Visit To Bass Emporium

DeaconK · #1 09-14-2009, 09:05 AM

My wife and I spent this past weekend in Austin. While there, I decided that I had to visit the Bass Emporium. Usually when I visit a music store, I'm slightly uncomfortable with the whole tryout thing (what to play, what to pick up, etc) and I'm usually put off by the general level of customer service that may or may not be present. Well, when I walked into this "Bass Heaven" I could not have been more surprised. Not only was the place filled with some REALLY nice instruments, the staff could not have been more accommodating. There were only two of us in the store and the other customer was displaying some pretty tasty chops which made me feel uncomfortable to try anything. The staff (Chuck and Kyle) encouraged me to try whatever I wished. I fell in love with Sunburst color Jazz fretless. Unfortunately, my bank account cannot support such a purchase at this time and I readily told Kyle that while I loved the bass, I really couldn't afford it (although my wife was saying "buy it, buy it"). Although he knew that I would not be buying he encouraged me to continue to sample at my heart's content. Long story shorter, if you're ever in Austin, stop by for a visit. I'm sure it will be a pleasant experience and when I *do* make my next purchase, I will be making a trip back to Austin. This is not a paid endorsement, I just had to share a really positive experience. Definitely NOT a GC or Sam Ash-like visit!

ggunn · #2 09-14-2009, 10:31 AM

I agree; the Emporium is a great shop. It's an intimate little place with a great selection of instruments and a very personable and knowledgeable staff. I'm lucky; I live in Austin and can go there whenever I want.

They are closed Sundays and Mondays, BTW.

Easy8 · #3 09-14-2009, 05:37 PM

+1 Great bunch of guys.

Don't be put off by the prices listed.

They've worked with me on every purchase and will usually match GC for new gear prices

McHaven · #4 09-14-2009, 11:12 PM

I was in there once when I was 17 or 18. I was treated like crap. I didn't act like some annoying kid. I asked permission before taking anything down, asked for assistance with an amp etc etc. Still, they seemed like they didn't even want to give me the time of day. Even after I bought some strings, a book, and strap, they didn't seem satisfied.