This is a review about the in-store experience, not any transactions or trades. We stopped in one September afternoon while we were wandering around the Alberta Arts District and wow - what a selection of guitars. My partner has been playing for nearly 25 years, and really enjoyed getting to try out different instruments. I have less interest in guitars, but even I loved walking around to see every shape and style, plus ukuleles. The shop is pretty huge, you feel like it just keeps going. The store is laid back and gives you a lot of space to try things out. Another customer was there and was chatting up everybody, telling stories about his time in bands and how his guitar teacher was Tom Morello. The store employee was very chill and welcoming, and chatted with us as well. read more

I had to downsize, which included finding someone to take my old folk guitar, to hopefully benefit a new owner. They paid me $50.

I put up a review evidently was taken,this is the last time I waste any time with these jerks, I have went there for years, sometimes got good service, bought a couple guitars.Last time got attitude from punk kids who couldn't get hired at a McDonald's,.also the manager wasn't much help just tried to sell me overpriced guitars and services I really need.I recognize him as the fellow who practically threw some strings at me in the pandemic ,my bad for going back read more

These 2 stores do well at their main function, i.e. selling a solid selection of music gear. But both stores, and especially the Division location, are just unbelievable eyesores in their neighborhoods. I'm not going to do business with a place that's so run down and derelict that they bring the whole area down. $100 worth of paint would go a looooong way towards some redemption here. And it's been this way for years. read more

Not my fav experience. Offered rock bottom on my guitar and would negotiate price for the one I wanted. I'm usually moved by friendly customer service they were less than warm. I asked questions and it seem to be an inconvenience. They have a large selection of used so it it is a fun browse. I sold my guitar for over $200 nite than they offered. They told me no on one saying crack in neck. I had it checked else where and no crack. Just say you are not interested. read more

Super cool store. Chill vibes. Super cool ukelele room and upstairs drum floor and just it's a cool great priced instrument store with good people. read more

Trade Up Music 2 - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

decent spot in north portland to scope for guitars, basses, keyboards, and the circus of gear needs that come with it. i always make sure to pay them a visit when im on alberta. have gotten great deals here on a ross flanger; a yamaha dx7 synth; a 70s conn saxophone. every blue moon theyll have a fender rhodes for sale, which to me is a good sign that good stuff comes their way. its been a minute since i last went to trade up. do i need another extension cable? im also in the market for a keyboard amp... hmm maybe i should pay them a visit. read more

Unwelcoming staff, I always feel uncomfortable shopping here and checking out. Low ball trade ins. Ok instrument selection.

Good old school music store! Great deals on used instruments and good customer service. If you are shopping at Guitar Center you are paying full pop and getting ripped off. Do yourself a favor stop by and see if you can find a gem. read more

Probably the worst service ever at any business! And I've seen some doozies. Heres what happened at Trade Up recently: I stepped in there with a friend who wanted to buy a harmonica. She stood at the counter, smiling, but the clerk ignored her while doing various other tasks. Finally he asked me if I needed any help. I said, "No, thanks, but she does," gesturing toward my friend. The clerk's ignoring a woman customer may have been somewhat sexist, I don't know, but it was nothing compared with what was coming! She told him the make, model and key she wanted, and he got it out from the counter, then proceeded to do that bellows-testing thing (It's something stores do to try to see if all the holes on a harp work without anyone putting mouth to it). While doing that, he lectured her about how harmonicas cannot be returned, how this test was not about the tone of the instrument, just to see if it worked, other unnecessary and condescending details, given that my friend has been playing harmonica for about 30 years and has bought many, many harps (as all harpists do; unlike other instruments they don't last forever). The clerk somehow assumed, wrongly, that this was her first harnonica and that he needed to explain, as if to a child, all the basic details of first-time harp purchase. That may have been sexist too, or just condescending, but the real shockers were still to come. My friend asked the price and after the clerk told her, she asked if he could possibly take a few dollars off (something that is routinely done everywhere with musical instruments and accessories, yes even with harmonicas, especially when a store is trying to sell them for somewhat more than the average, as Trade Up does). The clerk shouted "Absolutely not!" Now, sorry, but that is not an acceptable answer to her question. Among the many possible acceptable answers are: 1) No, I'm sorry but we can't; 2) Maybe -- let me check with the manager; 3) Yes, we can! 4) If you were to buy two or more we could take off a few dollars; etc etc. A good salesperson, or a nice person of any occupation, just doesn't answer the way he did. My friend then pointed out that another store in town sells them for several dollars less. The clerk responded: "Then why don't you go there?" Again, an utterly unacceptable answer. He could have said 1) Really, I think we can match that price; 2) Unfortunately we can't match that price, sorry; or several other answers, but he chose to be insulting to his own customer. And my friend is, and remained during this shopping trip, sweet and polite and smiling. I walked away after that "Why don't you go there" comment, because I didn't want to open my mouth and force her to go elsewhere to buy the harp if she was willing to pay extra and put up with horrible service just for the convenience. But I thought you all might want to hear about this. And God have mercy on you if you dare ask for a discount at Trade Up! read more

We finally decided to buy the boy the guitar he's been asking for, like, the past four Christmases. This store is in the neighborhood and I walk by the guitars hanging in the window almost every day. Seemed like the logical choice to make the purchase here. I don't know anything about guitars and I'm always afraid of getting talked into something way too expensive and inappropriate whenever I have zero clue about what I'm buying. I told the clerk that I needed a full-sized one, for a beginner, and exactly how much I was willing to pay. He showed us several that fit the description without any high pressure sales tactics. He was totally cool and even gave some details in non-guitar guy language that helped us make the final pick. I have no doubt the kid will be totally stoked on Christmas morning. Nice store. read more

Trade Up Music is Northeast Portland's favorite spot to find musical equipment. Their selection leans on the used side. Here you can find plenty of guitar effects pedals, a good drum and profession section, and your standard finds, too. There was even a recorder in the window. Prices vary, amps are kind of pricey, but overall it's a good bet for independently owned used music equipment. read more

I give this store a big "Meh." I go there frequently because it is the closest music store to my apartment. I suspect that many of the employees are constantly stoned, as they are ultimately unhelpful/slow. Nothing wrong with toking, just don't do it at work, please! I've had a couple good experiences here, but just as many wherein I left empty-handed with unanswered questions. The answer to any question in retail should NEVER be "I dunno," but I've gotten it on numerous occasions and taken my business elsewhere. Also, check your prices against other retailers online - they priced a little 1/4 sized guitar at nearly double what it goes for at other retailers. All that said - if you live in the neighborhood and need something, stop by. But be prepared to go elsewhere, and definitely don't go out of your way to go there! read more

Shopping for gear can be a terrible experience. Sweaty, prog-mulleted salesmen in hawaiian shirts playing solos on a guitar you want to use to make noise loops; meanwhile the kid three feet away has the amp on 11 while he recycles the same bad Korn loop. Trade up is a sanctuary from all that. Friendly, soft sale staff, lots of strange weird gear for great prices, and no pressure about walking around and checking things out. read more

If you are as sick of the greasy, cheese-ball, "know it all" Guitar Center salesman as I am, try Trade Up Music for a refreshing change. This is THE place to go to score new and used instruments and equipment for very reasonable prices. The staff at both locations is friendly and helpful without being overbearing or annoying. They will let you try out about any instrument you want, and they won't try to sell you on the crap you don't. They also buy used gear and have a repair shop with a very quick turn around time. With 2 convenient locations and late hours, they are the definition of what a local music store should be. read more

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I grew up playing the piano and wanted to get back into it, so I went looking for a cheap keyboard to play with. I associate Craigslist with scammers and I wanted to support local business , and this was the first music shop I hit, and I planned on going to others. I called first and they were super friendly and even hinted that they were willing to barter- that drew me in! THEY WERE SO GOOD I didn't go to anymore shops and I spent 100 more than I planned on.... but I got a much better product than I had originally intended. I was helped by Alexa and Brandon, and they were both super helpful and super KNOWLEDGEABLE! In no way were they pushy, which I love. I'm not much of a musician but I used to dabble and my desire to play again drew me here. If you're in my boat, I would strongly suggest this awesome business before you hit up Craigslist or a big corporation!! read more

I've come here often and my friends and I have hung out in the little windowed room on multiple occasions testing out guitars, and the staff really do leave you alone. However, there have been occasions when I came in for something specific and needed assistance. I usually have to approach the counter and try really hard to get a staff member's attention, since they don't usually take the initiative. This shop is a fun place to browse overall. They have a noticeably large selection of ukuleles, mostly by Oscar Schmidt and Kala. The Trade Up location on SE Division carries a wider selection of keyboards, mandolins, and music books so I would check out the Southeast location if I have to choose between the two. It stands as just your average music store and a place to come to if I need to have my violin bow re-haired. read more

After stumbling by Trade Up Music the other day I stopped in and quickly struck up a conversation with almost everyone who worked there. I left with a new guitar amp. There are TONS of used guitar and bass pedals here and they are incredibly cheap. Lots of other neat used gear too, all very reasonably priced. There is a drum room with playable kit and guitars and amps just waiting to be tested out. The staff was more than polite and enjoyed talking about music and miscellaneous gear at length. Lots of enthusiasm and plenty of knowledge. Overall, this is the kind of music store that every neighborhood deserves to have and yet, so few do. read more

Best music shop in town. Support local businesses! I've most almost 3/4 of all of my gear here!

I've tried writing a review of this place a few times and could not quite sum up my experience until just this past weekend. I consider this place to be my music shop. I play guitar and every now and then want to gawk at guitar porn (such as full neck bindings, inlays, pickups, amps...pathetic, I know) usually to the chagrin of whoever I'm with. Anyway, the staff is super friendly, won't rush you to any decisions and are just there should you need them - perfect. I wanted to buy a glass slide - innocuous enough - and when I mentioned that, the guy said I could just 'slide' behind the counter and even open up the packages to see which one fit the best. It wasn't much but I think offers a glimpse as to just how relaxed and open this shop is to suit your needs. They weren't like, "Oh, you're not here to drop a G so you're not worth my time" kinda people. In fact, the whole transaction turned into a fun dialogue on how to use a slide...even with your strumming hand. OK, TMI, I get it. At any rate, love this place. read more

I pulled out my acoustic tuned to Open D so I could practice my best Bon Iver falsetto the other day and thought: "Boy, sure am glad I stumbled into Trade Up Music 2 on that warm summer day many moons ago!" Since I don't get over to Alberta as much as I probably should, TUM2 (that sounds like a license plate) isn't one of my regular haunts. But, whenever I do find myself over in their environs, I make a point to peruse. I first stopped in on the aforementioned buying spree with Tatiana M. and we both walked out with a modestly priced stringed instrument to tote onto public transit. Me a midrange Epiphone acoustic and she a Lanalai uke. Both of us were grinning from ear to ear over our new finds. The selection is large and they have the whole gamut of noise making devices. A few really used guitars for cheaper and an array of "pre-owned" that will make your mouth water. And drums and multi-colored ukes and all sorts of gizmos and doodads. I spent a while talking very expensive envelope filters with one of the employees and he didn't seem tooooo angry when all I walked away with was a uke pick and a mandolin strap. Ah for richer days. A friendly atmosphere burgeoning with knowledge and know-how. Stop in for some strings and leave with a slide guitar. read more

This place is amazing for a neighborhood store. I went in looking for a mother guitar to add to my collection. As I walked in a was greeted by the nice environment and the employees working there. I ended up picking up a really nice guitar that was very affordable and plus they even threw in some picks and a pack of strings for free! They sure have great service to the customer. I recommend this place for anyone that is looking for music stuff. read more

There are some things I like about Trade Up. I'm grateful to have a neighborhood shop where I can buy musical necessities. They occasionally have great used gear (which is sometimes, but not always, fairly priced). Some (but not all) of their employees are really helpful and nice. I also have a friend who regularly shops here, and she has had good experiences -- they're always willing to work with her on pricing. My problem with Trade Up is that some (but not all) of the people who work here are not particularly knowledgeable about musical equipment. The person who assisted me with a possible guitar purchase didn't even know what a nitrocellulose lacquer finish is (unless I'm some kind of gear genius, this kind of detail isn't that obscure -- it should at least be common knowledge to someone trying to sell guitars). They've also severely ripped me off in a number of drum equipment trades I did several years ago. It's my own fault -- I didn't know then what I do now, but I'm sure that the salesperson gloated over the swindle. The key with a store like this is to be informed about what you intend to purchase or sell. read more

Dustin was a great help in finding everything we needed. Very fast, friendly and knowledgeable. I couldn't have asked for a better experience and would highly recommend. read more

Second time I've called in something to buy and no on answers or shows up. Fuck this place

I really enjoy going into the Alberta St. Store when I am in that Neighborhood. Friendly staff, great selection of stringed instruments. read more

My friend and I were on a rare trip to Portland when we saw Trade Up Music on Alberta Street. At first I didn't want to go in; while I LOVE music I've grown to loathe shopping for gear because I feel like I've seen it all and sales staff gets pushy. Boy have I been proved wrong! Trade Up Music was awesome, everyone working there didn't say one word to us because they were too busy helping a customer who asked for it and performing a "wicked mod" on an amp (overheard quote). They have all kinds of really interesting used guitars and amps for low prices (coming from a guy who has no money). I'll definitely buy my next guitar from there when the need arises. read more

Pros: you can come here and try out instruments in peace without sales people haggling you. Cons: primarily cheap/second tier instruments (with a few exceptions). More experienced players/those with high standards may be disappointed. Still fun though. Good for strings, camp/kids guitars, and accessories. read more

Friendly staff and fun place to look for hidden guitar treasure. The percussion loft looked well stocked. Brass, woodwinds, and orchestral strings may want to try elsewhere. read more

I came in to buy gifts for a loved one and even though I had no idea what I was talking about or doing the man I worked with was really nice and helpful. He answered all of my questions, I left happy, and the person who I gave the gift to was very happy! Also it looks amazing inside! Outside I wasn't so sure but inside it's like a totally different world! read more

They're super friendly, helpful and in top of everything! They deals are great and very fair. we've purchased from and sold to them with zero hiccups. You never know whay you're gonna find ! read more

Nice, knowledgeable staff. Pretty good selection of used/new guitars and drum sets upstairs. Prices are ok. Unfortunately they don't really budge on their prices. Found a guitar online for over $100 cheaper and they wouldn't give even a little. Understandable, though. They run their business how they do. I'd still be back. read more

Super sweet, knowledgable, friendly and helpful staff to go one with an outstanding eclectic array of instruments!

Dan made my experience really easy and informed. Its often intimidating to ask for things that are important in music repair shops. He totally rocked it on the customer service end! Also my guitar is working better than it has in a long time. read more

What lovely folks at this shop. Definitely go here for you music and instrument needs.

I've only been to Trade Up Music 2 a couple times, but I find it a really cool store. They have a wide variety of used guitars, basses and amps, lots of pedals and other accessories, and the staff is laid-back and genuine. read more

I mostly shop at the Alberta shop, but sometimes make my way to the Division one as well. After super poor experiences at both Portland Music Company (both MLK and Beaverton, which is the worst) and Apple music (How are they still open?) I stick to these guys and Old Town. I have been shopping there for about 8 years. The folks at Trade Up have always been super friendly. I really miss David in the drum section, and Ben at the Division store! It seems like most of the folks that work there are pretty active in the music scene, not washed up jaded dudes, like the previously mentioned joints. They are helpful and don't ignore their customers, which is often a complaint of mine. I have sold some stuff there. Ebay and Clist are obviously going to yield a higher return. If you think your going to get good cash for what you are selling, you will be disappointed, but thats how the business works. They are usually cool about giving a bit more for trades, and throwing in string/cables/other stuff too. I am more stoked on some of the stuff I have found there. I have bought some great guitars, pedals, and mics. The prices are what you would expect from ebay, which is probably how they are pricing it to begin with, so your not gonna find pre-internet deals like the 90's, but again, that doesn't happen anymore. I had been looking for a decently rare guitar for a while, and one day it popped up there. Was excited and bought it after barely playing it. The neck pickup and volume pot need replaced. It was in a super weird (intentional) tuning too. I kind of feel like this one slipped through the cracks as far as having it ready to sell. Gotta check that stuff before it hits the floor! Isn't gonna prevent me from doing business there though. Might have if it was an expensive piece, and I didn't have spare parts laying around. 4 stars is pretty accurate. 4.5 when David (no longer there) and the manager (Dewey I think?) are there. Sorry, I don't know the other folks by name, but anyone I have interacted with have been cool. Good folks, fun to talk about gear geek stuff with. read more

Best Trade Up location. Friendly. Knowledgable. Good selection. Willing to work with you on price. Recommend checking this place out.

As with any used gear store, the selection is uncertain, put the values here are great, on both pro-quality and learner-grade equipment. A fair amount of kids' rock stuff floats through here, and they also keep a decent line of school band staples --winds, horns, and strings. You can't guarantee what you wanted will be there, but you can guarantee they have something you want. read more

Their selection is constantly changing, you can find some really unique instruments at great prices. Really courteous staff as well.