Sweetwater Bought Out

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[@fishrike]

I worked at Sweetwater until the end of May this year so by way of adding some perspective - as far as I am aware, chuck is still 49% share holder, is the chairman of the board and his long time executive VP is now CEO. This is not the first time that Chuck has sold his majority share to an investment company. In the 80’s or early 90’s sweetwater he did the same thing but wasn’t happy with the way it was being run so bought back his majority. I feel given that experience this deal probably has stipulations to prevent it from going south. Plus, if SW wants to continue to fill the void that GC is leaving as they diminish, that need capital and long term shepherding. Of course things could change for the worst but I’m fairly optimistic that it’s going to maintain for a while.

[@joshviggiani9844]

Thanks for making me feel better about this

[@seraph127]

This is a valuable perspective. I think we can all understand the general suspicion of capital investment groups and hedge fund managers. The first in particular are known to be particularly rapacious, but they normally target businesses that are financially distressed. They swoop in like vultures and pick the bones clean, leaving someone else to bury the remains (*herm*BainCapital*herm*). "This is not the first time that Chuck has sold his majority share to an investment company." This gives me reason for cautious optimism that everything will be all right.

[@justignoreme7725]

Huge thanks for the info. I'm just working out how to tweet what you've said out. Can you put what you said up onto twitter or anyone to do with #42gsthree Thanks

[@fishrike]

@@justignoreme7725 I don’t use the Twitter, sorry man.

[@Assimilator702]

@@justignoreme7725 Twitter is cancer. Stay away from that platform.

[@mikegurney7841]

The problem with capital investors is that they have no passion for the industry. The passion is what helped Chuck build Sweetwater and what drives its employees (who, pretty much are all musicians). The investors will squeeze every penny they can from the company and quickly ditch it (read: sell it off) when they feel they've "maxxed" it out. Then they'll be on to the next investment. I love Sweetwater. I've had nothing but great experiences with them and I don't fault Chuck for selling, but I hope it's awhile before I have to find somewhere else to buy my gear.

[@DarkSideofSynth]

Exactly! This goes for any kind of business: if you're in for the passion, and money is a consequence of your hard work driven by passion, by doing what you LIKE (even love at times), or if you're in for the money. If it's all about money, the kind of business doesn't really matter to you, and ALL your choices will be driven by the bottom line, not the job you like doing. Plus, at the end of the day, those who sell are to blame as well. Hell, they're the ONLY ONES to blame. After all, they put a price tag on their passion. You don't wanna do your job anymore? Shut it down. It's not the investor who killed the spirit, it's the seller who betrayed their own "dream".

[@frozendivots1564]

No one forced the sale. Chuck knows all about corporations and in the end did the same thing they do.

[@SamVecchio]

@mikegurney It’s the beginning of the end. Sad

[@frozendivots1564]

@@SamVecchio unless chuck buys it back for pennies on the dollar when it fails. That’s also common.

[@jfmax2000]

Ditto

[@PhotoTrekr]

Guitar Center is a shadow of it's former self. Sweetwater has always been known for quality and customer service. Hope they don't screw it up.

[@jeffcrook2521]

The service department totally blows They don’t return phone calls. They like when you buy something but don’t know you when you need a repair.

[@jeffcohen9017]

I love Sweetwater and their tech support is 2nd to none!! That's why I value doing business with them!

[@bbadgett29]

One of the first things these corporate accountants will start asking themselves, "Why do we have all these people sitting around chatting on the phone?"

[@mastershredder78]

Sweetwater is the best! I really hope this buyout doesn't change that stellar customer service that they've always given. 🙏

[@mikedonnellan4937]

"The first thing we usually have to do is get rid of the idea guy." This from a VC speaker in one my MBA courses years ago. The love of money is a root out of which every kind of evil springs.

[@teemlee51]

If they stop sending a package of candy with the shipments...I'm out!!!!

[@marktwain5232]

LOL! I once accused them of making my diabetes worse! My Great Rep had a good laugh! SW is the greatest sales support company I have ever dealt with in any field! Just spectacular!

[@timo1947]

More Smarties, please!

[@johnebersberger1803]

They once forgot to put candy in a package and I told them that my wife approved of all my musical purchases because of the candy! They sent me a whole box full of candy, and then separately sent a glass candy jar full of candy with the Sweetwater logo on it!

[@jaytc3218]

I used to joke w/ sales rep that I got a free instrument with my $2,000 bag of candy.

[@Sumbibebe]

This is the saddest news in the music world. I’ve been with Sweetwater since 2006 and I’ve been happy every single time I’ve used them, 100% super satisfied. I know that now it’s going to be a memory. First thing that will be slaughtered will be the Tech Support (the best in the world). They will force Sweetwater to change. It’s been wonderful living during a time when I was able to enjoy nostalgia like the buying experience at Sweetwater. Guitar Center was dead to me since I’ve known them. I only use them to touch the instruments and then I’d buy from Sweetwater and ZZounds (they give more time to pay but not much on tech support). Sad news indeed. I’m not a kid anymore… it’s over!!

[@beyond9109]

I think you are correct. Tech support, then sales reps, then return policy, then product selection, then product availability, then warranty, then Chinese branded stuff will start floating around. Before long they will have 3rd party sellers. They will become just another online retailer. I am sure they told the board and execs that their company was special and they understand it. It would be a sin to change ANYTHING! Every one of these buyouts run the same playbook. Court the execs and owners. Butter them up. Sing to them how special and different they are. Wine them , dine them, 69 them, then sign them and kick em out the door without a shower. I also don't buy the argument that the owners need to look out for their family and make more money. They are rich AF. When you have a business employing hundreds or thousands of employees and a HUGE customer base you have a responsibility to them too. So sad. It's like rolling the dice to order from them now. Do I keep spending my money there and hope things don't go down the drain? Do I start building a relationship elsewhere? ugh

[@Sumbibebe]

@@beyond9109 every word you said is so true and this makes it so sad. I’m beginning to understand why most major guitar companies also have import lower end slave labor built guitars… that’s going to be the future and American made will just be a thing to desire. We hear stories like, “I remember when an American Strat was just under $200.” And we’ll be saying that is was $600 and then $1200. But our new generation will have to live with just under $2500 for an entry level American made Strat. I hope that we’ll be able to 3D print a Strat soon

[@mechuniversal]

@@beyond9109 I agree with your statement about the owner also owing his customers and staff, but the owner of Sweetwater was not that great a person to begin with. Apparently he did build a culture where those that worked hard could do well so he has that going for him, but he sold them out. That's just who he is.

[@tedbahas]

@@mechuniversal Hmm Thats a pretty harsh judgement of somebody you don't know, and clearly you don't know Chuck.

[@phillipholt6005]

I also started with Sweetwater since 2006! I'm shocked.

[@TVoltG]

Love Sweetwater. Truly the best service in the business. My sales Representative has become a friend. I am currently in debt to Synchrony/Sweetwater for $2300 interest free, I have already spent about $10k with them over the years. And whenever it gets lower and lower, I am always searching for more 48 month deals. Lol. Love the company. Wishing the best! I am trusting Chuck. I think he will keep a close eye on them.

[@blkcrowe999]

They will make them change and they won't understand, those who speak up against it will be in for an unpleasant experience.

[@howardanderson3061]

Amen, Sweetwater is king when it comes to new gear. I hope this deal doesn't kill Sweetwater.

[@tanukibrahma]

Been buying from Sweetwater since 1998. A very special company for musicians and audio engineers.

[@captainaction8100]

I do almost all my major purchases through sweetwater. That 0% financing works, as well as, service is top tier. I’ve been working with the same rep for years now. Gtr center has gone downhill, I don’t even go there unless I want to waste hours waiting for service. I think everything you’re saying is spot on. If they ruin the sweetwater business model that will be a shame. I’ve always had great experiences working with them. Brad is my rep so I found that funny. Great video sir.

[@jorgefrias7889]

Sweetwater financing options and costumer services have made it so amazing I shop there exclusively for so long. Let’s not forget that awesome bag of candy lol.

[@phoenixsounddesign6310]

Absolutely bang on mate...well put... Everything that you said in your video represents all our thoughts exactly! Cheers, Mark Phoenix Sound Design

[@new2dayuser151]

Buying from Sweetwater is like stepping into another world! They make you feel like your family! I have never in my entire life met such caring people who go above and beyond to make sure your a satisfied customer!

[@mikecorey8370]

Sadly, not for long.

[@petesmith6434]

I have been purchasing gear from the same Sweetwater sales engineer for 23 years. I sure hope that the change in ownership does not change my relationship with Sweetwater and the sales engineer that has given me great service over many years.

[@robertshamansky1912]

I buy all my gear from Sweetwater. I hope this doesn’t ruin them.

[@johnwelch557]

The word is 'integrity'. Normally an investment firm has no product/customer integrity. Money is their religion. Anything else doesn't exist. Your points are spot on. Thanks.

[@johnnythepillpopper1974]

Damn....I’m still crying for Borders and Toys R Us

[@homestudiohaven]

Barry - I've been to the store and it is amazing. I live about 2 hours south of Ft. Wayne so it's an easy drive for me. I share the concern about how a PE firm can absolutely destroy a company. Chuck will serve as Chairman of the Board and the new CEO is a long time member of Chuck's executive team, so hopefully they will have a major role in maintaining the culture.

[@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION]

The "Chuck " is on the board, is just a PR move so that business partners, vendors, and employess don't run out the door.. Things will change. Usually , the old CEo will have a 2 year buyout.. That's when the big changes will occur. PS. That new store looks like a glorified Guitar Center. Not high end.. Just somple mid to low range items

[@homestudiohaven]

@@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION actually, no it was super nice with tons of high end gear. The mic collection available directly in the store was most definitely NOT low end stuff. They had more pedals in one row of a multi row kiosk than I've seen in an entire GC store. It's definitely higher end stuff. That said, there is also beginner and mid-range stuff in the store. Of course with it being linked to the warehouse, you can walk right in and get what you need (absent the covid supply chain disruptions every industry is experiencing). I'm not endorsed by Sweetwater, so please don't take this as me marketing for them. Just my honest feedback from having personally been in the store just a few weeks ago. I also like Vintage King and SoundPure for new studio gear.

[@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION]

@@homestudiohaven They had little to no higher end guiaters and basses.. The Pro audio recording gear was typical guitar center stuff.. The best part of the store was used dept..

[@RyRyTheBassGuy]

@@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION What high end recording gear would you like them to sell? They seem to have everything anyone could want outside of consoles.

[@homestudiohaven]

@@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION When were you there JJDPro? We had two very different experiences for sure. The guitars they had when I was there last month ranged from beginner to higher end pro. They don't carry Surh or Tom Anderson (two of my favs), so there is room for improvement. However, they did have pro's on hand to "set up" the Gretch I bought. You won't find that at GC. As for pro audio, I've never walked into a GC and found the ridiculous amount of pro gear on hand (Burl's, Carbon's, Tube Tech's, LA2A's, and the mic collection was sic (U47's, U67's, C12's). Again, I don't see high end mics in a GC store. The closest I found to walking in and being able to walk out with higher end recording gear (my specialty), is Vintage King. You are correct about the used section. It was pretty good. Happy Writing/Recording.

[@commonman317]

Another investment firm buys a business it knows nothing about. From my experience, it usually means lower product availability, jacked up prices, and people getting fired. Lets hope this won't be the case.

[@souflikar6702]

This is worrisome. Never had better customer service than from Sweetwater. Been a customer for years and years. I wonder if I’ll still get the bag of candy with future orders?

[@terrymiller111]

They might start giving out a few stevia-flavored pieces of tofu.

[@carlosserrano3985]

That's expenses, got to go!

[@B9Robot]

Thanks for the update. I do business with them mostly as well. Phil is my sales agent. Peace and Love be with you all.

[@GeorgeAmodei21]

Right! I hope they don’t change. Sweetwater is SWEET!☺️

[@richardperry4105]

That’s disappointing to hear! I really hope the people and culture is maintained.

[@Bhallmed]

Change #1 - cancel the candy Change #2 - restrict return policy Change #3 - reduce social media influencer program & compensation Change #4 - reduce sales reps Change #5 - eliminate customer service post sales follow up calls Change #6 - go mostly to automation and reduced human interaction

[@montanamaxxamillion]

And call it overhead reduction ugh

[@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION]

YOu already know it's coming..Why Chuck? Why ??

[@kingsx925]

The candy is the best part!

[@JJDPROMEDIAPRODUCTION]

🤦‍♂️😢😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@bryancolevox]

I agree. When I heard about this it threw up some red flags. I truly hope that Sweetwater doesn't lose it's quality and customer service. I have done business with Vintage King and have been very happy. I deal with one person, who knows me and knows my gear and usually is a big help. Great video!

[@philipdonovan5127]

Thank you Barry, I appreciate your report on this and hope your wishes for a continued quality service continues with Sweetwater.

[@FultonStreetBeats]

The entire world has gone to hell. He's cashing out while he can. I'd do the same thing. And he's Still a 49% holder . Smart thing to do in today's day and age.

[@MrTennisgolf]

Wow! I guess I’d better start wearing my Sweetwater t-shirt more before I’m ashamed to do so. I know I don’t deal with Guitar Center anymore since they insulted me on a trade-in price and were totally inflexible to what was in their “book.” This has cost them the sales of 5 basses, one amp and 1 guitar, so far. I only deal with a local family owned music store (Victor Litz in MD) now, where I get a fair trade-in price. I have bought from Sweetwater in the past and was the only online store I really trusted. I hope this doesn’t change.

[@hanskung3278]

If they do away with that 55 pt inspection it won't be a loss, it's really BS.

[@mikecorey8370]

Everyone expects their guitar to be perfectly set up by Sweetwater. They never say they're going to do that. How do tjey know how you want it set up.

[@hanskung3278]

@@mikecorey8370 Who said anything about a set up, it's a inspection and many times it's a BS inspection because they don't.....

[@h1de]

😲 man I hope things don't change or get ruined. I love them and their customer service is so good.

[@Mr_A_Mia]

Second that

[@massttrshrdrharmonicminor2002]

Behringer pedals went up 5 bux

[@jpdenk]

I hadn't heard about this, makes me sick to my stomach. Let's hope that they let Chuck continue running the show the way he always has, lock up the one-track-minded bean counters!

[@crazyleg2006]

Really good video. Thanks for taking the time to put it up for me and everyone else. It's always nice to find videos and information that help us solve problems. Plz don't change Sweetwater!~

[@danieladrian103]

I hope they will still offer payment plans lol

[@Synthshop]

I bet the first thing those damn bean counters will cut is the bag of candy they put in each shipment. That's where it will start, who knows where its gonna end.

[@mattf.3124]

I very recently moved from Fort Wayne and used to frequent the Sweetwater Campus and retail store often, witnessing their very large expansions in multiple areas. I've also worked for 2 Fortune 500 companies who had a similar sounding corporate strategy where both companies went south and whose solid reputation was destroyed due to capital greed. What I question is if Sweetwater is so vastly profitable and marketed as rock-solid, why is this occuring? Something does not add up here.

[@Lee-vo7dl]

Excellent Point!!!!

[@blkcrowe999]

Yep, something not adding up

[@CeDubble]

The owner maybe getting up in age and is getting to the point where he wants to be a little more hands off to gain more time with family!

[@univibe23]

My problem with Sweetwater is that (at least in my experience) looking at their guitar selection, they hardly ever have anything IN STOCK! It's almost always 'more coming soon! And I can go over to American Musical and they have the guitar ready to ship.

[@MegaPortenio]

I had the same problem with them!

[@michaelgreen5206]

That's why purchased a guitar from Musicians Friends as SW didn't have what wanted and found the guitar I wanted for $1000 less!!!

[@Stashmanfpv]

Every Music Retailer has been hit HARD from “The Bug” and stock will continue to look sparse until after this has blown over a bit… that’s just the way it is. I personally would never buy a guitar sight unseen, especaially from AMS, ZZounds, or Musicians Friend. At the very least, Sweetwater can give you pics, and the opportunity to look at several guitars, instead of getting whatever they decide to send you, and I’ve seen some of the guitars that come from those “three” companies mentioned above. And they lack any kind of real Customer Service. Half of them don’t even know the products they sell and are just trained monkeys answering phones… Yeah, I’ll continue to wait for guitars, or gear, from Sweetwater, if they’re out of stock at the moment. And Sweetwater “DOUBLES” the length of your warranties and has an in-house repair for electronics and the like. Does The other “three” come close to any of that…? No they don’t and that’s why Sweetwater is the best! 🔥 ✌🏼

[@Virtual-Media]

Thanks for the heads up I was about ready to make another purchase from Sweetwater..

[@teashea1]

We shall see ---- I recently did purchase an Audient 4816SE console from Sweetwater. It was shipped directly from England. It arrived safely.

[@lds251]

One thing to look out for if the company is going down hill is when your product arrives and the package of candy is missing.

[@user-mr1ku5iz8l]

Candy will be the first cost cutting measure that happens.

[@squeakD]

Man I hope they still continue to operate as they are now. I used to shop at all of the other retailers back in the day, but that changed years ago. I do all of my gear shopping at Sweetwater. Their customer service is amazing, shipping is fast, and great financing. Sweetwater isn’t just a music store and online retailer. It’s a big company.

[@quailstudios]

I love Sweetwater! They are the bomb! I hope they don’t change!

[@silencedones4421]

They are the bomb? I can understand if you are a teenager but find it hard to believe that an adult still thinks that sounds cool. Be a leader and have respect for yourself.

[@ADGreen-es6hm]

I’m with you I haven’t been in a Guitar Center In years I’m sorry to hear this about Sweetwater.

[@BillMWirth]

I hope it stays the same. I came to hate GC this week as I’ve spent untold thousands there and they now only care about the next sale. I bought a new MIM Telecaster in January. Was not my cup of tea, and looked at a possible trade for a different guitar. They currently sell same guitar for $799. Mine was pristine and offered me $250 on mine. I was livid and offended at such a lowball offer. They are selling the same used for $749! Their response was we don’t make the rules. Never used to be that way. Closed my account and will not be going back.

[@edwardprete]

This is normal, where they offer 1/3 of new or roughly 1/2 of used price. Sell on FBM or CL and you’ll sell it quick at 500-550.

[@TWMTWM-eb1lw]

Barry, thanks. I had not heard this so I appreciate your post. Yes, I hope nothing changes. I love Sweetwater and agree with everything you stated.

[@timcastle165]

I hope things don’t change at Sweetwater, I do like you buy from them and love how they are friendly and helpful!!

[@michaellux5849]

Capital investors have a tendency to ruin everything for the sake of profits.

[@GeoZero]

Ugh... that sucks. I hope they don't change. Looks like Vintage King now.

[@nicholelevine629]

I already noticed a difference in their customer service months ago this answers it. What a shame

[@howbouthat5479]

I use Zzounds for most of my gear purchases and Sweetwater only if I can't find it at the former.

[@Banditman]

Sweetwater is definitely my "go to" for new equipment. Their service has always been beyond my expectations. Unfortunately, it's really hard to put a price on that. Capital investors can never see that. Hope for the best is all we can do.

[@charlievance8750]

Just received a ditto Looper pedal TC Electronics. I asked the rep about having to buy the adapter (Sold seperate) I mentioned to him I had just purchased a Boss ME-80 and the rep saved me about 30 bucks he said the adapter will work on the looper! Great bunch of guys that know about music.

[@HorologicRannygazoo]

Same here. All my expensive gear is either bargain priced used or from Sweetwater. No Bit-O-Honey in my last two candy bags, though. What's up with that?

[@justbob7718]

I received my new $1500 Stratocaster last week. NO candy at all! First time that has happened....

[@StratBurst92]

I have been a Sweetwater customer for years. Just bought a surf green Squire Classic Vibe 70s Jaguar. As usual it arrived in perfect condition and well set up .Hope things do not change for the worse. My sales rep is David Mikautadze and he has always been great.

[@gregoryivesdolbyatmosmusic]

Glad I bought my 20k worth of stuff for my upgrade in Jan

[@fredbecher3610]

My only music store Milano Music Mesa AZ, celebrating their 75 anniversary this month. They have staffers with over 25 years tenure.

[@woodzmusik6697]

You are point on point...I'm going to take my business to Sweetwater....

[@gitaaa7740]

Sweetwater has 30k of my money. Now I don’t hear from them.

[@JoeHuman]

Sweetwater is THE best. I remember when they had the flooding a few years back, I got a call saying my package was still on schedule and I was like, "forget that.. are YOU guys okay?" I get all my new purchases from Sweetwater and I hope the Sweetwater culture continues to thrive. ✌🏾🤟🏾

[@mrfuzztone]

Capital investment companies usually want too much profit. That is their usual mode of operation. More money for the very rich.

[@FansSports]

When Spectrum Communications (Charter) purchased Time Warner everything change for the worst. Season People lost their job, high pressure sales in lieu of quality customer service. We went form number 1 in the industry to dead last. So I hear what you're saying. I hope the candy is still a worthy expense!

[@djvision1]

I agree with you 100 Percent Barry!!

[@BNA_Est.1988]

Ive been witn Sweetwater for the past 6 years. Everything from Kemper to wireless systems. I HOPE this doesn’t ruin Sweetwater because they are so good. S/o to sales engineer, Ikes Taylor.

[@edpohl1157]

I’ve bought a ton of gear from Sweetwater. Please keep Gear Fest!

[@fakshen1973]

They'll run up debt with their vendors while paying the investment firm huge management fees. Then everyone will settle for pennies on the dollar as employees flee and Sweetwater becomes another Guitar Center.

[@MikeJones-oe3do]

Yep, like a mafia bust out

[@simply3141592654]

Wildwood Guitars has great service also.

[@pascute118]

Sweetwater always gives me candy when I buy stuff and for that I thank you 🍭

[@elgringoec]

I've bought from them. Hope they stay great!

[@oldskool9147]

Thanks Barry for the video on Sweetwater. Like you, I buy everything from Sweetwater. This is a real shame that such a good music store raised from a garage, is going to be destroyed by a investment company. Eventually the music industry itself is going to be destroyed by these type of take-overs. We need people like you to discuss these topics. Thank you for your insight on this subject. DLCampbell

[@zaphods2ndhead193]

I also gave up on Guitar Center. I have bought a lot of my equipment from Sweetwater, I hear from my sales rep at least a few times a year and they have always served me well. I HOPE they don't change.

[@chasvox2]

Excellent presentation. Very impressed. Most articulate. I do business with Westlake Pro in Universal City, CA - (I used to live in Studio City, CA) - and still do. But I have always been impressed with Sweetwater's presentation skills and have knowledge of them though my affiliation with Mojave Audio because I am a sponsored artist with them...tested many of their mics as a VO artist. Keep up the good work Mr. Johns. I am going to subscribe as a result of your "sagacity."

[@Corky_Muldoon]

I love dealing with Norb at Sweetwater. I hope the staff isn't affected. I had a defective bass cabinet a few years ago. By the time I realized the problem, I'd already disposed of the box (I know, I know...). Sweetwater sent me a replacement cabinet (without charging me) and instructed me to use the box to return the defective cabinet. I was incredibly impressed. I hope this level of service can be maintained.

[@parentteachernight]

As a Canadian I've never shopped with them. They have a great rep though and it would be a shame if this tanks it.

[@KSETONMTL]

As a Montrealer living in the south, I can tell you, you've been missing out... L&M suck, and Steve's is not what it was back in the 80's... Sweetwater is stellar!

[@parentteachernight]

@@KSETONMTL Steve's is crap but I have no problems with L&M, especially since they absorbed Saved By Technology. Great service.

[@skybluemarshall]

I'm an older guy, but I'm a novice bass player and when went in GC a few years ago, I knew more about their bass guitars and amps than the salesmen did and they both claimed to play bass.

[@gyitardave1505]

I;ve been a custoner for many years. Its a dead giveawy when my wife see's the sweetwater lables on the box’s I've made another Gear Purchase. New Owners dont screw this up , SWEEWATER is part of the Music Fabric of country that we all need.

[@Samlol23_drrich]

They are buying all local dental offices also.

[@sterlingmcvay2469]

Thank You. I'm a SWEETWATER User, as well. I AGREE with EVERYTHING You Said. I'm going to Share to FB, and Hopefully we can make it go VIRAL. Bob Ferguson is my Sweetwater Sales Engineer, and recently got a Questionnaire about him, and I wondered about that? So, I let them know he always promptly Responded to my emails and even often would Call me.

[@koseybrown5763]

Shout out my sales rep Curt! Love you bro

[@rwdplz1]

AWE! I've bought from Sweetwater several times, awesome service, especially by modern standards. RIP

[@gregoryivesdolbyatmosmusic]

They just built a new large Super Store in their facility. Why would they do that and then sell to a capital investment firm?

[@edryba4867]

Sweetwater is the only game in town, no matter where you live. My studio was equipped by Sweetwater. I have recommended Sweetwater to many friends. As soon as I heard about this, I got hold of Chuck Surack, founder of Sweetwater Sound, and even after this sale, Chuck is STILL 49% owner of Sweetwater. I’ve known Chuck the entire time I’ve dealt with Sweetwater. In fact, some 30 years ago, the very first time I called the place, it was CHUCK who answered the phone and took my order! Just last week, he assured me that the Sweetwater culture - the Sweetwater M.O., if you will - is NOT going to change. Chuck is Chairman of the Company, and a guy who’s been with him for 29 years (the former Executive Vice President) is the new CEO. Knowing Chuck as I do, and having done business with Sweetwater for 30+ years, I know one thing. If Chuck personally tells me something, I tend to believe him. I personally know him to be an honest man. When dealing with me, he has never been anything less than 100% honest. In all the years I’ve dealt with Sweetwater, Chuck has NEVER lied to me, and I don’t expect him to start now.

[@silverfang6668]

I’ve had nothing but outstanding service from SW.

[@sglee4708]

Amen brother !!!

[@redcabinacoustic-official]

I often shop at Broadcast Supply Worldwide - broadcasters know about this place, but many musicians do not. Great service and fast shipping . . .

[@willburrito9710]

SW has always been profit oriented. Chuck has had a great formula for business success since day one. His business plan steers the prifit back into the business. Nobody intimidates Chuck. He’s way ahead of the market curve.

[@VmShpman82]

Thank you for the info Barry J. Much appreciated. I still love Sweetwater. I recently bought a brand new bass from them.

[@Hello-pl2qe]

They better keep sending the candy with the packages or Im done lol

[@darrencarter]

Helpful! Thank you

[@bbadgett29]

Three years from now, it won't be the same company :(

[@woo1649]

These capital investment groups will soon own the world. Was it a chinese investment group? Most of my gear I purchased from Sweetwater. Great company.

[@fjc2722]

Jake Tillmann is “the man.” Great sales rep! Jake, I hope things work out for you and Sweatwater.

[@HazyJ28]

This is exactly what happened to NewEgg

[@aries4973]

This is potentially bad news for Sweetwater and their loyal customers. I've built my home studio from the ground up since 2006 with Sweetwater gear. I've worked with my sales rep. Dan who has been stellar with his customer service and followup since day one. If they change due to the pressures from the capital investment group, I will no longer buy from them. I hope they don't change for the worse.

[@jeffreymarchant4020]

And I can back that statement that the investment firms do not understand ...and after time the quality suffers and so does the buyers... Growing doesn't always mean better...something always suffers under the growth stamina... Great customer service does work and personal reflection matters too...

[@SuperNick090]

Sweetwater is the best !!! I hope no bad changes 🤦‍♂️....You're right , visiting Sweetwater would be a great road trip !

[@MrSchon1]

Only bought a few things from Sweetwater. But I had a rep call me every week and asked if I needed anything. That’s customer attention! And how you get successful. But AMS can match all of that. Went above and beyond to keep their customers happy. And of course would match anything Sweetwater would do. And have always done everything right for 20 or 30 plus years. And after thousands of dollars I’ve spent you know who to keep buying from! Hopefully we won’t lose the few that keep doing it right. And the rest forget .

[@necrophagist00]

Sweetwater is flawless in my experience. It can be a bit much with phone calls after every order. But i finally interacted with a sales rep for a follow up recently and it was great. Nothing pushy, we literally just talked about the gear i bought.

[@atomic2012a]

this CANT be good. i hope they don't ruin this FINE company!!!