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Showrooming
- Thread starter twinjet
- Start date
I totally understand what you are trying to say here, but if you are not going to support the store, it is a little tacky to go in and use them as a testing grounds and BE the one touching all the instruments, no?
I know a few owners of music stores as well as a few bicycle shops. There's something to be said for helping the folks who actually care about you and what it is you're looking for. I've personally found that if you're kind and respectful, they're always willing to work with you, which might mean some extras (as stated before). Support the local shops! - In the bike industry, the profits really came from accessories, which is why I always buy accessories from the local shops whenever possible.
SirMjac28
Patiently Waiting For The Next British Invasion
+1 For me it comes down to putting money in someone else's pocket or keeping it in mine. I remember very well when those sweet mom and pops ruled back in the day before the internet and if you didn't like the price tough luck!. I would shop local for anything under a $100 after that if I can find it cheaper online that's where I'm going.
The only "local" music store with more then a couple squires is Guitar Center, so I wouldn't feel bad about going there to look at instruments to buy elsewhere. I did buy my first bass and amp at the local mom and pop shop tho because all I could afford was a cheap bass and they were helpful. The management has since changed and now they have a kind of holier then thou attitude.
i would think the guys at a local store would appreciate a good used deal ...!! that means they can sell you some accessories that they make a much higher margin on ..!!
on the other side ... i've been on both ... if a salesperson can't 'close a deal ' that's their problem , not yours !
on the other side ... i've been on both ... if a salesperson can't 'close a deal ' that's their problem , not yours !
I wish I had this problem, I don't have any stores anywhere near me!
Having said that, when I am travelling and come accross a store that stocks basses I may be interested in, I will go in and try some. However, I always check the price tag first, and never try anything that I wouldn't consider buying for the displayed price.
Having said that, when I am travelling and come accross a store that stocks basses I may be interested in, I will go in and try some. However, I always check the price tag first, and never try anything that I wouldn't consider buying for the displayed price.
Amen Brother. The same model of instrument is often times not the same instrument.
I buy instruments that crank my tractor from a hands-on test. Not by assuming manufacturer or model implies "sameness".
This doesn't mean I haven't bought online. I've sent some back if that privilege is offered, with some I've taken my lumps and flipped it.
Supporting the local folks has a value to me also, and I'll pay the sales tax and a bit of a premium to do it, but I'm not a die-hard about it, except with automobiles... Then I always buy local from a dealer that I have a good relationship with.
buldog5151bass
Kibble, milkbones, and P Basses. And redheads.
I consider it highly unethical. A shop has more overhead, you use his services, you should pay for that right.
If you know what you want, buy it the cheapest place.
If you know what you want, buy it the cheapest place.
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True story - there's a Jewish law called the Shopkeeper's Law that states one must not ask a merchant about a product unless he or she is actually considering purchasing the product in question from that merchant.
I'm of the school of thought that you should NOT try, if you don't plan to buy. Plus, it is within our best interest to help keep these local shops around. For if they close, all of the little things like emergency strings, repairs, straps, cables, tuners, speakers, amps and etc. will no longer be instantly accessible. Try needing a cable for your gig Friday night but your tracking # says the estimated delivery is Monday.
I grew up in NYC. And they will ask you straight up if you plan on buying what your wanting to demo. If not, they'll tell you to come back when you're really ready IF there's not an dedicated Demo on display. I warned a friend here in Atlanta that was traveling up north and wanted to "check out" some local guitar shops while he was there. He called me to tell me that I was right and he thought it was rude of them. One place insisted that he remove his jacket and belt. After further explanation, he understands now.
FF
I grew up in NYC. And they will ask you straight up if you plan on buying what your wanting to demo. If not, they'll tell you to come back when you're really ready IF there's not an dedicated Demo on display. I warned a friend here in Atlanta that was traveling up north and wanted to "check out" some local guitar shops while he was there. He called me to tell me that I was right and he thought it was rude of them. One place insisted that he remove his jacket and belt. After further explanation, he understands now.
FF
The closest real store to me is Bass Central, about 1 1/2 hour drive so I don't have that problem. I will say though I am currently doing it the opposite way, researching online and making a list of things I want to try out at Bass Central. My intent is to buy from them though if I like what I see. I just don't want to buy some things online if I don't know if it will be the right fit. I would not try out stuff at a store then buy online, that ain't right in my book. Plus you might play a bass you love in the store and the one you order online isn't as good.
On exception I have found recently that could also apply to bass gear. There is a local gun store whose owner is an absolute a$$hole to his employees, my step son-in-law worked there. I won't even step in his store but would have no problem checking something out there and then driving 45 minutes to a great gun store near Daytona to make my purchase. I'm sure some people here have local music stores that fit that bill and would do the same.
Rambling over.
On exception I have found recently that could also apply to bass gear. There is a local gun store whose owner is an absolute a$$hole to his employees, my step son-in-law worked there. I won't even step in his store but would have no problem checking something out there and then driving 45 minutes to a great gun store near Daytona to make my purchase. I'm sure some people here have local music stores that fit that bill and would do the same.
Rambling over.
I just spent a fair amount of time talking to the proprietor of a business about a custom installation job that was beyond what I feel like tackling. By the time I had selected the components, the thought crossed my mind that I now knew enough about the job that I could conceivably do it myself for cheaper (although I still don't want to). Some people wouldn't be bothered by leaving the business owner behind and ordering everything online.
Also: I wish there was a way to cross reference the "try it out at the store and buy it online" posts with the "returned it to Sweetwater because the action was too high" types.
I'm starting to think it's the same group that does both. The types that will throw a dealer under the bus for a few bucks are likely the same ones that confuse low action with "talent".....
I am fortunate in that there is a great local music store here. They dont carry everything but have a good selection and work hard to earn my business. I bought a new old stock Genz Benz Shuttle 12.0 from them last year - I could have bought a used one here on TB for $75-100 less, but bought it from them as my way of supporting them. Also, they match Musicians Friend/Sweetwater prices. I was in looking at a Fender Bassman 500 head, and when I asked him the price, he looked it up on Google and quoted me the MF price! Sure I'd pay the extra in tax, but I know that they have my back if there is a problem. And if we want local businesses to stay open, then we have to support them!
Buy local, even if it's from GC or Sam Ash. The commission and paychecks get poured back into your community.
Buying stringed instruments on line is a recipe for disappointment. As has been said above, a Ric is not a Ric. A Jazz is not a Jazz. They all play and sound different. I finally found a Ric that plays and sounds great. Great deal on it too, although I paid $60 more in the end due to tax. Totally worth it.
Buying stringed instruments on line is a recipe for disappointment. As has been said above, a Ric is not a Ric. A Jazz is not a Jazz. They all play and sound different. I finally found a Ric that plays and sounds great. Great deal on it too, although I paid $60 more in the end due to tax. Totally worth it.
Sorry, rambled - I've promised the guys at my local shop that I plan to buy from them. At this point I've spent a few hours at their store and feel like I am obligated to them. I don't want to make them feel like I've wasted their time.
