Darkside wrote:
Mini D... I don't really see any reason why my guitars would depreciate. In fact, they should increase in value. My Taylor would get better and sound better as it ages... and my Fender is pretty unique... haven't seen many at all like it.
Darko, the market for used instruments just doesn't work that way. Unless you have a bona fide vintage piece that is considered collectible, guitars almost never go up in value, no matter the brand or how good they are.
What's worse, the GCs and Sam Ashes of the world will always follow this formula for trade-ins to a T: Current used value of the guitar, if in mint condition, is about 60-65% of what new street price is, and these places generally will only give you about 50% of that projected used price. So, let's say that BR's guitar was $700 when he bought it 12 years ago. At the extreme best, they are valuing it in mint condition at around $450.00, and the best offer he will get in trade is around $225, and that's being generous. Not really fair, but they have to try to make some money on the deal.
I always hunt for used deals - there are always bargains to be had if you hunt them down.
BRogue, buy some damn strings and do it your damn self!