Guitar Center
The big-box US instrument chain; physical stores plus a large online catalog and a used-gear business.
- Best for
- Trying gear in-person and hunting used deals.
- Skip if
- You know exact specs and buy online cheaper.
- First move
- Play the gear in-store before buying anywhere.
- Watch out
- Check return policy before placing an order online; most used gear has a 45-day return window, with exceptions: vintage instruments must be returned within 3 days and DJ devices have a 14-day limit.
- Reach
- Industry-wide
- When
- Useful from day one.
- Based in
- United States