Music depot is the best store in the east bay!! They got great deals and their guitar selection is massive!! I been coming here since 2012 and it's amazing to see how far they have come as a store and as a business. You cannot go wrong with visiting this store and browsing without leaving out with something to buy! 5 star customer service. You will not regret it read more

Best music store in the area. ABC is Ok and Music unlimited is still around, but Music Depot is my spot. Just bought some cables, prices are good.... I've stopped buying music stuff from Amazon, Sweetwater, etc. and have opted instead to support local businesses like Music Depot. Matthew is a great guy, so's his Dad. If you haven't been to Music Depot, head on down to B Street and check it out. I guarantee you're going to like it. read more

Music Depot - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Hayward, California

Good selection of gear -- very knowledgeable owner. Good location, easy parking. That's all.

I had not been to Music Depot in a long time but needed some help with my Ubass, a bass amp and some new strings for an acoustic guitar. I looked at their web site which is excellent, easily searchable for their products and more. I also called and talked to Matthew who was super nice and very helpful. I brought in the Ubass and the bass amp. Learned that the bass amp works fine (and they sell some super cool small "cube" battery or plug in BOSS bass amps at great prices...tempting...) but left the Ubass to get the strings changed and the tuner pegs checked out. Strings for the Ubass had to be ordered but they have a lot of ukulele strings, acoustic and electric guitar, bass strings in stock. I am going to take my acoustic guitar to them for a pick installation. Ska Records is right next door, will check that out on my next visit. Music Depot was opened by Matthew's parents, Peter and Angela Schaaphok in 2011. It's a locally owned family run business that provides a great service for local musicians. Matthew's dad is a musician and also a promoter, organizing and supporting bands and festivals. Support local business and shop at Music Depot! They are open 12-6 Tuesday through Saturday. Their luthier is there on Saturdays. Here's an interesting link to a 2024 interview with Peter, who is a local Hayward guy as well; https://www.namm.org/library/oral-history/peter-schaaphok read more

While shopping for a Christmas present we stopped in The Music Depot in downtown Hayward. Our youngest daughter wanted a ukulele and I wanted to look at everything else. We lucked out and found a parking spot right out front. I could see parking be a issue but I promise it will be the only one if your destination is this shop. Walking up you can see they are taking all the necessary steps to ensure safety during the pandemic. As we entered we were greeted and noticed a very clean and well put together store. I was a kid in a candy store looking around at all the product. What ever you play they have it or will get it for ya. Prices are good but the knowledge you receive about the products is priceless. Learned a lot today, this is a family owned business and they have fought their way through the pandemic by going to the next level for customers. We found the prefect ukulele while also getting some other small items. I felt welcome and like my business was appreciated. Maybe the best shopping experience in a long time. read more

See all

I bought my very first guitar here at the beginning of the year and whenever I had any questions about it, the people at the store were more than willing to help. Once I brought in my guitar and was confused about why it wasn't tuning right to find out I had the wrong tuning settings on ‍ but I would of never been able to figure that out without the help of the kind men who work at the store. They didn't make me feel dumb at all and were happy to help with that and more. I felt like I didn't just buy a guitar, but paid for continuous guidance and support as well. I love my guitar! I highly recommend coming in here if you're thinking of getting a guitar yourself and don't know much about it! read more

I came here to purchase a bass and wamp for my kid and this place came recommended froma friend of mine. I was helped by Joe, and he was a great deal of help. He pointed ke in the right direction to what bass my kid should start out with and what amp we needed to practice and if my kid ever wants to jam with friends, she could do that also. This is abgrwat family run store. Ill definitely be coming back when my kid out grows her her current set up! read more

I have a lot to say about this store, a big story. So the first time I need them to do some work on my guitar was when my strings snapped and I brought the guitar to them. I had talked to them and they said it would take 4 days!!!!! For a simple string change. I had gone to guitar center a month after when my strings broke again and they had changed it in less than 10 minutes. But that isn't even my main problem 4 days isn't that bad for me at least I'm pretty patient. I had been looking up on the internet for a new pickup for my guitar I had bought these Mick Thomson signature pickups my first thought was to take it to my local shop. I had taken it to them and gave it to them and they gave me the price I was okay with it. The price isn't even the main problem so about 2 weeks had passed I had checked on the status of my guitar and each time I called it wasn't ready. About a month had passed and they told me the luthier was on vacation. They are extremely unprofessional they waited a month to tell me the luthier was on vacation. I had also been taking lessons at this shop as well. Each time I had called they said it needed more parts and wasn't ready and kept on getting delayed each time I had called. Soon two months had passed and it wasn't even ready I had to go to the shop and tell them to bring my guitar back. They brought it back and it wasn't even finished. They had charged me for an unfinished job i do not recommend this shop for anything other than buying things from do not ever take your guitar or Anything in general here for any upgrade of sorts. I am extremely dissatisfied with this shop. I hate to say this because I know this is a locally owned business and love to support locally owned businesses but, guitar center is much more professional and you have more for your money. read more

Great dudes working here. Never feel pressured and always have great conversations. They have what you need and are respectful to players of any level. Highly recommend stopping by and looking around if you're in the area of downtown Hayward read more

Too soon for a positive review, not enough experience as a beginner. As an update, The first guitar I took for a set up took 10+ weeks. None of the delays were communicated to me, I only found out when I called or showed up to pick my guitar. I didn't mind as it was the holidays. The 2nd guitar I took for set up, didn't get set up even after 23 days and was well on it's way for a few more weeks at the shop. This time, there was a change approval (evening out the frets) that was needed and we agreed on a extra 2 week timeline, but at the end of 2 weeks they hadn't even started the additional work. It was probably gonna be another X many weeks to deliver. None of these delays were pro-actively communicated. I always found out when I called to check on the status of a job that was supposed to be done, only to be told it was still pending. At one point, a MD employee actually hung up on my call, saying "I am pretty busy". As If they were doing the job for free and had not time to take a customer request for an invoice to be sent. The bottom line is that... Music Depot (MD) can't deliver on time. The same guitar was delivered fully set up including fixing uneven frets, in "4" days by Guitar Center (GC)! GC did it the set up for "less $" than what Music Depot (MD) wanted to charge me, including upgraded (higher gauge) Ernie Ball Strings. MD charges extra for a new set of strings. GC included whatever string I wanted in the price of the basic set up which is same as MD's set up price. Moreover, they even took care of fixing the uneven frets for the price of basic set up (intonation, action etc.)! This is an extra the GC luthier didn't have to do. Sold! Other concerns, No accountability. MD just wanted me to deal with the delays, their response was along the lines of "These delays happen..." The MD Luthier is a ghost. You never get to interact directly with the Luthier, instead, MD acts as an intermediary messenger and they always point that out, "we are middle men....can't help with the delay..it happens"...well, MD, I pay "you" for a job done right and on time, you not the ghost Luthier... please be accountable. You get to work with the Luthier at Guitar Center directly and not go back and forth through middle men who have no accountability! The GC Luthier, was pro-active and called me to make sure things were getting done right The MD team are nice guys, but lackadaisical and unprofessional. I really wanted to support a local business but Guitar Center wins on every count. More professional, better prices, wider selection of products and timely delivery. read more

Absolutely love Pete and his family at Music Depot!! I didn't wanna give my money to Amazon and I wanted to support a business I know that works really hard to support their community so I called them up all the way from here in Virginia and they took great care of me!!! Couldn't be happier with the service and would definitely shop here anytime I need gear!! Website is awesome and easy to navigate!! Support Music Depot!! read more

Music Depot - Satisfied customer!! - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Hayward, California

We were looking for a keyboard for my Father in Law who's 88. We had looked everywhere and no one seems to carry them. Called this place in Hayward and they said they carried them. So off we went to this small amazing location with a very helpful store keep. Showed us what they had we made the choice they had it in stock, made the purchase and all is good. If your just a bit curious about music or items you need give this gem a chance. read more

The store has a good range of audio equipment, but they do lack in terms of the guitars (acoustic, electric) they carry. However, if you are looking for something from the makers that they carry, it is possible to get them to order it online from the catalog for you. Good and friendly customer service as they provided information when asked, and wasn't pushy when we couldn't find what we wanted. An added bonus is that if you need to lower the strings on your guitar, they will do it for you and then send the guitar to you within a reasonable distance from the store. The minus one star is due to how there was no information posted or on their phone greeting about opening later by an hour from their posted time or from their greeting. So wasted our time by going to the store, waiting around and trying to call to see if someone would answer. However, appreciate it that they returned our call upon opening. read more

This shop is absolutely amazing the two brothers that own the shop are very knowledgeable and as a new bass player myself did not make me feel dumb asking questions. Furthermore, they are very willing to order and help you find what you are looking for I will be shopping here from now on especially because they don't overprice things and they are honest. read more

Talk about personal service. Music Depot was able to get a certain drum that was sold out at every music vendor. They made the extra effort to contact the company to see if they had it in stock. They made my daughter's birthday a sweet one! Thanks again! I've been in the music industry for 30 years, and they have THE best service. You have all my business! read more

Went here and picked up a string swing for my acoustic guitar for the exact same price as what they sell for online: plus the guy working was super nice and gave me some picks. In a world of Amazon and eBay why not go downtown, meet a super cool business owner and grab something you need? Love it, will definitely be back. read more

Was looking for an electric piano. Had gone to a few stores before this one but I wasn't convinced. I came to this place and was sold, I ended up buying a Casio digital piano for a great price. I'm new to pianos, so the guy who was there (didn't get his name) helped me understand the difference between all the digital pianos they had. He made it clear that I could come back if the piano had any problems. Great costumer service, and the piano is good so far, thanks! read more

Took my bass guitar here to see what they can do about my messed up output jack and they went above and beyond with their service. They took real good care of my bass and even noticed other flaws on the guitar that they fixed right up, all for fair pricing. If you're looking into getting repairs or need any music knowledge, Music depot is the place to go. Matthew was super helpful when it came to the process of repairing my bass, super clear and detailed, and made sure I knew what I was paying for. The guys here are professional and always want to help you out. Thanks guys for the help! My bass guitar looks practically brand new! read more

Music Depot - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Hayward, California

See all

this was my first purchase from Music Depot, and it certainly won't be my last! competitive prices, sure; quick and easy website, of course; but where they excel is their customer service! the 2 times i spoke with them by phone, they were very friendly, courteous, helpful, and informative. and the delivery of my purchase was unprecedented! thanks, Pete!! now that things are easing up with distancing, masks, etc, i will be making the short trip to Hayward for an in-person visit (and probably purchase).....ya know, there's always something that a giggin' guitar player needs, and i'm sure Music Depot will help me! read more

Why buy from big block music stores when you can support a local small business that's family owned and operated right here in Hayward? Music Depot has a nicely curated selection for the modern musician, and they can custom order anything you might need that's not in stock. I've been shopping there for years, and my son took drum lessons from Pete the owner for years. Great people, great business. read more

I needed to find a place to make some adjustments to my Gibson SG and I am so glad and grateful I found this place. The customer service is excellent. Everyone at the shop took the time to talk to me, listen to the issues I was having with the guitar and after maintenance done by their luthier the guitar is playing better than it has in years. They even advised me that I can take it back for further adjustments if I wasn't 100% satisfied with their service. I highly recommend Music Depot. read more

Always a pleasure to visit and shop at this gem of a find! The Bay Area is steeped in rich musical history, and locally owned and operated music stores have always been its cornerstone. Whether it's tending to the needs of seasoned players or as the catalyst to support the growth of new artists, Music Depot delivers. They are genuinely eager to assist and serve their clients and, being musicians themselves, have a real passion for helping others to achieve their own musical goals. Great people, great products, great prices, great service! read more

Been coming here for years, great staff and they always have what I need, even some of the harder to find Marine Band harmonicas! Conveniently located in the middle of Downtown Hayward, a short walk from the BART station. Support your Mom & Pop stores, they need it now more than ever! read more

I've been seeing Jason for guitar lessons for the past few weeks now. He's just the friendliest guy and an awesome instructor. He's familiar with a wide range of music, plays really well and is in his own band. My lessons feel more like I'm jamming with someone for 30 minutes instead of being taught. I'm very happy so far! Pete, the owner, is also a really good guy and provides great customer service. A+ for these guys. read more

Despite the fact that Hayward has continuously failed at providing a vibrant and bustling downtown area, Music Depot provides prospect and possibility. Their selection of stock on floor is limited, but they can help you find and order what you need. The prices are fair considering they're independent. My main experience has been with getting music lessons for my niece and three nephews. They've worked out a sweet deal to give them lessons together, two doing guitar, two doing drums. Pete, who does the drum lessons has arranged their lessons to accommodate my 14 year old nephew who is a quick learner while still being able to engage my 8 year old nephew who has ADHD and can be quite a handful. My 10 year old nephew and 7 year old niece are taking guitar lessons. Their instructor teaches them together and individually within the allotted half hour lesson. He's enthusiastic and relieved to teach kids who show extreme interest and a want to learn such as my niece and nephew. According to him they show a lot of potential and are quick learners. Because of that, he knows just how much they can consume and has them practice 10 minutes daily so as to not force it on the kids. The customer service is great. You're always greeted with a smile. read more

These guys are absolutely great. They truly do care about their customers, and have great services. They're super informed and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this spot, it's a little hole in the wall, but they have sustainable prices on all of their products/services. read more

Very friendly and courteous shop, helped us pick an Amahi soprano ukulele, competitive pricing, great selections!

Music Depot is a good solid mom-and-pop music store. The staff is super-friendly, and there's a good roster of skilled instructors for guitar and drums (and maybe other instruments, too. I didn't notice). In addition to being skilled instructors, they're skilled at gear maintenance, as well. I take my snare drum here when it needs better head adjustment than I'm capable of doing myself. As a previous review mentioned, the selection is quite as broad as chain stores, but that's okay, because that's expected with a fairly new mom-and-pop store (I think it's only two years old). The prices are reasonable instead of extortionate, and the place is small enough that there's no need for someone to man the front door to ask to see your receipt when you leave like at **CENSORED**. I like it! read more

Music Depot is a friendly family run business that has a great selection of instruments and supplies for your instruments. If he doesn't have what u need he will order it for you. It's one stop shopping. I will be taking my kids for guitar lessons this year also. ! read more

Great gear, great service, lessons, sales, fantastic expertise. Affordable. Hours are very good as well.

Really good guitar shop, you can tell they're really dedicated to their business and I appreciate that as a customer.

Shop local! COVID-safe! Really great spot. Family-run, so helpful, and super friendly! I was there to pick up a case for my Ukelele and they were patient with me as I chose from a few options. Plus they gave me a free pick! :) Definitely will be returning for any music needs in the future. Thank you!!! read more

This is a great little music shop! Knowledgeable staff and if they don't have it in stock they can get it for you. This is the kind of store you can patronize for years and get personalized service because you're not just a number in a database. read more

Took my bass in for repair. They repaired it and then some. Super awesome guys. Great customer service/support. My first experience was great. I will definitely not be looking anywhere else for music repairs any more. Thanks music depot. read more

Great customer service, very knowledgeable. The on site luthier does fantastic work, it's not as cheap as other places but you get what you pay for when it comes to set ups and repairs. They price match anyone else price on equipment, instruments, ect. Do to covid-19 stock is limited at the moment but order what you need they'll get for ya ASAP. Support locally owned businesses when ever possible. Great place to pick up your musical needs and wants. They work with and for you to get playing in style. So Rock on over to the Music Depot!! read more

Absolutely the worst service you can receive. I walked out the store very disappointed. I initially dropped off two of my electric guitars for repair about two months ago. One guitar needing a pick guard and the other simply putting a screw in to lift the pickups. Just to clarify I didn't ask for miracle work at all, it was two simple tasks. Apparently to them it takes almost two months to get a screw ?!?! They kept postponing my instrument I was tired of it. So I waited almost two months just for putting one screw in my guitar and on the other no work or pick-guard installation had been done ?! This place is filled with excuses and laziness. Never going back there again look for another shop read more

Great customer service! Friendly staff, who prioritized safety and cleanliness. Shop owner helped me pick out the perfect, affordable, guitar for my little sister. read more

I needed a saddle and strings installed on my guitar, they said it was going to be ready by a certain date and in was not ready until two weeks after that date. Their communication is the worse! This was a birthday present so I would have gone somewhere else if it was not going to be ready on time. I wasted my time driving to the shop twice, because they said it would be ready for pick up, the first time it was not ready and the second time they said ASSURED me they would be there but the store was closed, didn't even call me or anything to reschedule the pick up! On top of that they did not apologize or seem to care about my inconvenience. Think twice before dropping something off to get worked on because it will take TWICE as long. NEVER going back there again, look for another shop! read more

I like this store, they have excellent customer service and and I like that it is a family owned store and there is a nice warm feeling to it. They also offer classes at reasonable prices and flexible payment plans which is very helpful. read more

I came in here while waiting for a haircut across the street and was pleasantly surprised. Helpful, friendly knowledgeable staff, good prices, and all your music needs all wrapped up in a convenient location in down town Hayward. I wish I found this place sooner but I'll be back for all my future musical needs. read more