1. What should you look for when buying a used accordion?
When buying a used accordion, you should primarily check the bellows tightness, tuning, reeds, keyboard, bass mechanism, and registers. The instrument should respond cleanly, not produce any unusual background noises, and function reliably in terms of its mechanics. The maintenance status is also important, as necessary repairs can quickly make a supposedly cheap purchase expensive. At Costa Instruments, used accordions are therefore tested in our Berlin specialist workshop before sale and refurbished if necessary.
2. How are used accordions tested at Costa Instruments?
At Costa Instruments, used accordions are technically tested in our specialist workshop in Berlin before being sold. Among other things, we check the bellows tightness, keyboard, bass mechanism, registers, response, and the general condition of the instrument. If necessary, repairs, adjustments, or other work are carried out before the accordion is offered for sale.
3. How much does a good used accordion cost?
A good used accordion for beginners often costs around 700 to 1,200 euros. Mid-range instruments often cost between 1,200 and 2,500 euros, depending on the brand, features, and condition. High-quality professional accordions can cost from 2,500 euros to over 6,000 euros. In addition to the brand and age, the price is primarily influenced by the technical condition, size, features, and any refurbishment that may have been carried out.
4. Is it worth buying a used accordion?
Yes, a used accordion can be particularly worthwhile if it has been professionally tested and is in good technical condition. High-quality accordions can be played for many decades with proper care. A tested used instrument therefore often makes it possible to enter a higher quality class at a lower price than a comparable new instrument. It is important to consider possible subsequent costs for tuning, mechanics, or a general overhaul before purchasing.
5. Which brands of used accordions are recommended?
Well-known accordion manufacturers include Hohner, Weltmeister, Scandalli, Paolo Soprani, Bugari, Brandoni, and Crucianelli, among others. However, the brand alone is not the deciding factor for a used accordion. Technical condition, maintenance, playability, and features are at least as important. A well-maintained instrument can therefore be a better choice than a higher-quality model that is in significant need of repair.
6. Which used accordion is suitable for beginners?
For adult beginners, used accordions with 72 or 96 basses are often suitable, as they offer a good compromise between tonal range, size, and weight. For children or smaller players, more compact instruments with fewer basses may make sense. Weight, key size, ergonomics, response, and musical goals are also decisive. If possible, beginners should try out several sizes and seek expert advice.
7. Can you try out used accordions at Costa Instruments in Berlin?
Yes. Used accordions can be tried out and compared with one another before purchase at Costa Instruments in Berlin-Prenzlauer Berg. This is particularly useful for used instruments, as sound, playing feel, weight, and the keyboard can differ significantly from model to model. Upon request, we will be happy to advise you on choosing the right accordion.
