I grew up at a guitar store in central Ohio, my dad was the owner and he often had me around. He even took me to NAMM and Disneyland once. Thanks for doing these videos, helps me feel like I'm connecting back with those days.
That's when people try to be a little too much like traditional television. Make it look like a big production. There are some more produced videos that I'll make at some point, but I won't give up to the talks for sure.
I just love that it's basically an info dump about things I find interesting. Very disheartening to hear "we wanna talk to dealers"... aren't we all capable of being "dealers"? Maybe u could discuss Washburn? I feel like they are similar to Fender. My 1st electric guitar & banjo are Washburns. Great instruments!
You know what man? As someone that’s never been to the show and always been curious, that whole “we’re here to do business” outlook makes A LOT of sense to me. I dont mind watching the videos and if I were a distributor trying to buy or a manufacturer trying to sell, a bunch of idiots like customers at guitar center would drive me insane. I never thought about this until your video so thanks
You are the most astute person involved with the music industry on all of UA-cam. Thank you for your incredible insights. You are natural, not over-produced and with such great knowledge based on your experience. You don't need million dollar production to put out the best.
My $150 Amazon delivered IYV PRS copy from Viet Nam stands up to all the overpriced stuff out there. Happy camper. Legacy brands beware. Enjoying your videos. Keep it up.
I would say, if you love guitars and making music, visit NAMM at least once either as an industry pro or as a guest and meet so many owners and designers of amazing guitars and gear, pick up, plug and play hundreds of many different guitars,amps, pedals etc, listen to and visit with so many amazing musicians, participate in seminar panels and presentations. It’s all pretty amazing.
Thanks for video, great inside info. Looking forward to seeing the less-expensive guitars. Always happy to hear about digital Class D progress, for similar reasons. (btw can anyone identify the hollowbody behind Mark's right shoulder? It's beautiful, just can't place the headstock.)
I stopped going to Namm 15 years ago, it all went downhill when the passes were easy to get. Can't get any actual work done. When the nudie strap guy stopped coming. He had a keg of beer and you could mysteriously smoke cigarettes in there. Love the vids. 440 Instruments is my shop. Nice to see a vid from another store owner instead of some uninformed pentatonic peddler.
The quality of Asian buit instruments has improved exponentially over the past 10 or 15 years. Technology has its advantages. Although I will say that when you can buy a decent guitar for a few hundred, some folks along the manufacturing line are not getting paid . . . enough anyway.
I don't know about the 'new' Standard line from Fender. it's a great idea, but honestly, I think they're rebranded Squiers. if they were a hundred dollars less, I wouldn't mind as much. as I've been going to NAMM for about 25 years, this is probably the most physically worn out I've ever felt (not including getting COVID in 2020). I'm usually there to make deals and network with other companies - lately I've been shopping for tools (files, etc). but, I've gotten some endorsement deals from the years I've been at NAMM.
Yup, totally agree about the Standard line. I bought a Squier Classic Vibe J bass because I can't see 10 dollars difference between that and a Fender Standard, let alone 100 !
You talked about Fender being closed to the public, there has been a lot of talk about behringer not being featured as much esp within the synth community. Were you able to check behringer out? We’re they also closed to the public only talking to people who that wanted to talk to or are people just hating on them. Thanks for your incite.
@@GarysGuitarsUSA ohh interesting 🤔 I didn't know that but yes I love those guitars. The necks were very well done. I enjoy the videos, keep them coming!
@@GarysGuitarsUSA OMG, this is why I love this platform. I've never been to your shop, but I enjoy your videos, and Portsmouth will always hold a special place in my heart.
They have started an initiative to invite educators as well. Usually it's finding an exhibitor or an attendee who wants to invite you. They are more open to non retailers now so have a look at their site.
They were amazing for what they are, but I wouldn't get one myself. There's a lot of other things that are just a little bit more money that are quite good.
I worked for A&S cases and would display at NAMM I saw Elvira Mistress of the dark at one of the booths one year what she has to do with music I don't know
There will always be people who will buy new gear versus used gear. Same with cars; some people are convinced they need to buy a *new* car, only to drive it off the lot, take a huge hit in depreciation, and THEN have to make payments - usually upside down in their loan! Guitars and gear aren't usually that bad (there's still depreciation), but some people think the warranty and the "shiny new" is worth the extra cost.
I wonder how big of an impact UA-camrs/social media and guitar players who can afford to attend NAMM have on Fender sales. And it seems a little odd that they are focusing on direct sales, but still only want to visit with dealers NAMM. I came away ready to order a new guitar, but it’s not a Fender. Also I ran into a couple of the owners of shops I’ve purchased guitars thru who took a few seconds to visit reaffirming why I buy guitars from them.
Great perspective. Most of the UA-camrs are real guitar lovers. Some of the other influencers are just looking for something to be an influencer in, they'll see an opportunity and they take it Fortunately it's a lot of work and those who aren't serious often drop out.
Its interesting (and sad) that the multi-billion dollar guitar industry doesn't do more to re-ignite the guitar hero era of the 1980's......where everyone needed to own a guitar or 5.
They're taking everyone's business model. They are the manufacturer, the distributor, the online store. Pretty soon they'll be sending someone to your house to play the guitar for you.
I saw some video's about this years NAMM,but for me,there's nothing new and really exciting developments going on,in this busniss. Secondhand tradeshows are much more relevant,but trades from person to person,not from persons to investment companies.
How does an American brand flagship guitar being made in Asia/Mexico make it flagship. That label should be for made in America. Also tariffs will likely erase the margin they hope to capture with that disingenuous move. Fender has notoriously been shady af for dealers especially b&m m&p’s
Allow me to provide you Insite from a new buyer perspective. I bought a Fender Ultra Tele, a Fender Prof 2 Strat, a Standard LP, and a Squire vintage all in the last 2 years. I'm a beginner. First guitar I bought from an independent guitar store. I I didn't know what I was doing. Bought an Ultra Tele brand new. after playing with it the neck seemed to slip, make a pop sound, and go out of tune. Took it back. They fixed it, for a setup fee. Then they told me it needed fret work, leveling. I think all this cost me over 200.00 or more. After all that I still didn't think it was right, I took it to another mom and pop to set up, a second time, more money. Second guitar was LP, of Craigslist, with set up, no issues. The first Prof 2 Strat, I bought from Guitar center used, took it for set up and the truss rod was stripped. Took it back because GC does 45 days return no questions asked. I ordered a second brand new Prof 2 from GC, and my shop set it up without issues. HERE IS THE ENTIRE KICKER....why should I buy from a little independent shop, when they hassle me for returns, and make me spend hundreds of dollars setting up the garbage they pass off to inexperienced players? Why am I paying for a fret leveling on a brand-new guitar? Why am I paying set up for a guitar at all, that should be included for a 2200 guitar! SO, why buy from a little mom and pop, when I can just return guitars within 45 days from GC. I buy it, I take it to the local guy I trust to set up and check for me. If it isn't great, I take it back without any hassle. I don't trust little shops anymore, your slippery weasels.
Blaming all the small stores for one bad experience is what's gotten us to this place. You can have a bad experience at any store, including Guitar Center. As a matter of fact telling stories about getting bad service at Guitar center is pretty well documented. Anyway, it's "you're not your." You mean to say that I am a slippery weasel, not that I have one.
@woobiecat5631 Perhaps you should have checked the store's follow up policy before purchase or bring an experienced friend along to help, if you have one. It would have saved you the headache and the posting of a silly complaint. Cheers!
I grew up at a guitar store in central Ohio, my dad was the owner and he often had me around. He even took me to NAMM and Disneyland once. Thanks for doing these videos, helps me feel like I'm connecting back with those days.
Sounds like a great vacation for the father and the son.
Nice one as usual Mark. One of the things I like about your videos is there's no flashy junk intro graphic that wastes 30seconds of my eyeball time.
That's when people try to be a little too much like traditional television. Make it look like a big production. There are some more produced videos that I'll make at some point, but I won't give up to the talks for sure.
It’s similar with MTV. When they got more flashy and added all the fast editing it got to feel more and more gimmicky
I just love that it's basically an info dump about things I find interesting. Very disheartening to hear "we wanna talk to dealers"... aren't we all capable of being "dealers"? Maybe u could discuss Washburn? I feel like they are similar to Fender. My 1st electric guitar & banjo are Washburns. Great instruments!
Great video, your no-frills, plain spoken insight is a breath of fresh air!
You know what man? As someone that’s never been to the show and always been curious, that whole “we’re here to do business” outlook makes A LOT of sense to me. I dont mind watching the videos and if I were a distributor trying to buy or a manufacturer trying to sell, a bunch of idiots like customers at guitar center would drive me insane. I never thought about this until your video so thanks
You are the most astute person involved with the music industry on all of UA-cam. Thank you for your incredible insights. You are natural, not over-produced and with such great knowledge based on your experience. You don't need million dollar production to put out the best.
Appreciate the update! Agree, the basic production with the insightful info works just fine for us all!
I appreciate your content sir. A good reality based perspective. Thank you.
My $150 Amazon delivered IYV PRS copy from Viet Nam stands up to all the overpriced stuff out there. Happy camper. Legacy brands beware. Enjoying your videos. Keep it up.
Really enjoy your videos, Mark. Keep up the great work. 👍🏻
Thanks!
love your videos man!
Mark talks without the fluff. This channel should have many more subs.
Thank you, spread the word!
I did a tour of the Martin Factory in PA. It was awesome to see how they make their guitars.
Really enjoying your channel entertaining and informative.
Thanks Mark. Very helpful informative as usual😊…… My favorite guitar store in Seacoast NH😂
Great video dude, as usual! Thanks for you! Keep ‘em coming!!!
I want to know more about that beautiful Gibson acoustic in the background!
Nice to meet you at NAMM
Thanks for saying hi!
Thank you for the NAMM updates. ❤️
Thanks
Thank you for your support!
I would say, if you love guitars and making music, visit NAMM at least once either as an industry pro or as a guest and meet so many owners and designers of amazing guitars and gear, pick up, plug and play hundreds of many different guitars,amps, pedals etc, listen to and visit with so many amazing musicians, participate in seminar panels and presentations. It’s all pretty amazing.
Well put. I did forget to mention all the smaller luthiers sharing and comparing their work.
Thanks for video, great inside info. Looking forward to seeing the less-expensive guitars. Always happy to hear about digital Class D progress, for similar reasons.
(btw can anyone identify the hollowbody behind Mark's right shoulder? It's beautiful, just can't place the headstock.)
I stopped going to Namm 15 years ago, it all went downhill when the passes were easy to get. Can't get any actual work done. When the nudie strap guy stopped coming. He had a keg of beer and you could mysteriously smoke cigarettes in there. Love the vids. 440 Instruments is my shop. Nice to see a vid from another store owner instead of some uninformed pentatonic peddler.
The quality of Asian buit instruments has improved exponentially over the past 10 or 15 years. Technology has its advantages. Although I will say that when you can buy a decent guitar for a few hundred, some folks along the manufacturing line are not getting paid . . . enough anyway.
I don't know about the 'new' Standard line from Fender. it's a great idea, but honestly, I think they're rebranded Squiers. if they were a hundred dollars less, I wouldn't mind as much.
as I've been going to NAMM for about 25 years, this is probably the most physically worn out I've ever felt (not including getting COVID in 2020). I'm usually there to make deals and network with other companies - lately I've been shopping for tools (files, etc). but, I've gotten some endorsement deals from the years I've been at NAMM.
Yup, totally agree about the Standard line. I bought a Squier Classic Vibe J bass because I can't see 10 dollars difference between that and a Fender Standard, let alone 100 !
The Standard line definitely is from a marketing stance, not an innovative stance.
You talked about Fender being closed to the public, there has been a lot of talk about behringer not being featured as much esp within the synth community. Were you able to check behringer out? We’re they also closed to the public only talking to people who that wanted to talk to or are people just hating on them. Thanks for your incite.
Behringer had a huge display that they shared with all their sister brands, about six of them. Looked impressive.
Very cool, I’m sort of interested if you saw any of their new pedals? What did you think of the quality?
I didn't see any petals from them. They were mostly featuring their synthesizers.
I just got my Vintage Guitar mag in the mail for the month. Is that your ad? If so it looks great!
There is a place called "Gary's Classic Guitars" that's not us.
Ahh.
They made a crafted in china Fender from 2011ish to 2018ish and they have had runs in Korea as well.
The crafted in China Fender branded guitars are what became classic vibe. There great guitars. So I guess now they get their Fender logo back.
@@GarysGuitarsUSA ohh interesting 🤔 I didn't know that but yes I love those guitars. The necks were very well done. I enjoy the videos, keep them coming!
I have a Japanese Fender Telecaster slim line an American Fender Dark Knight Strat and a made in Mexico Strat the Telecaster is my favorite
Love the made in Japan Fenders!
👍👍👍
NH to LA is a very loooong flight!
Six and a half hours one night a little sugar the other. Luckily it's a direct flight.
My two favorite bands of all time are The Beatles and Thanks To Gravity. Did you ever get a chance to meet them? (TTG obviously).
Glad to consider them friends. Great band, great people.
@@GarysGuitarsUSA OMG, this is why I love this platform. I've never been to your shop, but I enjoy your videos, and Portsmouth will always hold a special place in my heart.
I would love to go to NAMM, but I have no affiliation in the business. Is it possible to attend just as a musician? Thanks, and love your channel.
They have started an initiative to invite educators as well. Usually it's finding an exhibitor or an attendee who wants to invite you. They are more open to non retailers now so have a look at their site.
@@GarysGuitarsUSA Thanks Gary!
@@GarysGuitarsUSA Sorry Mark, I thought your name was Gary!!
I snuck in one year (80's), by altering a pass I was given. I simply changed "Esther" to LEsther" and nobody questioned me. Had fun !! 😁
@ Nice move!!!
Are you familiar with Firefly guitars, and if so, what's your opinion?
They were amazing for what they are, but I wouldn't get one myself. There's a lot of other things that are just a little bit more money that are quite good.
Hi ! Anything new in guitars that was a head turner? Or just same ole stuff? I’m kind of interested in the Fender UltraDeluxe …Thanks for the updates!
More of the same I think. Fender didn't show any new tuners therapy I was also having difficulty finding innovations in pedal tuners.
Cream Guitars killed it again
I worked for A&S cases and would display at NAMM I saw Elvira Mistress of the dark at one of the booths one year what she has to do with music I don't know
it is quite a circus at times
Did Eastman instruments make a showing? I have one of their high-value electrics.
Yes very Gibson-esque but with a little more meat to the necl
My first guutar was a 1982 acoustic Fender Concord I still have it I put a bone nut and a bone bridge on it and it still plays great
Note to self- Fender and Guitar Center...2 companies digging a hole.
You can add Gibson to that list.
Brought to you by private equity.
I was surprised at Fender's new Asian Standard line. Why? You can buy a MIM used for less! I just don't understand any more! Lol
There will always be people who will buy new gear versus used gear. Same with cars; some people are convinced they need to buy a *new* car, only to drive it off the lot, take a huge hit in depreciation, and THEN have to make payments - usually upside down in their loan! Guitars and gear aren't usually that bad (there's still depreciation), but some people think the warranty and the "shiny new" is worth the extra cost.
Was Gibson at the show?
They had a presence, but not much compared to previous years.
So many new guitars... it's overwhelming. And the price increase, yikes!. Are there a lot of people who play guitar?
A lot of people who play guitar own multiple guitars. Some own dozens...
Yeah not just do a lot of people play many have a small addiction to buying them
I went to NAMM once, it was hell, noisy and chaotic
I wonder how big of an impact UA-camrs/social media and guitar players who can afford to attend NAMM have on Fender sales. And it seems a little odd that they are focusing on direct sales, but still only want to visit with dealers NAMM. I came away ready to order a new guitar, but it’s not a Fender. Also I ran into a couple of the owners of shops I’ve purchased guitars thru who took a few seconds to visit reaffirming why I buy guitars from them.
Great perspective. Most of the UA-camrs are real guitar lovers. Some of the other influencers are just looking for something to be an influencer in, they'll see an opportunity and they take it Fortunately it's a lot of work and those who aren't serious often drop out.
Its interesting (and sad) that the multi-billion dollar guitar industry doesn't do more to re-ignite the guitar hero era of the 1980's......where everyone needed to own a guitar or 5.
Too many other distractions fighting for the teens attention.
Bring back the squier standard, you can still find used ones all over. It seems like the older guitars just had better quality for the price.
Every customer is crucial the most important are the end users😂
the gun in your back did not go un noticed.....
Mexico minimum wage went up last year
Is Fender trying to copy the Thomann business model?
you got Thomann's BM?
They're taking everyone's business model. They are the manufacturer, the distributor, the online store. Pretty soon they'll be sending someone to your house to play the guitar for you.
@GarysGuitarsUSA 😄
@@GarysGuitarsUSA😅😅😅😅😅😅
Phil Mcknight said something similar. Both you guys are authentic and helpful @GarysGuitarsUSA
I saw some video's about this years NAMM,but for me,there's nothing new and really exciting developments going on,in this busniss.
Secondhand tradeshows are much more relevant,but trades from person to person,not from persons to investment companies.
I think what you're talking about is a "swap meet." When we say "tradeshow" it means specifically the trade (skilled business) of selling guitars.
Fender has only made it hard for dealers to select and stock the right guitars for customers. My advice to Fender: “thin the herd.” It is way overdue…
How does an American brand flagship guitar being made in Asia/Mexico make it flagship. That label should be for made in America. Also tariffs will likely erase the margin they hope to capture with that disingenuous move. Fender has notoriously been shady af for dealers especially b&m m&p’s
In 1972 I was in NAMM. Got shot in the butt-ox. Felt like something jumped up and bit me.
Today you pay more and get less
Not necessarily. You just have to make wise purchasing decisions. Quality and consistency has really improved.
The most provably false comment in here
Literally the opposite is true.
Allow me to provide you Insite from a new buyer perspective. I bought a Fender Ultra Tele, a Fender Prof 2 Strat, a Standard LP, and a Squire vintage all in the last 2 years. I'm a beginner. First guitar I bought from an independent guitar store. I I didn't know what I was doing. Bought an Ultra Tele brand new. after playing with it the neck seemed to slip, make a pop sound, and go out of tune. Took it back. They fixed it, for a setup fee. Then they told me it needed fret work, leveling. I think all this cost me over 200.00 or more. After all that I still didn't think it was right, I took it to another mom and pop to set up, a second time, more money. Second guitar was LP, of Craigslist, with set up, no issues.
The first Prof 2 Strat, I bought from Guitar center used, took it for set up and the truss rod was stripped. Took it back because GC does 45 days return no questions asked. I ordered a second brand new Prof 2 from GC, and my shop set it up without issues. HERE IS THE ENTIRE KICKER....why should I buy from a little independent shop, when they hassle me for returns, and make me spend hundreds of dollars setting up the garbage they pass off to inexperienced players? Why am I paying for a fret leveling on a brand-new guitar? Why am I paying set up for a guitar at all, that should be included for a 2200 guitar! SO, why buy from a little mom and pop, when I can just return guitars within 45 days from GC. I buy it, I take it to the local guy I trust to set up and check for me. If it isn't great, I take it back without any hassle. I don't trust little shops anymore, your slippery weasels.
Blaming all the small stores for one bad experience is what's gotten us to this place. You can have a bad experience at any store, including Guitar Center. As a matter of fact telling stories about getting bad service at Guitar center is pretty well documented. Anyway, it's "you're not your." You mean to say that I am a slippery weasel, not that I have one.
@woobiecat5631 Perhaps you should have checked the store's follow up policy before purchase or bring an experienced friend along to help, if you have one. It would have saved you the headache and the posting of a silly complaint.
Cheers!
Beginner's mistakes. When the shop tried to charge for Ultra tele repairs you should have contacted Fender about it. That guitar was under warranty.
I’m impressed you know how to say duhdario instead of dee adario. Everyone says it
Making guitars in Indonesia is sad. But the ultra meteora rules
Wrong
Thanks
Thank you!
Thanks
Thank you!