What Sells: Microphones & Amplifiers

A microphone is an instrument that converts sound into electricity for the purpose of transmitting or recording (as in radio, TV or tape recording). An amplifier is a device used to take in a weak electric signal and send out a stronger one. Amplifiers are used to boost electrical signals in many electronic devices, including radios, televisions, and telephones. Both vacuum tubes and transistors can be amplifiers, though today vacuum tubes are rarely used for this purpose. Vintage and new amplifiers sell well online.

For photos and product specificatons for vintage amplifiers, visit the website athttp://www.vintageamps.com.

Look for these signs of wear and tear:

• Scratches, scuffs and other wear to the case
• Torn grill covers
• Broken switches and controls
• Dirt
• Odors (cigarette smoke, etc.)
• Missing or frayed cables

Ask the owner how often the item was played and whether it was used for gigs (amps and mics that are used in bars and other venues may be exposed to smoke, fog machines and other damaging materials).

Testing is essential for amps. If you don’t have an electric guitar or piano at home, ask the owner if they have an instrument you can use to test the sound quality. If not, you can try selling the item “as-is” but the sale price won’t be nearly as high.

Keep musical instruments and equipment in a well-ventilated room, away from children, pets, smoke, water and cooking odors. Don’t place them in direct sunlight. Do not place instruments and equipment next to heating vents or air conditioners either, since the temperature/humidity changes can cause damage.

Amplifiers should be stored and shipped in hard cases designed to hold the specific instrument. Select a corrugated cardboard shipping carton that is larger than the size of the amplifier so that 3 inches of packing can fit on each side of the case. Lay the amplifier in its case and place packing material around any loose spots around the equipment. Be careful not to over-pack and force the case cover down onto the device. Put the amplifier packed in its case into the shipping carton. Use foam, crumpled paper or bubble wrap and make sure you have 4 inches on bottom and 3 inches of packing material all around the instrument so it cannot move or rattle inside the carton.

Seal up any holes and, if the device is too heavy for the carton, reinforce the interior with a second layer of cardboard. Take care to insure the device whether you ship by UPS, FedEx, or Post Office.

If a hard case is not available, consider having a crate made for the item.