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High-end basses

#21
Some great choices here, and I would 2nd the votes for Spector, Lakland, Sadowsky and Ken Smith.

Why?

Because all of these brands offer a line of instruments ranging from entry or mid-level basses, all the way up to hand-made works of art. The high-end models will draw in the customers, and those who can't afford the top of the line models may be inclined to buy a lower level model of their preferred brand.
As a music store owner I'm sure you already know, affordable & entry level basses tend to be your bread & butter as far as sales go.
 
#22
I'll suggest allocating a certain amount of funds to seek out quality used instruments to add to the inventory. If you get a good amount of used gear coming and going with a guaranteed buy back % (in same condition) then you will get a regular clientele coming in and purchasing to try stuff. This will help you work with people toward a new instrument, or at least getting those who couldn't afford new coming in to purchase used as well as all the bread and butter stuff like strings, cables, etc. etc.
 
#27
Are you going to offer supporting services? Set-ups, wiring and pup change-outs, etc? That's a big thing to get people in the door. And besides what I earlier said, the advice a few posts up by D.A.R.K. to get some higher end USED basses is a great piece of advice also. I'd also sneak around pawn shops---you may pick up something worthwhile for resale.
 
#29
Fodera (though they were already mentioned). They have their 'Standard' lines which are considerably less expensive than the custom basses they make, but are STILL expensive and even the standards are VERY high end. You could carry some standards and order some customs for your store. That said, I'm not sure what it takes to become a dealer for them.
 
#32
Duesenberg.

doozy.jpg
 
#36
Lakland Skylines might be a good choice. Affordable, good quality.

Brubaker Brutes, maybe.

As others have noted, the problem with stocking high-priced merch is the capital you have tied up in inventory.

My local music store stocks the usual Fender and Warwick stuff because he can move it. But he's started taking things on consignment, and some boutique stuff shows up that way. Another guy left a Pedulla, and I left my pair of Aggie GS112 cabs. I saw a 70s J bass and a fancy PRS guitar go through there. That might work as a way to have pricey stuff in the store without tying up too much capital.
 
#37
+1 on 'stocking' used instruments as well. Many people want a $4000 bass but can't pay that much, selling them one for considerably less would lure people looking for 'deals'. Global economic situation also suggests you should work on the used market, too.
 

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