At Coleman’s Music in South Melbourne, we’re all about helping players find the right guitar — whether it’s straight off the factory floor or has a few stories in its frets already. New or preloved, every guitar has its place. The question is: what’s right for you?
The Case for Buying New
There’s something undeniably exciting about a brand new guitar. You’re the first to play it, the finish is flawless, and everything feels fresh and tight. If you’re chasing a specific model, finish or pickup configuration, new might be the only way to get exactly what you want.
One Advantage of buying "new", is getting Signature Model Guitars that dont often come up on the second-hand market like this Fender Mike Campbell Red Dog Telecaster pictured above.
Advantages of buying new:
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Full manufacturer warranty
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Pristine condition
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Latest specs and tech
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Custom order options (on select models)
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Perfect for gifts or milestone purchases
We’ve got a great range of new gear in-store and online — from Fender to Fenech — and we’re authorised dealers, so you can buy with confidence.
A classic example of some of the proloved guitars we see at Colemans Music. This is a PRELOVED FENDER American Original Jaguar in Surf Green.
The Charm of Preloved
On the flip side, there’s real magic in a preloved instrument. It might have a few marks, but those tell a story. Often, you’ll find higher-quality builds or rare models at better prices than buying new. Some guitars just get better with age — especially acoustics that have opened up tonally over time.
Why go preloved?
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Unique character and history
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More bang for your buck
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A chance to grab discontinued or vintage models
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Naturally aged tonewoods and broken-in feel
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Often already set up and gig-ready
At Coleman’s, we carefully check and service every preloved instrument before it hits the floor. Many come to us via trade-ins or consignment, and each one is assessed by our techs (including Travis, who’s worked at Maton and Dune Guitars). If it’s not up to scratch, it doesn’t go on sale.
Check ou this PRELOVED GIBSON 1954 Gold Top Murphy Lab Heavy Relic.
Our Take? There’s No Wrong Answer
Some players love the idea of a pristine, new guitar they can truly make their own. Others are drawn to the soul and value of a well-cared-for classic. Whether you're just starting out, upgrading your main axe, or adding something different to the stable — we’ve got options to suit every budget and every style.
New or preloved, when you buy from us you’re supporting a proudly independent, family-owned store that backs every guitar with honest advice and after-sales care. We’re here to help you find the right fit — not just the most expensive one.
Thinking of Trading or Consigning?
We also offer fair trade-in deals and consignment sales. If you’re eyeing off something new (or new-to-you), we can help you move on from your current gear without the hassle of selling it yourself.
Looking to buy new or preloved guitars in Melbourne?
Drop into Coleman’s Music in South Melbourne or browse online at colemansmusic.com.au. We’re a place for players — new, used, traded, upgraded.
