I just bought the Alvarez AG60CE back in January, through Guitar Center, who told me that since I didn't buy their warranty for this brand new guitar, I had to go to the Alvarez distributor in the country, in St. Louis to have it fixed The problem is, Alvarez is a shitty Guitar, banking on big names like LR Baggs to sell their garbage. The L.R. Baggs electronics were completely shot on this guitar... Even the tuner didn't work. They said they would fix it for me, but I had to pay the $160.01 to ship it to them, first. That's right. Alvarez built me a defective guitar, then made me pay an additional 40% of the price of the guitar to fix their own mistake. If anyone really wants an Alvarez guitar, I highly recommend buying a used one. I wonder how long L.R. Baggs is willing to take a hit in allowing the Alvarez brand to cost them money before pulling out themselves. read more

Crestwood's Guitar Center is always a great stop for any musician--whether you're just getting started or been playing for years. The staff here actually know their stuff and take the time to help you find what you need without being pushy. I came in to check out a few guitars and left with way more knowledge (and inspiration) than I expected. The store's clean, well-organized, and the vibe is super laid back. You can actually try out instruments without feeling rushed, and they've got a great selection of gear--from guitars and amps to cables, pedals, and accessories. Big shoutout to the crew for being patient and genuinely helpful. Always a good experience here! read more

Guitar Center - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

See all

Everything. Customer service is a joke. When I called to cancel, the guy didn't ask why or what could improve. My grandson took guitar lessons for over a year. I don't believe he could play an entire song. read more

I went in recently ready to purchase a Launchkey 61 MK4 and instead of helping me make a purchase, staff made the interaction about an unrelated case dispute rather than completing a sale. Weeks earlier I had already received a call from someone named Chris about the same issue. I've been a loyal Guitar Center customer across multiple locations and have spent significantly here, but this location has consistently disappointed -- from questionable repair advice on a PRS to turning away a paying customer. Ended up driving to the Fairview Heights location the same day where I was treated well and completed my purchase without issue. Crestwood has lost my business. read more

I really do love the store so much. I think the managers name is "zach" and this guy is an incredible person. Very polite very patient very knowledgeable. The selection may be a bit small, but the service is always great read more

Great that I live here, the place is big and they have a wide spread of instruments and other trinkets of musical merchandise. It was great that I picked a great bass for a great deal! Lots of equipment and Staff is also willing to help! It was a great accommodation to hook up the instruments to try them out. They also offer lessons here which I don't take, but J did take a sneak peak and the little lesson corner seems wonderful. They also have sheet music and albums. I think I'd faint if I were to name all of the awesome stuff they offer for great deals, one of my favorite music stores. read more

Zack at your Crestwood store was exceptional! Helped me find everything I needed, went above and beyond! All while maintaining the checkout. You need to give this man a raise! read more

Moved to the area a few months ago and decided to buy an acoustic guitar and a guitar stand. I ordered the items for curbside pickup and there was an issue with the website telling me my items were ready but only the stand was ready and I had to come back for the guitar - no big deal. I decide to go inside to pick up the guitar a few days later since the curbside took about 20 minutes. I wait in line and get called up to the counter when it's my turn. I brought the stand back because it came broken (not sure if it was actually used and advertised as new, but it was bent and missing screws). I wanted to return that stand, purchase a new replacement stand, and then pick up my guitar. The man helping me asked the manager a few questions about the process and we had been working on this for a few minutes. Then, another customer walks to the side of the counter with an expensive looking guitar, and while the employee is working on my transaction, he turns to the other customer and starts talking about that guitar and selling the other customer up on the insurance. I'm standing there for literally a few minutes while the employee is talking to the other guy about the guitar. He then starts checking out the other guy at the register in the middle of our transaction! I don't even know what to say. Then another employee comes from a different part of the store and asks if I've been helped and I just say "well I'm not really sure, I was being helped...". Then the employee who was checking me out says to the newly arrived employee "can you help this guy [me], I don't really remember what he wanted". He not only ignored me in the middle of our transaction, he FORGOT what we were doing! I will try my best not to come back here as I felt majorly disrespected. Aye, but he got to ring out the guy with the nice guitar. read more

I came into this store for the first time in years looking for a few various things. I used to be an employee at the Rock Road location so the layout here was very different and I couldn't find what I was looking for. Upon approaching the counter to ask for help (since the employees in the store seemed rather busy standing around talking to each other and didn't care to help me while I was looking around) I began asking Zach at the counter for help to find a book. Before being able to get my sentence out, he cut me off, telling me I needed to go shop somewhere else. As a former employee of guitar center, that behavior back when I was on staff would not fly. So I went next door to music and arts, where the employee there took his time to help me find what I was looking for online since he didn't carry it either. That's the kind of service I expect and told him he will continue getting my business and probably every one else's if the employees at guitar center continue to treat their customers that way. That is not the guitar center I remember working for & I will not be giving them my business again moving forward. read more

1st they gave me the wrong cable at checkout because the guy had several laying on the counter, now i have to go out of my way to return it. The REAL PROBLEM here is the workers whom act like they could care less if you give your business to them. They are condescending and there is ZERO CUSTOMER SERVICE. I was inquiring about a NEON GREEN FENDER STRATOCASTER MIM for $650 on sale that was hanging on the wall. I asked the guys if there was a discount with the PRESIDENTS DAY SALES coming up and they rudely said no. After the guy looked at the price tag of $650 he said the guitar is actually $850 and the sale expired the day before and I would now have to pay $850!!!! he took the price tag off the guitar at that point. then said the only way I could have it for 650 was to buy it and NO EXCHANGES OR RETURNS. Why? Im buying something from your store, why would you try to change the policy to get me to buy it right then and there? Not to mention 4 of us stood there for over 15 minutes waiting for assistance in the MIDDLE OF A WEEKDAY. NOT RECOMMENDED! MUSICIANS GO ELSEWHERE! THESE ARE A BUNCH OF SCHOOL KIDS WORKING HERE THAT KNOW EVERYTHING AND HAVE ZERO WANT TO GAIN YOUR BUSINESS!!! UPDATE - A manger named ZACK called me from CRESTWOOD MO to try to RESELL me the guitar at full price basically just wasting my time and reconfirming that I AM NOT A VALUED CUSTOMER after he tried to say I havent spent very much money there since they opened. There you go!!!! read more

Purchased a new bass guitar with the "no hassle " warranty. BS! After 7 months it broke. Returned it 18 days ago and still NO replacement or credit. Getting the run around between Crestwood and the warranty company. Considering legal action. read more

I can say this for sure, if you can work with Scott Piatte in pro audio on your gear procurement, you are in good hands...

Buyer Beware! Do not believe what they tell you. My husband just purchased a previously owned Fender Strat from this location. When he spoke with the salesperson, earlier this week, he specifically asked if this guitar came with a case and was told yes. If it hadn't, he would not have purchased it, as these cases cost $200. He received the guitar today, shipped all the way from MO to CA without a case! He called the store, as he was sure a mistake had been made, and was told it didn't come with a case. He spoke with the store manager, explained the situation and he couldn't have cared less whether my husband was happy or not. Yes, they gave him the opportunity to return the guitar, but it is a color he has been looking for for some time. He asked if he could just get some kind of credit to put towards the price of a case...again could not have cared less. It's just sad, as my husband has been buying from Guitar Center for about 30 years. It's the principle of it! read more

So, I take my son to guitar center to buy some accessories for his drum set and guitar. Each room in the store is separated by types of instrument and equipment. We headed back to the percussion room and waited 15 minutes for help while the "percussion expert" talked on the phone and went out of his way not to glance at us or acknowledge we were there or even let us know he would be with us shortly. He also made no attempt to show any urgency to get of the phone. Eventually, we went to the front of the store to snag someone from another department to help us. When we got back to the percussion room, he was conveniently off of the phone. He helped us and seemed knowledgeable about his department. But, I was too annoyed to care. At that point, I just wanted to get the stuff and get out. If I wanted to feel like I was at the Royale, I would've gone there. At least I would have had a seat while I waited for someone to act interested that we were there. read more

Guitar Center - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

Staff is very friendly. I didn't get the name of the cashier but he was super kind and helpful when I asked about questions about my guitar. Thank you and I'll be visiting again very soon! read more

I try to shop local as much as possible, and I wanted to get a particular gift. It was cheaper on Amazon. I opted to do curbside at Guitar Center because they are mask obsessed and I have kids, but at least they're local and had what I needed. Theoretically curbside should be easier. But they made me wait over 30 minutes in the car. I used their online check in and "chat" feature. I watched several employees stand around while I sat in my car with a screaming baby. I watched one employee walk to his car to get an energy drink. So they certainly aren't so understaffed or overwhelmed that they couldn't help me. I ended up having to call TWICE because I wasn't getting a response. I don't get how a store has such crappy customer service and organization. read more

This place is great! I bought a used Les Paul Gibson for a very reasonable price that still has a wonderful sound. Staff helped me try it out and made sure I had the right equipment to use it at home before fitting me with an extra set of strings in the right size. The finish is still gorgeous and the guitar was kept in pristine condition at the store. Thank you to Scott for helping me find what I was looking for and providing me with excellent care! read more

This store used to be awesome. Sadly, those times are long gone. If you even get acknowledged by the staff, and that is a big "if," they will almost certainly either not actually be able to help you, will rush you, or will just straight up give wrong information. The place is often a mess. Technician time is on the order of weeks. Unless you need something immediately, this store is an incredible advertisement for Sweetwater. I hope they can turn it around, but at this point, I'm not hopeful. read more

Mgr. Dylan Shultz... At the request of several People who asked what manager I had delt with who had felt it best to call customers names while laughing on the phone.. The "manager" who refused to give his name whilst insulting me was a Mr.Dylan Shultz.. I have contacted the corp. Offices and am still awaiting an agreeable resolution.. read more

If you know exactly what you are wanting to purchase, Guitar Center on Watson Road is good - no complaints. Overall, pricing is good too. GC is not, however, a place I'd recommend going if you need help deciding what to purchase or how a piece of equipment works. We have purchased thousands of dollars worth of gear from Guitar Center over the years. Not anymore. The staff is short-handed and really rush you. Most recent experience was having one of their experts describe how to use a piece of audio equipment that I ended up purchasing. The consultant was annoyed with my questions and wanted me out of there - When I got home and started watching how-to YouTube videos, the information I received from the "expert" was mostly wrong! If you don't know the answer - DON'T FAKE IT and give wrong instructions! Additionally, my teenage son (with money to spend) has been treated very poorly by the staff several times in the same manner (that's why I went there instead this last time) - not taking time to answer questions and being rushed. We will now only go to Guitar Center with same-day emergencies. Taking all of our business to Sweetwater (online with incredible, knowledgeable staff who not only are patient and answer questions, but follow up with a call to see how the equipment worked out). Clearly, Guitar Center Watson Road is not interested in customer service and providing consultation/advice. This is where they are missing the boat because people buy from people they trust and know they care about what they are saying or doing. And teenagers grow up to become adults that buy stuff and remember how they were treated. We have developed a relationship with another company and consultant that has taken the time to understand our needs and set up. Will never purchase another item (except for a cable or during an emergency) again. read more

We have been here several times to look and eventually buy a guitar and amp for my son. The employees have always been eager to help. They have a wide variety of guitars, drums, keyboards. read more

Guitar Center - They have a wide variety of new and used guitars, in all price ranges - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - St. Louis, Missouri

I don't play the guitar. But I did come here for my cord/ adapter/ case/ microphone needs when I lived in StL. The employees were always nice, had some great sales, let me try out merchandise without pressuring me into buying it, and were great about returns. Bought a wheeled case for my full-size digital piano. Used it once. Zipper broke. Piece of shit. Got a full refund no questions asked even though it was obviously used. read more

I have shopped here many times. Never this poor of service but also rarely fantastic. Today will be the end of my shopping at guitar center. I arrived at 9:30am as their website indicated they were open at 9. The door was open and I started to walk in but saw a sign on door that said opens at 11. I asked if they were open and they said they were only open to buy used gear or trade until 11am. I came back at 11:30 and found the three different instrument cases I needed. Walked to front cashier who was waiting on one person. Stood at the checkout while no one said a word to me. He was waiting on one guy who was selling them used gear. While he is waiting on that guy another guy comes up behind me to buy stuff. In the meantime 5-6 more people get in line behind the guy that is selling stuff to them. Finally after standing there for about 15 mins. He says we don't open until noon for purchases. I told him I was told eleven and he says well I have this line so I won't be able to help you. It would have taken 3 mins or less to check me out and take $250 of my money. I will take it to music go round from now on. read more

The upside: a great inventory across a wide spectrum. Specifically electric/acoustic guitars, rhythm (including electronic), DJ, keyboards, mikes, amps, cables/boards/accessories, etc, etc, etc. For christmas items for kids they have good packages that make it easy. I wouldn't come here looking for school band equipment since they won't have it. But otherwise you can be pretty confident. For gig players it's a no-brainer. The downside: On some items the pricing is a bit high, so wait for a good sale as they are constantly having them. It's a bit of an intimidating place for amateurs and newbies, and you never know if you're going to get assistance from someone who will cater to you or acts "above your level". All in all though this is one of the only options around for this kind of selection, and let's face it, it's a cool store. read more

While I buy much online. Audio requires some Hands on research in most cases. I frequent guitar center and have always had a great experience. I have also purchased used gear here for a fraction of the cost. I have had great experience with their warranty services as well. All around 5 stars read more

Gerard is the best! I have bought many items and received a ton of helpful advice, not always limited to items I end up purchasing. He will help you out, give you the real scoop if a product is not something he would spend his own money on. Listen to him if he says he would / would not buy something. I trust him very much to give it to me straight. He works to make sure you will be happy with your purchase. If he says he would recommend something over something he does not recommend, trust him. Some folk buy items against his advice and usually end up returning when they should have listened to his recommendation first. read more

Most people here are helpful. Pete, replaced my acoustic guitar's strings for $10- labor + price of strings. My Dad & my friend brought their acoustic guitars and I'm planning to buy my first electric guitar here. Th only problem is there is one guy who works here that is really strict with the return. I know I have to be cautious with the condition of the item that I return, but he could have at least said it nicer. read more

Total lacking of customer service. The place is not even busy. I was browsing for ten minutes searching for a bass amp. Not even one sales person come to me and ask " how may we help you?". Question is don't they work for commission? If not, then this establishment will be in big trouble. Even the girl cashier wasn't too enthusiastic checking me out. Wow. read more

I've been buying items here since the store opened. Most of the staff is very knowledgeable in their department and are always quick to help. My advice is to get to know your salesperson so they can handle your needs every time you visit the store. Your experience will be much more enjoyable over the years. If you're makin a stop, visit Matt W. in pro audio. Very knowledgeable and has been helping me out for years. read more

Just left this place after getting a consultation on my acoustic that had a slight buzz going on around frets 2 & 3. I was told to do a partial re-fret for $175 that would take 3-4 weeks. I IMMEDIATELY went to Music Folk in Webster Groves (my hometown music shop). The man behind the counter was friendly and knowledgeable and fixed my problem for $5 in less than 5 minutes with the turn of one wrench. So if you need strings or a product, I'm sure Guitar Center is just fine. But if you want honesty and a real expert to help you with your instrument, go to Music Folk. Shame on guitar center for trying to sell an unnecessary service that would have left me without my instrument for a month! read more

I'm not a music buff... but I found myself needing speaker stands for a PA system in my bar. Walking I felt very out of place. Random people were playing guitars, and there is equipment everywhere. I was directed into the back for speaker stands and the associate Matt was super helpful, and accommodating, and didn't mind walking a newbie through all the stuff. I actually got a bit of an education while I was there but felt comfortable. I highly recommend this place if you need music equipment. read more

Good store, friendly staff. The selection had what I wanted to try out and I found the guitar I was looking for. Good experience.

Staff is very helpful, but as a lay person it is a bit confusing, and over half of my list had to be ordered online through GC or other sites. Bummer. read more

I ordered a Gretsch from these guys, the salesman said it would be in before the holidays. It did not arrive until late January. I understand back ordering, but it would have been effective customer service to keep me in the loop, which didn't happen. read more

I've been buying stuff at Guitar Center since the 80's in Chicago. Now I live in StL and have been going to this GC since it opened. I've bought way too much stuff here and they have always been fair. I'm a synth guy and the selection isn't as extensive as you'd find in the stores in NYC, CHI or LA but it's decent. Scott in keyboards has been a great guy to work with for years and years. I'm really glad this store is here in STL, it really supports the musician community! read more

When I 2star it is says, "I've had better". Yes, I have had better but these guys are waaaaaay nicer than Chuck Levins (different state and sometimes ethically meh). I've never bought more than strings but I have sold them some Vintage(70's)gear cause I was in a pinch. They were fair and I was honest. They have bought other items from me as well, always honest and fair in the sense that we all made money. My only problem was I never got the same salesperson twice. They also had to do the, "Let me get this approved by Yyz in vintage." OK, but just send me to him. The reason I say that is I was a pro player for 37yrs playing minimum 4days a week and get treated like a first time student by a...Nevermind... we made deals. The rest is a Gibson problem. I went to buy a new(once per decade thing)Gibson LP and they were showing me absolute junk. That is not ok because I know a good axe when I feel it. They showed me overpriced Junk that was actually painted over(apparently yesterday). That is all, I must stop coz angry. But just to remind, we made factually correct and honest deals. I just feel I need to talk to someone with more experience; I've earned it. The RugBurnz read more

You know? I've always had a good experience ever since I started going here 10+ years ago. The staff is always nice and don't push product on you. They're very knowledgable about their sections. I wish I could remember the name of the guy who helped me out when purchasing my Apogee Quartet so I could give him some shine. But! He was great about answering specific questions and didn't hassle me when I had to switch it out for a new one a week later. Everything works perfectly now. read more

I used to not like this GC, but management and employees have changed over the years and I really like the environment they create in this GC. I recently traded a pedal and didn't get low balled like in the past, they gave me a great price and I used that money to buy an instrument I had been interested in that they happened to carry. They exceeded my expectations, Elliot was the one that assisted me and is the main reason I decided to write a positive review for this GC for those who stopped going for past reasons like I did. I totally recommend Watson's GC for any musician. read more

I have used Guitar Center since I moved to the St. Louis area in early 2000. I've had a few less-than-spectacular dealings with some of the staff. Oddly, those staff members tend to not be there very long. Pete is one of the guitar techs there. Very quick, knowledgeable, and friendly. He even still talks to me after I brought my 12-string bass in to be setup! I wanted a Gibson Les Paul for a long time. When they came out with the Min-ETune I knew I wanted one. I told Brett I wanted a guitar with a few conditions. "It HAD to be Gibson. It HAD to be a Les Paul. Finished - in order of preference - were Tobacco Sunburst, Cherry Sunburst, quilt top, black, blue, red." I'd been looking for quite a while with no luck. About a week and a half later he called to tell me he'd found the exact guitar I wanted - even down to the Tobacco Sunburst finish! The price was pretty good, too. They've generally got a pretty good selection of equipment and the prices are generally reasonable. read more

It's a chain, and the workers are paid on commission. I have heard them speaking disrespectfully of clientele. All in all, I'd say, "Ehhhh."