 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: bstutsman
Date: 2008-04-26 04:52
Does a good formula for accurately pricing used clarinets exist? When talking about entry-level plastic instruments, I once heard someone say that you cut the price in half for each year of age. Obviously, we don't apply this to more advanced instruments, but does anyone have any rules of thumb? (Assuming the instrument is in good playing condition at the time)
Is there a way to make the pricing more objective for instruments at all levels?
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Author: tictactux ★2017
Date: 2008-04-26 07:55
I would say that a used instrument in properly restored condition, with new pads and corks etc, is worth roughly 50% of the value of a comparable new instrument.
Then subtract 10% for body blemishes, 10 to 20% for worn key plating etc.
I don't think that value is a function of age, though. And value is not necessarily what the market is willing to pay at any given moment. If a customer buys it, he/she estimates that the (playing) value is higher than its price. (This delta is called the consumer's rent).
All our buying decisions are based on the delta between perceived value or satisfaction and the product's price tag. The potential "resale value" is another important factor in buying decision (not of food, of course).
--
Ben
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Author: stevesklar
Date: 2008-04-26 12:18
One of the biggest price indicator is that wicked auction site for used instruments. Of course, prices may vary too.
Retail stores, which could provide added value will normally sell for more.
other online stores, etc which may have added value will also normally sell for more.
and yes, it's like driving a new car off of the lot. "value" depreciation drops like a rock it seems. But then it also depends upon the buyer and what they value the instrument at.
==========
Stephen Sklar
My YouTube Channel of Clarinet Information
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Author: felix
Date: 2008-04-26 13:11
No formula exists. Resale is based on supply and demand just like any other commodity. Used cheap-o instruments are worth the proverbial dime-a-dozen. Specialty instruments have a limited market, and are harder to sell, but may be worth more, e.g., C clarinet v. Bb clarinet. High end instruments are subject to the same market forces, and in general, those who own them or are looking for them, already know what they're worth. The US dollar is weak, so you can expect to sell for more when the Euro-bearing buyers show up.
In other words, your clarinet is worth what eBay says it's worth - that's the market. Trade-in to a dealer? Prepare to get considerably less, and to pay more for what you are trading for. That's why they're called "dealers".
Hope this helps.
PS: Anybody have a neglected student model C clarinet for sale? 
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Author: Bill
Date: 2008-04-27 14:58
No kidding. I'll never forget the most respected and well-known "dealer" here in the MD-DC-VA area offering me $200 for a fully-restored Leblanc L7 that had belonged to Jack Silver (who he undoubtably knew).
"They like those in Wisconsin" he said.
Bill Fogle
Ellsworth, Maine
(formerly Washington, DC)
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Author: Synonymous Botch
Date: 2008-04-27 20:32
Until the recent slide of the dollar, only the Buffet R13 retained much resale value... it really does come down to demand, and there's precious little demand for any other used clarinet.
One thing is pretty clear, the classifieds on this BBS are an indication of top asking prices - rather than actual selling prices.
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Author: patrickryan04
Date: 2008-04-27 21:30
I have huge demand for any used Leblanc Opus' does anyone know of any.
1st Armored Division Band
Clarinetist
Dixie Band
Woodwind Quintet
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