Reverb: Is It Legit? The Ultimate Guide To Buying & Selling Gear

Georgette Lindgren II 22 May 2025

Ever wondered if that vintage guitar you've been eyeing online is worth the hype, or if you're getting a fair deal on your next studio upgrade? The world of online musical instrument marketplaces has exploded, and navigating it requires a keen eye and a discerning ear. The key to success is knowing where to find trusted sources and accurate valuations, especially when dealing with used and vintage gear.

The digital revolution has fundamentally altered how musicians acquire and offload their equipment. Gone are the days of solely relying on local music stores or classified ads. Today, a global network of online platforms connects buyers and sellers, offering an unprecedented selection and convenience. Among these platforms, Reverb.com has emerged as a dominant force, billing itself as the largest online marketplace dedicated to musical instruments and audio equipment. Since its inception in 2013, Reverb claims to have facilitated millions of transactions, fostering a community of music makers and collectors worldwide. But how does Reverb stack up against the competition, and is it truly the best option for buying or selling your precious gear?

To help you decide, let’s explore some key information and facts:

Category	Information
Platform Type	Online Marketplace
Launch Date	2013
Core Focus	Buying and selling new, used, and vintage musical instruments and audio equipment.
Claimed User Base	Millions of music makers worldwide
Key Features	Price guides, seller tools, buyer protection, community forums
Business Model	Commission-based on sales
Geographic Reach	Global
Alternative Marketplaces	eBay, Sweetwater, Guitar Center Used, Craigslist
External Link	Reverb Official Website

Established in 2013, Reverb.com provides a platform for musicians to sell their equipment directly to fans and collectors. This direct connection is one of its key selling points. It fosters a sense of community and allows for more personalized interactions between buyers and sellers. The site boasts a vast inventory, ranging from brand-new instruments to rare vintage finds. Each listing provides detailed descriptions and often includes high-quality photos, enabling buyers to make informed decisions.

However, the rapid growth of online marketplaces also raises questions about legitimacy and trust. Musicians and collectors often approach these platforms with caution, wondering if the listed items are genuine, if the prices are fair, and if the transactions are secure. Before making a purchase or listing an instrument, it's essential to understand the platform's policies and procedures, as well as the potential risks involved. Thorough research and due diligence are crucial for a positive online buying or selling experience. This is especially crucial when dealing with high value or rare instruments.

Since its launch, Reverb has actively cultivated a reputation as a trusted community, connecting buyers and sellers across the globe. The platform implements various measures to ensure the integrity of transactions, including seller verification, buyer protection policies, and dispute resolution processes. These efforts have contributed to its widespread adoption within the music community. However, like any online marketplace, Reverb is not without its challenges. Scams and fraudulent listings can still occur, requiring users to exercise caution and vigilance. Due diligence is always advised.

Today, musicians and collectors from all corners of the world rely on Reverb for various purposes. Some use it to generate income by selling their unwanted gear, while others seek inspiration from the vast selection of instruments on offer. Of course, the ultimate goal for many users is to find that perfect instrument that will fuel their creativity and enhance their musical journey. The platform aims to cater to all these needs, providing a comprehensive marketplace for all things musical.

Reverb's self-proclaimed status as the largest online marketplace dedicated to musical instruments is backed by a substantial inventory and a large user base. Whether you're searching for a new acoustic guitar, a vintage synthesizer, or a rare effect pedal, Reverb is likely to have it. The sheer volume of listings can be overwhelming, but it also increases the chances of finding exactly what you're looking for. Regular updates to the website and app, with search improvements and intuitive browsing, are a plus.

The platform emphasizes its role in recording the sale price of used and vintage instruments, creating a valuable resource for buyers and sellers alike. The Reverb price guide provides data on past transactions, allowing users to assess the fair market value of various instruments. This transparency helps to prevent price gouging and ensures that both buyers and sellers are getting a reasonable deal. However, it's important to note that the price guide is just a tool, and the actual value of an instrument can vary depending on its condition, rarity, and other factors.

Whether you're buying, selling, or simply curious about a particular piece of gear, Reverb's price guide aims to provide a reliable estimate of its worth. This feature is particularly helpful for vintage instruments, where prices can fluctuate significantly based on market trends and collector demand. The price guide draws on a vast dataset of past sales, providing a comprehensive overview of the market. It also helps determine a fair range depending on the instrument and condition of the instrument.

Joining the millions of music makers already using Reverb provides access to a global network of buyers and sellers. This vast community fosters a vibrant exchange of ideas, knowledge, and, of course, instruments. The platform also offers various resources and tools to help users connect with each other, including forums, groups, and social media channels. This creates a supportive environment where musicians can share their experiences and learn from each other. It’s also worth keeping up with updates in forum and blog content to discover helpful tips and tricks for selling, buying, or repairing.

Whether you're looking to find your next favorite new, used, or vintage instrument, or you're ready to sell one of your own, Reverb offers a platform to do so. The site caters to a wide range of instruments, from guitars and basses to keyboards and drums. The buying/selling process is relatively straightforward and user-friendly, with clear instructions and helpful support resources. But it's also important to consider alternative marketplaces like Sweetwater, which has carved out its niche in the online musical instrument retail landscape.

Sweetwater has evolved into one of the most popular online retailers of audio equipment since its online launch in 1999. While Reverb focuses on being a marketplace, Sweetwater is a direct retailer. They provide personalized service and technical expertise, making them a popular choice among musicians who value professional guidance. Sweetwater also provides an in-depth library of articles and how-to guides to support musicians of all levels.

The used instrument market is a treasure trove of value, offering musicians the chance to acquire high-quality gear at affordable prices. Whether you're searching for a vintage Fender classic, a modern Ibanez shredder, a Martin acoustic, or anything in between, the used market can provide a wealth of options. However, it's crucial to inspect used instruments carefully before making a purchase, looking for signs of wear and tear, damage, or modifications. Asking a lot of detailed questions is a smart first step.

Millions of music makers worldwide have already discovered the benefits of buying and selling instruments on Reverb. The platform offers a wide range of options, from brand-new gear to rare vintage finds. It connects buyers and sellers from all over the world, fostering a vibrant community of music enthusiasts. This global reach provides access to a wider selection of instruments and a larger pool of potential buyers, expanding your possibilities when it comes to finding the perfect gear or selling your own equipment.

Just as you can find your next favorite new, used, or vintage instrument on Reverb, you can also sell one of your own. The platform makes it easy to list your gear for sale, with tools to help you create appealing listings and manage your inventory. Setting competitive prices and providing clear descriptions can help attract potential buyers. You may also want to consider offering a return policy to build trust with potential buyers.

Since its foray into online retail in 1999, Sweetwater has become a leading player in the audio equipment market. The company distinguishes itself with its commitment to customer service and its expertise in musical instruments and audio technology. Sweetwater's team of sales engineers provides personalized support and guidance, helping musicians choose the right gear for their needs. Their website offers a wealth of information, including product reviews, buying guides, and technical articles.

Buying used instruments offers exceptional value, whether you're seeking a vintage Fender classic, a contemporary Ibanez shredder, a Martin acoustic, or something entirely different. The used market is a haven for musicians seeking to expand their collection without breaking the bank. However, it's essential to be cautious when buying used gear. Thoroughly inspect the instrument for any damage or defects, and ask the seller plenty of questions. It is also essential to evaluate the value using various sources.

MIRC partners with musical instrument manufacturers to refurbish stringed instruments, including overstocks, discontinued models, blemished items, and instruments requiring repair. This partnership provides a sustainable solution for manufacturers to dispose of excess inventory while offering musicians access to affordable instruments. MIRC's refurbishment process ensures that these instruments are brought back to playable condition, meeting the standards of quality and performance. Always ask for details of refurbishment completed.

Each instrument is sent to MIRC's certified shop, where a team of professional luthiers and guitar/stringed instrument technicians evaluates its condition. If necessary, the technicians perform repairs, adjustments, and modifications to restore the instrument to its original functionality. This meticulous process ensures that the refurbished instruments meet the highest standards of quality. It’s important to verify any certification or licensing claimed by the company and shop.

Ultimately, the perfect piece of music gear can be found where the music community connects. Whether it's through online marketplaces like Reverb, direct retailers like Sweetwater, or specialized refurbishment programs like MIRC, the key is to engage with the community, ask questions, and do your research. The journey to finding the perfect instrument is a personal one, and it's often enriched by the connections you make along the way. Take advantage of forums and feedback loops with each site and community you use.