Instrument Rental

[CBFrench]

I've been thinking about trying out an instrument I've never attempted to play. Instead of buying one I discovered that I can do a rental of a nice quality instrument for set length of times, 3 months being the least. Some portion of the rental price can be applied to the purchase if buying becomes an option.

This particular store has a good reputation for quality instruments and customer service. Instrument rental prices for a 3 month period are very affordable and a great alternative to dropping a purchase on an instrument and then discovering that you and the instrument simply don't get along.

Anyone have any experience with instrument rental pros or cons?

[Jill McAuley]

A few years back I rented a entry level concertina from The Button Box - they have a similar policy where your rental fees can be applied to the concertina if you choose to purchase it. It was very affordable, the instrument was decent, and when I decided to purchase an upgrade from them my rental fees for the entry level instrument were applied to the purchase of the better one. No cons from my experience - it was a nice way to see if the concertina was an instrument that worked for me or not.

[mandroid]

Typically the rentals are for High school Band instruments , in the US

for the Brass and Orchestral string instruments (violin family) , not Mandolins .

but check with your local 'Brick and Mortar' music store..

[CBFrench]

This is an Eastman VL 200 violin I may rent. The nearest store is around 300+ miles

[JeffD]

I have seen a trend where libraries are letting out mandolins, guitars, and even a violin, just as one would borrow a book. I think this is a wonderful idea.

[CBFrench]

It is a great idea to get youth and beginners started. I haven't seen this going on with online mandolin dealers. Would be a great idea for folks wanting to upgrade. Here's a link to Vermont Violins rental.

https://www.vermontviolins.com/intro-violin-outfits

[Louise NM]

Like Jill, I don't see a downside.

We did this when the kids started various band and orchestral instruments. I think the deal was that if you bought within six months the full amount of rental fees went toward purchase. Six months is enough time to tell if it's going to stick or not. The shop you linked to has very reasonable rental rates! An Eastman 200 would be a decent violin to start with.

What is the shop's trade-in policy? If you stick with it, you'll find yourself wanting a step-up violin. If you are looking for a violin for a kid, they grow. About one per year per kiddo we were in the market for a bigger instrument. It's helpful if you can apply what you have to something else. Same with bows. The shop you have linked to carries decent instruments, so they could conceivably keep you in violins for quite a while.

[Marc Berman]

We did this for my daughter when she started the violin. We ending up applying the rental credit towards her first full size viloin. I suggest getting whatever damage coverage they offer. Just in case.