If you are shopping for your first guitar, or honestly any guitar, just go to True Tone Music. I will get into why, but that is basically the whole review in one sentence. I found them online and called ahead to see if they had the guitar I wanted in stock. They did, and whoever answered the phone was so genuinely enthusiastic that I was excited to go make my purchase. When I got there the place was busy, with people in the back trying out guitars and a few staff floating around helping everyone. The thing that struck me right away was that all of them looked like they actually enjoyed being there. The guy who helped me, Louis, was a total rock star. I told him I was after a guitar and wanted to start taking lessons, and he immediately walked me back to meet Shawn, one of the teachers who happened to be in that day. Shawn and I hit it off, and I texted him later that day to set up my first lesson, which is this coming week. I am genuinely excited for it. The guitar I wanted was there, brand new and in flawless condition. Here is the part that really got me. I had read that silk and steel strings can be gentler on your fingers when you are starting out, so I asked about them. Instead of brushing me off, Louis walked me through the real pros and cons, and not once did it feel like he was nudging me away from them to save the shop a little money or labor, which is honestly what I half expected. I ended up deciding against them, and then he handed me a set anyway and told me to take them home, and that if I changed my mind I could come back any time and they would put them on for me free. He let me pick out a handful of picks, threw in a tuner, and even knocked a chunk off the price of the guitar without me asking. I had not even thought to ask, since it was in perfect condition. Then there was the warranty. I asked about it, they did not know off the top of their heads, and at one point something like four of the staff were working to track down an answer for me. Mind you, I had already checked out. I was buying that guitar no matter what the warranty said. They chased the answer down anyway, simply because I had asked. They also threw in a hat, which sounds like a tiny thing but genuinely made me grin. Picking up a new instrument feels like the start of something, and a small gesture like that fit the whole spirit of the place. I walked out already wanting to come back, even though I have no reason to until my lesson. This is the kind of customer service people say does not exist anymore. I am here to tell you it does, and it is alive and well at True Tone Music. I never even planned to buy my first guitar there, and now I cannot picture it having gone any other way. Huge thank you to the entire team, and to Louis & Shawn. You made my first guitar purchase a great memory. read more

Best music store ever. This place is a gem in Santa Monica, the guys that work there are real musicians, they know everything there is to know. I've known one of the guys for decades, and let me tell you, if you need guitar advice, there is no one better. read more

Truetone is back and better than ever! This new location on broadway is a labyrinth of guitar and bass goodness where you could get lost for hours in their meticulously curated inventory. Meter parking is available in front of the store, the door is locked so you need to ring for entry. You will then be greeted by some of the most passionate music lovers you will ever meet... and these guys know their stuff! I would classify this place as "boutique" or "high end" but that wouldn't do justice to the fact that they have really got some tremendous deals here, while they for sure will be able to satisfy those looking for a high-end instrument, they also have some great deals on quality guitars. It is great that they cover so many bases with their inventory. And pedals? Fuggetaboudit. I have never seen so many pedals in one place! An outstanding collection full of big manufacturers like Boss and JHS, but also a lot of boutique offerings as well, like Beetronics and Way Huge. And they aren't all wired together like other stores, if you want to try just one pedal, they let you do that! No figuring out someone else's signal chain. Individual practice rooms (with doors) so no one has to suffer through your rendition of "Enter Sandman"... this place is a guitar player's dream come true! Highly recommended! read more

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Great experience. Staff greeted me immediately. I told them I had an hour to burn and they showed me where the guitars and basses were. They had amps and good quality instruments with a sound proof room to try them out in and no hard sell. Bought a nice bass and I'll be back. read more

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I've been going to Truetone for 20+ years and have always been impressed. The selection is fantastic, the repair shop is tops, and the sales people are very knowledgeable. Plus most have been there for years ,which says something about how the store is run. Plus, none of them have that pretentious rock star vibe. Just super friendly and helpful. read more

I own a LOT of bass guitars and have dealt with at least a dozen online retailers. There is NO comparison! TrueTone is EASILY the BEST! First off, they COMMUNICATE. Secondly, they CARE! Thirdly they demonstrate COMPETENCE with the instrument you are buying as well as the one you might be selling. They treat you like family. This has been my experience and I think of them as my bass partners. No need to look any further. They are your True Musical Teammates! Mike, Sunir & Paul are the best in the business!! read more

What went well? Everything. Great repair shop and service. Great selection of guitars. Great all -around atmosphere -- and the sweatshirts are really nice! I've been to them all, but this is my favorite guitar shop in LA if not the USA. read more

We came in to the shop looking for a whole range of different guitars and equipment, as a couple of relative newbies with minimal baseline knowledge. The staff took amazing care of us, were super patient with our deluge of probably mostly ridiculous questions. Both my wife and I ended up leaving the shop with new guitars that day, and everything was beautifully set up and ready to go. The shop was extremely kind to throw in a couple of little extra bits and pieces like picks and replacement strings to make sure that we were truly ready to enjoy our new gear. I can't recall the last time I encountered such incredible service in any retail environment. We will absolutely be coming back here for our future guitar needs, we are diehard truetone fans. read more

Truetone Music - Incredible headstock, Gretsch Falcon Jr - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Santa Monica, California

A great selection, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and a top notch repair department.

5 stars - Trutone is the spot! I was in the neighborhood and while I'm not looking for a new guitar, I love guitar stores so I thought I'd stop by, and I'm so glad I did! This place is amazing. Fantastic guitars everywhere you look from every maker you know and love and some you might not. There were a few folks working and only one or two other folks in the store. The staff were all friendly and attentive but didn't hover. They are happy to let you play any guitars in the shop (unlike many other guitar shops) and even have some private playing rooms to try out electric guitars and amps without blowing away the whole store. Brad was extremely helpful and has a wealth of knowledge about the guitars in the shop. I only got a t-shirt this visit, and I will definitely stop by again when I'm looking for a guitar or a pedal. I highly recommend you pay a visit to Trutone if you like guitar shops and guitar people. One of my new favorite shops in LA! Skip Norm's - head to Trutone! FYI there are parking spots behind the store so no need to pay for meters. Rock on Trutone! read more

Good guitar and amp selection but kicked me and my friends out for practicing on amps we wanted for Christmas "too much". There's really nothing else to say. read more

Fantastic store great customer service! Awesome sales people I went to check out an amp and was excited that they would actually let me crank it to hear how it would sound at proper volume. Something an unnamed big box store chain never lets me do. I would recommend them to anyone. read more

Truetone Music is a great music store. Bought 2 guitars from them. Excellent service and prices.

This is a great place to buy! Great value, great service and good selection. Very fast shipping and packed very well! I will buy here again. Pleasure to do business with. read more

This store/team is great. Just picked up a nice case at a great price from them yesterday and got to see the new store. The guys I worked with were very cool (read friendly, knowlegeable, and professional). The store looks great with a great guitar and bass selection. read more

This company delivered and guitar was exactly as they described. Absolutely beautiful D18. First time to do business with them and checked their positive reviews and decided to make the purchase. Experience Customer Service and FAST FAST Shipping - could not have gone any smoother. BD read more

Truetone Music - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Santa Monica, California

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Believe me: I get it. You buy your guitars and gear from Sweetwater or Guitar Center. They have a ton of shiny things calling to your wallet, and the money in it is burning a hole. Totally get it. But what you're missing is the ability to go to your local guitar shop, talk to the cool people, and actually try the guitar, pedal, or amp that is calling to you. Truetone is that cool, local guitar shop. Want to play that affordable yet super cool-looking Epiphone in Pelham Blue? You can! Want to play that Fender American Professional II and hear it through a Fender Pro Junior or Vox AC10? You can! And you'll be able to ask actual people with actual experience who actually live in your area and know the music scene. Try that with Sweetwater. I love seeing something interesting on their site and then going in to see it in person (or you can buy from their site or Reverb shop -- pick up or delivery). Luis, Mike, and Dave are always ready to help, answer questions, and generally be their awesome selves. They are super patient, friendly, and helpful. No surly Guitar Center employees here! Small, cool shops like this are disappearing. They are the lifeblood of musicians and have a valuable, necessary place in our community. Ignore it and it will go away. That would be a shame. Go here and be amazed. Truetone rocks. read more

Excellent customer service. I have been dealing with Mr. Louise for a long time he is an excellent sale's person, very attentive to details and makes sure you get what you're looking for. Even on his day off he answers the phone. I got one of my favorite guitars from this shop and I am very happy. I plan to return and buy more items. Thank you very much . read more

I really hate doing this review as I do any review that is less than stellar... especially for a store that isn't big box. It takes a lot for me to do that. But.... I walked in to a big empty store where employees are just standing around. I'm barely greeted (which is fine), except for the fact that the greeting felt more like a "look what the street brought in". Yes, I was in some joggers, a black tee, and had a hat because I had just finished helping a bro move all day, but that shouldn't affect how I'm treated. I asked a few very simple question to try and get a better vibe going etc and was met with cold, short answers, that felt more like a "you should know this" or maybe a "you can't afford anything in here and are wasting our time". I decided to look around anyhow because I like to support mom and pop local stores, but the moment I was in the next room I had a guy so quick on my tail to stare me down as if he was terrified if he didn't get there quick enough I'd have a guitar shoved in my pants and be heading out the door! The one guy with dark black/brown hair kinda longer was pretty cool. He actually took a little to explain a few things to me. However, he was quickly swapped with the original guy from the front (short hair and lazy eye - not trying to be rude or disrespectful by any means because that's not a laughing matter at all I just don't know how else to describe him) and now I'm being Hawkeyed while at the same time he's giving a vibe while leaning on the wall that I'm wasting his time. I felt extremely uncomfortable, I felt extremely unwelcome and at that point asked a few dumb questions about financing to just have a reason to leave. Truth is I had $3000 on me right then to buy something. Which isnt the world but hey, if you wipe your butt with $3000 maybe relocate your store to Bel-Air or retire and let someone who cares about customers run a shop and earn a living. Being completely honest, I'm astonished at the reviews, and have never been so eager to run to guitar center and that really sucks because mom and pop local stores are our backbones in America. Really disappointed more than anything. Sorry I looked poor today, if I return I'll shower and throw on a Louis V suit first. read more

At midlife, some of us get really into cars, motorcycles, carpentry... I've gotten really into guitars. Buying, trading, selling, and occasionally hot rodding them. Truetone has supported me in each one of these endevors. They didn't make me feel like an idiot for wanting to route a 1993 MIM Fender Stratocaster for a humbucker in the bridge like another shop did, and did the route and installed the humbucker beautifully. The other shop literally laughed in my face and refused to refer any other shop that might do routings. Truetone has amazing technicians working there who are cheerful and very knowledgable. They saved me from getting scammed by a guitar builder who sold me a Billy Bo barn guitar on Etsy that was unplayable due to the neck angle in the body. When I took it to be repaired they stated the issues and I was able to get a refund from Etsy after the seller had been completely resistant to fixing the issue himself or issuing a refund. Truetone is a place where you can try any piece of equipment and get excellent deals on excellent instruments. Reverb is cool, and Truetone is live and in person without the diceroll on what you're actually getting. Please support your local guitar store, and if you're in West LA, Truetone has your back! read more

Truetone Music - Pereira Guitars Joseane about to be reviewed by Truetone co-owner Sunir Patel right in the middle of serious renovations, still making space - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Went a long while back but I still remember how well it all turned out. I ended up finding a lefty guitar I actually wanted and after actually being able to play it out of a nice amp for a while I started talking to an employee. Turns out I had a guitar on me that wasn't really being played much, so we discussed a partial trade. In the end I walked out with a really nice eastwood side jack and they got to display a super unique and cool Puresalem valiente in their shop. The guitar I traded sold quickly like I knew it would and I am enjoying this Eastwood guitar to this day! Went back months later during COVID, they met me out in the alley and handed me a strymon night sky and a t shirt for free after driving 50 miles each way! Pretty rad in my book! read more

My son is interested in learning the guitar and these guys were amazing!! They are patient and really know their instruments. Helpful experts! And I love supporting a great local shop. I can't recommend them enough!! Truly a local gem! read more

Great music store with a high quality selection of instruments. The guys at the shop are super helpful and easy going. I ended up picking up a Strat just before closing time and they threw in a new pack of strings and a hat with my purchase. The overall vibe of the store was great and each instrument goes through a thorough QC inspection which makes all the difference. If you're in the area, definitely check out this shop! 10/10 read more

It ain't easy buying guitars in these Covid times. Especially something like a 12-string Ricky. I'm not one to buy guitars sight unseen so when I found this online at Truetone which is a reasonable drive from me, I reached out to make arrangements... Paul, their online sales coordinator was quick to respond to all my questions and provided plenty of pictures. He made sure I knew all I needed before getting in the car. Sunir took over when I arrived and had the instrument ready for me when he let us into the shop. Everyone kept things very Covid safe and we had plenty of distance and time for me to check everything out. The price was already great so the sale was quick and easy. Thanks guys! Overall I would highly recommend Truetone Music. They lived up to the type of service you'd expect from a high end boutique shop. I live closer to at least 3 Guitar Centers, 1 Samash and at least a 1/2 dozen other boutique shops but would still look at and potentially drive back up to Truetone for future purchases. read more

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Called on telephone...The "dude" on the other end, sounded like he was on "meds", of course The owner was out... I hate to "give" bad reviews & I KNOW that The musical instrument business IS TOUGH... But I also E-specially appreciate "getting jerked around" when I am asking legitimate questions politely! IF I wanted to DO THAT I'd dealt w/ my local "jerks"... Well I guess welcome TO "PLANET Santa Monica" if ya' wanna' do business w/ people that came "highly recommended"...BUT, in this case: HIGHLY DISAPPOINTED!! read more

Excellent service. Knowledgable and answered every question I had. They fixed damage caused by an outgassing pick guard on my guitar. I hope small businesses like this can thrive. read more

I rarely leave reviews for anything, but I had to because of an awesome experience I had a few months ago. I drop by the store a few times a month, just to check out the gear. Staff is always welcoming, offering me cables, willing to pull down a guitar, and getting me setup to try something out. That particular day, I propped myself up in front of a two-rock amp and cabinet. I began playing (horribly, sorry for hurting your ears), with Mike dropping by to check on me every 10 minutes or so. After a bit, I told him about my dream of owning an amp like this one day. He walks away, only to come back 5 minutes later and telling me what I'd be willing to pay to take it off his hands. He said don't look at the price tag, just give a fair number and let's see what happens. I write a number thinking, "no way, not going to happen". He comes back and says "congrats". And the rest is history. Guys, thank you so much for helping me fulfill my dream! You guys rock! (Pun intended) read more

Truetone Music - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Santa Monica, California

Very friendly staff to work with! Quick responses to questions. This was a very easy and comfortable buying experience. I hope to shop here again soon!! A+++++ seller!! read more

If you're going to buy a new guitar in LA, do it here. I was spoiled growing up in San Francisco with the guitar shops there, but no one beats True Tone in terms of perfect selection mix, and amazing guitar setups/work. I went here after doing some online research to finally add something new into the collection. I came in, was setup with a cool Mesa combo and went through some guitars eventually landing on an LP classic. The guitar setup done at TrueTone is perfect. This LP is the best Gibson I've played in a long time. Something I noticed while playing a few other guitars there was how well they were all setup. A few weeks later I stopped by the Guitar Center on Pico to check out a low watt tube amp they had. I played their Gibson LP classics, 59, 60's reissue styles. Each of them sounded awful and the fret work was abysmal. My friend who came with me both to True Tone and then to Guitar Center even pointed it out. So TLDR: If you want a great guitar at whichever budget range you're in True Tone will have you covered. And the setup their team does can't be beat. read more

I've been to this shop numerous times without encountering any less than satisfactory customer service. However, a couple of days ago I called to inquire about whether or not the shop offered gear for rent, and after playing guitar for about 14/15 years now, the employee who answered my call made me feel as if I was a rookie asking the wrong questions: All I said was, "Hey I'm just calling to check if you guys rent out any guitars there". The response was "No we don't do rentals. If you're serious about buying gear we can help, otherwise have a good day." This was followed by an abrupt hang up on the employee's side. I didn't even have time to ask my other questions pertaining to COVID store hour changes and whatnot... read more

I have been frequenting this shop for 15 years - bought my first guitar here (and took my lessons here) and bought gear for friends in the biz on occasion too. You seriously should not go anywhere for a guitar except Truetone. Not just because their curated selections are better than anything generic you will find at the "big box" music stores, but because they really, really love what they do and introducing music to all newcomers. With patience. And guidance. And no gimmicky sales pitches or race to commission. They get it here - it's an investment and some people need to take real time to know what they truly want. Come here. And if you get to work with Mark, I'd say he's one of the best of the best for knowledge, experience and matching customers to the best choices for them. And... their prices are just the same as "the other shops" so why not get better service without a higher price tag right? read more

I went there for fret repair on a Stratocaster. They did excellent work that was very reasonably priced given the high quality. They have a great selection of acoustic and electric guitars. I had to get out quickly before I succumbed to temptation to break my guitar budget. read more

I really enjoy coming in here; every time there's something cOol and new to see and play. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. This isn't a discount chain shop, but there are great deals nevertheless! I recently bought a brand new D'Angelico semi-hollow bass at half price. It's a gorgeous and fat sounding instrument. Look around and you'll for sure find something to spark your interest and even inspiration! read more

In June of 1969 I hopped on the bus and headed downtown. Downtown Chicago.....to go to the biggest music store in Chicago at the time, Sid Shermans Music. Being only 15 years old the best I could do is drool over the dozens of Stratocasters on the wall. Then one of them caught my eye.... Olympic White, Matching Painted Headstock, Bound Rosewood Fingerboard. This became my dream guitar, my white whale, if you will. LOL Fast forward to 2022, I'm 68 and decide to do a Custom Shop Build of my guitar. After many failed attempts with several music stores, I happened across Truetone Music. Their website showed they had sold several Strats matching my specs, so I called them and discussed my needs with Consignment Manager/Sales agent Mike Randle. I have NEVER received customer service of such a high quality in my life ! Honest. Him and I and owner Sunir exchanged many emails and calls working out the build. Since this was my one and only chance, it had to be EXACTLY what I wanted. Mike was patient, followed up on our plans and discussions, and kept in contact with me with every single step along the way. Including, Sunir speaking with his Custom Shop Rep regarding my build, prices, as well as projected ETA. Well, to make a good story even better, the order has been placed with Fender and is included in Truetone's production delivery schedule for next year. I will update my review when the guitar is delivered, but for now, Truetone is MY music store even though it's over 2,000 miles away, and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you give them a try, if you haven't already. You will not be disappointed. Frankie Baby Chicago ...........​​​ read more

I just purchased my first guitar from Truetone Music, but I doubt it will be my last. I purchased my guitar only minutes ago, so this isn't a review of my guitar or their packing/shipping. I was just so wowed by my buying experience that I couldn't wait to leave them a positive review. I'm not always an easy customer as I ask a lot of questions. Truetone was patient in addressing all of my questions, and everyone I spoke with was clearly knowledgeable and passionate about music. I want to give Sunir a special shout-out for promptly providing me with additional pictures of the guitar I wanted. The buying process was seamless and I feel like I got a good deal on my dream guitar. Couldn't be happier. Thanks again! read more

Excellent, friendly and knowledgeable staff, great selection, and best of all, Dave Rutchinsky working behind the scenes in the back is the best guitar and bass tech I have ever met. He's meticulous, thourough and friendly. Oh, did I mention he's a helluva guitarist, singer and songwriter? read more

Gem of a place, famous for excellent reason, with wonderful, knowledgeable and friendly folks working there.

Truetone is in my opinion the best guitar shop in LA. Intimate, but with a substantial effects selection (100 percent necessary), and a nice private demo room with fine amps. The staff is of high caliber and training. Always a must stop for me when I am in LA. It is rare for me in my life as a pro guitarist with high standards to appreciate a shop like this. In my opinion it is better than the infamous Norman's Rare Guitars. To quote Mrs. Smith (shred virtuoso David Hanbury) in her interview at Norm's (a must see massive guitar sesh on youtube), "I'm not into old things... I like my guitars new... like a FERRARI." If this is you, check out Truetone. Nine times out of ten I prefer an axe built in 1982 or later. read more

I'm so disappointed with Truetone Music. I was at the store today and witnessed a clerk mistreat another customer who was black and did not appear to be able to afford the instrument he was looking at. The clerk was looking for an opportunity to tell the guy to leave and actually said the customer was dirty, which was not actually the case. The guy's mask fell beneath his nose and the clerk said he had to leave for taking his mask off. His words and tone were demeaning, and I have no respect for a business that permits its staff to treat people like this. I'll never shop there. read more

Bought my PRS CE24 here. Very happy with the service. Complete no-hassle experience. Sales staff was there to help but left me alone to play to my hearts content. read more

Truetone Music - Musical Instruments & Teachers Near Me - Santa Monica, California