Trading in used musical gear has become increasingly popular among musicians looking to upgrade their equipment or earn extra cash. Guitar Center stands out as one of the largest retailers that actively buys and sells pre-owned instruments and equipment across the United States.
Musicians seeking to sell their used gear at Guitar Center can choose between trading in-store or through their online platform. The process is straightforward and offers competitive market values for instruments ranging from guitars and amplifiers to drums and DJ equipment. With over 300 locations nationwide Guitar Center’s used gear program has revolutionized how musicians buy and sell their equipment.
Guitar Center Sell Used Gear
Guitar Center’s used gear program operates through a systematic buying process that evaluates equipment condition, market value, and current inventory needs. The program accepts instruments, amplifiers, recording equipment, DJ gear, and pro audio gear.
Trade-In Process Overview
Equipment Inspection
Visual examination for cosmetic damage
Functionality testing of all components
Documentation of serial numbers and authenticity verification
Value Assessment
Current market pricing analysis
Condition-based depreciation calculation
Brand and model premium factors
Payment Options
Cash payment available immediately
Store credit with 10% bonus value
Online bank transfer for web transactions
Online Quote Process
Submit gear details through Guitar Center’s website
Upload clear photos of the equipment
Receive preliminary estimate within 24 hours
In-Store Evaluation
Bring equipment to local Guitar Center location
Receive immediate assessment from certified staff
Complete transaction same day if accepted
Value Determination Factors
Age of equipment
Operational condition
Market demand
Manufacturer specifications
Previous modifications
Payment Method
Processing Time
Value Bonus
Cash
Same Day
Standard Rate
Store Credit
Same Day
+10% Value
Online Transfer
2-3 Business Days
Standard Rate
Types of Used Gear Guitar Center Accepts
Guitar Center purchases a diverse range of pre-owned music equipment across multiple categories. Each category undergoes specific evaluation criteria to ensure quality standards meet resale requirements.
Musical Instruments
Guitar Center accepts various stringed instruments like electric guitars, acoustic guitars, basses, mandolins, banjos. They also buy brass instruments including trumpets, trombones, saxophones, clarinets. The percussion category encompasses drum sets, electronic drums, cymbals, hand percussion. Other accepted instruments include:
Digital pianos with 88 weighted keys
Orchestral string instruments in playable condition
MIDI controllers with functioning pads buttons
Vintage instruments from recognized manufacturers
Left-handed guitars from major brands
Studio monitors with working drivers
Audio interfaces with functional inputs outputs
Microphones from professional brands
Mixing consoles with operational faders
Signal processors in working condition
PA systems with intact components
Digital audio workstations with valid licenses
Professional rack-mounted effects units
Power amplifiers meeting safety standards
Studio outboard gear from established brands
Equipment Category
Minimum Age Accepted
Condition Requirements
Musical Instruments
Up to 20 years
Fully functional, minimal wear
Pro Audio Gear
Up to 10 years
Operating perfectly, all features working
Vintage Equipment
25+ years
Original parts, collectible condition
Getting the Best Value for Your Used Gear
Musicians maximize their returns at Guitar Center by understanding value factors and negotiation strategies. The following guidelines help sellers secure optimal prices for their used equipment.
Item Condition Requirements
Clean, well-maintained gear commands higher resale values at Guitar Center. Equipment meets specific standards:
Instruments function properly with all original parts intact
Electronics operate without crackling or interference
Hardware shows minimal wear with working mechanisms
Finishes remain free from major scratches or damages
Cases include all original components
Documentation contains manuals ownership papers
Research current market prices on Reverb.com eBay for comparable items
Document recent maintenance service records repairs
Highlight unique features modifications upgrades
Present multiple items together for package deals
Visit during weekday mornings when staff has more time
Compare online quotes with in-store evaluations
Request store credit instead of cash for 10% more value
Time sales during seasonal buying periods (Back-to-School Holiday Season)
Payment Method
Value Received
Cash
100% of offer
Store Credit
110% of offer
Pro Coverage
Additional 5-15%
Payment Options When Selling to Guitar Center
Guitar Center offers multiple payment methods for sellers to receive compensation for their used gear. The payment process includes immediate transactions with flexible options to maximize value.
Cash vs Store Credit
Guitar Center provides two primary payment options for used gear:
Cash Payment
Immediate cash payment at 70% of the assessed value
Direct deposit to bank account within 1-2 business days
No minimum transaction amount required
Available for both in-store and online sales
Store credit at 80% of the assessed value (10% bonus)
Usable immediately at any Guitar Center location
Applicable for both in-store and online purchases
Valid for new and used equipment purchases
No expiration date on credit balance
Payment Type
Value Percentage
Processing Time
Bonus
Cash
70%
Immediate/1-2 days
None
Store Credit
80%
Immediate
+10%
Trading multiple items increases the potential value, with package deals offering optimal returns through store credit options. The credit bonus applies to all transactions regardless of the gear’s value or condition.
Benefits of Selling to Guitar Center
Guitar Center’s established reputation provides sellers with a secure platform for trading used musical equipment. The company’s nationwide presence creates multiple advantages for musicians looking to sell their gear.
Convenience and Reliability
Guitar Center’s 300+ locations across the U.S. offer easy access for in-person gear evaluations. The company’s standardized evaluation process ensures consistent pricing across all stores, backed by experienced technicians who assess equipment condition. The trade-in program accepts multiple gear categories in a single transaction:
Audio interfaces
Digital mixers
Electronic drums
Guitar amplifiers
MIDI controllers
Instant Payment
Guitar Center offers immediate compensation options for approved equipment sales:
Payment Method
Value Percentage
Processing Time
Cash
70% of assessed value
Same day
Store Credit
80% of assessed value
Immediate
Direct Deposit
70% of assessed value
1-2 business days
New gear purchases
Used equipment
Accessories
Recording software
Service department repairs
Alternatives to Guitar Center’s Used Gear Program
Local Music Stores offer personalized service with flexible pricing negotiations on used gear transactions. Independent retailers typically provide 75-85% of assessed value for store credit or 65-75% for cash payments.
Online Marketplaces present direct-to-buyer options:
Reverb specializes in musical instruments with a 5% selling fee
eBay reaches a broad audience with fees ranging from 8-12%
Facebook Marketplace enables local sales with zero listing fees
Sam Ash provides 60% cash value or 70% store credit
Sweetwater accepts trade-ins with competitive valuations
Chicago Music Exchange specializes in vintage instruments
Platform
Cash Payment %
Store Credit %
Selling Fee
Guitar Center
70%
80%
None
Music Go Round
50%
55%
None
Sam Ash
60%
70%
None
Reverb
100%
N/A
5%
eBay
100%
N/A
8-12%
Audiogon focuses on high-end audio equipment
Soundlister caters to professional audio gear
Gearslutz forums connect music equipment buyers
TalkBass specializes in bass instruments exchanges
How Guitar Center’s Used Gear Program Works
Guitar Center’s used gear program offers musicians a reliable and convenient way to turn their pre-owned equipment into cash or store credit. Their standardized evaluation process backed by experienced technicians ensures fair market values for a wide range of musical instruments and pro audio equipment.
Whether selling in-store or online musicians can benefit from multiple payment options competitive pricing and a straightforward trading process. The 10% bonus on store credit makes Guitar Center an attractive choice for those planning future equipment purchases.
With its extensive network of stores transparent pricing and acceptance of diverse gear categories Guitar Center remains a trusted destination for musicians looking to sell their used equipment.
