[quote name='BigRedX' post='552875' date='Jul 27 2009, 04:54 PM']..........Even when it comes down to the smaller items - strings, picks, straps even then the choice in store is too small..............
The problem is that forums like this and the internet in general have broadened our horizons when it comes to instruments, amps and other gear, whereas shops seem still in the world of the early 90s, stuck in dealer networks and playing too safe by only stocking what they know will sell.[/quote]
Exacty what the shops are like round here. Out of 4 local music shops i have the choice between Ernie Balls and Rotos, both in only one guage and 4 string only. When i need emergency strings now i go to Cash Converters, they've got sets of cheapies in 2 guages for about a fiver. I don't spend £20 on strings unless it's a brand i want
I remember having a conversation with a shop owner about a yeaa while ago when i was buying a Squier. He couldn't get any in the shop because they were all going to the big online retailers who put in huge bulk orders. I waited a couple of months and he still couldn't get one so i ended up buying online, not his fault at all and i felt a bit sorry for the bloke. He had a sale but the supplier wouldn't even take him into account