Exile Guitars — Attraction in Vancouver

People often talk about the lack of 'third spaces' in Vancouver...they're not looking hard enough. I've been popping in and out of exile for years, typically with the intention of browsing, and then ending up spending a couple hours hanging out with the wonderful folks who work there (a few of whom started volunteering and just never left...). I should be clear that despite all my time in the store, I have spent very little money there which I hope to change as time goes on. They've got such a cool selection of gear that I didn't know I wanted/needed, and an incredible curation of pedals at fair, competitive prices. I'd much rather buy a stompbox from these folks, especially considering that the owner of the store also has his own pedal company (and has collaborated with Third Man Records in the process).

Venues and other music adjacent spaces are scant in vancouver, and we need to treasure what we've got. These guys are operating this shop out of love, and offering something that the big shops can't - community. Do yourself a favor and pop in the next time you're on main street. Pick up a cool looking guitar, try a pedal out, buy the best guitar cable you'll ever own (s/o Revelation Cable co) and have a chat with some of the friendliest folks to ever work in a music store. I love this place and...

I am giving Exile 5 stars. Why? Because they deserve it. Chris and the gang run what is my favorite shop for all things music. Synths, effects pedals, bass guitars, cables, drum machines and a whole lot of learning. Exile also has a good selection of used equipment, some of which are outright classics that, while I can't afford them, are so fantastic to talk and learn about. I am pretty damn sure that they will be my go to for the future of my studio and I will bring more friends over to the Exile side!

Oh, and Chris? Thank you for guidinge towards the Model:Cycles. That little box is...

Excellent selection of anything you need related to recording equipment, fantastic prices, super cool corner in the back with many sought-after second-hand microphones and interfaces (if you're interested in the digital production aspect). Very knowledgable service, go there with a question and you will be taken care of no problem. Super cool to have such an intriguing store on main street, nothing beats it. Would recommend to any level...