waiting it out? Although when I borrowed and played a colleagues R-13A I realized just how much better a professional clarinet sounds than mine. Noticeably better.
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: Corey
Date: 2003-12-08 03:58
I am using this program on my oboe. I bought a Fox model 450 pro Oboe and am paying $120/month. It's makes life easier because I wouldn't be able to raise the money to buy the instrumnet out right.
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2003-12-08 04:16
lol. I didn't say the loan was a dirty word, but was wondering if it was BETTER to get a loan only because I don't know whether someone has figured out amount of interest on the play then pay vs that paid out on a personal loan. It's all about how much money in the end you pay back, but for no interest for twelve months I think it looks pretty good.
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: GBK
Date: 2003-12-08 04:59
sfalexi....I would be certain to read all the details of the Play Then Pay agreement, as it is based on a credit card issued by the Wells Fargo Bank.
Upon quickly scanning it, I believe the minimum annual percentage rate is 21.9%.
There are also significant late fees assessed if your monthly payments are not timely...GBK
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2003-12-08 06:05
GBK,
I certainly will. And that sounds like a typical "store" credit card rate (compared to a Macy's, Sears, etc. card). And me being a mathematical person will figure out exactly how much I need to pay each month to have it fully paid off (I don't think 50 dollars a month minimum will cover it), and will check it against a personal loan, paid at minimum balance, and also which one would be a bigger hit to the wallet in the long run.
Not to mention I have to wait a while anyway until I get my new job. And possibly move out of the my house. Possibly.
US Army Japan Band
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Author: msroboto
Date: 2003-12-08 12:00
Just be careful if it a 12-Month no interest deal. If you do not pay it off in the 12-Months typically you get hit with all the back interest.
I do not know if that is the case herre but be aware and read that fine print.
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Author: msloss
Date: 2003-12-08 13:57
Just read the terms. It isn't that odious. These promos are usually some period of time same-as-cash. Some deals require minimum monthly payments to keep the zero-interest terms, others defer the entire amount for a set window of time. Usually you just have to pay off the balance before the term expires. If you don't, they retroactively charge you the interest (the 21.9% mentioned above). Essentially, the bank is hoping that you won't pay it off, and you are betting that you will.
I've done this kind of thing countless times. Nothing wrong with free money, and usually no catches if you pay it off in time.
Enjoy.
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Author: Ralph Katz
Date: 2003-12-08 15:22
I bought several instruments on WWBW's 3-payment plan and it was very convenient. Without prejudice, even though they are a large organization, I have found their level of service to be very good.
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Author: leonardA
Date: 2003-12-08 15:30
The advantage--you get to play while you're paying. And if there is no interest if you pay it off in twelve months--no additional cost.
The disadvantage--if you suffer a financial reserval and can't make the loan payments, you have a problem.
Leonard
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Author: ken
Date: 2003-12-08 16:33
You could always play a game of "reality perecption" with yourself. Get a crummy, beat up, minimally servicable plastic job, (maybe even your beginner horn if it's still playable and not sporting a lamp shade). Play on it for a couple weeks and then go back to your good horn. You'll no doubt get that same "feel better" feeling and save the dough for a new one. v/r Ken
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