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Joined 10 years ago

All your musical-instrument needs are covered, but talent's not included.. The Scene
Think you have everything it takes—except the instrument—to be the next Trent Reznor, Joe Walsh or (god forbid) Michael Stanley? Get yourself some money, then get yourself to Guitar Center. From the street-corner bluesman to the drugged-up rock star, here musicians can find drums, keyboards, guitars and accessories to fit any need and budget.

The Lowdown
In business for more than 30 years, the store claims to be the nation's "largest retailer of musical instruments." And although some may equate buying gear at a music-equipment chain with selling out, Guitar Center's prices, selection and warranties make it hard to justify shopping anywhere else. It also carries a limited selection of DJ accessories, microphones and digital editing/recording equipment, and all purchases are covered by a 30-day, money-back guarantee.

The Downlow
You can browse and handle instruments without being bothered by salespeople, but if you have a question there'll more than likely be someone around with the correct answer. There are trained experts in every department who will be more than happy to tell you the difference between a wah-wah petal and a whammy bar, or what the hell a "fuzzbox" is.