Choosing between renting versus purchasing an instrument can be overwhelming, whether you’re starting out or ready to upgrade to a more advanced model. With so many options, where do you begin? To help you make the best choice for your needs, we’ve outlined key factors to consider.
Renting an Instrument
Renting is common for beginners and provides a low-cost way to start exploring music. Rental plans often include maintenance and replacement options, adding peace of mind if accidents happen—like running over an instrument with a car (it’s more common than you’d think!).
Many schools offer limited instruments for beginners and allow students to switch later based on the band’s needs. For example, some schools require students interested in saxophone to start with clarinet for the first semester or year. Renting works well in these cases because it involves a smaller commitment than purchasing.
Sometimes, the first instrument a student tries just isn’t a good fit. This is completely normal, as each instrument has its own unique sound and feel. Renting gives students the freedom to explore and find their musical “voice” without committing to a single instrument.
Where to Rent an Instrument
You can rent instruments from local music stores or online dealers, each with different benefits.
Local music stores provide the chance to talk face-to-face with a sales professional who can help you choose an instrument that suits your needs. They often work closely with band directors and private instructors, carrying brands they trust.
Online stores offer unmatched convenience, allowing you to shop from home at any hour. Most sites provide support through phone, email, or chat to answer any questions while you browse.
How to Rent an Instrument
If you’re interested in renting, start by comparing different rental plans. Many rental plans are “Rent To Own,” meaning a portion of your monthly payments goes toward purchasing the instrument you’re playing.
These plans often allow flexibility, letting you switch instruments or end the rental early if needed. For those exploring different instruments or wanting to try music without a large upfront commitment, these flexible options can be ideal.
Purchasing an Instrument
Purchasing an instrument can be a significant step if you’re ready to commit to music for the long term. Buying an instrument outright or through a payment plan is often cheaper in the long run than a rent-to-own program. However, consider the benefits of renting versus purchasing an instrument, especially if you’re not yet certain about a long-term commitment.
When you buy, remember that many sales contracts are hard to cancel and may include penalties for breaking the contract. Unlike most rental plans, purchase agreements don’t usually cover maintenance, so any repairs will be your responsibility.
Instruments, much like cars, lose value after even brief use. If you’re confident you’ll keep playing, purchasing may be a good option; otherwise, renting might offer the flexibility you need.
Where to Purchase an Instrument
You can buy instruments from several sources:
- Music Stores
- Online Stores
- Pawn Shops
- Directly from Individuals
When purchasing, keep these tips in mind:
- Reputable dealers, whether local or online, offer the best quality and reliability.
- Be cautious when buying from pawn shops, individuals, or online marketplaces like eBay. While prices may look appealing, necessary repairs can sometimes outweigh any initial savings unless you’re knowledgeable about instrument condition.
- If you have questions, talk to your band director or lesson instructor for guidance!
What To Do Now
Now it’s time for the fun part—visiting a local music store or browsing online to see what’s available!
Still undecided between renting versus purchasing? We understand. Choosing between the long-term savings of buying and the flexibility of renting can be tricky. A great middle-ground option is a rent-to-own plan, which combines the advantages of both approaches. If you decide you enjoy playing, some music stores even offer early purchase options for rent-to-own instruments.
Ready to explore rental options? Visit RentMyInstrument.com for more information, or call us at 877-569-0240.