Forget the Guitar Center or Norman's Rare Guitars in Los Angeles. This is the place you need to go for your instrument purchase and repair needs! They gave me a much better deal then those overpriced places and shockingly better then Craigslist on a twin reverb in excellent new condition. I felt quite at home there and they were very very helpful . I mentioned the Doobie Brothers by chance and they jubilantly explained in deatail that their building was once a recording studio where the Doobies first started at. They had an amp the Doobies had used for pre-show warmup for sale and was labeled as such too! The shop is well organized and displayed, the inventory was drool worthy and I was given quite the tour, even into the inner sanctum, where the King's jewels were displayed. A most memorable visit and a steal of a deal! Highly recommended! I will return. And avoid the other places . read more

Pretty cool that my son & his dad earned a sticker because they said a specific word when they entered the store!

We're very lucky to still have this music shop in San Jose.... Very friendly knowledgeable experienced staff.... I just had the intonation set up on my old Gibson Paul and it plays great... Ask for Terry to set up your guitar... Thank you. read more

Great experience all the way around. Love my Fender Custom shop Paisley Tele and 57 Strat. These guys are very fair and are great to deal with. read more

Guitar Showcase - 57 Custom shop Strat - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

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What a great find. Unassuming exterior but totally cool guitar shop with great selection of high-end guitars. They essentially told me, sure try everything and take as much time as you want - vintage stuff over here if you want. I did for a couple hours, they were super cool. Tony cut a great deal on a Gibson Les Paul Greeny, and had the guitar set up for dropped D tuning with 9.5 gauge strings. Glad I found this place. read more

Guitar Showcase - Les Paul Greeny Guitar - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

Took my SG in for a setup. Super pleased with the results! Cool shop, nice gear and staff were friendly and helpful. This place is a gem

This will be a lengthy one, but let me strat with a shoutout to Chris! (pun intended haha) I came in wanting to buy a bass, he played it super well and showed me the right gear, but after we checked out some guitars his playing really won me over to that, so for now bass can wait. But I asked about many different styles of guitars and he played all kinds of genres on the different style guitars, amps, etc. I mean I REALLY took my time and he had the most chill happy attitude, that really earned my business. Eventually I took one home, didn't end up liking the color and came back the next day to exchange it for a different one, he was not irritated at all, he very happily played some more, showed me more options around the store, and had some great suggestions and played all kinds of stuff for me to hear, even showed me one excellent option I had never even considered, it felt more like hanging out with a friend than any sort of salesman/employee. When it came time to purchase he did his absolute best to get me an awesome deal along with the owner himself, and I was pleasantly surprised that they were willing to meet me pretty much at where I wanted to be, the owner mentioned he really wanted me to leave with a guitar I loved and it's nice to know that it's treated like a customer friendly showcase and not just a museum. I will be doing my shopping here from now on, these guys are legit, great staff, ownership, and many beautiful options, don't be afraid to really take your time here, they are the absolute best! read more

Guitar Showcase - Fender Custom Shop Stratocaster in Fire Mist Orange! - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

I've sold a few items to GS. The buyer person will tell you (with a fake serious look on his face), " yeah that's a great (amp, guitar) and I wish I had a spot for it. (Sighs) It will be really hard for me to sell it. But what I'll do is think of it as a project for someone." He gives a low ball price. I took it both times. But he said the same thing three months apart. Hope that helps someone get a better price or at least a comparison. Don't take your guitar for any sort of setup. You can find better quality work elsewhere at shops that deliver the work professionally. read more

I've been a very happy and satisfied Customer of Guitar Showcase for many, many years. Yesterday, I stopped by and asked General Manager Dave Zimmerman if he might be able to help me unlock the latches on my guitar case. (The latches were both stuck in the "locked" position, and I wasn't able to open either latch). Dave was in the middle of a project, and yet he immediately stopped what he was doing to see if he might be able to help me. Five minutes later, Dave had unlocked both locks, and I was on my way. Great service from a fine Company. Thanks again for your help, Dave, and I look forward to seeing you and your team again soon. Bruce McCombs read more

I brought in a guitar I purchased from a friend to have the strings replaced. Having never played before, I wasn't really sure what to expect. Tony took a look at my guitar and suggested I lower the string and get it polished. I went home later and learned how important it is to have the strings lower as a newbie. Kelly did the adjustments and was super helpful as well. 10/10 recommend coming here instead of a bigger chain. They were knowledgeable. I could tell they have a profound respect for music, instruments, and helping others. Rather than being intimidated, I left feeling very excited to start! Also: the repair was done in 24hrs! Pic below is before picture. read more

Guitar Showcase - My guitar before a thorough polish and string replacement/adjustment. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

Inquired a couple times over the phone if I can come in and get my bass guitar repaired for the crackling noise. They always answered the phone and were very friendly (hard to find these days unfortunately). Finally came in today with my bass guitar and Chris gave me a great customer experience. Very friendly, knowledgeable, and explained a lot as he was helping me repair my bass right then and there. Highly recommend this place for any of your guitar needs, I would definitely come back. read more

Guitar Showcase is a shell of what it was from years ago.... low inventory, low-energy grouchy customer service, and not very knowledgable of their own products... although they put up a front as though they are knowledgable. They are no longer what they use to be...terribly unconcerned owners, and just like the owners, the staff is terribly unconcerned and un-attending. read more

Great staff Tony fixed my son's guitar in 3 mins. Best place for all musical needs Highly recommend read more

I took in a squire Strat to get adjusted and tuned up. I got it back and I'm super excited about how well it plays. New strings and having it properly adjusted makes a huge difference. I recommend this business for all of your guitar tune ups and adjustments. Super stoked. Thank you Kelly! read more

Love this store. You get to find some really cool vintage stuff here every once in a while. read more

Guitar Showcase - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

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Best Place to see vintage guitars for sure. They have a good selection. Bought my first Yamaha acoustic electric guitar and my Squire electric with Floyd Rose here back in 1982. Returned back a few times as years went by but nothing caught my eye until in 2016 and got me a used Martin Junior that sounded really good but yes a bit pricey. The return policy is short compared to the bigger store a few miles away so make sure you really want the instrument. Staff is very helpful but you get grumpy staff once in awhile and nothing new. Still a good place to see and play due to wide selection of instruments and they take care of them unlike the big centers. Drop by and see for yourself :). read more

I picked up a guitar again for the first time in over 20 years very recently. My wife turned me on to Showcase because it's been a staple here in the South Bay for years, and me being a transplant from Oakland she wanted me to have the best local spot. WHAT AN AMAZING CREW! From Dave, the manager, who took an entire afternoon to demo me damn near every pedal in the store! ( the selection is massive btw!) to Tony who is in sales and (also hand makes guitars himself) taking the time to show me hands on how to adjust the bridge on my newest guitar just walking in the door with it... I felt so much at home at this place and welcome I even asked if they knew about lessons; someone local that could teach an old dog some new tricks. BOOM. Another emplyee here at the shop, Jeremy Epps my new guitar teacher. Great guy! (They also have lessons right here on the premises) He was matched with my same musical influences,and has been so patient and supportive. Lots of good vibes and I'm always eager to go home and practice each week we meet. Big FIVE STARS to Guitar Showcase and the entire staff here! Some I'm sure I didn't mention as well! Can't recommend this spot enough. read more

At first I was amazed by this place, but like all places the shiny glitter starts to fade and quickly. It is my opinion and my experience with the "staff" is hit and miss from the clerk who doesn't know cost of basic items. When I raved about the service the management reached out to thank me. When I had issues they were surprisingly no where to be found. Big box stores have their issues and you'd hope a small independent shop would have better policies for any issues that may arise. They don't offer refunds after you pay them so be careful with giving them any money before knowing exactly what you are getting. As a disabled senior citizen I don't have a lot of extra money to spend and what you are getting from here you may think it's money better spent elsewhere. Bottom line in the end I would say I would NOT recommend spending a dime here. Far from professional service read more

Guitar Showcase - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

Whenever I go traveling, I make an effort to see local guitar shops in the area and Guitar Showcase didn't disappoint. This is the kind of place, where, whatever I write, it will not come close to actually being there. I live 2,500 miles away and I already want to go back to buy a guitar that I don't really need. . . . Ok, maybe I do. Staff: totally friendly, unpretentious, and gave me a history of the place. I came away with a awesome feeling just by being in there. Gear: from beginner to expert- they have everything. Even if you have it, you will want to get something there. For a gear-head; this place is dangerous. Parking right out front. Tip: Currently there is construction right before it so I drove by it and had to turn around. Hopefully when the neighboring building is finished it won't block the signage from the street. Bottom Line: I'll be back, and with my credit card!! read more

Been coming here over 25 years. Used to be a much better selection but guess Amazon and Online have been eating away at their business so they sold the big building and downsized. Don't go in as much, but still go here for some supplies and setups etc. Great service. read more

Favorite guitar store in the bay area! We have been coming here for 15 years. My husband loves this store and always brings his friends and fellow musicians to have fun there. Sometimes when I'm not sure what to gift him, I will come to the store for suggestions! We have taken our guitars here to get repaired. Every once in a while, I'll bring his guitar and they will tell me how to fix it for free with a simple trick. Anything they don't have, they will be happy to order it for you. Always support local!! :) read more

Excellent service!!!! Had some issues with the input Jack turns out I had a loose wire. Tony and Jack helped me out and soldered it back together free of charge couldn't recommend this place enough. read more

If you're someone who wants to find some great guitars or equipment for a reasonable price, this is the place for you! The staff are extremely friendly and useful. When I was looking for the Martin & Co. acoustic guitar I bought last week, Tait was really helpful and went above and beyond when it came to finding the right guitar for me. To be quite frank, the entire Guitar showcase team helped! After we picked out the guitar with Tait, Kelly did an AMAZING job making sure our guitar was in good condition at purchase so we wouldn't have to deal with any problems. I was rather skeptical about buying used, but I was told that they make sure guitars (except for some very specific situations) are in acceptable, or even great condition in my case. I am 100% satisfied with my new Martin & Co. guitar. I got it at a great price for what it is, and had a great experience from the entire Guitar Showcase team. As I said earlier, and could never quite stress it enough, guitar showcase is one of the best choices in guitar stores to visit! read more

Guitar Showcase - My Martin & Co. guitar. Some minor dings, but other than that, pristine condition! Restringed & Neck adjustments made by Kelly @ purchase. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

The pickup in my acoustic guitar was not working so I brought it to Guitar Showcase. Before bringing it to the repair technician, Tony shook out the picks & dust bunnies. Then he pulled out the battery which wasn't easy due to a design flaw by Taylor. He replaced the battery, it worked like a charm & sent me on my way. He couldn't have been nicer, more patient and didn't make me feel like a fool. Thanks Tony & Guitar Showcase, you are the best! read more

Excellent selection. I didn't feel pressured to buy but was offered help when needed. Prices are standard, nothing too special either way there, but selection was very good. read more

Moved next door and they no longer sell any drum equipment. It was good while it lasted. read more

Very friendly and knowledge staff. I stopped by a few times, before finally making a purchase, and I'm glad I had the chance to support a local business! read more

The customer service at Guitar Showcase is absolutely excellent. The employees are seriously the nicest and friendliest guys ever, and they're more than happy to help you. There's also no doubt that they're music veterans. They are super knowledgeable about instruments, equipment, etc. and can detail things for you right down to how things sound. Guitar Showcase has been around for as long as I can remember, but I've been going there for the past 8 years. This is as long as I've been dating my boyfriend, who is a musician. I would only go to Guitar Showcase to tag along with my boyfriend when he needed to buy something, but last month I've started going on my own for lessons. Guitar Showcase has a music school next door where I am learning how to play guitar. Jeremy is my instructor, and in fact, my boyfriend highly recommended I take classes with him since he's known Jeremy for 20+ years at Guitar Showcase. (That's what I'm talking about with really experienced employees!) I am learning technique and a lot of tips from Jeremy, and I'm simply having a lot of fun during my lessons. Jeremy is an awesome teacher. He is super patient and an extremely skilled guitarist. I was pretty straightforward about wanting to learn how to play metal, and I know I'm learning from the best! read more

I was terrified that I ruined my $3000 Martin HD28. I took it to Jeremy based on a recommendation from Rex who's not taking appointments right now. Even though I admittedly overturned my truss rod (further than I'd like to admit tbh) Jeremy re-aligned my neck even with the slight bow I had put in it, and shaved down my bridge achieving me killer action again- just like the day I first took her out of the case! I wanted to kiss the man and make him dinner. He made my day!!! Jeremy is a legend, and guitar showcase earned a lifetime customer today. read more

Been a long time customer at Guitar Showcase. Great selection of guitars! What sets apart this store from others is the showcasing of vintage guitars, hence the name "Guitar Showcase." Tony has been super helpful in terms of helping me find the right gear. He is very friendly and knowledgeable about guitars, not just as a player, but also as a certified luthier. He fixed some minor issues on my guitars for free. I could spend hours at this store admiring the selection of guitars, and just hanging around. read more

Great guitars, relaxed atmosphere, extremely knowledgeable, helpful and friendly staff make going in a fantastic experience. Never felt pressured or unwelcome. I spent a little time trying out some harder to come by acoustics and found a few that were cool surprises. Can't wait to go back in and pick one up soon! read more

Went during December, money in pocket, ready to buy. Drove down from SF excited to see the new layout of the store. Greeted with attitude when I asked about a bathroom. I was told to go down the street to KFC. Totally taken aback by the unfriendly and unprofessional attitude. That's the last time I step foot in that place. Went to Starving Musician and was treated with respect. I spent my money there. read more

Ok COViD-19 end already I'm seriously jonez'n for some Guitar Showcase time, my home away from home. The room with all the vintage guitars behind glass is calling my name. Although I must say because I haven't tried sneaking in a new guitar in the house, my wife isn't yelling at me as much. Heck with that I'll put up with the yelling, I need my drug of choice, Guitar Showcase read more

Love this shop. Selection goes up and down, but they keep a good rotation of gear. Consistently a nice crew (over the 15 years I have frequented), who are courteous and knowledgeable. No Guitar Center attitude or sales pressure here...just a friendly musician vibe:) read more

Purchased a ukulele here and glad I did. Great selection good people sound advice. Service and personal touch you can't get using an online retailer read more

Guitar Showcase has time and time again been there for me, either patiently waiting to get a quick guitar fix or to add some expert advice on upgrading gear. Jim was awesome to work with when choosing to upgrade to a Strymon pedal. Whenever I need pedal help Burt is such an expert that he solves my problem right away and has great pedal advice. Haha, I always end up buying something worth it because of their help. From guitar repair to pedal selection to all new guitars... this store has the very best. read more

Guitar Showcase - Guitar Showcase helped me build my ultimate pedal board. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - San Jose, California

This place is a must see destinations for any musician or fan. Where else can you walk into a rock and see 100 rare electric guitars? Or vintage equipment 50-year-old tube amps? Great rental selection too. This is THE hangout for Southbay bands and fans. read more

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Extremely friendly and knowledgeable staff and great selection of guitars and gear. Always enjoy going to Guitar Showcase.

My second time in, needed a new e string, guy put it on for free! So nice, thank you :) cool selection, nice vibe to the store, I'll definitely stop by next time I need something read more

Get your instruments & gear here. Good selection of new and used, and you will be supporting a great local business. It's like the Falafel Drive-In (on San Carlos) of San Jose music stores, a San Jose institution! .. and the people here btw, are noticeably a bit nicer, so that's another big +1. I love this unique place - bought my first instrument here in 1995, and have been a customer since. The last time I came in to have the bow in my guitar neck looked at, because another shop said it couldn't be repaired. The guy in the shop here took the guitar and fixed it on the spot. I didn't cut my strings at the ends and one poked him - not cool, my bad :(. So it's good if you trim your strings before taking a guitar to the shop read more