Expert: Mahanama Rodd - 1/21/2011

Question
Hello Mahanama Rodd,

Can give me an idea of how much is street value of secondhand Yamaha Compass CPX 15 N guitar (the first version)? I am being offered one. Not in mint condition but has a few very minor cosmetic blemishes and maybe a bridge that is starting to lift. All electronics work.

Please also let me know if there are specific things I should look out in this particular guitar that would affect its value.

Thank you.

Answer
Hi Aitor
These are great guitars! Amongst the best stage guitars going round, and the cpx15 is the top model, apart from the custom models.
One of these in mint condition would expect to fetch upto $2500. one with the cosmetic condition you mentioned I reckon would be worth $1200-2000. The bridge lifting, depending on how bad will take value off. If you can get it at a good enough price it would be worth it, an paying for a repair if need be.
Other things to look for value are all original ie. No replacement parts. Check whether the tuners are original and in good condition and a hard case is always worth about $100, more if it's the original yamaha case. The fact thats its part of the original series is also goo for value. All values are estimated in aus $ too
Enjoy if you buy!