Re: I have purchased instruments online such as my harmonium, Pakistani harp, and shruti box, and as some of you know.

These instruments, which you indicate, can be tuned independently....however, when you move into the realm of woodwind instuments....you have deleved into an area of "tone"....

For a cheap, beginner's instrument, the web area may be OK....

but.... for a finely resonated instrument such as an oboe...NO RESPECTED player would consider a purchase without listening for the nuansences of the instrument.

No doubt...the purchasher...of your friend's instrument...has picked up a admirable piece at a pauper's price.

Sincrely,

gargoyle
best wishes for a happy and prosperous New Year

Leave a message again, Max, if your want me to bug-0ut!