We have bought from GC, Sweetwater, Reverb and local smaller guitar stores. My son is the guitar and bass player. There are pluses and minuses with each way of buying. Yes, GC is everywhere and can "easily" return things....I say "easily" because we have had issues with them in some cases. As an example, we bought an Ibanez bass from our local GC a few years ago. Within 2 weeks it has massive fret buzz and we brought it back to return. They convinced us to have their tech take a look at it. He said the neck was pretty twisted and he would try and adjust. He got it to where it worked but told us that it may start to buzz again. He said let it adjust to the environment and see what happens. Said give it another 30 days. I asked about the 45 day window and he said don't worry as it will be covered because the issue started within the time frame. Flash forward a month or so and the buzzing gets worse. we bring it back and tell them we want to return for a new one as the back and forth was too much. They tell me no. I look at them puzzled. I explained what happened and they said there is nothing they can do as it is now outside 45 days. I start to make a little fuss and they agree to have the tech look at it again. Different tech this time. He takes one look at it and said the neck is bad and needs to be replaced. I would have to pay for it. Right.....I got on the phone while still in the store and called GC corporate since the manager was not helpful. Corporate told me a similar story. I reminded them to look at our purchase history at their store. All of a sudden they became more helpful. First telling me to call Ibanez directly. I said no, you call. They agreed. Ibanez was great and said they will fix and I just need to ship back. I asked GC for a label they said no. Ibanez was still on the phone at this time and they said they will send me a label. I got it, sent it back and they shipped me a new one directly. So GC was useless, lied to me and made me do all the work on a brand new guitar. So I try to go elsewhere for purchases now. Sweetwater, while no stores to go to, has been awesome. Thankfully my son is past the new guitar phase and looks more for rare and vintage stuff where he goes to many sources. One more bad experience with GC was when we were looking for a 5 string bass and they had a Sire in stock. The problem was the neck fitting was awful and you could fit a pencil eraser between the neck and body where it bolted on. We asked them to take a look as it was the only one in stock and the tech said nothing he could do. it was a bad build. The manager came over and asked if we still wanted to buy and I of course said no. I asked if he was willing to discount it and he said no. So I repeated that I could not buy a guitar that had such as obvious flaw. He said well someone else will and put it back on the rack. Real nice GC.
@@oldguyjammin9732 I saw another comment from someone saying the Boston store is good and the suburb ones suck. That is where I live in MA so he was spot on. We have been to the Boston store which is right next to Berkley and it is OK but, like other GC's, they hate bass players as the inventory is terrible. lol
@@oldguyjammin9732 my worst stories is from musicians friends guitar center has been a little better but the best place I've ever bought stuff is American musical supply Everytime I order something it is perfect condition and exceeds all standards I just tried Sweetwater for the first time their customer service is great but I'm still waiting on a backordered Ibanez grg131dx white version they said early October ...I don't hate guitar center I just wish the people that went in and played the guitar took better care of them since they are good enough to let you test things out for free...I'm not against doing business with guitar center I just need to have my hands on whatever I purchase because I'm one of people who knit pick every flaw of I'm spending all that money and I'm poor I want what I pay for...music is the only thing in life that makes me happy besides my dog and art
I’ve had some pretty bad experiences at GC, but overall as pleased with GC as I am with Walmart. The bad experiences I’ve had at GC were due to individuals and not store or company policy. When I have complained to a manager they’ve taken care of me. I have declared several times though that I’m not giving any more money to GC, but then I’ll get some gear rewards, or my local store will have something used that I want
AMS is like the luxury musicians' store. Everything is priced high and they're the only chain I've been in that even sells 50,000+ dollar pianos. I like them but the only one near me, I live an hour away now, refuses to carry Ibanez so... that's a big snob move in my mind. I'm told it has to do with Ibanez themselves but I don't buy it because they will order one on request. They only want to carry certain types as to keep young broke musicians out. 😂
Not to mention the guys who go in and buy an entire sound system, use it for a couple of gigs and the return it. Beats the hell out of renting it, I guess, but it's WAY not cool.
GC experience is a really mixed bag. I live near the Boston store which has tons of stuff and staff. As soon as I visit any of the ones in the suburbs around they are so much worse. Dusty broken ass places
I'm getting that feeling... too bad. Seems GC would be better off with fewer, but nicer stores. There are two fairly close to me and both are nice, the Vegas store is really great, some out east are lacking I suppose.
I’ve read similar comments, and am still wondering why you guys don’t order a new “in-box” guitar, amp or whatever…!?!?! You don’t have to by the floor model.
@@oldguyjammin9732 the issue is that items advertised online as "new in box" are floor models. I ordered a Gretsch three times and got one covered in buckle rash and shoved poorly into a non original box three times. It was in mediocre shape at best. I gave them one more separate chance with a Tele and the same thing happened. Even if you specify a brand new in box item, it won't come that way. I gave them a fifth chance and they took my money and three weeks later, no guitar...after going back to the store, they didn't even place the order for my guitar after taking the money.
@@oldguyjammin9732 I've seen that as well. I wouldn't trust them. When you see six string electrics with a unwould "B" string in the "A" string position you wonder what is going on. Ordering is just going to get you a guitar in box and hopefully the factory did a decent job. I'll get better from my local shops.
@@ronj9448 - good points, I’ve tried like heck to support my local stores and I can if I’m just buying accessories, but they just can’t compete with the selection or the free in-store returns up to 45 days later! Your A/B string is a great example though, made me chuckle having seen some odd things myself.
in my experience i'd much rather purchase whatever piece of gear i tried out and liked and buy it used from someone already selling it for hundreds of dollars cheaper. i get supporting the business, which is why i only buy things like picks and strings from them, but i just dont have the money to buy guitars brand new. reverb just has what i want for so much cheaper. music go round had the schecter guitar i wanted for $750 with a hardcase, woulda been $1600 brand new, or $1000 at the least at guitar center.
I agree with you , if you want a business to survive, you got to spend some money occasionally . I do this all the time with our mom& pop businesses in our little town
Sweet jam!!! I don’t buy new guitars or amps at GC because your basically buying a used guitar for brand new prices. The GC in NJ does not give discounts and I’ve never even seen one of those gear rewards coupons and I literally spend thousands a year a GC. I love guitar center but they need to make all floor models discounted because they are used guitars at the end of the day.
I’d agree with everything you said, and you’re not the only one that has mentioned having to buy a floor model. How come you don’t just order a new one shipped to your house? I believe the Gear Rewards are a part of the Gear Card account thingy. It’s GCs in-house credit card… 6 months free financing!
I have never purchased anything from Guitar Center or its parent company Music & Arts. I know too much of how they do business behind the scenes. See ya GC!
I'm one of those who goes into GC and tries out their gear' I'll talk them down to their rock bottom price and get a documented quote on it. I then call up the new supplier I deal with' ever since GC 💩 me on my last 5 dealings I had to do with them and my new supplier will beat their lowest quote by a mile. I will buy the smallest/ cheapest PK of picks from them for their time letting me try out their equipment and give them to my so called friends I don't and never have liked. I've saved a ton of money in the last 7 years doing it that way and those so called friends really think I like them. Guitar center did it to themselves.
@@oldguyjammin9732 Nope' they'll never get rid of me' and yes' I did and still do it with class' Buy from and pass out the cheapest guitar picks to certain employees at GC. You don't know the backstory!
How much of GC/MF debt is owed to their suppliers? How much debt have they passed on to their suppliers? What do manufacturers/ brands do when they can’t get paid? Maybe sell their brand to a bigger company nowhere near as passionate about the product who is also out of touch with their customer base? Maybe go out of business? Maybe cut corners to lower the cost of making it and raise the price to the end user? Is this where the statement “they don’t make’em like they used to” comes from? You made a video on the topic so I’m hoping you have an answer to the the first 2 questions. If GC/MF has built its brand intentionally or unintentionally by breaking the backs of the brands that supply it, is it in musicians best interest to support that? That’s a huge ‘if’ for sure but that’s the industry buzz and where a lot, not all, but a lot of the negative opinions on GC/MF come from at least where I live/ the circles I run in. At this point personally I can’t be bothered to figure out if it’s true or not, it’s simply too easy for me to buy elsewhere. If they can come out and prove its not the case then great, I’ll buy stuff from them. Will they? No, why would they care what I think, right? Or you.. Can they? That’s the question. I guess you can blame the brands for supplying merchandise on credit, you can say they didn’t have to do that but that is how it worked pre big box music stores. Brick and mortar music stores didn’t shell out a years worth of inventory upfront to every brand they carried, it’s all done on credit. The perception, intentional or not, true or not, is that GC/ MF exploited that. As I said earlier I have no interest in taking any of my time to figure out whether or not they did. It’s too easy to get gear these days from vendors I trust but if it is the case the best thing musicians can do for the sake of the industry is to let’em rot.
I think you've way over thunk it man, my point is that if everyone who went into guitar center to try the latest piece of gear, or check out 4 different amos, actually bought the one they like from guitar center, GC would be a lot better off than they are.
Your point was not lost on me and I respect your perspective. I really haven’t put much thought into it at all. I did think about years ago when I dealt with manufacturers reps on a fairly regular basis. They voiced concerns, it affected my perspective. GC was $200 million in debt when Bain bought them 15 years ago now there what a billion in debt? I don’t know that I’d call that a good business model. Ymmv The GC’s where I live are pretty bad, it’s good to hear your local one works for you. I figured I’d feed you a few comments, help you out with the almighty algorithm and offer a different perspective, one that blames the company for its current situation instead of musicians. I’m not saying your perspective is right or wrong just suggesting that GC’s ongoing state of debt and bankruptcy has more to it then musicians putting their “dirty palm prints” on everything and then walking out. Also that it might be a good thing that GC isn’t “a lot better off then they are”
Well, all I know is in my area, it’s the only place I can go to play a Gibson. I usually end up buying there even though I might save a little ordering online. Have sold a lot of stuff to them too. They always pay more than any pawnshop.
It seems that not very many would agree with us, but I sure appreciate GC. They had new Keeley Halo delays for 15% just a couple of weeks ago, got a used Sentry noise gate for $55, etc, etc. And like you said, where else can you play a Gibson, then a Schecter, then a Charvel and right on down the line..
Damn what guitar center do you go to? The guitar centers employees in my city act like they know everything and have so much of an ego because they work at GC. I have the gear card and everything but I’d much rather use my money at the small business mom and pop shop.
I hear you, but the smaller shops around here just don't have the selection or used gear options like GC. I have a GC in Sacramento and one in Roseville, both about 40 minutes away, so nice and close.
I've bought almost all of mine from brick and mortar. Mainly because I want to support them but also because with guitars I want to take home the exact one I played.
I wander into the smaller shops for strings and picks, straps, etc but their selection is usually too small to keep me around for long. One local outfit only sells Orange amps, PRS and Yamaha guitars.
@@oldguyjammin9732 Unfortunately small shops are rare now and like you wrote, the selection of accessories is usually too narrow. I'll still buy some picks or something if I did anything more that look. It's the respectful thing to do in my opinion. I've seen guys buy picks and then put them back actually. Why not though right? It's a few bucks or so; definitely reasonable to go in and test out instruments. Edit - Having an entry fee really isn't a terrible idea. It just wouldn't work in most locations I assume.
Because Guitar center employees are usually clueless idiots with poor customers sevice, the stores are always filthy and disorganized, and they never have a good selection. The list goes on and on. I'd rather support my local shop that gets me what I want. Also Sweetwater rarely ever has issues in my experience. Guitar center is hated for a reason. Plus they literally destroy dent and scratch items instead of selling or donating them. And yes, it most certainly is a flawed business model. Your own statement demonstrated it. That is why its failing. And will go out of business.
Apparently not all GCs are created (or maintained) equally, the ones around Sacramento are awesome. Great selection and reduced prices on the scratched up stuff. Local shops are great BUT they can not always get you want, it usually only works out if they have an agreement with the company you happen to like. Clueless idiots are everywhere, better to be a well informed consumer.
I buy most of my stuff in store at my local guitar center. I dont have any horror stories for them or other places though. Ive been pretty lucky on gear thus far. I just like the people at my local store so i go to see them and buy my gear.
Now here we go, I'm with you Average Citizen!! I like my local people and my corporate guy (the guy I call on the phone for bigger purchases) is just awesome. Apparently they are NOT all the same.
@oldguyjammin9732 yeah, i can kinda understand what some of the other comments are getting at. My local store has a few shady practices. I bought a washburn acoustic from them with the protection plan. 2 weeks later, the binding started to crack, and it developed a buzz/rattle from under the bridge. I took it back and exchanged it for a fender. It's back on the shelf for someone else to buy currently. However, i think that's more of a corporate issue and less of a local one. All the people who work their are musicians and would let people know not to buy it, id hope. I still like going there better than ordering online. I wanna hold stuff first, i wanna hear it.
I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect a really low price on “new” gear that has likely been played with a lot already, and may have been taken home at least once. If I go to a mom and pop and pay a premium price I usually get something that is actually new I don’t have a problem with the customer paying shipping to return a speaker cab that has absolutely nothing wrong with it I don’t think I’m who your video is aimed at though, as I have bought a lot of stuff from GC, and haven’t returned anything that wasn’t broken, because I do my homework before paying. I also buy more stuff at the store than online
All the open box stuff is reduced as "used". Buying off the wall is up to the buyer, anyone can order a new one of the same thing and have it shipped to their house, so I don't quite get the new/but played reference, but you're not the only one who has brought it up. I find used guitars that have been set up and/or cared for require less work than a new one. I got to the point where I got really tired of buying new guitars cause of all the work it took to get them to play nice. Seemed like on everyone I had to level frets, intonate, adjust the rod, oil the tuners, sand the neck, etc, etc.
My experience is they don’t have anything I am interested in stock. Tiny pedal selection, popular guitar models perma sold out, etc. The GC near me can’t even open some days due to no staff. I am not killing GC, GC is killing themselves.
They should probably shut down stores like that. I hear about experiences like yours but I’ve never had one. I’ll visit GCs when we travel, the one in Vegas is huge! Here in Ca we have two locally about 20 minutes apart and both are clean, well staffed and full of great stuff.
They are really good and NO ONE has a better gallery of guitar pics, and they even post the weight of the individual guitars!! Great operation but I can’t afford to ship guitars or amps back and forth.
Not sure what guitar center you go to but here in the San Francisco Bay area they suck! Tha sales guys are assholes and most don't know shit about guitars. I've been a touring musician for years and have dealt with GC in many cities. Most if not all were shit. Don't know if GC put you up to doing this video but everytime I've been to guitar center it's alway teenagers who are trying out guitars and amps. In fact I've Never seen anyone buy a 4x12 cab or a Marshall head there. I now only go there if I need strings in a hurry otherwise I just avoid it all together. Sweetwater, zzounds are way better and I have never been charged to return anything.
I'm in the Sacramento area and have two GCs within 40 minutes and both are great! The turnover is pretty high but I've gotten to know the managers and regulars and Michelle in Roseville is phenomenal. On a recent trip to the Sac GC they had a triple rec, a soldano and an older HK on the floor at reasonable prices... too much fun. RE Sweetwater, I once bought a 1x12 because of the advertised dimensions (because it would fit perfectly under my DSL40) turned out the dimensions were for the shipping box, not the cab. It didn't look right, wasn't right, but SW wouldn't claim responsibility, but rather kicked the can down the road blaming the cab mfgr. Since there was really nothing wrong with the cab, they wanted me to pay the RS. SW is only good when you already know exactly what you want.
I don't have one close so I don't buy from them. It is pretty simple. I went to one once and it seemed everything was well overprice so it is no wander everyone wants a discounted piece of equipment but that is just my take on it.
You have good taste, I have a firefly LP that's the same color, had me laughing over the finger prints, wish I had a guitar center close by, mom & pop stores suck,markups are rediculous and I'm left doing mail order,I value your opinion,your always spot on old guy, thanks for sprouting off.
We seem to be in the minority, lol so much GC hate out there, but I guess my experience is not typical and that's too bad. I just love it though, GC has a great selection of used gear and wear else can you waltz in a play so many different brands!?!? Thanks for chiming in!
Hi OGJ, I don't know how the Guitar Centers are doing in your neck of the woods. Here in Florida, they seem to be very under staffed and not as knowledgeable as they were 3 to 4 years ago. I find myself getting more info about the products from people like yourself. I also have Sam Ashe in Florida, I feel they are better staffed. Also, My experience at Guitar Center on used gear is not very good. They don't budge on the price. Even if the item is on sale at a lower price in a different store. And they push the protection plans on the gear. I bought a Hughes and Kettner Grand Meister and they wanted to add another $200.00 protection plan on top of the gear. Well enough of that. I hope to see more discussions, thoughts, tips and tricks soon from you. Maybe start a poll.
I’m 40 minutes away from two GCs that are themselves, 20 minutes apart. Both are well staffed, open everyday but Christmas, and stocked to the gills with lots of gear. I never add protection cause the mfgr warranties are pretty solid, and it seems that if something is going to break it happens sooner than later… I don’t know. I have a feeling that a poll would be hugely negative, lol.
Maybe I have to move to California. LOL I'm going to Guitar Center today to checkout a used Fender Hot Rod Deluxe. I'll let you know what happens. I need Guitar Center to survive and thrive for the reasons you stated in your video. 45 days to try out the products is an awesome benefit and the coupons are great too. Also, I understand that doing a poll might be mostly negative. Take care. @@oldguyjammin9732
I have nothing against GC itself. But after buying 6 guitars from them on layaway, i can't afford to buy there, since they've done away with layaway. And at my local store, they don't give discounts... I've asked.
Wow… I call my guy Chad Evans and he’s always good for a deal. I know you pay more than used price, but I value the GC experience and being able to go in and play a Soldano, or Triple Rec, or Boss something, and then saying “I’d like to take this home and try it”.
I’m with you, and GC has lots of great used gear. Just scored a Sentry Noise Gate for $60. I have a local M/P store that I occasionally support but I pay a lot more for strings, wall hangers, etc. Sometimes, if they price match on something I know I want for sure, I’ll get it there but they usually cringe when $ matching is even brought up.
you speak a good word, used prices are RIDICULOUS! I’ll sometimes email a Reverb seller just to let them know I can get the same thing NEW for $7 more, lol.
@@oldguyjammin9732 If the products sell on Reverb then I guess it was worth it. I'm always looking for a good deal but you can't blame someone knocking off 20% and then selling it. Such is the world.
I just bought a 🆕 Gretsch jet Jr 🟤🤎 with 🆓 gigbag support Last month from local music store repair and Professional Artist Support Key Note Guitars And Repairs Here In Erie Pennsylvania And I Also Got an Epiphone Kalamazoo Michigan late 60's-71' model Not 🚫 A Reissue With A Zero Fret Way Way Way Way Way Cool Bro That Was New Year Late Christmas Gift And I Just a Marshall Haze 40c combo In Mint Condition Greatest heart Got My Hero Life Signed Now Bro Warner Music Group 👏 🎉 🥳 👏 👏 👏 👏 Today Yeah Guitar Center I Pray for All Here Too Hope All Is Well Man ..... AMEN 🙏
Great Song Man American Spirit Love It With The American Flag T-Shirt Me Too I Got A Fender Champion 50XL Love The Celestion Midnight 60 Speaker With Effects Sawtooth Electric Guitar Is 👍😎 With It Buying An Epiphone SG In Honeyburst Exclusive With Kalamazoo Headstock $549.99 Just Came Out August 23, 2023 August Born Leo Here Looking At 3 other Guitars Too At Sawtooth and Looking at 4 other Guitar Amplifiers Too many Options Out there's Just Expensive Nice Epiphone Les Paul Modern 💯 AMEN
We have bought from GC, Sweetwater, Reverb and local smaller guitar stores. My son is the guitar and bass player. There are pluses and minuses with each way of buying. Yes, GC is everywhere and can "easily" return things....I say "easily" because we have had issues with them in some cases. As an example, we bought an Ibanez bass from our local GC a few years ago. Within 2 weeks it has massive fret buzz and we brought it back to return. They convinced us to have their tech take a look at it. He said the neck was pretty twisted and he would try and adjust. He got it to where it worked but told us that it may start to buzz again. He said let it adjust to the environment and see what happens. Said give it another 30 days. I asked about the 45 day window and he said don't worry as it will be covered because the issue started within the time frame.
Flash forward a month or so and the buzzing gets worse. we bring it back and tell them we want to return for a new one as the back and forth was too much. They tell me no. I look at them puzzled. I explained what happened and they said there is nothing they can do as it is now outside 45 days. I start to make a little fuss and they agree to have the tech look at it again. Different tech this time. He takes one look at it and said the neck is bad and needs to be replaced. I would have to pay for it. Right.....I got on the phone while still in the store and called GC corporate since the manager was not helpful. Corporate told me a similar story. I reminded them to look at our purchase history at their store. All of a sudden they became more helpful. First telling me to call Ibanez directly. I said no, you call. They agreed.
Ibanez was great and said they will fix and I just need to ship back. I asked GC for a label they said no. Ibanez was still on the phone at this time and they said they will send me a label. I got it, sent it back and they shipped me a new one directly. So GC was useless, lied to me and made me do all the work on a brand new guitar. So I try to go elsewhere for purchases now. Sweetwater, while no stores to go to, has been awesome. Thankfully my son is past the new guitar phase and looks more for rare and vintage stuff where he goes to many sources.
One more bad experience with GC was when we were looking for a 5 string bass and they had a Sire in stock. The problem was the neck fitting was awful and you could fit a pencil eraser between the neck and body where it bolted on. We asked them to take a look as it was the only one in stock and the tech said nothing he could do. it was a bad build. The manager came over and asked if we still wanted to buy and I of course said no. I asked if he was willing to discount it and he said no. So I repeated that I could not buy a guitar that had such as obvious flaw. He said well someone else will and put it back on the rack. Real nice GC.
That's some terrible and regrettable stuff, don't blame you for not wanting to ever go back.
@@oldguyjammin9732 I saw another comment from someone saying the Boston store is good and the suburb ones suck. That is where I live in MA so he was spot on. We have been to the Boston store which is right next to Berkley and it is OK but, like other GC's, they hate bass players as the inventory is terrible. lol
No, man. Guitar Center is killing Guitar Center :(
Guitar center and musicians friends are the worst places I've ever bought gear from... American musical supply and Sweetwater have been flawless
I keep hearing horror stories like yours, but honestly my experience has been better with GC. I’ve got a couple of horror stories re Sweetwater.
@@oldguyjammin9732 my worst stories is from musicians friends guitar center has been a little better but the best place I've ever bought stuff is American musical supply Everytime I order something it is perfect condition and exceeds all standards I just tried Sweetwater for the first time their customer service is great but I'm still waiting on a backordered Ibanez grg131dx white version they said early October ...I don't hate guitar center I just wish the people that went in and played the guitar took better care of them since they are good enough to let you test things out for free...I'm not against doing business with guitar center I just need to have my hands on whatever I purchase because I'm one of people who knit pick every flaw of I'm spending all that money and I'm poor I want what I pay for...music is the only thing in life that makes me happy besides my dog and art
I’ve had some pretty bad experiences at GC, but overall as pleased with GC as I am with Walmart. The bad experiences I’ve had at GC were due to individuals and not store or company policy. When I have complained to a manager they’ve taken care of me.
I have declared several times though that I’m not giving any more money to GC, but then I’ll get some gear rewards, or my local store will have something used that I want
@@honkytonkinson9787 - as pleased with GC as I am with Walmart!?!? LMOA
AMS is like the luxury musicians' store. Everything is priced high and they're the only chain I've been in that even sells 50,000+ dollar pianos. I like them but the only one near me, I live an hour away now, refuses to carry Ibanez so... that's a big snob move in my mind.
I'm told it has to do with Ibanez themselves but I don't buy it because they will order one on request. They only want to carry certain types as to keep young broke musicians out. 😂
Not to mention the guys who go in and buy an entire sound system, use it for a couple of gigs and the return it. Beats the hell out of renting it, I guess, but it's WAY not cool.
Poop Stains…. All of them
GC experience is a really mixed bag. I live near the Boston store which has tons of stuff and staff. As soon as I visit any of the ones in the suburbs around they are so much worse. Dusty broken ass places
I'm getting that feeling... too bad. Seems GC would be better off with fewer, but nicer stores. There are two fairly close to me and both are nice, the Vegas store is really great, some out east are lacking I suppose.
Wow Dude I think I jammed with you at Warren's House in the 80s?😂
Lol Just kidding. 😊
Screw Guitar Center. I have never seen so many used, damaged floor models passed of as "new." Very dishonest.
I’ve read similar comments, and am still wondering why you guys don’t order a new “in-box” guitar, amp or whatever…!?!?! You don’t have to by the floor model.
@@oldguyjammin9732 the issue is that items advertised online as "new in box" are floor models. I ordered a Gretsch three times and got one covered in buckle rash and shoved poorly into a non original box three times. It was in mediocre shape at best. I gave them one more separate chance with a Tele and the same thing happened. Even if you specify a brand new in box item, it won't come that way.
I gave them a fifth chance and they took my money and three weeks later, no guitar...after going back to the store, they didn't even place the order for my guitar after taking the money.
@@oldguyjammin9732 I've seen that as well. I wouldn't trust them. When you see six string electrics with a unwould "B" string in the "A" string position you wonder what is going on. Ordering is just going to get you a guitar in box and hopefully the factory did a decent job. I'll get better from my local shops.
@@ronj9448 - good points, I’ve tried like heck to support my local stores and I can if I’m just buying accessories, but they just can’t compete with the selection or the free in-store returns up to 45 days later! Your A/B string is a great example though, made me chuckle having seen some odd things myself.
in my experience i'd much rather purchase whatever piece of gear i tried out and liked and buy it used from someone already selling it for hundreds of dollars cheaper. i get supporting the business, which is why i only buy things like picks and strings from them, but i just dont have the money to buy guitars brand new. reverb just has what i want for so much cheaper. music go round had the schecter guitar i wanted for $750 with a hardcase, woulda been $1600 brand new, or $1000 at the least at guitar center.
That guy is my PE teacher
Got that right! Sit and reach bruha! :-)
@@oldguyjammin9732I can barely move my legs out
@@IsaacBond1234 - why? Have you been working out or something? Sore muscles??
I agree with you , if you want a business to survive, you got to spend some money occasionally . I do this all the time with our mom& pop businesses in our little town
Apparently, my experience is different than others. Guess my local GCs are just exceptional and not the norm...? Good for you for sharing the wealth!
Sweet jam!!! I don’t buy new guitars or amps at GC because your basically buying a used guitar for brand new prices. The GC in NJ does not give discounts and I’ve never even seen one of those gear rewards coupons and I literally spend thousands a year a GC. I love guitar center but they need to make all floor models discounted because they are used guitars at the end of the day.
I’d agree with everything you said, and you’re not the only one that has mentioned having to buy a floor model. How come you don’t just order a new one shipped to your house? I believe the Gear Rewards are a part of the Gear Card account thingy. It’s GCs in-house credit card… 6 months free financing!
Good word man! Great playing. How many years have you been playing?
Thanks Eternal Destiny, I picked up guitar in the 80’s - had some real chops back then, lol.
Nice playing
thanks bruha!
I have never purchased anything from Guitar Center or its parent company Music & Arts. I know too much of how they do business behind the scenes. See ya GC!
I'm one of those who goes into GC and tries out their gear' I'll talk them down to their rock bottom price and get a
documented quote on it. I then call up the new supplier I deal with' ever since GC 💩 me on my last 5 dealings I had to do with them and my new supplier will beat their lowest quote by a mile.
I will buy the smallest/ cheapest PK of picks from them for their time letting me try out their equipment and give them to my so called friends I don't and never have liked.
I've saved a ton of money in the last 7 years doing it that way and those so called friends really think I like them.
Guitar center did it to themselves.
Classy! You probably serve Jack Daniels up in a Woodford bottle too, eh? I imagine GC was as glad to be rid of you as you were of them, lol.
@@oldguyjammin9732
Nope' they'll never get rid of me' and yes' I did and still do it with class' Buy from and pass out the cheapest guitar picks to certain employees at GC.
You don't know the backstory!
How much of GC/MF debt is owed to their suppliers? How much debt have they passed on to their suppliers? What do manufacturers/ brands do when they can’t get paid? Maybe sell their brand to a bigger company nowhere near as passionate about the product who is also out of touch with their customer base? Maybe go out of business? Maybe cut corners to lower the cost of making it and raise the price to the end user? Is this where the statement “they don’t make’em like they used to” comes from?
You made a video on the topic so I’m hoping you have an answer to the the first 2 questions. If GC/MF has built its brand intentionally or unintentionally by breaking the backs of the brands that supply it, is it in musicians best interest to support that? That’s a huge ‘if’ for sure but that’s the industry buzz and where a lot, not all, but a lot of the negative opinions on GC/MF come from at least where I live/ the circles I run in.
At this point personally I can’t be bothered to figure out if it’s true or not, it’s simply too easy for me to buy elsewhere. If they can come out and prove its not the case then great, I’ll buy stuff from them. Will they? No, why would they care what I think, right? Or you.. Can they? That’s the question.
I guess you can blame the brands for supplying merchandise on credit, you can say they didn’t have to do that but that is how it worked pre big box music stores. Brick and mortar music stores didn’t shell out a years worth of inventory upfront to every brand they carried, it’s all done on credit. The perception, intentional or not, true or not, is that GC/ MF exploited that.
As I said earlier I have no interest in taking any of my time to figure out whether or not they did. It’s too easy to get gear these days from vendors I trust but if it is the case the best thing musicians can do for the sake of the industry is to let’em rot.
I think you've way over thunk it man, my point is that if everyone who went into guitar center to try the latest piece of gear, or check out 4 different amos, actually bought the one they like from guitar center, GC would be a lot better off than they are.
Your point was not lost on me and I respect your perspective. I really haven’t put much thought into it at all. I did think about years ago when I dealt with manufacturers reps on a fairly regular basis. They voiced concerns, it affected my perspective. GC was $200 million in debt when Bain bought them 15 years ago now there what a billion in debt? I don’t know that I’d call that a good business model. Ymmv
The GC’s where I live are pretty bad, it’s good to hear your local one works for you. I figured I’d feed you a few comments, help you out with the almighty algorithm and offer a different perspective, one that blames the company for its current situation instead of musicians. I’m not saying your perspective is right or wrong just suggesting that GC’s ongoing state of debt and bankruptcy has more to it then musicians putting their “dirty palm prints” on everything and then walking out. Also that it might be a good thing that GC isn’t “a lot better off then they are”
Well, all I know is in my area, it’s the only place I can go to play a Gibson. I usually end up buying there even though I might save a little ordering online. Have sold a lot of stuff to them too. They always pay more than any pawnshop.
It seems that not very many would agree with us, but I sure appreciate GC. They had new Keeley Halo delays for 15% just a couple of weeks ago, got a used Sentry noise gate for $55, etc, etc. And like you said, where else can you play a Gibson, then a Schecter, then a Charvel and right on down the line..
@@oldguyjammin9732 nowhere in my area.
Damn what guitar center do you go to? The guitar centers employees in my city act like they know everything and have so much of an ego because they work at GC. I have the gear card and everything but I’d much rather use my money at the small business mom and pop shop.
I hear you, but the smaller shops around here just don't have the selection or used gear options like GC. I have a GC in Sacramento and one in Roseville, both about 40 minutes away, so nice and close.
I've bought almost all of mine from brick and mortar. Mainly because I want to support them but also because with guitars I want to take home the exact one I played.
I wander into the smaller shops for strings and picks, straps, etc but their selection is usually too small to keep me around for long. One local outfit only sells Orange amps, PRS and Yamaha guitars.
@@oldguyjammin9732 Unfortunately small shops are rare now and like you wrote, the selection of accessories is usually too narrow. I'll still buy some picks or something if I did anything more that look. It's the respectful thing to do in my opinion. I've seen guys buy picks and then put them back actually. Why not though right? It's a few bucks or so; definitely reasonable to go in and test out instruments.
Edit - Having an entry fee really isn't a terrible idea. It just wouldn't work in most locations I assume.
Because Guitar center employees are usually clueless idiots with poor customers sevice, the stores are always filthy and disorganized, and they never have a good selection. The list goes on and on. I'd rather support my local shop that gets me what I want. Also Sweetwater rarely ever has issues in my experience. Guitar center is hated for a reason. Plus they literally destroy dent and scratch items instead of selling or donating them. And yes, it most certainly is a flawed business model. Your own statement demonstrated it. That is why its failing. And will go out of business.
Apparently not all GCs are created (or maintained) equally, the ones around Sacramento are awesome. Great selection and reduced prices on the scratched up stuff. Local shops are great BUT they can not always get you want, it usually only works out if they have an agreement with the company you happen to like. Clueless idiots are everywhere, better to be a well informed consumer.
I know, how about some lessons !!!
Lessons? For you or me!?!? :-)
I buy most of my stuff in store at my local guitar center. I dont have any horror stories for them or other places though. Ive been pretty lucky on gear thus far. I just like the people at my local store so i go to see them and buy my gear.
Now here we go, I'm with you Average Citizen!! I like my local people and my corporate guy (the guy I call on the phone for bigger purchases) is just awesome. Apparently they are NOT all the same.
@oldguyjammin9732 yeah, i can kinda understand what some of the other comments are getting at. My local store has a few shady practices. I bought a washburn acoustic from them with the protection plan. 2 weeks later, the binding started to crack, and it developed a buzz/rattle from under the bridge. I took it back and exchanged it for a fender. It's back on the shelf for someone else to buy currently. However, i think that's more of a corporate issue and less of a local one. All the people who work their are musicians and would let people know not to buy it, id hope. I still like going there better than ordering online. I wanna hold stuff first, i wanna hear it.
I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect a really low price on “new” gear that has likely been played with a lot already, and may have been taken home at least once.
If I go to a mom and pop and pay a premium price I usually get something that is actually new
I don’t have a problem with the customer paying shipping to return a speaker cab that has absolutely nothing wrong with it
I don’t think I’m who your video is aimed at though, as I have bought a lot of stuff from GC, and haven’t returned anything that wasn’t broken, because I do my homework before paying. I also buy more stuff at the store than online
All the open box stuff is reduced as "used". Buying off the wall is up to the buyer, anyone can order a new one of the same thing and have it shipped to their house, so I don't quite get the new/but played reference, but you're not the only one who has brought it up. I find used guitars that have been set up and/or cared for require less work than a new one. I got to the point where I got really tired of buying new guitars cause of all the work it took to get them to play nice. Seemed like on everyone I had to level frets, intonate, adjust the rod, oil the tuners, sand the neck, etc, etc.
My experience is they don’t have anything I am interested in stock. Tiny pedal selection, popular guitar models perma sold out, etc.
The GC near me can’t even open some days due to no staff. I am not killing GC, GC is killing themselves.
They should probably shut down stores like that. I hear about experiences like yours but I’ve never had one. I’ll visit GCs when we travel, the one in Vegas is huge! Here in Ca we have two locally about 20 minutes apart and both are clean, well staffed and full of great stuff.
Sweetwater is the best! Super customer service and knowledgeable staff
They are really good and NO ONE has a better gallery of guitar pics, and they even post the weight of the individual guitars!! Great operation but I can’t afford to ship guitars or amps back and forth.
Not sure what guitar center you go to but here in the San Francisco Bay area they suck! Tha sales guys are assholes and most don't know shit about guitars. I've been a touring musician for years and have dealt with GC in many cities. Most if not all were shit. Don't know if GC put you up to doing this video but everytime I've been to guitar center it's alway teenagers who are trying out guitars and amps. In fact I've Never seen anyone buy a 4x12 cab or a Marshall head there. I now only go there if I need strings in a hurry otherwise I just avoid it all together. Sweetwater, zzounds are way better and I have never been charged to return anything.
I'm in the Sacramento area and have two GCs within 40 minutes and both are great! The turnover is pretty high but I've gotten to know the managers and regulars and Michelle in Roseville is phenomenal. On a recent trip to the Sac GC they had a triple rec, a soldano and an older HK on the floor at reasonable prices... too much fun. RE Sweetwater, I once bought a 1x12 because of the advertised dimensions (because it would fit perfectly under my DSL40) turned out the dimensions were for the shipping box, not the cab. It didn't look right, wasn't right, but SW wouldn't claim responsibility, but rather kicked the can down the road blaming the cab mfgr. Since there was really nothing wrong with the cab, they wanted me to pay the RS. SW is only good when you already know exactly what you want.
I don't have one close so I don't buy from them. It is pretty simple. I went to one once and it seemed everything was well overprice so it is no wander everyone wants a discounted piece of equipment but that is just my take on it.
You have good taste, I have a firefly LP that's the same color, had me laughing over the finger prints, wish I had a guitar center close by, mom & pop stores suck,markups are rediculous and I'm left doing mail order,I value your opinion,your always spot on old guy, thanks for sprouting off.
We seem to be in the minority, lol so much GC hate out there, but I guess my experience is not typical and that's too bad. I just love it though, GC has a great selection of used gear and wear else can you waltz in a play so many different brands!?!? Thanks for chiming in!
Hi OGJ, I don't know how the Guitar Centers are doing in your neck of the woods. Here in Florida, they seem to be very under staffed and not as knowledgeable as they were 3 to 4 years ago.
I find myself getting more info about the products from people like yourself.
I also have Sam Ashe in Florida, I feel they are better staffed.
Also, My experience at Guitar Center on used gear is not very good. They don't budge on the price. Even if the item is on sale at a lower price in a different store. And they push the protection plans on the gear. I bought a Hughes and Kettner Grand Meister and they wanted to add another $200.00 protection plan on top of the gear. Well enough of that. I hope to see more discussions, thoughts, tips and tricks soon from you. Maybe start a poll.
I’m 40 minutes away from two GCs that are themselves, 20 minutes apart. Both are well staffed, open everyday but Christmas, and stocked to the gills with lots of gear. I never add protection cause the mfgr warranties are pretty solid, and it seems that if something is going to break it happens sooner than later… I don’t know. I have a feeling that a poll would be hugely negative, lol.
Maybe I have to move to California. LOL
I'm going to Guitar Center today to checkout a used Fender Hot Rod Deluxe. I'll let you know what happens.
I need Guitar Center to survive and thrive for the reasons you stated in your video.
45 days to try out the products is an awesome benefit and the coupons are great too.
Also, I understand that doing a poll might be mostly negative.
Take care.
@@oldguyjammin9732
I have nothing against GC itself. But after buying 6 guitars from them on layaway, i can't afford to buy there, since they've done away with layaway. And at my local store, they don't give discounts... I've asked.
Wow… I call my guy Chad Evans and he’s always good for a deal. I know you pay more than used price, but I value the GC experience and being able to go in and play a Soldano, or Triple Rec, or Boss something, and then saying “I’d like to take this home and try it”.
I love GC.
I'm only interested in used stuff.
Yeah, mom & pop return is a store credit if you're lucky.
I’m with you, and GC has lots of great used gear. Just scored a Sentry Noise Gate for $60. I have a local M/P store that I occasionally support but I pay a lot more for strings, wall hangers, etc. Sometimes, if they price match on something I know I want for sure, I’ll get it there but they usually cringe when $ matching is even brought up.
90% of yall selling used online are way overpricing items. If i cant get something used for 65-70% (4excellent) or less than new then New it will be.
you speak a good word, used prices are RIDICULOUS! I’ll sometimes email a Reverb seller just to let them know I can get the same thing NEW for $7 more, lol.
@@oldguyjammin9732 If the products sell on Reverb then I guess it was worth it. I'm always looking for a good deal but you can't blame someone knocking off 20% and then selling it. Such is the world.
It's called Capitalism.
Yep… can bite you in the ass sometimes :-)
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