Do you have musical instruments you no longer use and want to sell?
In our household we play piano, violin, cello, and ukulele, so we have practical experience buying and selling instruments to get the best value.
In this article you’ll find:
- Eight top places to sell musical instruments to make extra money
- Practical tips for selling used instruments
- How to determine the value of your instruments
And more helpful advice to get the most from your sale.
8 Best Places To Sell Musical Instruments
Below are some of the best options for selling musical instruments, whether you want a quick sale or the highest possible return.
1. Music Go Round
Music Go Round operates more than 30 locations across the United States and specializes in buying and selling used instruments. Bring your instrument to a store so staff can inspect it and determine a fair market value. They accept a wide range of gear—guitars, amps, keyboards, MIDI equipment, mixers, pro audio, band instruments, and accessories—and will either pay you on the spot or offer store credit for a trade-in.
2. Guitar Center
Guitar Center is a widely known option with over 300 U.S. locations. They review items in-store and often pay the same day, offering convenience and a straightforward process. Trading in gear can also earn you additional perks, like a discount on a new purchase. Before you go, clean your instrument and include all accessories so the appraisal reflects its true condition.
3. Local music stores
Independent local music shops are often willing to buy used instruments and can be a great resource. Search for “music stores near me” or check local directories to find nearby shops. Since each store sets its own buying policy, it’s worth contacting a few to compare offers. Some may pay cash, while others provide store credit—try multiple shops to get the best deal.
4. Reverb
Reverb is an online marketplace dedicated to musical instruments and gear. Listings are free; you pay a small selling fee (around 5%) plus payment processing when an item sells. Reverb attracts serious music buyers, offers helpful seller guides, and lets you choose between local pickup and shipping, making it an excellent choice for specialized or higher-value instruments.
5. eBay
eBay is a global marketplace where you can list items at a fixed price or run an auction. Auctions can drive higher prices for rare or collectible instruments but require careful listing and shipping. eBay’s large audience increases visibility, though competition is high and you’ll need to factor in shipping costs and fees when setting your price.
6. Sweetwater Gear Exchange
Sweetwater Gear Exchange targets musicians and audio professionals looking for quality used equipment. The platform is user-friendly and supports both local pickup and shipping. Listings tend to reach buyers who know gear well, which can help you sell instruments quickly and at fair prices if you present accurate descriptions and clear photos.
7. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is free and makes it easy to connect with local buyers. Use a clear, searchable title—such as “Yamaha Acoustic Guitar – Excellent Condition”—and include multiple high-quality photos taken in natural light. Tag the listing with relevant keywords and provide a concise description. Always meet buyers in a well-lit, public location for safety, such as a busy parking area or a café.
8. Craigslist
Craigslist remains a popular, fee-free way to sell instruments locally. Use a clear title that includes the brand and model, upload well-lit photos, and list key details buyers want to know—age, condition, repairs, and included accessories. Since Craigslist is location-based, it works best in populated areas where there are more potential buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about selling musical instruments are below.
How do I sell my used musical instruments?
Decide whether you want a fast, low-effort sale or prefer to wait for a higher offer. Local platforms (Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist) have no listing fees and avoid shipping, which can increase your net return. Specialized marketplaces (Reverb, Sweetwater Gear Exchange) reach serious buyers who may pay more but often charge fees and require shipping. Chains and local shops offer convenience and immediate payment but typically pay less than private sales.
Does Guitar Center pay cash for instruments?
Guitar Center does buy instruments and can pay cash on the spot if they accept the item. Smaller purchases are often paid in cash, while higher-valued items may be paid by check depending on the store’s policy.
What is the best place to sell my guitar?
The best selling venue depends on your priorities. Selling directly to an individual locally often yields the highest price but may take longer. Local stores and national chains offer speed and convenience, though their offers will be lower to allow for resale margins. Online specialty sites like Reverb can be a strong compromise—good visibility to knowledgeable buyers and reasonable fees.
How do I find the value of a musical instrument?
Check completed sales and current listings on marketplaces such as eBay and Reverb for instruments with the same brand, model, and condition. Compare prices for similar items and factor in condition, included accessories, and any recent maintenance or repairs to arrive at a realistic asking price.
How much do music stores pay for used instruments?
Stores generally offer less than private buyers because they must resell the instrument for a profit. Small local shops might offer 30% to 60% of fair market value depending on the item’s condition and demand, while larger chains base offers on current resale potential.
What are the best places to sell musical instruments online?
Top online options include Reverb, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. Reverb is especially useful for reaching a focused audience of musicians, while Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are broad, local marketplaces that can be quicker and fee-free.
8 Best Places To Sell Musical Instruments – Summary
There are many good options for selling instruments, ranging from local stores and national chains to specialized marketplaces and community platforms. The right choice depends on how quickly you want to sell, how much effort you’re willing to put in, and whether you prefer convenience or maximum return. Instruments such as guitars, drums, pianos, and violins often retain good resale demand, so with clear photos, accurate descriptions, and realistic pricing you can find the right buyer.
If you’re selling an instrument, take time to clean it, photograph it well, and list honest details about condition and history—these steps will help you sell faster and for a better price.
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