Publish the listing

The title should let a buyer understand immediately what you are selling.

Start with genuinely useful identifying information: brand, model, version and a decisive characteristic only when it helps distinguish the item.

Avoid titles made mainly of adjectives such as “ultra rare”, “amazing” or “impossible to find”, or long strings of keywords.

An accurate title also improves comparison with other listings and reduces basic preliminary questions.

If the item has been modified, do not turn the modification into a different identity. Identify the original item first, then explain the modification in the description.

For a sales listing, photos should help verify what you say in the description.

Show at least:

• an overall view;
• front and back where relevant;
• model-identifying details;
• areas subject to the most wear;
• disclosed defects;
• included accessories;
• serial number or identification plate in an appropriate form.

Use sharp images that reflect the item’s current condition. Avoid filters that change colour, contrast or the perception of defects.

This guide covers only the minimum documentation required for selling; lighting, framing and photographic preparation can be covered in the dedicated instrument photography guide.

Organise the description so it is easy to read.

A useful structure can include:

1. exact identification of the item;
2. general condition;
3. functionality;
4. defects;
5. modifications or repairs;
6. included accessories;
7. delivery method;
8. other genuinely relevant information.

Avoid absolute claims you cannot support, such as “perfect” or “like new”, when there are visible marks or unverified aspects.

The goal is not to write the longest possible text. It is to let the buyer understand what they are buying, its condition and exactly what is included.

Terms such as “excellent”, “good” or “well used” can be interpreted differently.

Whenever possible, add concrete facts:

• scratch on the back;
• small dent on the edge;
• slightly noisy potentiometer;
• visible fret wear;
• marked but fully readable display;
• case with a damaged latch.

If the platform provides a standard condition classification, choose the most accurate option and use the description to explain the details.

The condition category does not replace disclosure of specific defects.

If the item has been modified, explain what was changed and, when known, who performed the work.

Specify:

• the original component that was replaced;
• the installed component;
• whether the change is reversible or permanent;
• whether the original parts are still available;
• any drilling, soldering or structural work;
• significant repairs.

Do not automatically describe every modification as an “upgrade”. A component may suit your needs better while being less desirable to another buyer.

For vintage or collectible gear, originality can have particular importance, making accurate disclosure even more important.

Before publishing, decide which delivery methods you are prepared to handle.

Where relevant, state:

• local collection;
• whether shipping is available;
• geographic area;
• any limits for very heavy or fragile equipment;
• what is included in the price;
• included accessories;
• special terms that must be agreed.

You do not need to describe every packaging detail in the listing, but the buyer should know whether shipping is possible and what forms part of the sale.

Technical details about packing, carriers and protecting the instrument belong in the dedicated shipping guide.