What Musical Instruments Do You Regret Not Purchasing?

As a musician, the decision to buy an instrument can be both exhilarating and daunting. In this article, we'll share some personal stories of instruments that were within reach but somehow missed the mark. From guitars to basses, let’s explore the regrettable choices that every musician can identify with.

Regrets from the Guitars

Have you ever found yourself looking back at a missed opportunity to purchase a specific instrument? Here are a few experiences shared by a seasoned musician, showcasing the decisions that shaped their journey.

1. A D28 Guitar Left Unpurchased

My first regret involves a used 10-year-old D28 from Elderly Stringed Instruments. I visited the store with the intention of buying a Martin guitar, specifically the D28. I had my eye on this instrument for quite some time. After trying the guitar, I particularity admired its body and fretboard. As someone who has since explored the benefits of a well-played used instrument, I now view this decision through a different lens. Though I ultimately decided to go with a Taylor 310, I can’t help but wonder what extra warmth or unique tone the D28 might have brought to my sound.

2. An Unevenly Chosen Guild D35

A couple of years later, I found myself browsing a small guitar store in a small town near Milwaukee. Amid the array of uninteresting and inexpensive guitars, my eyes fell on a vintage Guild D35. This guitar reminded me of my beloved 1973 D25, which I own and love. I took it down to play it, and though it needed some work, I was seriously considering it. However, my walk away left me with a sense of 'what if' regarding such a notable vintage instrument. My choice at that time might have added a significant dimension to my collection.

3. A Near-Perfect Martin D118/28/35-S 12 Fret

While pursuing a Martin D118/28/35-S 12 fret dread in 1998, my journey led me to the Music Em[orium. There, a Collings DS42 caught my eye. Although I was captivated, my previous concerns regarding its handling through HM Customs and unfamiliarity with the brand were strong deterrents. Despite this, my instincts guided me away from the instrument. It wasn’t until a year later when I could afford to purchase a Collings in London that I realized the value of the instrument I had passed up initially. The Collings, made of promising materials like Sitka/EIR, turned out to be a very well-played and cherished part of my collection for 21 years.

Beautiful Missed Opportunities with Fender and Gibson Instruments

Not all of the regrets are with guitars; let’s also explore the wrongf{: style"float:left;margin-right:20px" data-align"left"}oots missed with Fender and Gibson basses.

4. A D'Aquisto Fender Jazz Guitar

A notable feather in my cap was a Fender D'Aquisto jazz guitar. This guitar featured an all-black appearance with an ebony fretboard, ebony tuning keys, and a bridge and volume knobs that made it stand out. I purchased it during the early 1990s for around $600. Soon after, due to financial difficulties, I had to sell it. Years later, I spoke with a friend who still had the same model. He informed me that the value of the instrument had quadrupled after the creator passed away. While I am not resentful about the revenue lost, I am dismayed at the notable piece of art that slipped away from my collection.

5. A Valuable EB-0 Guitar Sacrificed

My bass journey is not free of regrets. My first acquired bass was a Gibson EB-0, a Strat-style bass with a Pickguard. An avoidable trade mistake led me to exchange it for something else that I could sell. I eventually secured the EB-2D, which I used to wheel and trade for. As the EB-2D’s neck action is superior to any other bass I have played, I don't regret the purchase, but I can't help feeling a sense of regret at the EB-0. The bass could have brought a unique warmth or tone to my music, and its absence in my collection leaves a void.

Conclusion

Throughout our musical journeys, some instruments slip through our fingers, whether due to hesitation, financial constraints, or a sudden change in priorities. These losses, however, shape our understanding of what drives us in our love for music. By recognizing these missed opportunities, we can better appreciate the instruments we currently have and the value they bring to our sound.