Musician's Friend....or Fiend?
Written: Aug 11 '01
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The Bottom Line
Very good LARGE CORPORATE retailer!
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| Full Review |
Musicians Friend is perhaps the largest on line music store specializing in guitars and gear, sound equipment and percussion equipment. From what I know, they are part of the same corporation that owns the chain of Guitar Center Stores. So....what you get is one of the big guys that can sell a tremendous inventory of merchandise at very competitive prices. In addition to their web site, they also publish catalogs which are sent frequently once you are on their mailing list.
From personal experience, Musicians's Friend is a good merchant. I have purchased a small guitar amp and other accessories through them. Their web site is easy to navigate, and you can certainly find a lot of gear at decent prices. Overall, they are very good at clearly indicating prices and their policies regarding returns, warranties, etc. are upfront and representative of reputable businesses. When I have ordered merchandise, shipping has been prompt, and everything has arrived on time and as ordered.
But, why doesn't my review shine with enthusiasm? Because I don't want to see the music retail business to be dominated by such large corporations as Musician's Friend/Guitar Center, Mars Music and others. When you are purchasing musical instruments, you need to have readily available dealer support to assist with any merchandise defects, adjustments and set-ups, etc. Now, I'm not saying that Musician's Friend doesn't provide support and back up their merchandise....but when it comes to guitars and amps, I would rather deal with a local merchant than shipping gear back to the merchant or unknown service facility. More importantly, the local music stores that I have dealt with have been able to match or beat prices found in the Musician's Friend catalog (same prices as the website), and when you consider shipping costs, I have saved money even after giving New York State their share in sales tax!
Another factor to consider is the importance of actually auditioning any instrument or gear that you are going to purchase....especially guitars. This is pretty hard to do with Musician's Friend. I know what many people do....check out the gear elsewhere, decide on a give make and model, and then try to get a deal by shopping online. Well, this may possibly save you a few bucks....but are you sure it is worth it?
But, as to Musician's Friend. In all honesty, I think they are a well run business. My transactions have been very good, and I very well may order merchandise from them again. But, I will continue to be an advocate for the local merchant and give them my business as much as possible. (I love a bargain as much as anyone, and may see a deal at MF that I just can't refuse!)
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
swb
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 - Top 1000 |
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Member: Steve
Location: Wilson, New York
Reviews written: 114
Trusted by: 15 members
About Me:
Retired music teacher. Flautist, guitarist, photographer and rver.
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