Skip to main content

I own an old Musser Pro Vibe that has been customized and I would like to get an estimate as to it's value.

The frame is roughly from around the early seventies, and has gold trim and gold resonators. The original cross bar and pedal are gone and have been replaced with a Vanderplas cross bar, supports and wide pedal. The Vanderplas retrofit works really well, as the instrument is very solid. This was done by the original owner ( who is deceased), I'm guessing around early 2000's.

The bars are from an M-75 (engraved on the low F) and are of the glossy gold type which sound very nice. I am also estimating the bars are from the early seventies.

When I acquired the instrument in 2006, the original Musser motor was not working. I inquired about a replacement, and Musser wanted $1,100.00, so I looked to alternatives. Gilberto Serna was very helpful and suggested a Ross motor at a third the price of the Musser. I got it, installed it and it works great.

The condition of the resonators are okay, with a few small dents and the resonators between the sharps are pretty dented up. The original owner was a wonderful two mallet player that played pretty hard and I guess the dented resonators are from his misses.

There are hard fiber cases for the frame, resonators and bars. Although the "Vanderplas cross bar/pedal, supports" do not fit in any of the cases.

I am considering selling the instrument as I just ordered a Malletech Omega vibe.

Any opinions or suggestions would be much appreciated, thank you very much.

Comments

IndianaGlen Sun, 02/02/2014 - 10:53

This is just a guess to get this thread started. With no pictures especially of the bars, I'd say $2225 to $3500. Of course, it all boils down to the one person that wants it may pay more. The idea of a better damper system sounds really cool, the old shiny bars tend to be a little brighter, and I like the sound too.

--IG

lilyloupapa Mon, 02/03/2014 - 21:09

In reply to by IndianaGlen

Thank you for offering your expertise and wisdom, I find it very helpful.

I posted a photo of the instrument today.

Thanks again.

-Noel

IndianaGlen Wed, 02/05/2014 - 13:38

I posted some comments with your picture, let me know if there's value to post it here too.

Forums