Decide how much you want to use and preserve each item

Not every collectible instrument needs to remain unused. It is useful, however, to decide consciously what role each item will have.

A unit used on stage has different reliability, transport and service requirements from an example preserved for research or historical completeness.

If you want to use a highly original item regularly, consider reversible replacement parts, accessories and transport methods that reduce risk.

Preservation does not necessarily mean non-use; it means understanding the cost and risk of use.