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Used Cymbal Buying Guide
Most musical instruments cost a large amount of money if you want to purchase them brand new. Cymbals are no exception to this general rule. However, musicians do not have to purchase their cymbals brand new. There are a number of methods through which you can gain access to high quality used cymbals without breaking the bank. Here are a few tips for buying used cymbals.
1) Always check your used cymbal for cracks. Most cymbals may have small scratches on the surface. Some cymbals have more nicks, dents and scratches than others. While a used cymbal may not look as beautiful as a new one, it can still be a quality addition to your collection. Individuals who run their hands across the cymbal and tap on the cymbal with their fingernails should be able to find highly finite cracks. Also, ask the owner of the cymbal to play it, as this will give you an excellent feeling for what the cymbal will sound like.
2) Check for nicked edges on your cymbal. A cymbal that has more than one or two nicked edges may be starting a crack. Cracked cymbals can be difficult to repair and let’s not forget that fixing them will require additional time and money. Most individuals do not want to purchase a used cymbal that has numerous nicks or a deep nick. Use your hands to find these nicks!
3) Warping of the cymbal can be a problem. Ride cymbals that have a slight warp are not going to have problems. However, hi-hat cymbals can have problems when they are warped. They may not close fully and might begin to have problems with the sound. Just be careful not to purchase a warped cymbal if you are purchasing a hi-hat. Also, make sure that you check both the top and bottom cymbal.
4) Dents on a cymbal can be another major problem. An easy way to check for dents is to place the cymbal on a flat surface. A table usually works best. Run your hand across the cymbal and use your fingertips. Concentrate to feel any dents that you would have overlooked through a superficial check. Dents on a cymbal are a big alarm bell that may show that you need to purchase a different one. Dents and other types of damage typically only appear after an individual has abused or mistreated their cymbal in the past.
5) Serial numbers are a smart thing to look for on cymbals. While all cymbals may not have one, look for where they should be if a cymbal is a certain brand. A cymbal with a sanded off serial number could have been stolen. The removal of a serial number is always a bad sign and buyers should not purchase a cymbal without a serial number. Also, be sure to keep the fact that buying used cymbals without a serial number voids the warranty in mind.
6) Logos are typically stamped or painted onto a cymbal. Cymbals that have a portion of their logo intact at the very least should be considered good. Cymbals that are being billed as high quality and lack a logo and/or serial number should be avoided at all costs!