re: How do you buy guitars?

Guitar Center was solid when I was I high school - tons of gear, good advice from old stoners, they’d let you just hang out and plays everything. They’ve sucked for the past 10-15 years and are an absolute joke. I actually really like MarkBass amps, but refuse to buy one because GC has exclusive distribution rights in the US for MarkBass and I can’t bring myself to walk into one of their stores and go through the repair/return process.

If you’re someone who absolutely must try/feel an instrument before you buy (I am), then little local independent shops may be your best bet. Just make sure they’re actually a retailer of whatever you’re looking for. For example, if you want to play a more obscure brand like Charvel, go on their website and see if any stores near you carry them. C&M in NO/Mandeville/BR used to be great when I was younger, but I don’t know if they’re still around.

If all your local shops suck, your next move is online. The big 3 online retailers: Sweetwater, Sam Ash, and MusiciansFriend all have great selection, but Sweetwater’s return process and customer service is head and shoulders above the others.