We'd like to say that we already have the world's greatest collection of instruments or Eddie Van Halen's knack for making them ourselves, but neither of those things is true.

We just stand around music stores like ghosts in a cemetery, gazing longingly at the bright and shiny objects just out of our financial reach. So what's a guy to do?

Well, one solution is a firm jump into the second-hand market. A quick browse on Craigslist and/or eBay will demonstrate just how effective this shopping experience can be. But before you pull the trigger, it's worth taking notes from the folks over at AudioMelody.com who are kindly offering some sage advice you should probably heed before pulling the trigger on Joe Bob's used 1967 Dobro.

Among the thoughtful nuggets of wisdom, you'll note such classics as do your research, know what (and what not) to buy, and the ever popular and always true, get a guarantee.

Now go forth, find that custom Paul Reed Smith for sale by some old lady in Wichita who thinks $150 is a fair price. You know, the one that everyone else on the internet overlooked. And then plunk down that credit card and avail yourself of the American dream: the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of other people used stuff.

Source: AudioMelody.com