When I decided to enter the music world in full swing, I never realized just how many music-related products I would need to purchase. Becoming a “proficient” acoustic guitarist has afforded me the opportunity to learn many things about guitars in general, and other musical instruments. I have learned the difference in sound between an acoustic and an electric-acoustic guitar. And I have even come to understand the world of guitar picks. All of these things have come to me since teaching myself to play some three years or so ago. After playing for a while, I realized that I would have to learn how to do rudimentary things like tuning by ear (which I am still trying to master) and changing my own strings. I also realized that guitars manufactured by different companies have varying sounds. These types of things have fascinated me. But what fascinates me more is the fact that I have become familiar with the various music stores peppering the perimeter of Atlanta and beyond. Based on my own research, I have discovered the best three music stores for purchasing, servicing, and browsing for musical instruments.
Place: Dirt Cheep MusicLocation:South Cobb Drive,SmyrnaGARanking: 2nd Runner Up Dirt Cheep is located in Cobb County, which is slightly north of the downtown Atlanta area. The music store’s aesthetic qualities may seem a bit unimpressive, as I was a bit put off at first by the interior. It appeared a little junky. And in the beginning, I felt as if I had walked upon a yard sale which only sold musical stuff. The fact is that this store has been in the area for over 20 years. And ironically, the best thing about this store is not the collection of inventory, but the staff. The store itself is pretty small, and so is the staff. Because of this the Dirt Cheep personnel are pretty knowledgeable about all sorts of things regarding the upkeep of instruments and the like. The website is actually a tad more organized than the store itself, which isn’t always a good thing. Personally, I prefer to visit a store where I can get hands-on experience with the equipment. So no matter how good the website is it’s never as good as being in the actual location. In a nutshell, this is a great store for experienced musicians who know exactly what they’re looking for. I would not advise newcomers to visit, as they may feel somewhat overwhelmed by the store’s design, and by the other customers. In Dirt Cheep’s defense, they do have an acceptable rotation of used instruments. But again, if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for, it’s difficult to tell whether or not you’re getting a good deal. Place:GuitarCenterLocation(s):Atlanta(NE Expressway) /Marietta(Cobb Parkway)Ranking: 1st Runner Up Guitar Center has two locations in particular, which stand out as the better stores. Known for carrying literally hundreds of guitars and other instruments, Guitar Center is one of the most popular stores for musicians. Visitors to the Atlanta (NE Expressway) store will find that it is not particularly large. It’s also rather awkward to get to, as it is located on an access road that can be difficult to find from the highway. On the other hand, the Marietta location (which is by far the better store) is known for its abundant inventory of musical implements. Situated right off Marietta’s main thoroughfare, the store is easy to find. Upon entering, visitors are immediately greeted by walls and walls of electric guitars and basses. What I didn’t like, was that the guitar picks are located behind the main check out counter. Personally, I prefer to have a look at the picks myself, instead of having to point to a wall, and have a staff member try and figure out what I want. This store also has a very cozy acoustic guitar room, wherein people like me can try out all the merchandise in an enclosed setting. The remainder of the floor is pretty much littered with narrow aisles of amplifiers. And toward the rear of the store, music buffs will find the keyboard room (which is a little small) and more electronic equipment such as DJ tables, and mixers. All in all, the best thing about this store is the inventory. The staff tends to rotate pretty frequently. And honestly, I get the impression that not all the personnel are as educated about the stock as they should be. Shopping here will certainly afford one a good deal on lots of items. It’s a national chain that has a very good rotation of instruments. Place:SamAshMusicLocation:Cobb Parkway,MariettaGARanking: THE WINNER I have recently been introduced to this large, family owned chain of music stores. Situated very close to the Fulton/ Cobb County line, this store is absolutely wonderful for both beginner and experienced musicians. About twice the size of both Guitar Centers I have visited, this store has a really inviting interior layout. The electric guitars are easy to spot. And obtaining accessories such as guitar straps, picks, and cases are all easily accessible. I was further impressed by the expansive acoustic guitar room. There are a few seats where musicians can perch and try out the merchandise. But what really impressed me were the prices. Not only does Sam Ash carry new instruments. But one can find a very reasonably priced used instrument as well. What I’ve really come to appreciate about this store, is the fact that every member of the staff was extremely friendly and eager to help. And if I really did need assistance, it seemed that the employees did their best to make sure that my needs were met to completion. Much can be said about the way the store is designed. There are no “isolated” silos cramped together and separated by junky aisles of merchandise. As a matter of fact, one can walk through the entire store, moving from one area to the next without feeling as if he/she is getting in the way of other customers. I really enjoyed browsing the store, and found it rather difficult to leave. Hopefully, the store will maintain its high level of great customer service. For the time being, musicians who are breaking into the industry would do very well to begin their quest at Sam Ash Music.
