This store is a treasure. A small business with people who care deeply about guitars. I got to try many older guitars, and was helped by a very patient and kind person. Unfortunately the model I had come in to try was not in stock, so I did not end up purchasing a guitar, despite wanting to support their business. I hope others support this shop - we are lucky to have them in our region. read more

It's a great store with tons of vintage acoustic guitars. Also, the owners are super friendly. Was greeted by Nicolas and had a great conversation about the guitars they have in stock as well as the custom Schoenberg acoustic Definitely coming back! read more

My experience is pretty consistent with the three one star reviews posted as of 8/19/23. We were walking around Main St, and stopped by once in the morning. Not a hello, thank you for coming etc--0 interaction at all. We thought they were busy and decided to come back in a few hours. When we came back, they seemed to be busy with loading/unloading. But again, we were not acknowledged. Bad day to stop by maybe because they were so busy maybe? On the plus side, we looked around and were impressed with the guitars we saw. read more

I've been in the market for a high end acoustic guitar for a little while now, and wanted to check this place out. Called the number maybe 10 times over the past couple of months, nothing. Goes to a pre-recorded greeting. Seems like an old school place, might just suck at answering the phones. Whatever, it happens with these kinds of stores. I'll put aside some time to check the store out. Drove down there from Healdsburg to check the shop out. Closed on Thursday at 1 PM. No note about being out temporarily, just a locked door. Called the number and surprise - no answer. This just shows contempt for their customers. It was a big hassle for me to put time aside to visit this store and they can't even be bothered to do the bare minimum and respect their customer's time. Turn it into appointment only if you can't or are unwilling to honor your store hours. Everyone's time is valuable. I don't know if this deserves a 1 star review, I think that should be reserved for places that are actively hostile to their customers. I left another 1 star review for a mechanics shop with a predatory approach where they actively misled customers to bait them into spending more money. But I want other people to know what to expect of this place, and decide if they want to patronize a store that operates like this. I doubt they are bothered in any case. Reminds me of the attitude of a professor I had who begrudgingly gives lectures as part of their condition of employment to the university but who is only there to perform research. read more

A guitar that I love very much got a crack in the neck near the headstock. I took it to Amy at Schoenberg. She determined that the crack was merely superficial, and managed to glue it so that it won't get worse. Then she did some nice finish work so you can no longer see where it was. I'm quite happy. If you need work done (no, not that kind), I can recommend Amy. Oh, and if you want to drool over some really interesting guitars, there's that. read more

Small specialty Acoustic ONLY guitar shop.Owned and operated by one of the legendary Martin style guitar makers in the USA. Usually 50 - 60 new and used guitars on the walls. Also sells some accessories like AER acoustic amplifiers, Clayton plectrums, high priced Thomasik-Infield strings, etc... He carries a few better quality lower priced import lines of guitars, and has some really drool worthy $60,000 instruments as well. Get on his e-mail list for notice of the occasional in store guitar concerts by almost famous players. For the serious guitar player, this destination is worth the effort even if you have to drive several hours. read more

Amy was warm and friendly and set my two Martin guitars up and they are like butter after should worked on them. A great little old school shop full of some fantastic instruments. Love this place! read more

Great little shop - Eric and team are so nice and helpful! Personalized local service and a gem of a shop for all you need for your guitar, mandolin, uke. Thanks guys! read more

Since I plugged Stevie's shop, I also feel I need to plug Eric Schoenberg's. Eric is also a legend in his own right as a guitarist and for designing the Schoenberg line of guitars with Dana Bourgeois, TJ Thompson, and Bruce Sexauer, among others. His shop is also a great little place tucked away in Tiburon. Disclaimer: he has a lot of vintage style guitars, particularly OMs. (hence his site name OM28.com) He does get some modern guitars in here and there, but he really leans toward vintage--so if that's what you love, this is the place to play them. Eric is great. He's also a fountain of advice and he has performers in the store regularly. (It's fun to listen to them play on the fly) His selection of vintage style guitars is unparalleled, but he never makes you feel stupid. I tend toward more modern guitars myself, but I've learned quite a bit from talking with Eric. He's very welcoming and open. Great guitars there too. I've played Schoenbergs (of course), Bourgeois, vintage Martins, Goodall, and the like there. Definitely worth a visit that's off the beaten path. (Which around here is Gryphon Stringed Instruments in Palo Alto--I don't mean that in a bad way) read more

I walked by this place this morning as the apparent owner was opening shop and I said "Hello" and he seemed friendly so after coming back from Angel Island I stopped in to see the inside of the place. The guy working there (i'm assuming the owner but maybe not) looked rather annoyed that we had walked in the place. Not only that but apparently someone was there to record something and the guy working said out-loud so we could hear "Well, if the place was empty we could start right now but we'll just have to wait 10 minutes".. Oooh.. I'm sorry for walking in to a guitar shop when you apparently had better things to do. If you didn't want people coming in just shut the doors. I'm from a small town where music shop owners are NICE and say "Hello" when people walk in. Maybe they even say "Hey, want to pull a guitar down and play?". But, NO. This guy didn't say a word to us and instead made us feel like we we're somehow intruding. There was a nice Guild for 800 bones that I wanted to play and would have seriously thought about buying.. but.. I'll spend my money where it's a tad more appreciated. People have bad days and maybe the guy recording was some virtuoso but that doesn't mean you get to act snobbish and not have people give you bad Yelp reviews! read more

What a great disappointment....stopped in to this legendary store looking to find a nice instrument just this morning.....I said hello and was given a grunt in return....."You have some beautiful Martin guitars......." His response: "Yeah we think so....." Wow that was it! No more conversation with me.....this guy just stared at his computer....No offer of help or assistance with a Phenomenal collection of guitars......I could not believe it......I walked out the door and will never return. Take your business to some one out there who cares.......I have been playing for 30 years and this was the worst customer service approach I have ever seen in the music industry. Good luck! read more

Went back and bought a guitar... a Recording King ROS627. Lovely... got a GREAT deal on a hardcase to boot. It was my ladies' guitar, so I had the chance to gawk, touch, prod, pick (pun intended) and enjoy this place... a living art gallery that you are encouraged to experience, and participate in. I love the guys.. willing to talk about them all day, and help build and create a culture of wonderful music all over the bay with their shows and lessons. Thanks guys... very much. Cheers! read more

A very nice upper-end boutique shop focusing on acoustic guitars. This is an enthusiast's store - even the strings and accessories tend towards the esoteric side. You'll always find something interesting hanging on the wall - anything from the fairly "standard" (a pre-war Martin in nice condition) to an esoteric custom-built. It's off the beaten path, but it fits right in to the laid-back atmosphere of Tiburon. Hours of operation are a bit imprecise, as they're determined by when the proprietor ambles in that day. Once he gets there, he's happy to shoot the breeze and show off the latest rarity that's come in. Not a five-star because it's a bit of a niche store, focusing on the enthusiasts. A casual guitar player can still enjoy the store, but if the thought of an acoustic guitar costing more than a new car is shocking to you, you won't appreciate the full experience. If you are an enthusiast, then it's a definite five-star. read more

There aren't enough stars in the universe for how high I'd rate this place. The customer service was simply top notch. I had a great conversation with Eric - he's a fellow dog lover so we hit it off immediately. I can't say enough positive words about him. The guitar selection was beyond words. It was just...STUNNED. Honestly, if you're going to Schoenberg's none of what I'm saying should be a surprise. It's everything you'd expect it to be and so much more! read more

They've got fantastic instruments to look at, and they've got really great lower price instruments to buy. I've been twice, and they're quite knowledgeable and helpful. It's also cool to see that the owner is a really skilled guitarist. read more

5 stars, undoubtedly. Walked in there, and no better 5 words have I heard at a guitar store than "play any guitar you want". A tiny place, walls lined with amazing acoustic guitars. My wallet being a little on the small side, I bought a drill mounted tuner instead of the fan fret Yamamoto I couldn't ignore. Tucked away in Tiburon, you could bottle the glorious smell of french polish and spruce. If I could think of more positive words, I'd say them, but as it stands, there is nothing like a great, friendly guitar shop. read more

Being able to walk into a small neighborhood music store with a large assortment of high quality acoustic guitars run by people who love music and guitars is extremely refreshing. What I really like about this place is that's it's obvious the owner carries the type of instruments he personally enjoys (clearly loves him some Martin's). It's not just a random assortment of guitars meant to cater to certain price points. There's a sense of thoughtfulness and purpose to what they carry that's not simply guided by the bottom line. A whole lot of high end acoustic guitars to drool over (mostly in the Martin style) as well as some fine student model guitars. I played a few of the Schoenberg models and they were outstanding. I went there to have work done on my Martin and was able to have it done while I popped out to grab some lunch. They did a great job. I actually went back to have something slightly adjusted afterwards and they dealt with it right away without any qualms or hassle. Wish there were more places like this around. read more

Eric's shop is a paradise for the acoustic fingerstylist. He and James run the shop with an old-world charm and level of service that left one of my friends stunned when he first visited them. Surprisingly, their prices are competitive especially when you factor-in the excellent set-up that they do on each instrument (there, on the same day, and in front of you) before it goes out the door. The shop is small but every space seems to be crammed with a guitar. Their inventory includes good starter instruments from $300 all the way to hard-to-find vintage instruments that are well-beyond my price range. Both Eric and James make quite an effort to pair their customers with the right instrument and there's a good chance that you'll find something in their shop for you. A friend and I went shopping for several days at several stores all over the Bay Area (Santa Cruz, San Jose, Palo Alto, Berkeley and San Francisco). Our searches ended at this shop and we both happily walked out with our preferred guitars. This is a great shop even just to visit. A few times that I came in, there were some pros or teachers shopping for a guitar and it was just a pleasure to hear them play. read more

Possibly the best guitar store on the planet. Top drawer instruments new and museum quality vintage. Incredibly intimate setting with well versed staff. Guitar geek heaven. read more

Love this place. Bit of a time warp which is part of the charm. I love the creaky old wooden floor. Had my guitar strings changed there and he did it on the spot. Nice people. I'm taking classes with Joe Miller in the store. A bit crowded but it's ok. Don't try calling. They don't really answer the phone especially if they have anything else to do. That's the time warp part. Normally that would irritate me, but I find certain types of curmudgeons kind of charming. read more

You will not find a finer acoustic guitar shop. If you love guitars and true craftsmanship then you will love this place. You will find a wide range of Martins but you will also be treated to many other handmade instruments from smaller workshops. There are those rare vintage gems from the likes of Gibson, Oscar Schmidt, and Washburn. You will also find Schoenberg's own brand of fine guitars. Additionally, Schoenberg offers a good range of moderately-priced quality guitars from the likes of Recording King, Blueridge, and Godin (Seagull/Simon & Patrick/Norman/Art & Lutherie). Eric and James are two very fine people who freely share their extensive knowledge and who are very encouraging to those of us who get by on modest guitar skills. read more

I'd never heard of this place and stumbled in on a day that I was spending a layover in San Francisco. I play acoustic guitar and thought I'd just look around. What an experience! James greeted me. Very low key but friendly. Offered that could play anything I liked. That's when I started to pay attention to what they had. No hyperbole. This is the finest collection of acoustic guitars I have ever seen. And the price range is as wide as it gets. Hey have new and vintage from $299 for a Recording King acoustic to early 20s Martins and Gibsons for $"Inquire". I was told inquire meant the price started north of $10K. There were prices everywhere in between. I was afraid to even ask to play anything but I couldn't resist when I spotted a 1952 Gibson J-185. I sheepishly asked if I could play it and James said "of course. Can you reach it?" If you play or are just an admirer of beautiful instruments go in and have a look. Nothing short of fantastic. read more

I always look forward to visiting Schoenberg Guitars. Eric and James are both extremely knowledgable and helpful about the guitars they sell. They are also both fun to talk with. I have bought many guitars from this shop over the last 10 years. I have also sold a bunch of guitars there through consignment. James is my go to guy for any and all repairs or set-ups to my acoustic guitars and electric archtop guitars. The only "problem" I have with visiting Schoenberg guitars is I almost always find a guitar that I want to buy even though most times I don't really need another guitar. They have an inventory of both new and vintage guitars that is always changing. If you only visit every couple of months there is a really good chance that they will have a lot of of guitars that you didn't see the last time you were in for a visit. Schoenberg Guitars is by far my favorite guitar shop, not just in the Bay Area, but anywhere! read more

This place is unique and special. Yes, I've got a guitar jones. No, I cannot afford to throw any more money at 'em - I've got my paltry array of axes, but it's always a treat to enter this wonderful little shop, especially for those rare little concerts with world-class performers. Mr. Schoenberg is a cool cat, and his staff is great, so even if you don't know an OM from a D28, come on down to Tiburon - they will educate yo' ass right quick. read more

This is one of my favorite places in the world. The guitars are top notch and if you're a connoisseur you'll feel lucky to be in their presence. As for the people in the place, Eric and James are both exceptional in complimentary ways and I have to say they were very patient with me over a long period of time when I was choosing my "dream guitar" (back when I thought there was a single dream guitar). I've since done a fair amount of business with them and they continue to be supportive, helpful and patient. It can be a little dangerous going into this place as they have some of the best acoustic guitars you'll ever come across - in the world of acoustic guitars you get what you pay for, and an exceptional handmade guitar costs money - though they offer some nice starter/economy instruments for people that aren't ready to make the full plunge.. read more

One the best acoustic (I repeat acoustic) stringed instruments shops on earth, period. Friendly, approachable and VERY knowledgeable guys with no attitude, a handpicked selection of instruments from budget to high end, large/well known makers to boutique/independent luthiers, new and used, fantastic live shows with some of the world absolute best guitarists ... what else could you ask for, really, apart from a monthly giveaway? Eric and James, don't change a thing, you've got the magic formula. Only suggestion: perhaps the website would benefit from extra features, such a better pics of the instruments and soundbites? read more

If you like acoustic guitars, you must spend some time here. This is a special place. Schoenberg guitars (the ones that are hand-made by Eric and his staff) are very highly regarded instruments. The shop offers a very wide array of acoustic guitars and mandolins...a few Schoenbergs (and I am sure you could order one of his built to you specifications), and then lots of others from various (esteemed) makers. Many are used and are in excellent shape (and are very desirable because of their mature tone and quality) some are new; but all reflect the choice of a cognoscente: Eric Schoenberg. I would wager there are few "duds" in the shop...which generally can't be said of most guitars shops. The instruments span a significant price range. While there are no $200 cheapo starter guitars here, there are a number that are more modestly priced, and as noted by some other reviewers, some of the guitars will make you take a deep breath when you realize what you are looking at. This is not the place to go if you are all hopped up on caffeine and want to quickly move through your business (whatever that might be). It is a place to linger, to savor, and to allow the quiet knowledge and skill of Eric and James slowly be transmitted. And it is a great place to have your guitar set up...if they aren't swamped (as was the case the last time I went in) your guitar will be set up while you wait (and play guitars, and maybe find one choosing you as its new owner). read more

I got $55 vintage guitar here! OK. Not really but here's the story. I took my 30 year old Martin to Schoenberg because I thought it needed a neck reset and because, when I called the Martin factory, they recommended Schoenberg. I was happy to learn that my guitar only needed a few adjustments and, twenty minutes later, walked out of there with what feels like a perfect and new but vintage guitar. What a difference. I guess that over the years I just got used to the way my guitar had changed. All this for only $55. Thanks Guys! read more

No doubt about it, this is the place to go in the bay area if you are discriminating guitar owner/buyer. The inventory is always changing, with vintage instruments coming in and out each week. And Eric and James are very friendly, willing to let you just sit and play and try out all the instruments you want with no interference. The prices are fair and the service is outstanding. I drive an hour to get there, and it's a highlight for any guitar/banjo/mando lover who is in the bay area or visits the bay area. read more

This is a fantastic shop for the acoustic guitar player. They have a nice selection of old Martins, as well as many new instruments. Mr. Schoenberg is one of the best luthiers working in America today, building beautiful Martin type flat tops that bare his name. This is also a great place if you need to get any work done on your own guitars. You can trust the work shop here. The staff is freindly and knowledgable,.....everything that Guitar Center isn't. . They have a few nice guitars for the beginner, but for the most part, they are expensive and very fine instruments, made for the professional, or experienced player. They also have a nice selection of mandolins. I love this store. read more

If you appreciate fine acoustic guitars, Eric Schoenberg's shop in Tiburon is for you - the inventory is unparalleled and the service outstanding. I was spoiled when I was younger - I wandered into a truly great vintage guitar store in my home town, and spent an immense amount of time being taught about fine instruments by a real aficionado. When I moved away, I was disappointed by virtually every guitar store that I found. The truth is that most places are run by people who really don't know much about what makes a great guitar; consequently, most store's acoustic guitar inventories are weak and one-dimensional. A few years ago, I found myself working in Tiburon. On my first lunch break, I wandered around and saw a sign for Eric's shop - I knew who Eric was from reading about his association with Martin Guitars and Dana Bourgeois in the 80s - and had to restrain myself from running into his store. When I got there, I was far from disappointed: the walls were festooned (yes, festooned) with an incredible variety of wonderful acoustics - two dozen new Martins, several pieces by well-known luthiers, a dozen or so high-end vintage guitars (including several Martins and my personal favorite, a really wonderful Larson Brothers-built Stahl Model 7) and a few of Eric's own instruments (IMHO the best new guitars anywhere). In addition to all of the great (and expensive) instruments, Eric always has high-quality beginner and intermediate instruments available. I have become a regular customer, and can say that the instruments are always superb. The great inventory is complimented perfectly by the unparalleled staff. Eric's knowledge of fine acoustic guitars is legendary, and his store manager, James, is similarly well versed in all things acoustic. A+ read more

This is the only guitar shop I go to at this point. I've been coming here since they opened and absolutely love the place. I've purchased 3 guitars from Eric all in the below $1000 range, but this place is like a frickin' candy store for guitarists. You will be hard pressed to find a more amazing batch of vintage guitars. Anyone who knows anything about acoustic guitars knows this place is special. read more

This establishment is one of kind for the acoustic guitar enthusiast and I cant imagine it will ever be equaled. Eric and James bring their expertise, passion and love for music and the guitar every time they walk into the store. The vast array of guitars range from entry level instruments through collector guitars and everything in between. The store inventory represents only quality instruments which reflect a diverse range of builders and designers, whose instruments are all unique and thoughtfully built. Even the most discriminating musician will find an instrument that supports the nuances and subtleties of his or her personal style of play. Don't forget to check out Eric Schoenberg's personal line of guitars. On that subject I don't know where to begin so I won't even try (it's a compliment folks). Keep in mind quality doesn't come cheap. But these are instruments you'll have over the course of a life time. For all the joy, inspiration, challenge and special relationships these instruments provide, they're worth every penny and more. I purchased a Martin 00028 NB ( Norman Blake) from Eric. I still consider this to be the best purchase I've ever made. Last, plan on coming over to see a concert. You'll have the privilege of sitting a few feet from some on the finest acoustic guitarists in the world along with about 20 other lucky listeners. A nice spread of food and beverage are always served at the concerts. But don't tell too many people about these shows as its one of the Bay Areas best kept secrets. read more

A remarkable retail operation. Small, intimate, but with good selection - and although the high-end instruments jump out, this is an outstanding low-end store also. Yes, it's true. Last time I went in I played many of the 500-1000 dollar guitars and was very surprised. They seem to carefully select these, as they do all models. They have great inexpensive mandolins, too. Guitar brands include Martin, Guild, Gibson, and many smaller ones you may not know about. I also now have more of an appreciation for non-dreadnought guitars, which is their mission. Also - they have regular concerts with serious players. A great way to spend a day for any acoustic freak, build a half-day around a trip to Tiburon. Or a full day guitar tour including Bananas. Do it. read more

Eric and James are great!! They will share any info and although they mainly deal in high end acoustic guitars they will work on anything you bring them. Very knowledgeable and trustworthy . read more