Buying Direct Vs A Local Shop - 10 Reasons to buy from a shop

Baxter and Jonathan give you 10 reasons to get your guitar at a shop vs buying direct from the guitar maker.

[@holstorrsceadus1990]

I just spent the weekend searching every guitar shop in a 50 mile radius for gold tuning machines that I easily could have bought online. It served two purposes: I just moved so all the stores were new to me and they had some gems plus I got to support the local economy.

[@sevennotes8940]

That's American.

[@davidevans3175]

In the 70s I lived in New York City, I worked a crap job. My only real joy was walking down to Manny's on 48th Street, and the other guitar shops on 48th. It's a crime they closed.

[@dw7704]

We used to have a street like that on a smaller scale It was great, but over time all but three closed, and they moved,one closed down, but the other two still exist after moving, although one was bought out I miss those days

[@joeacebo9633]

The owner of my local store tragically and suddenly passed away last year. It’s good to see what he started carries on with a awesome manager and a great crew of musicians working to serve the rockers in my city.

[@ryangunwitch-black]

Same thing happened here in Jacksonville. An unfortunate bummer to be certain. But we’re a lucky community that got to see our local shop survive past the life of its initial owner and it stayed in his family.

[@buster52]

I'm constantly finding reason to admire these guys.

[@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912]

I hate their guts, they are so brilliantly talented as not merely great guitarists but KZbin presenters extraordinaire both, witty raconteurs of no mean intellect & cunning stunts no doubt shall never end on this rollercoaster. Just horrible guys really, especially that Baxter he really gets on my goat & makes me sick to my stomach - Jonathan who undoubted owes his soul to Lucifer for eternity just quietly in some dark Faustian bargain - I mean how can one explain Jonathan's wicked otherworldly virtuosity on his candy-apple telecaster? he's been down to the crossroads alright fair-dinkum. Even this degenerate will agree & concur with hand on heart pressed on the issue whether or not Baxter Clement is disgusting - 100% he is! Casino Guitars rates 11 / 10. Best YT channel on Earth; if not the Local System. P.S. This still does not make Baxter any less disgusting than those in the know; will freely admit being frank & candid, he is so bloody nasty on guitar, he's a criminal! Grammy to boot ffsakes!.. disgusting is he not? 🤘call the cops, ffsakes!🤮

[@smelltheglove2038]

I love my local shop, Russos here in Philly. I went through them to get both my Gibson custom 335, and my CS Strat. They are great, they have a point system where you gain cash you can use for product. I had enough in there to get my son a Classic Vibe 50’s P-bass for Christmas this year. They all know my name and my guitars, it’s great. I just like the idea of a small local business like that. So much better than the big box places and the online shops.

[@ItsVictoriaG]

Philly! I’m sorry about the Eagles. I was cheering for y’all. 😢

[@smelltheglove2038]

@@ItsVictoriaG don’t tell anyone, but I didnt feel like dealing with the all the “celebrating” that follows these big wins so I’m not even upset. I live a half block off of broad street in south Philly, pretty close to the stadiums. The parade goes right by my house. Sounds fun, right? Well, it’s really a mob of drunks peeing everywhere, including my front steps and car. Maybe I’m just old man yelling at a cloud. An old stick in the mud…… Or I just don’t like the smell of piss.

[@davegallagher7428]

I bought my first electric, a 72 American standard Strat from Cintioli’s in Philly in 1981.

[@jerrymckenzie1858]

My local shop is Guitar Center. That’s why I shop at Sweetwater.

[@curtvona4891]

If I lived close to Casino, I would definitely check out your shop. You guys seam like cool guys.

[@bigfatpaul]

I bought a Koa GS Mini from you guys via Reverb (I'm in LA), specifically because you guys *do* take pics of them and make sure they aren't shit, etc. And you guys are cool, so there's that. Keep doing what you're doing.

[@MayorMcCheese2000]

I would imagine a lot of what made Fender and Gibson successful was their ability to take feedback from dealers and implement changes. As a builder I want to make sure my instruments end up with people who really appreciate them and I want to serve the community the best I can, but my expertise is in building instruments, not networking with musicians. I need a middle man if I want to create a better experience for the end user. I also don't really wanna deal with a ton of different people all the time to be perfectly honest. There's also the sense of ritual when you buy in a store, and when you get a shop that's cool and unique like you guys, with staff that are going to share in and amplify that joy, you have to factor in the value of that experience. Even if you're paying more in the store, you're getting your moneys worth with the experience, and even the people buying online from you guys I'm sure are getting a personal experience that makes them feel valued, it makes these instruments seem more special... absolutely everyone should want that, be they builder, broker, or buyer!

[@texhaines9957]

"Local" store is a bid odd here, with 1 store in town and the next town over is 100 miles away. It's still local. I buy local if I can, but I have bought from a builder or really luthier based on a referral from someone I trust (also from a local shop). I needed a certain neck profile. It really worked. Baxter, Music Villa IS cool. Paul & crew are fun. Thanks, Jonathan and Baxter.

[@LexingtonDaniel]

I agree 80%. I wish I could buy from local shops but the shops here don't have customer service or don't deal in anything I'd buy. I miss the days of having relationships with local shops. My Sweetwater guy knows me well. When I ordered from you, I felt the need to come by and meet y'all an 8-hour drive away (luckily work travel allowed for that). I really miss the old days with Elmwood Music in Buffalo, Las Vegas Light and Sound, Consignment Music and Strings and Things in Memphis where they'd see me come in and say: "Hey! This just came in, check it out!" They knew me, they knew my gear and tendencies. They knew my gigs and came by... It was great. When I worked at Lane Music in Memphis and Airport Music in Buffalo, I tried to be that way. Little did I know then that I'd see the end of those days. The only factory I've ever ordered from direct was Carvin. I have to say though, the Fender Mod Shop and the Gibson Garage are tempting.

[@johnwashburn3793]

I typically buy local if I can find what I want. That's getting harder to do. I am in the KCMO area and GC changed the landscape of local shops. I actually bought my latest guitar from an out-of-town dealer, Casino Guitars, and it is great! Sorry I missed everyone except James, but he was excellent and a great help.

[@richbriggs6053]

One good thing about my local guitar store being online is that they keep it updated on what's available. For example, I was scrolling the site and found a used Les Paul they had recently gotten in, so unless you go across town often, you might miss the deal of the century. 😉

[@Donholleyglobeaz]

If I lived where a guitar shop was located I would live there. If I lived near you guys I would see you everyday! But I don’t live in a place that has a guitar shop. So I order online. Hit and miss when I do.

[@hillbrookguitarstudio4070]

What a great video, once again. 👍 My friend runs the local guitar shop (Music City) here in Worcester, England. I go in there at least once a week. We have a coffee, a chat about what’s new and life in general. I send my students to him and he serves the community very well. I wish him all the success but I mostly wish some big name brands would help out the little guy and allow them to buy one off’s rather than a whole bunch of gear, some of which will be stuck in the shop for years.

[@daviddawson1718]

I have to brag about my local music shop. Encore in Nacogdoches TX. I was buying drumsticks there in the 80s. Since then I have gone there for drum shells, guitars, amps, and they are doing the sound at my parents church. I am not religious, but this is a guy that I can trust.

[@gr8trgoodsimpatico310]

I think if you want to be like everyone else have all the same gear as everyone else. Go to the big box stores. Want to be treated like a human being go to the local shop. Want to be taken advantage of and have a bad taste in your mouth. By all means by from the factory. If they ship guitars to shops not working and little things wrong with them. Why would they get better for you.

[@daviddawson1718]

There is a place I shall not name downtown. Large stick up his ass, left when he was scoffing at my 50s Gibsons and baggin on my vintage amps. Go at your own risk, but don't buy shit.

[@gr8trgoodsimpatico310]

@@daviddawson1718 I’m just an eclectic player. As most musicians are. I play a gretsch electromatic in to a fender ramparte. With a tuner pedal and a flint. That’s my go to rig for most places. Mostly you cant find the eclectic and good at big box stores.

[@daviddawson1718]

@@gr8trgoodsimpatico310 a lot of people play one instrument but I am a drummer with ADHD. Different instruments gives me an opportunity to get in the jam.

[@ryangunwitch-black]

I’ve been hunting for the ever elusive American Vintage II ‘61 Stratocaster in three tone sunburst. Found a shop on Reverb who has one in hand but they’ve only posted stock photos and the most generic description copied straight from the Fender site. I asked if they had a weight and pics of the actual guitar. I’d prefer not to buy a $2100 guitar absolutely sight unseen (even though that would be the case buying directly from the Fender site)…. They said they couldn’t provide those things because they don’t want to open it or touch it. They want the customer to be the first to open it. It’s not hermetically sealed! It’s not like the case is shrink wrapped. Sweetwater photographs and weighs everything over a certain price point and does a super detailed inspection before shipping. And I’m sure they’ll do a quick set up before shipping if the guitar absolutely needs it prior to sending it out. Which I’d prefer. I think this company is just making lamé excuses. They’re lamé. Like shiny gold fabric. (I have no idea why my phone suggested "lamé excuses " but I’m here for it )

[@johnrudy9404]

The local shop/store of ANY KIND is the backbone of this country. Real people who want your business. I cannot say enough about Ace Hardware. I've dealt with the Smith AH in Mercerville, NJ. Always had what I needed. Someone mentioned Russos music...the best! Bought a D28 from Rs Hamilton. Good shop. Also one in Asbury Park. Good people.

[@dw7704]

I was just talking about this with a friend. We have a local shop we both have had multiple positive experiences with over the years He couldn’t believe anybody would give them a bad review. I have a compulsion to check out guitars, amps & pedals in person before I buy it, even cheap pedals. So yeah, I support local shops, and unless you don’t have one nearby I’d recommend buying local at a store As much as possible

[@msspi764]

I agree that supporting your local guitar shop is important. You kind of alluded to a reason that is my big point. They either have a luthier or repair folks or they know the good ones. When I lived in KY the shops knew who the best in-their-basement repair folks were, who was the best with fiddles, who was an expert refret guy, who knew their way around amp repair. I’d always take my Martin to certified Martin repair place (usually hours away in Nashville), but the others go to the person who has the best reputation. When you’re out in the middle of rural nowhere that’s the best you can do. NC isn’t rural nowhere.

[@mikes9759]

Another good one! The reason is just like you doing this vid! Personal contact and knowledge!! Like the hardware store. I wish there was still one in my town. I always try to buy locally when I can. So much better than getting something that isn't what you thought you were getting! I wish I was closer to your shop!!

[@darthdurkelthewise320]

Great video and all true. I’m lucky enough to live close enough to Chuck Levins. My wife even enjoys going w/me. Been going there for close to 20 years now…The good part is the wife has bought me some sweet wishlist guitars from Paul for birthdays, and well…more birthdays. The bad thing about that is that my wife knows how much guitars cost.

[@simonpark843]

I live in a country town where the nearest guitar shop is two hours away and for various reasons I can't get there regularly, so I have four trusted shops that I buy from online. I've bought three guitars in the last three years and have no regrets with anything I've bought. Two of these were pre-owned guitars, and the great experiences I've had were down to great staff at these stores and my knowledge of my own requirements and limitations. All of these shops are smaller ones where people know and care about what they're doing.

[@wirthwhilemedia]

Great video, guys. Excellent points. I also love finding the guitar shops anywhere I go.

[@frederickacerra7766]

Lucky for me I am near Russo's in Asbury Park . Going to Russo's and the beer garden is a great way to spend the day

[@jaygallamore562]

Another good video - thanks. I support my local guitar store. The owner and staff are all knowledgeable musicians. I give them lots of business. I also deal with Sweetwater and have only had positive experiences including buying guitars sight unseen. I feel both businesses fill a vital role serving the music community.

[@Theguy-y2y]

Hi Guys, love your videos. I will visit your store someday. I live Richmond Va and only have Guitar Center ans Sam Ash to buy from locally here.Anyway ,last year my friend bought an Ultra Luxe Tele from Sound Pure and after I played it a bunch I decided I wanted one :;but could not find one anywhere in America. Reverb had some used ones but I wanted brand new ,so I called Fender and they said we will sell you one for 2,250 plus tax and ship it free. This was 1 month ago. Fender directed me to buy off of their website,which I did and it arrived in 4 days and was set up perfect. This being the fastest neck ever produced on a Tele ,along with first time ever for ssteel frets in 2 tone sunburst was my choice of color. Sweetwater told me to check it out all over because it could be a music store reject. It was not. Also , Guitar Center stated that Fender was not suppose to sell direct. When I looked that up , Fender started selling direct in 2015. I would much rather buy local but sometimes it is impossible ??

[@JD-kn1lk]

I recently bought two Taylor’s from Tobias. Like dealing with the best of the local shop with online ease.

[@travistaylor1716]

I really hope this is the first video some people see from this channel. Algorithm Gods do your work.

[@saltyscorpion2151]

I wish I lived in SC where folks are more friendly and the old ways are still in practice. Here in northern IL, it is big box stores and boutique stores.

[@mrcurtis73]

Lol.. I like the wrong guitar/bad date analogy. 😂

[@Funkybassuk]

Strings, straps, quick set-ups/repairs. Love local guitar shops.

[@Dr.Lee.Guitar]

IMO: There is nothing better than browsing the racks, finding something you love, and walking out the door with it that day. That isn't something that you replicate online.

[@gabrielobrien21]

The benefit to having your inventory online is the same as making sure your store looks cool. It shows customers you care and are working to create a quality experience. I don't think everyone has to sell online, but it you're in a rural area it's gonna be near impossible to support most major brands. Good stores - like yours - work to create relationships with people, a great store experience, and also utilize online sales so they can carry the inventory people want. If your small local shop doesn't move enough inventory that you can support major brands, people will stop coming. I was at Rudy's in NYC and Russo's new location in Philly like a week ago and those are amazing stores with great brands and knowledgeable staff.

[@roxannerios1024]

I can think of reason #11 - Sometimes, when you order direct, either from manufacturer middle person such as Amazon or somebody, you receive the instrument damaged. And that would really irk me. Especially when I paid a lot of money for the guitar. I've heard stories from friends who've ordered from Amazon experienced that; and it was because they didn't ship the guitar with a case. That's why I shop online and then go to the local shop. -Guitar Eddie

[@scoggers1628]

I love my local guitar shop, Hippie Music, in Shanghai, China and make sure to buy something every time I visit, even if that's only strings. It's run by a young couple who really know their stuff and even make some of their own products, with amps being their speciality. As a customer you're always made to feel welcome and can rely on personalized advice on gear. Sure, I buy gear online as well, as a small shop can't stock such a wide range, but I'd rather get things from Hippie Music whenever possible.

[@CitizenofMelee]

Originally, I bought all of my gear at my local guitar shop. I loved that place, they knew me, it was great. They eventually closed. Since then I have gotten a couple things at GC or another local place I never really connected with. But my last guitar I got from Sweatwater (Also an amazing place).

[@csnide6702]

Sweatwater... 🤣

[@CitizenofMelee]

@@csnide6702 D'oh! I mean yeah, that's the name of a shop somewhere around here.

[@csnide6702]

@@CitizenofMelee I thought you meant it as a slang name ... we have a grocery store called Shop n save here... we call it Try n save....

[@gremlinfred3]

I love guitar shops. I would rather goto Guitar Center and try out a guitar than buy online. I totally agree with you guys on every point. I'm lucky and have a shop 3 blocks from my place in Studio City, Ca.( shout out to Ventura Guitars in Studio City). Like your content always.

[@thelastnic]

Also, luthier service. Shops can service guitars instead of boxing it up and paying shipping. It is huge to get the guitar set to you and not a standard

[@BlpBud]

Im 62 and been going to guitar stores 45 years..the memories, sights , sounds and woodsy smell of a guitar store his etched in my mind. If im spending over 1,000 bucks on something i want to touch it first. ( that doesnt mean women trolls)

[@matthewtyler-jones8317]

I would always buy from a shop. Partly because I live close to two (two!) great guitar shops. Andertons and Guitar village. But also because you want to hold, play a guitar to see if you love it. Case in point: I am on the lookout for a good value tele. Saw a Squier FSR I liked the look of on Andertons website. But hated it when I went in to play. Similarly when I was buying an acoustic. I had my heart set on one I had seen online, but feel I love with a (cheaper) one I played in Guitar Village. They did me a nice deal on a hard case too.

[@marvinadn]

I like to buy local when I can and will support my local shops but as a lefty there aren’t loads of options.

[@RonBaker456]

So are buying from large online stores like Sweetwater or Musicians Friend more like buying from Lowes or the local hardware store? None of my local stores (within 100 miles or so) even had a 40 series Martin dreadnought to try. Funny you mentioned the D-41. I wound up with a D41 amber and freakin LOVE it!

[@FloridaDave_]

This is a tough one,I live in the Tampa area. There are several local shops...as well as GC and Sam Ash. I like to play Taylor acoustic guitars and the selection here is limited. I would love a shop with a Taylor or Martin room so I could play them and make a choice. I bought my last two Taylors through Sweetwater and they are great, they installed my strap locks and answered any questions I threw at them.

[@mark106t9]

7c in St. Pete. Lotsa Taylor's there and a wealth of knowledge (former Taylor luthiars)

[@FloridaDave_]

@@mark106t9 Thx! I saw they're in St. Pete...I'll check them out!

[@richardclark.]

Idk how many times the mom and pop stores saved our band when things went missing from a van or trailer on a long gig stretch. I have even had them offer to bring us gear after hours.

[@jmc1186]

I bought a Schecter during the pandemic. And don't get me wrong... it's a better guitar than I ever expected straight out of the box and i can't bring myself to sell it.. (I have Gibsons and Fenders too). It's earned its place in my collection and I've worn the finish off the neck in just 2 years... But shortly after buying it, i had a pickup lead come off a tone pot as well as the jack go out. Schecter would NOT help me. I called and called for months and I live 30 mins from their facility in LA... At least I learned how to fix guitars out of it 🤷‍♀️

[@dinosaursr]

Steve’s in Montreal. Going there since 1974. Chelsea Guitars in NYC is a hoot.

[@scottmacphee35]

My best local guitar shop is a pawn shop. Unless I want to buy a Teton acoustic, Yamaha or Michael Kelley electric, or an off-brand Chinese instrument, it's the only game in town. It always cracks me up when someone online says "just play the racks." The closest "racks" of Gibson or Fender are a six hour drive. If I want a new Fender, Gibson, PRS, Rick, Gretsch, even Epiphone or Squier, I have to buy online.

[@sienieckymark1462]

Thank you for the content. I love my local guitar dealer.

[@DeirdreSM]

Went to visit a local store (Danville Music, awesome selection) the other day. Talking about pedals, guy says he’s got five fuzz pedals. I’m trying to mentally count mine (in that ballpark) when he adds, “…and I’m a drummer.” Can’t get comedy like that from Fender’s website.

[@mknewlan67]

I walked into Guitar Center here and played a Epiphone Casino. Now I am a beginner and only know a couple chords but I want a semi hollow to grow with and I do know the sound I want anyways I asked the sales guy if I could play and see the Epiphone 335. He tells me you just played the Casino it’s the same thing. I just walked out. I don’t need to be treated that way. Im a disabled vet with limited movement in my left hand. I understand maybe I wasn’t a certain demographic but when I save enough I’ll go through Sweetwater. I will not set foot in Guitar Center again.

[@jonathanhorne6503]

I live 2 miles from one of the greatest guitar shops in the US. I even go an buy strings just to help support them. Their repair shop is the only the only place I will let touch my Martins. I have had good experiences buying off reverb, but it’s scary.

[@doanfiat]

Great video, and right on the money unless of course you play left handed as I do. How many lefties are in stock at Casino fellas? If you have three or more than I want to hug you as I cant count how many times shop owners have told me they dont stock them. Maybe they've got a low end beginner model, maybe. Sure, places like Southpaw and XLG are out there and are awesome, but if you dont serve your left handed customers than all that's left is going online.

[@robertmancini52]

If you are looking for a new high end guitar there are very few shops where you can play one. The exception is Fender. Even in Fender’s case there aren’t many MIA guitars, mostly MIM. I have had some success buying on line. I’m currently looking for a Gibson J45. Simply none within driving distance to see and play. I miss local stores but they are not coming back anytime soon.

[@brianhay4024]

As a new player I need to try out different guitars before I play but my local stores make this very uncomfortable for those of us with weak skills. It's much less of an ordeal to simply buy online even though it may not be the best guitar for me.

[@alangreenway6695]

All direct websites sell is current product. Always a joy to find a weird five year old model still hanging about in a shop somewhere. Currently I’m waiting to stumble upon a Lefty Japanese Jazzmaster somewhere that Fender swears doesn’t exist.

[@christopherwilloughby9353]

You are going to have to look for something from the early to mid-90’s. During that time fender only made lefty’s beside some American in Japan. I know this because when I went to buy my first electric. I had to save what seemed like a lot for a 15 year old and I wanted a Mexican bc that is what all my friends had and they were the squires of the day less the 300$ but they only tear down I could get was one from Japan for close to 400$ for a Strat and 450$ for a Tele. The guy at chucks wanted to sell the Tele but I only saved enough for the Strat. And I was tired of playing on guitars with flipped string and none electric. Gezz it was hell being a lefty back then. But if I were you I would check out SouthPaw in Houston. They only carry lefty guitars and they have tons new and vintage. I would call them and they could tell you if the jazz master made in Japan ever existed and hell they might have one. Good luck fellow lefty. FYI @casinoguitars you need to add at least one lefty to the back wall and at least sell a couple on your site. When I looked you had 0.

[@son0fsocal]

I understand you guys want to keep in business. I wish you well and success but I just took delivery of a KEISEL JB4, it’s AMAZING. It was made especially for me , what I paid for it would have gotten me a mediocre Fender.

[@_rafael_b]

Hi guys! Great subject. I don't really have anything to add except that I agree with everything that you both said. I've never bought a guitar online before. I'm not saying that I wouldn't, but I do like to actually play a guitar at least a little before I get it. That's how I fell in love with most of the guitars that I own now. I subscribe to the notion that a guitar can pick you, and it can't really do that from a photo unless you are strictly buying with your eyes.

[@charlesbolstridge3871]

I live halfway between Portland Oregon and San Francisco 4 me too actually go to a good guitar shop I would would have to have a 5 to 6 hours driving. To say the least the UPS man stops at my house once every other month with any thing I need for guitars I would love to go and walk through guitar shops it's not always possible for everyone in America. We have a local one-and-one an hour away but they barely have any stock and its old guys who don't really care they're just living out the string or it's a Guitar Center where they have everything but what you need 😊

[@Jethlin2020]

Trying the instrument out is one of the best reasons to buy local. I have two identical guitars and one sounds like garbage. I buy the one I play on store. Exceptions could be that hard to find Item or collector item, as was the case with the garbage one that I have.

[@taurektaurek6213]

Love your video! My two cents: Especially if you don't want or can't do a proper set-up yourself, go to a trustworthy local dealer.. pay some bucks more.. great investment of your hard earned monies!

[@kkzooi]

the 4 guitar shops that used to be around town where i live have all closed down over the last 15 years due to various reasons so i dont really have a local guitar shop.. I do often order from a small store that is across the country. they offer good service and there is always a small handwritten note with every order which is quite nice and makes it feel a bit more personal. their prices are a little higher than most big stores but not that much. the buying experience is a lot better than with big stores. As long as prices for buying direct from manufacturer stay higher than in just about every retail store there is absolutely no incentive for me to buy direct

[@cc5053]

Guitar Center put most of our local shops out of business and then opened multiple branches of their shell company, "Music & Arts", in surrounding towns to occupy additional distributor territory and prevent any independents from carrying the major brands. The two local shops left here are surviving off of repairs, music lessons, off brand import sales, and used gear on consignment.

[@jdb2722]

I didn’t know that music and arts was GC. Thanks for the knowledge. I’ve been seeing those pop up all over Phoenix.

[@cc5053]

​@@jdb2722 They go in and buy out local shops, turn them into M&A stores. GC also owns the online retailer musiciansfriend. If you buy from them you're technically buying from GC.

[@jdb2722]

@@cc5053 that’s interesting. The music arts store seem ok for your first instrument purchase but nothing beyond that. Maybe if you need a pack of strings. I’ve wondered how they stay open.

[@cc5053]

@@jdb2722 I had the same question. There are two in my area and you barely see any customer cars in the parking lots, plus their inventory is a joke. Here's the deal as I see it. One of the local shops here was an OEM repair shop for Gibson for 40 years. They knew him by his first name, then all of a sudden he can't get parts and they couldn't find his account number in their system...after 40 years. I think GC uses M&A stores to occupy distributor territory in smaller markets to kill competition, even if the M&A stores lose money in the process. I couldn't become a Gibson or Fender dealer because the M&A (aka GC) store down the street is already the local authorized dealer. You see, Gibson would rather ship 100 guitars to one GC than ship 3 or 4 each to smaller dealers in the area. IMO, Gibson and GC work together to manipulate smaller markets and shut out competition.

[@jdb2722]

@@cc5053 evil empire reigns

[@justiceforall6412]

I have bought both ways. I learned best. It's best to only buy locally. You get better service, you don't save anything buying direct, if you have an issue you can go get it resolved quickly, and you support your local economy.

[@rchlclr]

I love walking into a guitar store with a vague sense of what I want and then talking to a salesperson who knows their shit and can find exactly what I didn't know I wanted. That can't happen online. Sometimes just talking over what you're looking for is what you need in order to make the right decision.

[@MrDanalaimo]

Even after watching this video I just ordered from Sweetwater. 1) I knew exactly what I wanted and they had it. 2) I've really good experiences with my sales engineer. 3) I wanted it right away so the choices were Sweetwater, Guitar Center or Fender (good customer service experiences in their recent sales). Sweetwater sat best in my conscience. It was the Squier Mini P Bass which I have and i'm buying another for adult daughter - we both like it so much we can't share. It punches well above its price class. But does Casino even sell basses? I'd love to hear your thoughts on Minis someday- the Mini P is much more than a toy or a children's instrument.

[@zeeb0w]

just to clarify, when they mention buying direct - they’re referring to buying from the manufacturer like fender, gibson or taylor. sweetwater is a retailer (dealer) and they’re not suggesting that you shouldn’t buy from an online retailer. sweetwater former ceo built it from the ground up, pretty cool story. just clarifying and if that’s what you meant, then ignore my comment. when i read it, it sounded like you thought this was a video to not buy from sweetwater, which it isn’t meant to be

[@MrDanalaimo]

@zeeb0w Yes, Sweetwater is a notch better than buying from Fender, but still far from supporting a local guitar shop, which was the main point. I wish I had something better near me than Guitar Center. However, Fender has treated me well from a customer relations standpoint, which counts for a lot in my view

[@minisurfbanana]

The hard part of buying local is they dont have what i want!!! Everything i have bought was on Reverb and a couple from Sweetwater. PRS McCarty and PRS CE at Wildcat Guitars on the west coast. And im east coast...great discounts. Sweetwater Fender Jimi Monterey. Custom Shop Strat from Reverb mint $1500 off. 3 Gibsons off Reverb. 2 were local but found on Reverb and made local deals.

[@stoneysdead689]

I don't know of a single musician who wouldn't rather buy from a brick-and-mortar shop. You get to try the instrument before buying it, you can even bring your amp and make absolute sure- buying online is always a crap shoot. I just bought a Classic Vibe Strat- 70's HSS, all black with the maple neck and feet board- love it- anyway- I had to buy 3 before I got a good one that had a decent setup- thankyou to Total Music Source of Cape Coral Florida by the way. That said- if the local shop never has what you want, and I mean never- that's not an exaggeration- you stop going there. Also- they stopped doing setups. They literally sell you the guitar the way they received it- and still charge the same price as anyone else. When I go in and ask them for a pedal or something like that- they look at me like I'm speaking Russian or something- and then admit, they have no idea what I'm talking about. Which isn't surprising considering the only person in the shop is a 60 something year old lady- most days. About 2-3 times a week a guy comes in who plays and he may not know the exact pedal, but he understands gear and playing guitar at a casual level I would say. If I owned a shop- hell, what am I saying, I don't own a shop and I still do it- I would be watching every pedal review, every guitar review, and reading every comment underneath them- to get a good picture of where ppl are, what they think- in general. To stay on top of what new gear is out there, what options ppl have. If you're a guitar shop and you don't know what the bestselling guitar is right now or what the latest piece of gear to be released is- wtf man? This is obviously not what you really want to be doing. It's your job, but that's not good enough- it needs to be your passion. That's who I want to buy from, someone who is just as passionate about this silly shit as me.

[@the92project]

Does buying from a guitar shop online counts? I have nothing decent where I live

[@CraigGriffiths]

I buy something every time I enter, even if it is just a packet of picks. But in my area cheap SX guitars are the bread and butter of shops. I end up on line looking for better things.

[@Dram1984]

The nearest shop to me that both isn’t Guitar Center AND has major brands is about 200 miles.

[@electricurinal]

I have bought several guitars from Sweetwater, and every single one of them had either bad handling damage (dented necks from rings on fingers), or broken parts. It super hard for me to commit to buying a guitar sight-unseen anymore. The best guitar I have is one I bought from our local music store. They were a brand new Fender dealer in 1999. The guitar I got was the first one Fender sent to the store. Don't know if it was hand-picked by Fender to start the store off with a bang, or if it was pure dumb-luck... but nothing has come close to touching that Am Std Ash Telecaster. Still have it... it's on its second set of frets. Nothing comes close.

[@garrysimmons111]

I buy local when they have what I want (at a sane price). I'm lucky to have a couple good Mom & Pop shops plus a couple GCs. Hard to beat the selection and stock from the major online retailers.

[@vampyr145]

I wish I could go to a local store but the one store near me only stock Ibenez, Cort and Tokai. I buy what I can from them and often don't mind paying the mark up, although for pedles they can be $150 more than what stores several hours away. I try to just buy online from small retailers.

[@davegallagher7428]

I’m very lucky I have Northeast music and they are a great store Jack and Tyler know guitars. I have also taken the time to know some guys at my local GC, and they are really good as well.

[@mars6433]

@2:36 He'll widdle me a battery to start my car. Now that's some serious customer service.

[@ssevegeta]

Unfortunately as a lefty, online shops are the best bet walking into a guitar center, Sam ash or especially ken Stanton is the worst experience for me. And before I get the just learn right handed, I tried it didn't work and now I'm like 14 years in so I'm not starting over.

[@castleanthrax1833]

Two very nice es models between you guys. A 335 and a 345 (or maybe a 355) I think?

[@benlogan430]

I always buy local now. If they don’t have it and can’t get it I don’t need it. It’s getting more difficult with clothes, shoes and the like, but we still have a couple music shops in my state. And I buy American made guitars and amps mostly. I need a local shop for luthier and amp tech service not just gear purchases.

[@sevennotes8940]

I play the same Aspirin you do. Wow.

[@WilliamHaisch]

Let me know the next time you throw away a guitar. As a self proclaimed representative of the Dumpster Diver Nation, I will need to inspect and liberate said guitar for the archive. I live in Nebraska so you’ll have to give me an appropriate lead time. Thank you for your assistance in this situation!

[@csnide6702]

I'm in Michigan ... & No ice fishing this year... ! please support your local guitar/ music shop.... !

[@ericwarrington6650]

I bought both of my Gibson's straight from Gibson and they are nearly flawless I must admit..and that's 100percent correct about shops but they also have to live up to a standard w musicians and a lot just don't treat people right...cuz being resistant to change when " the world it is a changing" is business suicide..the world is very different.. everyone has to roll w change in life or be left behind

[@1964vintage]

If you don’t live in the US it can be very difficult to find not only variety but affordable musical instruments as a whole. Many countries have high duties and taxes on guitars. Which makes a lot shop owners incapable of stocking large inventories especially local small businesses who rightly so try to offer a decent array of all products related to their general business purpose. The introduction of online shopping has opened up the musical instrument industry like many other industries to a greater market. However the old saying still is relevant ‘Buyer Beware’.

[@andyvelletri1350]

I ordered a Fender mod shop strat that showed up with such a bad setup that it was unplayable.When I complained to them about it and sent them pic's they accused me of screwing up the guitar to scam them.The conversation got seriously heavy after that, f_ _ _ Fender!

[@ItsVictoriaG]

Bought direct twice because no one in the US carries Brian May Guitars. Would’ve loved to had the chance to run the racks for my Windermere blue Arielle. It’s my favorite guitar of all, and imagine if I got to try a couple to see which best matched with me? 🤯

[@holstorrsceadus1990]

I just saw one in Music Go Round this weekend.

[@TheChromaDrone]

I’m sure this will cut into your bottom line, but my suspicion would be it will affect your online sales more than your walk-in sales of guitars. I could be wrong. I’m curious, are you more profitable with guitar sales or with service and accessory sales? Best of luck to you guys!

[@donnieyon8658]

The Baxters back

[@evalonious]

I'd like to honor my two local guitar shops. Musican's Workshop founded in 1967! And Hayday Music. We need a National Bring a Box of Donuts to the Guitar Shop Day to honor the brave men and women on the front lines. Casino Guitars could make that a trend!

[@LexingtonDaniel]

I took the guys scones a couple weeks ago, that counts right? Although I don't think they saved one for Baxter...

[@CasinoGuitars]

Those were amazing! We loved the scones.

[@evalonious]

@@CasinoGuitars Scones! When I come to Casino Guitar’s appreciation day, I’m bringing beer and whiskey! And not the cheap shit.😅 Ok fine, I’ll bring scones!

[@evalonious]

@@LexingtonDaniel Well Baxter claims that he doesn’t drink coffee. So ya, does he really need a scone?😅

[@austinmidwest7062]

i would love to get more from the shop where i'm at, but they just don't carry much of the inventory they used to. many parts , brands they just don't carry any longer

[@timsmith8489]

I got a Fender acoustic direct from Fender and it was so badly QCed it was painful to pick up due to the sharp protruding fret ends on 90% of the frets. Any attempt to play it left noticeable scratches on my left hand. Also the 13th fret on the 1st string produced a G instead of an F. All the other notes where right. I can't figure out how that it is geometrically possible for 13 and 15 to play the same note without 14 also playing that note. It got sent back and Fender is now on my "never buy unless I can play it first" list, since I'm no longer sure they do any QC.

[@mohamedtlass3842]

Fender acoustics aren’t that great anyways

[@timharrington4470]

I wish there was a guitar shop in my area Is, I live in the Boondocks.

[@Shredxcam22]

1 to 2 hour drive to a local shop. Wish something was closer. But it's to rural of an area to support one

[@mikec6733]

The shops near me, and maybe everywhere, only give peanuts on a trade in. Like 50% of the price they're gonna sell it for. Also, they'll only take an instrument in "sales floor ready" condition. If I'm like, "I'd like to trade in this guitar, the toggle switch is a little scratchy sounding". They're like, "go get it fixed, then we'll talk". So I'm supposed to go pay some tech $100, (on a $200 guitar), when the shop has all the tools and knowledge, and could fix it in 5 minutes. Seems to me like they're shooting themselves in the foot. Taking in a used guitar that needs a little attention is an opportunity for them to make some good money.

[@Mpcoluv]

I tried buying local. My dealer told me six months delivery, where Sweetwater shipped next week.

[@DigitalChemistryBand]

We, in Washington State, have almost no mom and pop music stores anymore, excepting the band instrument stores, who have inferior products, as to guitars. I had to go to Sweetwater for my Charvelle... they couldn't even put it in the case I purchased. TG for Amazon, at least I can audition different string brands without leaving my house... TY corporate America for ruining customer service, or customer experiences... 🙄

[@jjulch]

Looks like a Heritage 535 next to the Gibson ES335. Doing any comparisons?

[@benlutz2835]

I had an awesome buying experience with Sweetwater only to get a crap Martin guitar

[@bozodeclown67]

I've never bought a guitar online. How could you? I mean, when I try out guitars in a shop, maybe 1 in 30 is something that speaks to me. How do you do that online??? Maybe if you're buying PRS which are consistent almost to a fault.

[@Magic_Man916]

I have a dilemma... I wanted to buy a Les Paul Standard at my local shop, but I couldn't get approved for their financing... But I was approved online.. and it's a better color, and has the pickups I want.. and it's less money...

[@Magic_Man916]

Update: I still bought the local guitar