I've stopped into this store twice in the last few months as I recently picked up dj'ing for fun! The first time I came in, the service associate was awesome in helping me figure out what I needed to get started with a decent starter board, the appropriate cables and headphones without trying to oversell me. I recently went back in to get a speaker and more cables and more gear since I've become a world renowned DJ in the last two months...and different associate...but same stellar service. I know I ask a ton of questions and Zach was super knowledgeable AND patient. Again not trying to oversell me, helping me think through exactly what I needed vs what was looked cool online. read more

I walked in and was politely greeted by two gentlemen up front. I went back to the guitar wall, which had a vast selection. I looked for about 20 minutes and I was offered assistance, but kind of wanted to look on my own which they respected. I met Tyler W., Sales Lead, who could not have been more patient and helpful. He was knowledgeable, he was not trying to "sell" me on something. I made my own selection, and he said that while he could easily order a brand new one that the one on display was significantly lower cost. I was NOT initially interested in something 100 people touched. Tyler looked me straight in the eyes and said that he would take a meticulous approach to cleaning it and making it like new. I was very confident that he would do just that, and he did. Tyler took his time and cleaned it up like brand new. I could not be more pleased with him, his help, or the overall experience. read more

Guitar Center - Guitar Stores Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

See all

UPDATE. I started shopping for a new workstation over a year ago and anytime I've been in any of the 3 local stores there have never been any more than 2 or 3 people there. Usually "salespeople" have their nose in a cellphone or are nowhere to be found. I guess they pay the rent on lessons, not sales. However, when I lived in Gaithersburg, the manager of the Rockville store (Brian) was great and someone ALWAYS answered the phone; same with Alex, manager of the Laurel store. Not going to drag a new workstation from Maryland right now though - so I ordered from Sweetwater who is always awesome. They cut me a deal on the workstation WITH the stand, and BONUS, extended the manufacturer's 1 year warranty to 2 years. Brought it to the front door :) . Life is good without aggravation. Good luck, eh - what was your store again ?? read more

Purchased a $2000 piece of gear at this location. This item was sold to me as new but after unboxing it and a quick visual inspection it was blatantly obvious that the gear was used. The previous user was still logged in and I wasn't able to register it online because it was already associated with another account. The internal storage system wasn't functioning. The store manager was dismissive and never took any accountability for the problem. I will be returning this gear and getting a full refund. They have lost two customers over this matter and failed to fully satisfy the community in which they serve. read more

This company in general and this location in specific are only interested in getting your money. Aside from the guitars, nothing is priced, so it's a super fun surprise when you get to the counter. And you have to go to the counter since that is the only way you'll find anyone to help you. Eventually. (I assume this is because the counter is where you give them your money) Also, don't bother calling as they don't answer the phone. It just rings and rings, regardless of when you call (I assume the company doesn't put enough people on a shift to keep as much of your money as they can). In the event that someone does pick up, they can't help you and will have to transfer you to another phone where no one will pick up, keeping you in a holding pattern until you just give up and they avoid having to deal with you. Skip this place. You deserve better. 6/21 Update: So they left an email address to try and work with them. I tried to give them a chance, but I went through the whole process just to have the location shrug their shoulders and say they couldn't help. My favorite part was when the person on the phone said that "sometimes people just aren't near the phone." That isn't true. People are never near the phone. I called around 10 times and got an answer once, and that one time I was transferred to another line which then rang and rang and got sent back to the first. And since I'm updating this, I remembered after my last post that I had gone in and bought a keyboard case. I brought it home to discover that the zipper was stuck on one of the corners and wouldn't open. I brought it back and let them know about the issue, then walked around the store. On my way out of the store, that defective keyboard case was out on the sales floor, waiting for someone else to have the exact same experience I did. Seriously, skip this place. You worked hard for your money, don't waste it here. read more

Very nice store, the staff member that helped me was awesome; I left smiling with a new Ibanez ALT30!

This shop's staff has always gone out of their way to help my teenage son with his guitar needs - buying, trading and repairs. Thanks, team! read more

In town for a visit, and like to check out local GCs for interesting used items. Found a nice Morgan Monroe banjo at a good price, but when I tried to buy it, it's on a 2 week 'police hold'. It's ridiculous to display instruments not available for purchase, and no, I can't come back in 2 weeks and I don't want to ship it. If you can't sell it, don't put it out. And while you're at it, someone clean up this trashed out, totally disorganized mess of a store. Horrible. read more

I bought a keyboard piano here, which turned out to be used. They assured me it was brand new, even though the box was already opened. Price was similar to keyboards online but sadly it was a used one. Overall they were chill letting me browse around but sadly the product and service was not up to par with quality expected from buying Yamaha products. read more

Guitar Center - Scratches and lots of dust on "new" Yamaha keyboard. - Guitar Stores Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

See all

Store Associates -Poor Customer Service skills -Extremely Unprofessional -Rude & Discourteous -Lack Character. I visited the Guitar Center located in Alexandria Va on 4/17/2024. Upon entering the store, I observed two associates playing on a keyboard in the front of the store and another, later identified as Josh, sitting behind the counter with his back to the door. It should be noted the employees did not greet me, nor did they ask if I needed assistance. As I approached the counter, the associate had his back to me; therefore, I spoke to get his attention. My mere presence disturbed the employee because he immediately had an attitude. An item in the glass case caught my attention, and I asked for the price since it wasn't visibly displayed. After the associate removed the item to view its price, I inquired if I could handle the item and extended my arm. The associate looked directly at me, saw my arm extended in anticipation of receiving the item in my hand, and sat the item on the counter. I continued to look at the associate with my arm extended, and he smirked. I expressed my displeasure with the associate and explained how that act was disrespectful and unprofessional--I then expressed that I would take my business elsewhere. The associate stated, "Guitar Center is a 65-million-dollar company. We will be ok." The manager on duty (playing the keyboard) heard the associate make the statement and smiled and chuckled. If you want to be treated with respect while spending your hard-earned money, I suggest you go elsewhere. read more

I have never had an enjoyable experience in this Guitar Center. The only thing going for them is the ease of parking. The staff always seem to want to be somewhere else and can never answer a question. They will walk away from you as if they are going to get more help and you stand there until you realize you've been ghosted. When I have to, I make the trek to Falls Church for better service, but honestly tend to avoid altogether and buy my gear from Sweetwater or Foxes in Falls Church. read more

I had bypassed this music store since I thought they only sold "guitars" and not electric pianos. Upon seeing a diverse collection of musical instruments, other sound equipment and musical resources items was like being in a candy store for budding musicians. I was able to set up my nephew's piano practice with one trip and the staff was also very knowledgeable and helpful. read more

Excellent customer service. These professionals are prime example of how Customer Service is done. Stopped in for a broken acoustic guitar string needing replacement. Not major - but the counter associate jumped right on it. She was aware her tech was out at the moment - so she replaced it herself! The store is beautiful, there are some awesome guitars there as well. But the young woman (sorry, no name to reference) definitely made my day. If I was taken care of for such a small matter, I have no doubt that they can meet more complex challenges. Consider me a bona fide, happy customer- and will definitely recommend others to visit! Thank you! read more

Big store with lots of stuff. The staff couldn't be more friendly and helpful, especially to newcomers and first-time guitar players. Two very knowledgeable sales guys took extra time with our 8-year old who is eager to learn guitar, even if lessons have to start out online. No pressure sales. We left with what the staff characterized as "just the right guitar for this stage in his (my son's) guitar experience!" It was a used guitar in great condition; and they said, "if he loses interest, you have 45 days to bring it back!" Great place. Great people. Great music. read more

Sam is amazing. She helped repair my boyfriends guitar to perfection. She definitely took her time and it was fun to watch her in her element. Thanks for making my bday gift to my boyfriend perfect. read more

After 14 days since I brought my son LesPaul guitar to be taking a look for possible pickups replacement they never took a look at it, they even never called us to let us know what was the status of it. My son called them twice they told my son a lot of nonsense and still never look at it. Unprofessionalism at best. No more business from us. You guys can literally burn in hell... read more

Chsjejxicufjrjrndjcjxjejtncndjenfjcjxjenrnfncndnenfjfurieitoroeo oI trrrttty I have no problem doing this for a few hours but I'm doing well lol I love it lol I have no clue what I was going on with my son. read more

See all

If I could I would give them NO stars. I was there with my husband on Friday 12/15/23, he was looking at a DJ phase that was on the shelf , the Sale price tag said $349.99, It was that price cause someone ordered it on line and never picked it up so the put it on sale. Since I was getting it for my husband for Christmas I went back Sunday to get it . Thank goodness it was still there with the sale price on it. So I asked the sales person to get it for me then he asked if I wanted to purchase warranty for it ,I asked how much he said all together was $500..plus(don't remember exact amount) he was charging me regular price for the phase which is $449.95 I told him it was on sale the tag was on the shelf still. He went and checked and he said it expired on 11/29. now I didn't see the expiration date on it but I spoke the guy on Friday and he said that price was good thru the holiday. So then I asked for the Manager he said he was the manager. he was no help ! that was the one thing I wanted to get for my husband and he wouldn't give to me for the sale price that was there for more than three week. I told my husband to find another place to go for your DJ equipment. read more

I stood in front of the ukelele display in this store for nearly an hour, comparing ukes and looking for specs on the signs/tags. No one approached me, though there were only one or two other customers in the store (who did not need assistance). One staff person looked at me but did not speak. Finally I gave up, and as I was making my way to the door, someone else said "How ya doin'" and as he kept walking away from me, not looking at me, added, "Let me know if you need anything." At that point all I needed was a referral to a store that could answer my questions and take my money. read more

Excellent customer service. These guys are the prime example of how customer service should be done. Steven helped me out on my guitar repair and he answered my every question and concern. Evan was polite and helpful too! These two gentleman deserve to be recognized. Please keep on doing what you guys are doing already. Overall I am happy with the quality of my new pick ups,19' EB Paradigm strings, and fret board. Excellent job well done! read more

I've had guitars for a while, but still feel like a novice when it comes to basic but important maintenence...like changing strings and checking intonation. Sam, the Guitar Center's guitar tech, was awesome in not just making my guitar sound better, but showing me how to do these things. Thanks Sam! read more

Yikes. Arranged a rental with this company for a concert we were holding. Check in three days before the rental was due for pickup to make sure everything was a-okay. Took about 30 minutes for someone to make themselves available, then another 30 or so for them to check up on the stuff we were renting. Came back three days later for the pick up and checked the items before leaving. Items were missing and the speakers in the set weren't even the correct speakers. Took hours to get it fixed and we didn't even get what we paid for. Just dealt with it since it was time sensitive. When we opened the bags, everything was mixed up and unorganized. Returned the rentals, organized and everything. They didn't even check the bags to make sure everything was there. Probably could have forgotten an item or two and they wouldn't have even noticed. Other than that, just your average guitar center. You can find some nice workers there who'll talk to you about guitars and tell you about the deals and discounts. Not renting here again, though. read more

I would give this Guitar Center 0 stars if I could. Ben seems all nice over the phone but in person he gives you smart answers, especially when you ask about the return policy. I asked for the return policy cause I was buying a used controller without it being tested. Ben then says if your gonna return it then don't buy it, then why the hell do u guys have a return policy. Never shopping at this store again and I don't recommend it to anyone! read more

Guitar Center's are Guitar Center's are Guitar Center's. What sets this store apart is the customer service. I'm writing this review for the Alexandria location because they consistently provide exceptional customer service. They brought in a new manager to this location about a year ago. He's one of the best I've ever seen and providing a personal touch to customers. By now he's had opportunity to hire enough people at the store to reflect his way of doing business.I don't need to suggest that All customer service Will always be perfect for you if you come in the store, everybody has a bad day now and then. However I have seen and experienced people other than manager providing me with customer service. Just like everywhere else, as long as you're kind and fair they will go the extra mile for you. But I think it's the store goes a couple of extra miles. The next time you have to purchase a guitar or any other instrument or equipment, go here first and ask for JC. Tell him what you need he'll give you several options to consider and not pressure you at all. He will give you unbiased knowledge and factual insights. Most anybody on his floor staff will do exactly the same thing. And if they don't build an answer to a question, they will get help. I don't get any special privileges from the store for this review... But you will just by showing up read more

Staff is always helpful and courteous. Kevin is my guitar instructor and he's terrific.

This is the best Guitar Center in the area. The Fairfax store prices their used stuff too high, the Seven Corners store has unfriendly reps, the Rockville store is nice but they're too far. The guys at the Duke Street store are great, friendly, and attentive. Sometimes it takes too long to get their attention, but once you get their attention, they take good care of you. read more

The customer service at this store is horrific. We waited an hour for them to inspect the equipment that we were wanting to sell. Then, after a sales person came to inspect the equipment he continued to leave us to help customers that had not been in the store as long as we had been. It appears that this store needs more employees and they need to learn how to provide customer service. read more

I'm not sure what his name is, but the blonde curly hair guy was really nice to me and my family, pointed out which starter guitars were good for me, and helped out with accessories and replacement plans. Will come back to this store and buy more professional guitars when I get better. Great service and store. read more

UPDATE: Guitar center through this app contacted me, and the owner contacted me as well. I'm on my way to return the item, and I'm grateful that the owner valued me as a customer and was very reasonable in doing what he could to make it right. I'll shop here again. His message to me: "Mr. Hall, Thank you for reaching out about your experience in my store. I am very sorry that your experience was so poor. I am personally sorry that we let policy override common sense. We do have a policy for health reason for inner ear headphone. Putting them on the non-returnable list. Nevertheless, you should have been 100% aware before your purchase. I have addressed this with the associate and my Managers that were on staff that day. They stood on GC policy instead of making sure you left the store happy. I am sure both you and I would agree there are time where you have to stand your ground. However, I do not feel like this was that time. If you would still like to return the headphone, I would personally like to help you out. If you would like to discuss this farther, I would like to make myself available to you. Please let me know the best time to call you and I will be happy to discuss any outstanding issues. Thanks again for reaching out. Thomas Chandlee Store Manager Guitar Center Alexandria" Original review: ---------------------- Terrible customer experience. I went in yesterday to purchase an in-ear monitor. The young employee swore by the SHURE 215 monitor. I asked if I could try them prior to purchasing and he told me no, unfortunately I couldn't. He mentioned nothing at that opportune moment about not being able to return them once purchased. I tried them last night and the cord on them is so heavy that it pulls them out of your ear. I went back today to make the return, to get one belligerent young kid who kept telling me that the policy is posted online. Then another less-belligerent kid began telling me there was nothing he can do because it's a health issue. The original young man who sold me the monitor yesterday came up and told me he had no idea that there was a no return policy on them. I have the email address of the owner, and will send him an email to see what he's willing to do to make this right. Clearly, a policy so rigid should be mentioned when purchasing a product that is non-returnable. The receipt does not mention it, nor does the box itself. The employees continued pointing me to the website, which I did not go to for the purchase. Upon further investigation, I jarred one of their memories to tell me that the policy was posted inside the main doors. This is typical "blame the customer" for corporate policy garbage. Had the young man who sold me the monitor told me that it was nonrefundable, I never would've taken the risk. If the store makes this right, I will update. read more

Would've been nice if the FIVE employees that passed by me and my husband asked us if we needed help with anything. No greeting, no one looked at us in the eye. Very strange. My husband wanted to inquire about guitars but doesn't know where to start. Won't be back. read more

These guys are awesome. As I beginner I went there thinking that they would be a bit aloof and treat me like newbie. FAR FROM THE CASE! Everyone was friendly and knowledgeable. They welcomed me with open arms and they took the time to help me select what was best for me as a beginner. I am totally in love with learning to play and have since upgraded my guitar. They have everything you need to get started and they dont try to steer you to the most expensive stuff. The take trade-ins and used equipment too. They made a customer for life. read more

This is NOT for this particular store but for the Online experience I recently had. I ordered some equipment online and it said the merchandise was in stock. Less than 12 hours later, I got an email saying the order was cancelled and to call them to look for something else. Very disappointing that the website had false information on it. I do not understand why the website would advertise products as available and take an order when they don't have the equipment. To their benefit, after escalating to a supervisor on why I could not cancel the entire order, they made it right. I was told I had to receive the other 2 items then return them myself to the post office for that refund. This time of year that would require an extra hour at least of my personal time so I do appreciate them fixing that and cancelling that portion. read more

I feel bad for the below review. I've never had a problem but I'm a regular. I do spend a considerable amount of my time and cash there. They help me figure out exactly what I need and don't push me at all. I've never not had resolution. Doug is great. Jon is as well. Thanks guys! read more

Guitar Center - All equipment I've got lately. - Guitar Stores Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

See all

This store has, twice now, had one person available to help customers. The first day everyone was "at lunch" at 2:30 pm. Today, the one person helping me with a trade in tried to get whoever JC is to finish verifying the equipment but he ignored three calls and then apparently refused to come out so the ONE person on the floor had to go back to him. Really sad experiences.... brick and mortar stores should know better. Ordering online!! read more

Glad that GC Alexandria is now in my area and I have local access to their many great products. However, don't forget about the other important aspects that go along with product such as process, people, and respect of time (customer service). Some feedback: I brought in two classical guitars for repair (service) last Saturday and was told that I would receive a phone call when they were ready. As a regular and online customer, all of my info is on file. I did not receive a phone call. So, today (6/10/2017), I contacted GS and a store associate put me on hold for approx 15 minutes. When another associate picked up, he apologized for the long wait. I asked about price; it was a much higher than the service price listed on the website. (Know your website prices and your promotions.) The associate agreed to match the price provided that I bring a printout from the price on the website. When I arrived at the store my guitars had new strings but the additional services they advertised was not performed: (tightening all hardware, cleaning and polishing the instruments, tuning the instruments). Although I agreed to tune and clean the instruments myself if GC gave me the products, the associate, who was accommodating, insisted they could perform the service. I had other errands to run and agreed to return later so they could complete the service, but when I returned one instrument still had not been tuned. The fret boards should have been conditioned before restringing and the associated did not get underneath the strings to clean or polish where grime was still clearly visible. Needless to say, although I paid the cost of the service, it was below my expectations for the price I paid. I will continue to patronize GC because I believe they can rise to level service I expect of them and will continue to insist upon it to help them get better. read more

We love this place. Very helpful and friendly staff. We are tempted to start our kid in instrument lessons here. Waiting for him to get a little older... but, they say they start with pre-schoolers if the child is able to follow basic instructions. Love how open and easy it is to demo the instruments here. We'll go here on a rainy day just to try out a drum kit or let the kiddo do a stand-up routine on the open-mic. Highly recommended. read more

Theres not really alot of gear or equipment here compared to other locations. Staff is friendly and location convenient to me.

The guaitar center never lets me down. Had to take my son's bass in to get a new string put on and Steven was great. He was able to repair my son's bass on the spot. He even let me record him while he was replacing the string in case I had to fix it again. Thanks Steven!! read more

I'm a really big fan of this guitar center, and I've been to a few others. This location has some very genuine customer service, and I'm greeted by every single person working in it (and they have a surprising amount of employees working the floor when I've been in). Everything is nicely organized, and it's very easy to find things without having to ask for them, which is great for me because I'm really new to playing and I feel embarrassed asking stupid questions. They make it much more comfortable for me whenever I do have to ask one of my dumb questions though, and the answers I get are very thorough. I'll most likely be bringing my craigslist find in soon for some help with the wiring. It's a little ugly, but I know I'll be taken care of, and not made to feel like garbage with my ugly guitar. Also their bass guitar selection makes me drool. read more

Just read a guitar.com story about possible GC bankruptcy maybe resulting in some stores closing. So - wanted to say keep this one open! These guys have been great before and since the covid mess struck. Staff is always helpful, including the store manager who is often available on the sales floor chatting with staff and customers. read more