Zero Tolerance for Production Defects

Every instrument that arrives at ECGMusic goes through a comprehensive inspection before it's approved for sale. This isn’t a quick visual check—it’s a professional evaluation by experienced musicians who know what to look for.

Our Inspection Standards Include:

• Structural Integrity — neck joints, body construction, hardware mounting
• Finish Quality — consistent application; no runs, drips, or contamination
• Hardware Function — tuners, bridges, electronics, switches, and controls
• Playability Assessment — fret work, action, intonation, neck relief
• Electronic Testing — pickups, circuits, and connections (where applicable)
• Cosmetic Standards — overall appearance and finish consistency

When We Refuse Products

If an instrument doesn’t meet production standards, it goes back to the manufacturer immediately. No exceptions.

Automatic Refusal Criteria:

• Structural defects — cracks, separations, weak joints
• Finish failures — bubbling, peeling, contamination
• Hardware malfunctions — non-functioning tuners, faulty electronics
• Playability issues — severe fret or neck issues, uncorrectable intonation
• Cosmetic defects that affect value — significant scratches, dents, or blemishes

The result: You never receive an instrument we wouldn’t be proud to put our name behind.

The Gray Area: Minor Aesthetic Imperfections

Occasionally, an instrument arrives with a minor blemish that doesn’t impact function. In those cases, our experience and judgment help create fair options for different customers.

Our Evaluation Process:

1. Functionality Assessment — does it affect playability, sound, or durability?
2. Transparency — clear description and photos of the cosmetic issue
3. Appropriate Pricing — discount reflects the imperfection level

B-Stock: Transparency and Value

When a minor, purely cosmetic imperfection doesn’t warrant factory return, we may offer the instrument as B-stock with an appropriate reduction.

B-Stock Criteria:

• Purely cosmetic — small scratches, minor finish blemishes, slight color variations
• No functional impact — plays and sounds exactly as intended
• Honest disclosure — you’ll know exactly what you’re getting
• Policy clarity — B-stock is final sale; warranty may be limited per manufacturer

Who Benefits from B-Stock?

• Budget-conscious musicians — quality instruments at reduced prices
• Practical players — function over flawless cosmetics
• Gigging musicians — tools built to be played
• Students & beginners — professional quality without premium pricing

Why This Process Matters

Protects Manufacturer Reputation

Refusing defective products helps maintain the high standards of the brands we represent.

Ensures Customer Satisfaction

You receive instruments that meet the standards you expect when buying new gear from quality makers.

Reduces Warranty Claims

By catching issues early, we help prevent the frustration and downtime of warranty returns.

Creates Value Options

Our B-stock program lets some players access quality instruments they might not otherwise afford.

The Professional Difference

Our smaller scale allows higher standards than volume retailers. At ECGMusic, every instrument matters because every customer matters.

Our Quality Promise

When you buy from ECGMusic, you’re guaranteed:

• Professional inspection — every instrument evaluated by experienced musicians
• Quality standards — we refuse anything that doesn’t meet our criteria
• Honest disclosure — transparent condition and warranty status
• Policy clarity — all sales final; exceptions for our-error/DOA/damage
• Personal service — Maria and Frank stand behind every sale