What should I check when buying a sitar?

When buying a sitar, inspect it in daylight. Squeeze the gourd gently to reveal cracks, check the seven main pegs and their holes for cracks, and check the joint between neck and soundboard by the last fret. Expect even a new sitar to need a setup. Hairline gourd cracks can often be left alone, but visible cracks that buzz need repair. Ask us: we repair any sitar, wherever you bought it.