We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.

Advertiser Disclosure

Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

How We Make Money

We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently from our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Xylophone?

By K. K. Lowen
Updated Feb 13, 2024
Our promise to you
WiseGEEK is dedicated to creating trustworthy, high-quality content that always prioritizes transparency, integrity, and inclusivity above all else. Our ensure that our content creation and review process includes rigorous fact-checking, evidence-based, and continual updates to ensure accuracy and reliability.

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

Editorial Standards

At WiseGEEK, we are committed to creating content that you can trust. Our editorial process is designed to ensure that every piece of content we publish is accurate, reliable, and informative.

Our team of experienced writers and editors follows a strict set of guidelines to ensure the highest quality content. We conduct thorough research, fact-check all information, and rely on credible sources to back up our claims. Our content is reviewed by subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and clarity.

We believe in transparency and maintain editorial independence from our advertisers. Our team does not receive direct compensation from advertisers, allowing us to create unbiased content that prioritizes your interests.

There are many pros and cons to buying a used xylophone, which include lower cost and condition of the instrument. One of the biggest advantages is that the price of secondhand xylophone typically will be less than the cost of a new instrument. The condition of a pre-owned xylophone can be one of the primary disadvantages because wear and other damage may have occurred through constant use or simple aging.

Locating a used xylophone that is in good condition may be difficult. When shopping in person for a xylophone, the buyer has the advantage of being able to inspect the item. When visually examining the instrument, it is a good idea to look for scratches, dents, chipping, discoloration, missing components, and any other obvious issues. Some people like to play the xylophone to see if it sounds right as well.

Purchasing an item that is not available to physically inspect and play can be a disadvantage. An individual may be able to locate the lowest prices on secondhand xylophones via online vendors or from classified ads, but without access to the item before purchase, it is more difficult to determine the instrument’s quality. It is important to make sure that the used xylophone seller is reputable, and it is vital that the seller provide detailed photographs of every aspect of the xylophone. Asking as many questions as possible is also a good idea. Additionally, people searching for a used xylophone online may wish to inquire about return policies in case the instrument is not in the described condition.

Pros and cons may exist when considering the inclusion of xylophone accessories as well. Sometimes used musical instrument sellers or vendors may include mallets, a xylophone case, or other helpful items. If accessories are included in the purchase price, it could be convenient and cost effective. It may be a good idea to determine how much it would cost to purchase all items separately and compare the total with the price of the instrument that includes accessories. Adding the accessory costs to the price of the used instrument is important if the accessories are only available separately.

There are pros and cons when purchasing a children’s xylophone as well. It may be considered a pro that toy xylophones are available for low prices. Toy instruments sometimes are made with cheap materials, such as plastic, which may not be ideal for some parents, but the items are inexpensive enough to purchase new. If purchasing a used xylophone that is small enough for a child, it is very important for child safety to make sure that all pieces are in good condition.

WiseGEEK is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Discussion Comments

By Rundocuri — On Feb 12, 2015

When I was in high school, I bought a used xylophone that my band director helped me find. Usually band directors and music teachers are able to help students find quality used instruments because they know former students who want to sell them.

By Spotiche5 — On Feb 11, 2015

I would never buy a used xylophone online because you have to play it first to make sure it is working properly. Many music stores sell used instruments, so this is great place to look.

Some pawn shops also carry musical instruments, and the staff will let customers try out products before they buy them.

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGEEK, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.