Back in the 50's, 60's, and 70's, before the internet, guitars were either purchased locally or from a catalog. A local guitar shop would often become a hang out for musicians who wanted to see what was new or talk about what they liked. As the 80's and 90's came into full swing, so did the big Guitar Shop chains. Sam Ash (1924) and Guitar Center (1959) expanded out of their respective states and throughout the US.
But what makes a guitar shop great? Do they need certain products in their inventory? Do the sales associates matter? Is it better to buy online or in the store? Is price matching evil? And should you buy from the big box chain? Well we will discuss this, and more on this group therapy session with Jason, on the Tweed Couch.