Planning a trip to Los Angeles and passionate about guitars? Beyond the usual tourist spots, LA offers a vibrant guitar store scene that caters to every musician’s needs, from vintage collectors to budding beginners. If you’re venturing into the City of Angels, and especially if you’re seeking that perfect instrument, knowing where to go is key. After experiencing the iconic Guitar Center Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard, explore these four exceptional guitar shops in the Los Angeles area, each offering a unique experience for guitar enthusiasts.
Norman’s Rare Guitars: A Tarzana Treasure Trove of Vintage and Unique Finds
Norman’s Rare Guitars storefront in Tarzana, Los Angeles, showcasing a wide selection of guitars in the window
For over three decades, Norman’s Rare Guitars in Tarzana has ascended to global renown, partly thanks to its subtle nod in This Is Spinal Tap and mentions in numerous films. However, its fame is deeply rooted in its exceptional collection and dedication to the guitar community. Embracing modern trends, Norman’s engages with enthusiasts through daily Guitar Of The Day posts on Instagram and YouTube, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination for celebrities, rising rock stars, and guitar lovers worldwide.
Norm Harris, the owner and namesake, began his journey of collecting vintage guitars in the 1960s, predating the established vintage market we recognize today. With encyclopedic guitar knowledge, Norm strategically amassed a vast inventory, anticipating the future boom in vintage instruments. Today, Norman’s Rare Guitars is a testament to his vision and expertise, a name synonymous with high-quality, rare, and vintage guitars.
Norman Harris, owner of Norman’s Rare Guitars, holding a vintage guitar and smiling in his store
The store boasts an impressive array of guitars, ranging from incredibly rare, one-of-a-kind pieces to dependable vintage classics and select modern instruments. A walk through the expansive showroom immediately reveals a deep-seated passion for guitars. During our visit, Todd Wisenbacker, a knowledgeable salesman, presented a series of remarkable guitars while Norm provided insightful details about each instrument’s history and significance.
One of the first guitars showcased was a stunning 1955 Les Paul Goldtop. Remarkably, this wasn’t just a Goldtop; it was a rare all-gold model, featuring the gold finish on the back, sides, and neck. This pristine, original guitar was a true spectacle. The aged finish told a story, each crack a mark of time and history. The guitar’s yellowed binding beautifully contrasted with the smooth Brazilian rosewood fretboard and cream plastics. True to the golden era of craftsmanship, the guitar produced a powerful, resonant sound with incredible sustain.
A close-up of the headstock and neck of the 1955 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop at Norman’s Rare Guitars, highlighting the all-gold finish
A full view of the 1955 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showcasing its all-gold finish and vintage condition
A detailed shot of the body and bridge of the 1955 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop at Norman’s Rare Guitars, emphasizing the aged gold finish
A view of the control knobs and pickups of the 1955 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop at Norman’s Rare Guitars, focusing on the vintage hardware
A perspective shot of the 1955 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop at Norman’s Rare Guitars from the side, showing the depth of the all-gold finishNext, a remarkable 1951 Stromberg 400 was presented, a guitar that visibly excited Norm, who then shared a brief history of the brand. He explained the legacy of Stromberg and D’Angelico as the premier boutique makers for top players of the era, highlighting Stromberg’s particular prominence among guitarists like Irving Ashby and Oscar Moore. Norm pointed out the unique, custom-specified inlays that distinguished Stromberg guitars.
A full shot of the 1951 Stromberg 400 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, highlighting its curvaceous body and natural finish
A detailed view of the headstock and inlays of the 1951 Stromberg 400 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, emphasizing the unique design
A close-up of the body and f-holes of the 1951 Stromberg 400 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showing the craftsmanshipThe 1951 Stromberg 400’s natural finish remained vibrant, and its 19-inch body width, larger than a Super 400, contributed to a powerful, resonant sound. The only non-original component was a meticulously hand-cut replica pickguard, replacing the original which had deteriorated over time—a common issue with plastics from that era. Adding a quirky touch, Norm pointed out the strap button located on the back of the headstock.
The next guitar was a truly exceptional Mauer model 595 from the 1930s, adorned with extensive abalone inlays. This instrument was a visual marvel, sparking immediate admiration. Norm provided context, explaining the history of Larson Brothers, Midwest builders from the 1920s to 1940s who produced guitars under various brand names like Mauer and Euphonon, each unique and not mass-produced.
A full view of the 1930s Mauer 595 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showcasing its lavish abalone inlays
A detailed shot of the headstock of the 1930s Mauer 595 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, focusing on the intricate pearl inlay work
A close-up of the body inlay of the 1930s Mauer 595 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, highlighting the detailed craftsmanship
A shot of the bridge and body of the 1930s Mauer 595 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showing star inlays on the bridge
A view of the fretboard and inlays of the 1930s Mauer 595 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showcasing the ebony fingerboard
A perspective view of the 1930s Mauer 595 at Norman’s Rare Guitars, emphasizing the overall lavish designThe pearl inlay work across the body, headstock, and ebony fingerboard was incredibly detailed, including subtle star inlays on the bridge. Beyond its visual appeal, the Mauer 595’s sound was remarkably full, rich, and loud.
The penultimate guitar was a 1963 Fender Jaguar, a showstopper featuring rare gold hardware and a custom Candy Apple Red finish. Norm confirmed its 100% originality, including the gold truss rod nut, and mentioned it was available for purchase, making it a unique find for collectors.
A full shot of the 1963 Fender Jaguar at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showcasing its Candy Apple Red finish and gold hardware
A detailed view of the gold hardware on the 1963 Fender Jaguar at Norman’s Rare Guitars, emphasizing its rarity
A close-up of the body and pickups of the 1963 Fender Jaguar at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showing the Candy Apple Red finish
A shot of the headstock of the 1963 Fender Jaguar at Norman’s Rare Guitars, highlighting the gold truss rod nut
A view of the tremolo and bridge of the 1963 Fender Jaguar at Norman’s Rare Guitars, focusing on the gold componentsFinally, we were shown a 1964-65 Gibson SG Standard, once owned by the late Tom Petty, a close friend and frequent customer of Norman’s. This SG was used by Petty during his 1987 tour with Bob Dylan and was signed by Dylan himself. The case included a photo of Petty with Dylan and the SG, with Petty wearing a top hat that Norm humorously modeled for us. It was a poignant reminder of Petty’s legacy, especially as the two-year anniversary of his passing had just passed.
A vertical shot of the 1964-65 Gibson SG Standard owned by Tom Petty at Norman’s Rare Guitars, highlighting its history
A close-up of the case of the 1964-65 Gibson SG Standard owned by Tom Petty at Norman’s Rare Guitars, showing memorabiliaVisiting Norman’s Rare Guitars offers more than just a shopping trip; it’s an experience. The store often welcomes high-profile clientele, and during our visit, several notable singer-songwriters were browsing, further cementing its reputation as a hub for serious musicians. For anyone seeking rare, vintage, or historically significant guitars in Los Angeles, Norman’s is an unmissable destination.
Old Style Guitar Shop: Silver Lake’s Haven for Quirky and Unique Guitars
The exterior of Old Style Guitar Shop in Silver Lake, Los Angeles, showing a cozy, house-like storefront
Located on the edge of Silver Lake and East Hollywood, Old Style Guitar Shop presents a different kind of guitar store experience. Operating from a converted mid-century residence, it exudes a grassroots, unpretentious vibe. Old Style consciously avoids the elitism sometimes found in the guitar world, opting for a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and a friendly staff.
The shop is celebrated among guitar aficionados for its dedication to quirky, often kitschy, guitars from the 1960s. A visit to Old Style is likely to reveal guitars of Asian, European, and American origin, alongside unique, home-built instruments that need to be played to be appreciated. As Old Style approaches its 10th anniversary, owner Reuben Cox still expresses surprise at its success.
Reuben Cox, owner of Old Style Guitar Shop, pictured inside his store surrounded by guitars
Old Style’s origin story is tied to Reuben Cox’s move from New York City to Los Angeles with his wife. When his wife was tasked with opening a West Coast office for Beggars Group, the idea for the guitar shop emerged somewhat spontaneously.
A display of various guitars hanging on the wall inside Old Style Guitar Shop, showcasing the shop's eclectic inventory
A closer view of some unique guitars hanging in Old Style Guitar Shop, emphasizing the vintage and quirky styles
A selection of guitars leaning against a wall inside Old Style Guitar Shop, showing the shop's relaxed and informal setup
A display of electric guitars in Old Style Guitar Shop, highlighting the variety and vintage appeal
A view of guitars hanging on the wall and displayed on stands in Old Style Guitar Shop, showing the shop's diverse collection
A close-up of vintage guitars hanging in Old Style Guitar Shop, emphasizing the shop's focus on unique and older instruments“It wasn’t a long-planned venture,” Cox admitted. “I had no prior experience owning or working in a guitar shop, minimal musical talent, and had never been in a band! It was a completely spontaneous idea.”
Cox established the shop in a remarkably DIY manner, finding a location and opening without loans or financial safety nets. “If it failed, I figured I could try to find work at LA art schools… I definitely wouldn’t recommend this approach to anyone else.”
Despite its unconventional beginnings, Old Style has cultivated a loyal customer base due to its inventory of “mainly used and vintage” guitars, aligning with Cox’s personal tastes. He is often found at his workbench, expertly repairing and restoring instruments.
During our visit, we encountered gems like a vintage Harmony-made Stella parlor acoustic, modified with a modern dual-blade pickup in the soundhole and dual outputs for both the pickup and an added piezo element. Initially appearing as a basic vintage guitar, closer inspection revealed Cox’s ingenuity. Featuring art deco inlays and a matching tailpiece, it also boasted a unique rubber bridge, a sound favored by LA musicians and songwriters seeking warmth and minimal sustain. Jeff Tweedy of Wilco notably uses such a guitar on their album, Ode To Joy.
This Stella guitar exemplifies Old Style’s influence on the local music scene, a rare achievement for a guitar store. Beyond selling instruments, Old Style fosters shared sonic experiences that resonate beyond its walls.
In addition to modified instruments, Old Style produces its own guitars, typically hollowbody electrics with bookmatched tops and “bandsaw-cut sides.” Cox’s designs often draw inspiration from classic shapes but with a respectful and innovative approach. The featured T-style/Coodercaster guitar, for instance, includes a gold foil neck pickup and a horseshoe bridge pickup.
Reuben Cox holding one of his custom-built T-style guitars inside Old Style Guitar Shop
“The Telecaster shape is such a perfect industrial design, and I often return to it,” Cox explained. Other examples of his hollowbody creations include a blacked-out model with a Bigsby-like cutaway and a blonde Jaguar-style guitar with Johnny Marr-style controls and an elegant f-hole.
Old Style also houses rare and lesser-known vintage guitars, such as a sunburst Magnatone Mark V, designed by Paul Bigsby, known for its elegance and charmingly aged appearance with split inlays and chrome details. Another notable find was a 1937 Gibson HG-00, a divine instrument with a sunburst finish, comfortable parlor-style body, and dual pickguards.
A modified Harmony Stella parlor acoustic guitar with a rubber bridge and dual pickups at Old Style Guitar Shop
A view of the dual outputs on the modified Harmony Stella parlor acoustic guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop
A detailed shot of the soundhole pickup on the modified Harmony Stella parlor acoustic guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop
A perspective view of the modified Harmony Stella parlor acoustic guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop, showing its overall vintage charm
A vintage Magnatone Mark V guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop, showcasing its elegant design and sunburst finish
A full view of a 1937 Gibson HG-00 guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop, showing its double pickguard and parlor body
A detailed shot of the double pickguards on the 1937 Gibson HG-00 guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop
A close-up of the soundhole and pickguard of the 1937 Gibson HG-00 guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop
A perspective view of the 1937 Gibson HG-00 guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop, emphasizing its vintage appeal
A view of the body and bridge of the 1937 Gibson HG-00 guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop, showing the sunburst finish
A shot of the headstock and tuners of the 1937 Gibson HG-00 guitar at Old Style Guitar Shop, highlighting the vintage detailsWhile some stores might impress with legendary guitars and celebrity connections, Old Style offers a more profound connection to music itself. It’s a place to discover unique sounds and instruments with character, making it a must-visit guitar store in Los Angeles for those seeking something beyond the ordinary.
Imperial Vintage Guitars: Burbank’s Honest and Expert Guitar Shop
The storefront of Imperial Vintage Guitars in Burbank, Los Angeles, showing a well-organized and inviting shop
Located conveniently near major studios in Burbank, Imperial Vintage Guitars provides a refreshing contrast to large retail chains. This compact, carefully curated shop offers a no-frills environment, ideal for musicians seeking genuine advice, expert service, and quality guitar repairs.
Owner Shai Ashkenazi operates Imperial Vintage with integrity and a customer-first approach, rapidly buying and selling guitars while prioritizing matching musicians with the right instruments. During our visit, we observed Shai assist two customers, each with cash in hand, by honestly guiding them away from guitars that weren’t ideally suited to their needs.
Shai Ashkenazi, owner of Imperial Vintage Guitars, standing in his Burbank shop surrounded by guitars
In one instance, a self-proclaimed beginner was advised by her brother to only consider guitars over $2,000. Shai recommended a far less expensive guitar, assuring her that a high price tag wasn’t necessary to begin learning. “He told her to buy a Taylor, which is great, but not needed at her stage,” Shai explained. “I suggested a more suitable guitar, encouraging her to learn and promising further guidance as she progresses.”
Another customer was interested in two 1990s Stratocasters, neither of which quite met his requirements. One, a Clapton signature model with Lace Sensors, felt great but lacked the traditional Strat sound. The other, a Hendrix Strat with a reverse headstock, had the desired sound but not the preferred feel. Shai acknowledged he could sell either and make modifications but suggested finding a guitar that perfectly matched his needs from the start.
A display of electric guitars hanging on the wall inside Imperial Vintage Guitars, showcasing a range of models and brands
A closer view of vintage electric guitars in Imperial Vintage Guitars, emphasizing the shop's selection of classic instrumentsBoth customers were surprised and appreciative of Shai’s honesty. In an era often driven by consumerism, his approach was refreshing. For Ashkenazi, selling guitars is about building relationships. “We prioritize customer care to encourage repeat business,” he stated. “It’s all about long-term relationships.”
With over 30 years of industry experience, Shai and his team possess an innate ability to understand a player’s needs. Imperial Vintage stocks what Shai calls “bread and butter guitars,” primarily used Les Pauls and Stratocasters, alongside new Fender models. UK-based Manson guitars are also prominently featured, which Shai jokingly sells “seasonally,” coinciding with Muse tours. “I’m a Muse fan,” he admitted. “During a Muse tour, Mansons are always on display.”
A 1967 Fender Antigua Coronado II guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars, highlighting its unique finish
The first guitar that caught our eye was a stunning 1967 Fender Antigua Coronado II. Designed by Roger Rossmeisl, known for his work with Rickenbacker, the Coronado was Fender’s first venture into hollowbody guitars, alongside the Montego Jazz guitar. While not initially popular, the Coronado has gained appreciation in recent years. This original model featured the signature grey-to-cream finish, ‘Antigua’ pickguard, rare pearloid button Fender-Grover tuners, and an optional Mustang-style vibrato.
A 1960s Silvertone 1429 guitar with triple pickups at Imperial Vintage Guitars, showcasing its vintage design
A close-up of the triple pickups and controls on the 1960s Silvertone 1429 guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars
A detailed shot of the headstock of the 1960s Silvertone 1429 guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars, highlighting the tortoiseshell overlay
A perspective view of the 1960s Silvertone 1429 guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars, showing its sunburst finishAnother noteworthy hollowbody was a sunburst Silvertone model 1429. Its subtly flamed maple top and shaded sunburst finish were striking, as were the unique triple on-off switches. The tortoiseshell headstock overlay, pickguard, and control plate contrasted beautifully with the burst finish. This model featured three DeArmond Rowe Gold Foil pickups, renowned for their distinctive, gritty tone.
A 1966 Epiphone Casino guitar in cherry sunburst at Imperial Vintage Guitars, highlighting its excellent condition
A pristine 1966 Epiphone Casino in cherry sunburst was also on display. This iconic hollowbody was in excellent condition with clean chrome hardware; the only non-original part was a later bridge.
A refurbished 1930s Lyon & Healey parlor guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars, showcasing its vintage restoration
A detailed view of the headstock of the refurbished 1930s Lyon & Healey parlor guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars
A close-up of the body and soundhole of the refurbished 1930s Lyon & Healey parlor guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars
A shot of the rope-style binding on the refurbished 1930s Lyon & Healey parlor guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars
A perspective view of the refurbished 1930s Lyon & Healey parlor guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars, showing its overall vintage charm
A view of the bridge and body of the refurbished 1930s Lyon & Healey parlor guitar at Imperial Vintage Guitars, emphasizing its aged lacquerRounding out the selection was a well-loved 1930s Lyon & Healey parlor acoustic, recently refurbished with a neck reset and refret. This guitar was described as an exceptional player with a somber tone and a rich history, evident in its sunken lacquer and rope-style binding. Also notable was a natural 1974 Fender Telecaster featuring an original ‘F’ Bigsby tremolo.
A 1974 Fender Telecaster with a factory Bigsby tremolo at Imperial Vintage Guitars, showcasing its vintage features
Imperial Vintage Guitars stands out as a guitar store in Los Angeles that prioritizes customer relationships and honest guidance. For those seeking expert advice and quality vintage and used guitars, Imperial Vintage is a highly recommended destination.
Truetone Music: Santa Monica’s Premier Destination for New and Modern Guitars
The spacious interior of Truetone Music in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, displaying a wide range of guitars and gear
For guitarists interested in the latest models and modern brands, Truetone Music in downtown Santa Monica is the ideal destination. This comprehensive store carries top brands including Fender, Gretsch, Danelectro, Orange, Ernie Ball, Supro, Rickenbacker, and PRS. Truetone also offers an extensive pedal selection, in-house lessons, and repair services, making it a one-stop shop for all guitar needs.
The retail space is vast, with guitars displayed on every wall, often several rows high. The checkout counter is located to the left, with the higher-end US brands like Fender Custom Shop and Gretsch situated behind it. To the right of the entrance, a wood-paneled area houses used and more affordable guitars, as well as a wide selection of new and used amplifiers.
One of the first guitars to grab our attention was a shimmering Fano RB6 Standard in Candy Apple Red, described by Fano as “part British Invasion and part carve-top.” The metallic finish and hardware highlighted Fano’s ‘medium distress’ aging process, tastefully adding character to the German-carved body. Equipped with two P-90 pickups, a hardtail bridge, a three-way toggle switch, volume, and tone controls, this guitar offered everything a player could need.
A Fano RB6 Standard guitar in Candy Apple Red at Truetone Music, showcasing its modern design and finish
Truetone’s Custom Shop selection includes a stunning Gretsch White Penguin. Despite the familiarity of the White Penguin, its gently aged white finish contrasted with gold-sparkle binding remains captivating. The guitar featured Filter’Tron pickups, a Gretsch Bigsby, and a Rocking Bar bridge, all in an aged gold finish, completing its luxurious appeal.
However, Truetone also caters to budget-conscious players, offering great deals like a black Fender Road Worn 50s Stratocaster. Factory-aged and expertly set up, this Strat remains a consistently popular choice. The Road Worn series features an alder body with a relic’d nitrocellulose finish, Tex-Mex pickups, and a vintage-style maple neck with a 7.25-inch radius – perfect for players seeking a vintage feel and sound without the vintage price tag.
Truetone’s vintage selection includes an exceptional circa 1964 Supro White Holiday from the Res-O-Glas era. This model had its original vibrato unit and a ‘Clear Tone’ pickup with Deco accents. The three-way preset tone circuit is a standout feature, perfectly complementing the unique hollow sound of the fiberglass body. These Supro guitars are true gems of the 1960s, and Truetone offered a fantastic example.
A Fano RB6 guitar with P-90 pickups at Truetone Music, highlighting its modern features and design
While not vintage, Jerry Jones guitars continue to increase in desirability. Jones, based in Nashville, crafted high-quality Danelectro-style guitars known for their durability and excellent sound. Though always reasonably priced, their value has risen since the company closed in 2011. The Guitarlin model, with its 25.25-inch scale and 31 frets, offers a wide three-and-a-half octave range. Its dual lipstick pickups deliver detailed, robust tones, and the seafoam green finish makes it visually striking.
Los Angeles truly has something for every guitarist. Next time you visit, set aside time to explore these exceptional guitar stores – you might just find your dream instrument.
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