Choosing Used Pro Audio Equipment
Purchasing used pro audio equipment is a significant investment. Product choices are easier if you do proper research and know exactly what you're looking for. There are many different types of mics and mixers, for example, all built with distinct specifications for particular uses. Find the products that work best for your needs.
Who Can Benefit from Buying Pro Audio Gear?
You don't need to be a professional to experience the benefits of pro equipment. Collectors can find rare pieces of vintage equipment, while a hobbyist can enjoy unique items such as a cassette to MP3 converter, to get those mixed tapes into a digital format. If you're an audiophile, you can find turntables for your favorite vinyl records, while homeowners can get a karaoke system for those weekend parties. Pro equipment is well built and durable, making it a good choice for professionals and amateurs alike. Since pro gear is more expensive than consumer alternatives, buying used audio equipment is a good option to consider.
How to Choose the Best Pro Audio Equipment
Popular pro audio gear includes mics, musical instruments, speakers, and mixers. Choosing the right used pieces for your situation ensures that your sound is top-notch quality.
Microphones
In a professional or home studio setting, you'll need a wide assortment of used microphones for various recording applications. Look for large diaphragm condensers for recording vocals and small diaphragm condensers for recording instruments such as an acoustic guitars. Live sound mics include handhelds for singers, lavalier mics for business meetings, and goosenecks for podium presentations. Many live mics are available as wired or wireless, depending on the need. Besides a full repertoire of mics, studio owners often require used pro audio monitoring equipment, including headphones, monitors, and amplifiers.
Musical Instruments
When buying used musical instruments, be sure to consider the particular features of each. Weighted keys, for example, are a nice feature for a digital keyboard, as this makes it feel more like a traditional acoustic piano. For a guitar, the wood used is an aesthetic attribute, but also impacts the way the instrument sounds. Your neighbors will agree that electric drums are a great alternative to a traditional set, as you can keep the noise down by practicing with headphones whenever you want.
Speakers
A speaker is the workhorse of any pro audio system. DJs and audio techs can trust they'll keep working show after show. You can use a two-way powered speaker as a single unit on a stand for a basic public address, or with a second speaker and subwoofers for live band and DJ performances. Changing drivers and other components can turn an older used speaker into a positive, long-term investment.
Audio Mixers
Mixers are crucial for live sound and studio recording. You can conveniently control digital mixers with a tablet or smartphone over a wireless network. For an all-in-one solution, choose mixers with equalization, digital FX, and on-board recording. Stand-alone used audio recorders and players range from CD, DVD, and Blu-ray versions to digital USB computer recording.
If you're looking for professional audio equipment, explore B&H Photo and Video's used department. You'll find a great mix of pro audio products, from used DJ equipment to hard-to-find gems, all at reasonable prices, without sacrificing quality.