Music. It's one of life's greatest joys - and the source of endless frustration. Just ask the legions of children who practice piano, violin or clarinet every day. So although learning to play an instrument has its ups and downs, buying an instrument - either for yourself, or for your kids - can be the real difficulty if you haven't done your homework. How do you know if the manufacturer's price is the best deal? Does a high price really guarantee a good instrument? Are brand names indicative of value?

Many of these questions can be answered by visiting some of the music web sites out there now. Start by looking into http://www.cleverjoe.com/, an award-winning Canadian site that is far and away the most comprehensive for the Canadian market. It lists retailers across the country, has newsgroups, articles and much more. If you're looking for something with a more digital bent, try Kelly's Music and Computers at Kelly's Music for equipment and supplies. Or look into Lakeshore Music Online's site that offers industry news, rentals, guitars, drums, music electronics and rentals. Then, there's Music & Audio Connection, which sells instruments, accessories, electronics, software, recording products and midi equipment. Another great source for all things music is Steve's Music Store. This store offers goods for guitarists (acoustic, electric, or bass), drummers and percussionists, keyboard players, pianists, brass and wind instrument players and composers. It also has rentals and sheet music. And finally, don't forget to visit Songbird Music, Canada's largest vintage and used musical instrument dealer.

Buying your instrument

How do you know if you're getting your instrument for a song - or if you're overpaying? One of the only ways to determine this is by finding out the manufacturers suggested retail price. (It's also known as the "list price.") If you're paying over that amount, you're paying too much. If the price is below the list price, you're getting a deal.

A common mistake potential buyers make is using price as the sole determinate of quality. The price tag should be the last thing you look at. It usually means very little. A guitar that runs a cool $10,000 might have a dull and hollow tone. On the other hand, a much cheaper version could play full and deep. Of course the only way to find that out is by trying out the instrument before you buy.

"Obviously it's harder to try out an instrument online," says Curtis Burnet, president of Clever Joe which is located in Lucan, Ontario (about 20 minutes north of London). "My suggestion is to get to a local music store to try out the gear there first."

Considering the fact that so many music stores have an online presence now, you can play the instrument in the store and either buy it there, or buy it online.

Sound

Pay attention to the sound of your instrument - not how it looks. Many new players opt for the shiny, ornate instrument instead of one that sounds better. Look for good tone - high notes with a clear, bell-like sound, and bass notes with clear resonance and a full sustain. Always trust your instinct and go with your gut.

More tips

Remember to find an instrument that you can play. This might sound strange, but it's easy to find gear that's too large, too small or simply not compatible with your frame. Can your fingers wrap around the fretboard? Does your back hurt after playing that violin for 10 minutes? If you or your child is new to music, make sure someone with experience is close by to help determine the instrument's playability. New musicians often can't tell what really feels good - because very little does at first!

Don't be in a rush, either. Take your time when you're looking at an instrument. Play it a few times. Ask a lot of questions, or go to the Internet and find out what other people are saying.

Try to buy from a large assortment of instruments if you can. If you're looking for a classical guitar and your local store only carries three, by all means, keep looking. The Internet is a wonderful way to comparison shop without having to make the trip first, only to find out the store isn't carrying what you're looking for.

And don't forget the golden rule of buying off the 'Net: buy from a reputable dealer. Don't buy from a company that you've never heard of before, and check newsgroups to find out if anyone else has had a bad experience with the store in question. "Make sure you research the business before you actually give them your business," says Brunet.

Glossary

The International Pitch Standard refers to the way a piano should be tuned. The standard is A-440 cycles per second.

Action is the distance between the strings and the fretboard on a guitar.

Quirks

If it's not Scottish, it's...well... not going to be found at www.ilos.net/~celtdave, the web site for Treasure Isles Trading Company from Winnipeg. But if you're looking for a spanking new set of bagpipes (and the kilt to go with them) check out the company's selection. But please - learn to play the bagpipes in someone else's neighbourhood!