It actually didn't start off right. My girlfriend and I walked in looking for a karaoke system. We had certain ideas in mind: it was intended for a small crowd, on out front patio. We knew more or less what we wanted. More important, we knew what we DIDN'T want. The salesperson we started off with was either tone def (forgive the pun), or too hungry, or thinking he found a couple of suckers. EVERY SINGLE ITEM we settled on, EVERY ONE, no exception, was attempted an upgrade, hundreds of dollars worth of upgrades, ALL unnecessary. And no matter how much we protested; no matter how many times we started not to offer upgrades, not to try and upsell us, not to try and offer THE MOST EXPENSIVE alternative to what we picked... no matter what, the salesperson couldn't stop. Couldn't resist. Couldn't refrain from doing so. We were frustrated. About to leave. About to give up on a large sale simply because we felt that we were dealing with the worst kind of a used-car salesman. And then we asked for the manager. Enter Andy. Now Andy, unlike his salesperson, is a pro. He listened, solved our issues in 20 minutes; saves us thousands (on what his salesperson suggested for upgrades we didn't need), and explained The who, why and what of our system. Perfect! And to top it all, the system he recommended is PERFECT for what we need. Sounds good, easy to use and powerful. My suggestion? Deal only with Andy read more

I visited the La Mesa location on November 15 and the 16th of 2020; both times I experienced absolutely terrible customer service with the exception of Giuliana. It seems like the store employees are more concerned with their personal iPhones and social sites then they are with the customers on the floor. The senior management really isn't any different. I was prepared to spend $2500-$3000 on two keyboards and studio speakers but not today. I will take my business elsewhere even if it means Amazon. So much for supporting local brick and mortar businesses, guitar center in La Mesa is the perfect example of why these businesses are failing. I understand that guitar center file Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2020 and we're already in trouble long before COVID-19 started. It comes down to terrible customer service and way overpriced merchandise. Time to go out of business. read more

Guitar Center - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - La Mesa, California

5 star experience from the very start. I went in looking for a new guitar and was fortunate to be greeted by employee David CZ shortly after entering the guitar section. He was awesome! Super knowledgeable, very friendly, and answered all my questions. He went above and beyond to make sure I understood all of the details of each guitar before making my selection and I couldn't be happier. He really made it a 5 star experience for me and I felt great about the purchase I made. After having the guitar at home for about a week and playing it every day, I am 100% confident I made the right choice and couldn't have done so without his assistance. If you are in need of a new guitar, go to Guitar Center in La Mesa r and ask for David CZ. I promise you will not be disappointed. Thanks David! read more

25 minutes for an in-person return is ridiculous. Luis should not be assisting customers. He took two personal phone calls while I was standing in front of him waiting for my return to be handled. Ernie is just as clueless and did nothing to assist, despite how long I had been standing there. Not sure what happened to this place, but maybe the pandemic just turned the staff into morons. It is horribly painful anytime you have to deal with a member of staff who is not management. If Ernie is management, he needs some training in customer service because he and five other employees were chatting about their favorite video games while I stood waiting for someone to help me. With this kind of service, it is no wonder they will most likely have to file bankruptcy. Never again. read more

if I could give negative stars, I would. Ive spent so much money at this location for a few years now... And I'll never forget when I walked in, walked towards a counter to ask an employee a question, and he literally booked it to the door and went behind to some room, or whatever. These guys don't wanna work don't wanna talk to anyone and have the absolute worst customer service I've ever experienced in my life; maybe they're also profiling, because Im getting a sense for that as well... If they are this miserable at their job, do everyone a favor and find another place to be pathetic. Dont waste any money here. Sweetwater all the way, those guys deserve business. read more

Ive had multiple solid experiences here. This is where I take my guitars and basses for setups, fret work, etc. I've had work on acoustics, electrics, and basses, and have always been satisfied with their tech work. Prices have gone up a bit but that's been everywhere unfortunately. I've talked to some associates and they've always been chill to stop and answer questions on stuff (specific pedal questions, guitar slide sizing, little stuff like that but just being really helpful). Overall I would recommend this as a first stop shop for buying/maintaining your gear. They'll probably have what you're looking for at fair value read more

Don't go here if you want or need anyone to help you with anything! I was there looking around, standing next to the counter, looking at the staff in the the eye and it still took almost 40 mins before anyone even acknowledged I was there. I had money in hand ready to buy! I just needed advice on what to buy. Geez, customer service is dead. I went to Moze Guitars about eight minute drive away from here. Very friendly, helpful, nice, .... go to Moze! read more

Very Expensive instruments here plus several times i have called for information about one of the drums and they didnt even know he mention a guy being on tour that he is an expert in drums and then theres another guy but apparently he doesn't work there anymore he rather had me research it myself so i rather take my research time first to hop on here to mention who knows the guy who amswered my call but only he knows what im talking about when his boss or whoever running this joke of a business finds out will let him know unless he was the guy since they can't even attend there customers correctly well i am now gonna make sure i try my best always to avoid further supporting this place because im an artist and well i need my instruments i do look forward to stopping by to see if they fixed the JBL 2x 18" subwoofer that i plan to buy but not from them because i rather pay where i dont have to hassle for my quality time and patience that i give from my presence thank you yelpers for reading my honest review wish you luck if you do or don't receive business here read more

Guitar Center - Sheesh he only rob one of my minutes lol - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - La Mesa, California

I would never recommend anyone to shop at Guitar Center. We have had some of the worst customer service from the staff in the lessons area, to the store manager, and all the way to the customer service on the company's website. The lessons area staff can rarely help with scheduling or canceling. We are repeatedly told to text a number during the week even though we are physically standing in front of them. Then when we try to cancel our lessons permanently, we still got charged $260 the next day for the upcoming month and they won't refund it because we signed a contract. The store manager called to "investigate" but it was clear he was trying to prove me wrong and blame me. He still refused to give me a refund, said it needed to go through an appellate process. He said it could take days and didn't know if we could get a refund. His service was equally horrible, now I see where the staff get their lack of customer service skills from. read more

Was waiting for quite sometime in the drum area for help. Asked multiple employees, eventually had to go to the front to ask Mark for help. He then helped me find what I was looking for and really saved the day. Thanks again Mark. You rock dude! read more

Customer Service here is top notch. I'm new to the DJ industry and it can easily get overwhelming with gear, knowledge, money etc. But Bobby is top notch in helping give me the confidence and peace of mind I needed. They even brought the board to the front for a quick transaction. If your a dj and need new gear, talk to Bobby. read more

I purchased a demo Roland electric drum kit from another seller. Was missing several parts and didn't have much success getting what needed post sale. After calling around, I was referred to Gavin, the in-store Roland representative at the La Mesa store. After I spoke with Gavin, he assured me he would find the needed parts. Within 2 days, he had everything I needed. Now, the kit works great. Thanks to Gavin. He went above and beyond. A true professional. Highly recommend this store. read more

Top notch music store. I've been here several times for different things.. Got a ukelele and electric guitar for my kids. Taken several guitar lessons myself. Everyone is professional, knowledgeable and helpful. Big thumbs up to the techs doing repairs. They get things done quickly and do extremely high quality work. From changing strings to literally building a guitar for me with parts I brought in. Prices are very good too. read more

Guitar Center - Custom guitar assembled at guitar center.. - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - La Mesa, California

Every time my husband and I stop by we always leave happy. Dave and Dan are very knowledgeable and always take our preferences into consideration before making recommendations. We seek them out every time because we trust them to do right by us. read more

Took advantage of my elderly mother selling my brothers drum pedals. They only gave her less than a third of what they sell them for and we're in great condition. The man helping her was super rude and degrading. Will be calling corporate. read more

I've been coming here since 2002. Never really felt the "customer experience " plus it's a big box store so it is what it is. However recently I went in on a Saturday and it was pretty slow. I went in to purge a lot of my used gear that's just collecting dust. A few days prior my dad had passed away so I was still pretty sad and my vibe was obviously off. The guy taking trade-ins was about to go on lunch and asked me if I was willing to wait about 30 minutes. I didn't want to wait so I Asked if there was anyone else who could help me. He found another guy to help but I overheard him say "can you help that guy with his gear, I'm taking my lunch but it looks like he's having a bad day". I was! So the other guy helped me out and everything went great. I really appreciated how he could tell That I just needed a little attention and it made a huge difference and it made my day! Thank you guys for actually making me feel important in that one single moment. Needless to say I decided to purchase my first Gibson LP! Thank GC!!! read more

Guitar center, you rock! My son and I always look forward to our trips to this store. We enjoy being able to try out new instruments that spark our interest , all while being greeted and treated with respect! Every single time I visit this location it's always positive vibes. Perhaps, it's because music is a universal love language and the expert employees usually are musicians! Either way, thank you guys! read more

Absolutely horrid customer service. Several times in the middle of trying to ask questions the employees would stop listening and start talking to each other. Overall very unwelcoming vibe. The guys at the door were cool. read more

I was a customer calling and the man that answered literally didn't want to say anything to me so I asked "can I speak to somebody for a minute" and he questioned me rudely so I explained my question. After that he hung up on me while I was thanking him. I called back to ask him his problem and immediately a woman answered and said "Guitar Lessons," this person did not know who could have spoke to me, she put me on hold, I called back and she picked up again right away but this time she was laughing, oh, it turns out that she is the Manager and I could also hear the other guy in the background. I told her that I was hung up on and she laughed more. That experience was worse that not good that was horrible. read more

I come in here regularly to buy and test out guitars. Dan has helped me each time and is always above and beyond with his assistance and is the reason I keep coming back. Dan's the man!! read more

First and last time ever visiting this place. We went in to purchase a gift card right when the store opened at 11. We were the only customers at the register and asked where can we get a gift card. The guy behind the register pointed and said right there. Not a greeting just a short answer. He asked me while my wife was looking at the GC What do you want? Again not the best welcoming comment to make. He began to ring up the GC and asked the next person in line what do you need? She replied had some questions about DJ equipment. She mentioned she was working with another associate previously. This guy says he isn't here what's your question? The lady seemed to be a bit put off by him just as much as my wife and I were. I get it associates could have a bad day, but seriously how bad can it be 5 minutes after opening? read more

The staff here are very rude! It was difficult to find someone to help me and after I hunted someone down, they didn't at all seem interested in assisting me. It's quite possible that I was being discriminated against. Do yourself a favor either buy online or go to a smaller music store where they can give you better service! read more

Even before entering the store, I was helped by Tom, who I later found out was one of the guitar instructors. Extremely helpful, he probably saw how lost I felt. He escorted me to the counter to get my guitar restrung where I spoke to two additional helpful and friendly employees. I didn't catch their names but one knew sku numbers off the top of his head... very impressive and you can tell he enjoyed working there and knew his stuff. Then I was helped by Jorge who was soooo nice and didn't make me feel awkward when I asked him the most basic questions and showing how much of a newbie I was. Extremely kind and I'm returning because of the wonderful customer service I received. I'll be back for lessons! read more

I really cannot believe the TERRIBLE service, or lack of service this location provides. The staff was not friendly and extremely unprofessional! They all just hung around talking and gossiping. They should be called the "The GANG Center" ( hanging around doing nothing). The representative did not understand my question about speaker wires with banana input plug. Really? Bottom line, if you're not spending hundreds or thousands of dollars($$$$$) they are not helpful at this location. read more

This is not a dig on the employees who are earnest and friendly people but on the actual design of all Guitar Centers. Sometimes you need a cable or strings and you'd like to take your item to a register, pay and leave. Apparently, this is an impossible concept. I was told to go to drums to check out, then pro audio, then to accessories where I stood around with other confused customers trying to give this stupidly designed store money to then leave. You know how actual retail commerce works! There's no line so you just group around a poorly identified register waiting for an overworked and equally confused employee trying to check out customers. It appears that they want to go out of business by neglecting the primary purpose of retail and that is to facilitate a transaction. I have a novel idea and install a real checkout line inside your locations. You know like a retail store has. We're buying musical instruments and accessories not used cars. I left in disgust because of being sent to three locations inside the store to actually buy something and being told to wait in no order or with no defined guidance. I purchased my cords and strings online in the parking lot. I will never return to this store due to the idiocy of the actual design. Sweetwater now has my business on routine purchases as well as my high ticket items. read more

Been shopping at Guitar Center in general for years but it's time to move in to greener pastures.... No decent selections of amps, higher end guitars, strings, etc. I can't find a fairly standard amp stand that is in stock in the store within 200 miles. I know that Covid has changed things but it's time to stop blaming things and put up, or shut up. Good luck Guitar Center, you will never get a dollar from me again. ***The crew that work these stores are doing their best and I recognize them for all their hard work.*** THIS IS NOT A LA MESA ISSUE EXCLUSIVELY. This is every guitar center within 200 miles of my major metropolitan location..... I truly feel that this is a corporate decision making issue and they will lose a lot of customers because of it.... read more

Friendly customer service and plenty of inventory, and open way later than I would expect. Thanks!

I want sure what guitar to get. After extensive research online I went to guitar center and had Ryan show me all I can buy there's in my budget. I ended up getting a K Takamine Pro series. Great guitar. read more

Purchased a DJ Controller and the staff here was knowledgeable and friendly. I would definitely shop here again

Long read but worth it...I was skeptical about going to the "big" brand store. As a Beginner playing guitar they made me feel comfortable and explained to me all my concerns. Even though it was busy they sat and played every guitar I asked to play and gave sound advice. They weren't after a money grab, nor did they pressure me into buy things I just liked. I actually came out cheaper following their advice. I purchased an amp on my first visit (Black Friday)and didn't like the sound. Was told to bring it back no questions asked. The staff member help me find an amp with the sound I was looking for at a cheaper price point. The La Mesa Location has Three staff members I want to say thank you to. Conner, Mike Husosk (sorry bro if I misspelled it) and PJ. Thank you!!!! I'm sure all the staff is helpful but these guys all helped me on one visit. Any needs I'll go back to them. read more

I must start by saying that I am no guitar expert. Guitar novice would even be a stretch. I'm not musically inclined but I enjoy coming to Guitar Center with the BF who is a guitar superstar! He knows what he wants but enjoys browsing and playing the different guitars available. The staff is always super friendly and knowledgeable. They are able to answer so many questions about the different types of guitars available and ways to upgrade your current model. If you bring in your own guitar, you have to check it in. You can trade in and they offer you 10% off your purchase (plus the value of the trade in). read more

Steve is a badass. Absolute legend made our purchase enjoyable and memorable. Thank you, Steve!!!!

I go in to buy 2 mics and audio interface. My buddy who is a audio engineer had given me the ones best suited to my needs. I walk in and front counter is first thing you see when you walk in but no one speaks. I come from sales and customer service background where you always say "welcome, hello, someone will be right with you etc..nada. No problem. They're ringing people ups I'll wait. This is at 8:04 pm. I finally walk out at 8:39 having been approached only once by one employee who told me he couldn't help me as he didn't work in audio. If there was a way to give lower or negative stars I would. You can tell when you walk into a store and employees treat it more like club than a business. This felt like that. I worked door at clubs before. I guess I wasn't "on the list." It's funny cause I know they saw me. After awhile I even went to the counter to look at used equipment just to see if anyone would ask if I needed help. Nope. No one asked me if I needed help. Two people came in after me and they were helped. This reminded me why even though I try and support brick and mortar stores, online shopping it is. Although it will not be from guitar center. Sweet water had the same mics and interface at same price. Figured I would buy local and support local. After this experience, naw. If you want to go be treated like you're invisible on a not very busy Wednesday evening, this store is for you. If you don't want to be helped or even spoken to, this is your store. However, I would suggest buying online. At least on ones own laptop you will not expect common courtesy or customer service. read more

We purchased a Roland drum VAD506 drum set. The Roland represent us Gavin Glenn was beyond outstanding- he went out of his way to explain all the options available to us and helped us come to the perfect decision for our needs! He went beyond the call of duty by coming to our home to help us set up and familiarize us with the equipment. Norman at the center was also outstanding. Kudos to Gavin, Norman, Roland and the Guitar Center! read more

I gave 5 stars because of two awesome staff there Dan and Peter in the Guitar department. If you're looking for a new guitar, ask for them. Kind and extremely helpful employees at the La Mesa Guitar Center! read more

I was told that as long as I got the insurance policy I could try out the dj set and get my money back if it didn't work out. then when I can back to return it I was told that it had to be returned within 45 days for my money back and I couldn't get my money back Even though it is still in perfect condition. read more

Dan is THE MAN. He spotted us a mile away and invited us over to his counter for help. We shared with him what we were looking for and he was all in. He seemed genuinely excited for us, making the whole experience an absolute blast. Dan is a wealth of knowledge and helped us pick out equipment that was perfect for our needs. When we learned that the big ticket item I went in for was on back back back back BACK order, he even helped me find another reputable dealer. When we left I asked my husband if we can make this a weekly trip. Dan, bless you! read more

It's amazing to me that a service that I'm paying for would require me to chase down the status of it. I dropped off guitars to be repaired and was told I'd get a call back that day. Two days later I called after not hearing anything and was told to "call back when the repair guy is here". For real? Call back? read more

While I miss the days when there were more smaller music shops and stores, I have had nothing but good experiences with Guitar Center. I took lessons with a great teacher (after about a 15 year beak in playing) and bought a few new guitars and other accessories here. The employees were always extremely cool and easy to deal with. This is one of my favorite things to do on a lazy weekend day. read more

this use to be a great store. good luck if you get any help while in store. worst of all good luck with finding any equipment to purchase...dj pro audio has no denon prime 4's and are out of stock for over a month and a half. some equipment has no price tags, so if you can get any assistance you may hacmve to ask for the price. it just looks like nobody cares on how merchandise is displayed etc. read more