How to Buy Used CDs
From LoveToKnow Buy
With the always-escalating costs of new music, shopping for used CDs is a good route to go if you’re looking to save money. There are of course risks with purchasing used CDs — the sleeve, or worse, the actual disc, may be damaged. The tips below on to look for when buying used compact discs will have you listening to the bands and musicians you love in no time.
Tips on buying used CDs
- Not all CD shops sell used CDs. Check your local yellow pages for listings of shops selling used CDs in your area.
- Go to the shop you select. Used CDs will be organized the same way new CDs are, only they’ll usually be in a section labeled “used.” Find the artist or band you’re interested in purchasing a CD from by looking in the genre of music their sound is classified by. If you are unsure of which genre of music to look in, simply ask a clerk for assistance.
- In most cases you won’t be able to examine the actual disc before purchasing. You will be able to see what kind of condition the CD sleeve is in though, which may make or break your decision to buy. Do know that most used CDs—even ones that may have tiny scratches—come with guarantees that state they will play in your CD player.
- Used CDs run the whole gamut of price extremes—you’ll find some for as low as a dollar, and others for as much as $40. The price of a used CD will depend on not only its condition, but also on its popularity, availability and whether or not it’s currently in print (out of print CDs are going to cost you a lot).
- When you decide to purchase a used CD, be sure to ask the salesperson about the shop’s return policy. Also, before leaving the shop, open your used CD and inspect it. Be sure the right CD is in the case, be sure the CD is in good condition, and be sure you have your receipt! If the CD does not look to be in good condition, ask the salesperson for an opinion. In many cases he/she just might put the CD on in the store to test it.
- Most used CD shops also allow you the opportunity to sell CDs of your own you no longer want. Most will give you the choice between receiving cash or store credit for what you trade.
Caution
Avoid buying used CDs at garage sales, for you’re not going to get a receipt at a garage sale!
Where to shop for used CDs
These Web sites sell used CDs of every variety:
SecondSpin.com is the Internet’s largest buyer and seller of used CDs, videos and DVDs. Create a shopping account for free and start shopping!
In addition to selling new CDs, Amazon.com now sells used CDs. Simply search their music section by artist or genre for a particular CD, and in many cases, there will be listings for a used copy at a much lower price.
Spun.com has a massive selection of used and new CDs from today’s hottest artists and bands. You can also sell and trade your CDs here, too.
Learn More
This page has been accessed 1,527 times. This page was last modified 15:37, 8 December 2006.
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