Nashville, the heart of country music, is naturally a haven for guitar enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner strumming your first chords, finding the right guitar shop is crucial. If you’re searching for the Best Guitar Shops In Nashville, you’ve come to the right place. As a local player, I’ve explored many of these shops, and I’m here to give you an insider’s perspective to guide your search for the perfect instrument or gear.
When it comes to Martin guitars in Nashville, Gruhn Guitars stands out as a top recommendation. While their collection leans towards new instruments, you can still find some used gems. During my recent visit, their inventory was somewhat reduced compared to pre-pandemic levels, but they still offered a very impressive selection. Plus, its convenient location, just up the road from Carter’s, makes it an easy stop on your guitar shop tour.
For years, Carter Vintage Guitars was my absolute favorite shop in town. However, since their acquisition, I’ve noticed a shift in their pricing strategy. While they still boast an incredible collection of vintage and used guitars, their prices have become less competitive. It seems they are now positioning themselves as a premium dealer, which is reflected in their higher price tags. For example, I recently saw a used Jimmie Vaughan Strat listed for $1000, while a brand new one has a MAP of only $1099.
My experience trying to trade in a guitar at Carter’s also left me slightly disappointed. I was looking to trade an American Professional Strat in mint condition. They initially quoted around 70 percent of their selling price as a trade-in offer, which seemed fair. However, the offer I received was $700, with them planning to list it at $900. While a 30% margin is understandable, seeing a similar model in worse condition on their floor priced at $1250 made me question their transparency.
Another peculiar experience at Carter’s happened when I visited with a friend on a Saturday afternoon. We arrived shortly after 4 PM, unaware of their 4:30 PM closing time. My friend was seriously considering purchasing a PRS guitar. However, around 4:35 PM, instead of assisting us further, they abruptly turned off most of the lights and rather assertively told us they were closing and to return on Monday. This lost sale was a stark contrast to the customer service I had previously experienced there.
Despite these recent experiences, I want to acknowledge that I’ve had many positive interactions and purchases at Carter’s before the ownership change. So, your mileage may vary. They do have extended Saturday hours now, and if you’re not looking to trade or sell, you’ll likely still have a pleasant experience browsing their impressive inventory.
Rumble Seat Music is another shop conveniently located on the same road, right between Carter’s and Gruhn’s. If you’re already visiting the other two, it’s definitely worth popping into Rumble Seat to see what they have to offer.
If you’re passionate about pedals, Eastside Music Supply in East Nashville is a must-visit. They have an exceptional selection of boutique pedals, along with a curated collection of unique guitars and amplifiers. Its location in East Nashville also makes it a convenient stop if you’re planning to visit Fanny’s House of Music.
Corner Music is another noteworthy shop, although it’s a bit further out of the way. Unless you’re specifically looking for something they carry, it might not be worth a dedicated trip. They have a cozy acoustic room featuring nice Gibsons and Eastmans, but they don’t carry Martin guitars. However, they do have a substantial selection of electric Fender guitars and a small boutique room showcasing brands like Suhr, LSL, and Xotic.
For a broader selection, the Nashville Guitar Center includes a Platinum Room with higher-end instruments, as well as a dedicated acoustic room. They stock both Martin and Taylor guitars, offering a wide range of options under one roof.
And of course, no guitar shop tour in Nashville is complete without a visit to the Gibson Garage. It’s more than just a store; it’s an immersive Gibson experience and is conveniently located not far from Carter’s.
While exploring guitar shops, you might also want to experience some of Nashville’s musical attractions. Lower Broadway is a spectacle, especially for first-time visitors. However, as a local, I generally avoid the crowded honky-tonks there. For a more authentic experience, Robert’s Western World, even after Don Kelley’s retirement, remains a great option, continuing to showcase talented up-and-coming guitarists.
Beyond the honky-tonks, the Johnny Cash Museum and the Country Music Hall of Fame are worthwhile attractions for music lovers. However, be aware that these museums can take several hours to explore, so factor that into your schedule if you’re on a tight timeline.
In conclusion, Nashville offers a diverse range of guitar shops, from vintage havens like Carter’s and Rumble Seat to modern retailers like Gruhn’s and Guitar Center, and boutique specialists like Eastside Music Supply. Whether you prioritize vintage finds, specific brands, or pedal collections, Nashville’s guitar shops have something for every player. Remember to consider your priorities and location when planning your visits to make the most of your guitar shopping experience in Music City.
