Bob's Music — Local services in City of Plattsburgh

Very disappointed with the lack of empathy from the owner. I recently purchased a used guitar and amp from this place and wanted to learn how to play. The prices were reasonable, I suppose. I'm not familiar with what this stuff should cost, though.

Anyway, for three weeks I did my best to learn how to play, however I unfortunately have CTS in both wrists and nerve damage in my left hand. I expected some discomfort from these things while playing, but not to the level it actually was. I simply couldn't wrap my hand around the fret board and manipulate my fingers for longer than 20 minutes without being in pain. Enough pain to make learning guitar not worth it.

At this point in time I had the equipment for 3 weeks now and it was still in the same shape it was when I bought it. Not knowing if the company had a return/exchange policy or not I decided to look in to it. I figured that because it was less than a month and it was already used equipment, that MAYBE they'd give me a refund, especially considering my extenuating medical circumstances that prevent me from playing, or at least enjoying, my purchase. At worse I expected maybe some type of re-stocking fee if they used an excuse like, "we have to clean and re-string it," or whatever, and I was prepared for that.

But, nope. I was flat out denied a refund even after explaining my circumstances. It's obviously not their fault I can't enjoy this thing I bought without being in agonizing pain at times, but given that it was used stuff and the length of time I had it, I figured maybe they'd find it in their hearts to refund me and just resell it to someone who can enjoy it. Hell, I was even FULLY interested in reinvesting the money back in to another instrument that I COULD play. I believe I recall them having DJ equipment there, like MPC's, and though maybe digital music production would be fun to learn, maybe even the keyboard, as that doesn't require a lot of wrist dexterity. But NOPE.

They cold-heartedly refused to help, even though the owner COULD do whatever he wants to do. He's not limited to a return policy. He MADE the return policy. It's not as if I just had plain old buyer's remorse. At the end of it all he suggested I just try to sell it on Craigslist. Ha... ok.

And if you've read this review this far and are thinking to yourself, "wow, that's a long rant over a guitar," then you'd be right, but it's not without cause. People always say you should support local businesses, and I HAD the option of going over to Guitar Center to purchase from them, but opted to stay local instead. And this is what I get for supporting the "little guy."

For the record, Guitar Center has a 45-day return policy. Even if I had to buy new there and not used, it wouldn't have been that much of a difference and I wouldn't be stuck with a damn musical instrument that I physically can't play.

So thanks, Bob's Music. Keep up the customer...

First drum set I purchased there was about $100 more than getting it online. When I came in to look for a strat he had two and told me one was $500 the other $550, then changed his mind and told me both were $550. Second guitar I bought was used but he priced it the same as new, he also told me they were $800 new which was a blatant lie. I asked him if he new the model line of the guitar and he said no (how can you price a used guitar without knowing the model and its new value?). I asked if it came with a case and he said no, then he went to the back and happen to have a fender gig bag (Every fender comes with one), he then said hes throwing it in free of charge! Wow what a guy! The convenience is not worth the shadiness so unfortunately this was my last purchase at bobs. I have a feeling he didn't tell me the model line because he was afraid I'll find out how much they are new. I support local bushiness but these guys are shady. I'll stick to best buy for my guitar strings and small needs or Vermont from...

I am in the customer service business inasmuch as I manage 6 auto dealerships and 1 motorsports store. So, I think I am qualified to judge levels of customer service.

In short, Bob's Music is staffed with friendly and extremely knowledgeable instrument professionals. The owner is great. The staff cordial and very competent. They worked on two guitars for me and the work was A plus. The price....too reasonable!!!! I actually was so pleasantly surprised by what they charged me. It is so nice to actually get more than you paid for!!!

I highly recommend Bob's Music. For sales, service or just gleaning knowledge about music instruments...you will be hard pressed to find a local music store with...