I live in NY and I know all the good stores as well as the ones to STAY AWAY from.
The Best are:
- Mandolin Brothers, on Staten Island, just a 15 minute free Ferry trip from Manhattan. Website is
www.mandoweb.com A museum of vintage guitars and the friendliest staff in the history of music. Many famous guitarist shop there and it is not uncommon to see guys like Eric Clapton, Paul Simon and others brousing around in there.
-Matt Umanov Guitars, Bleeker Street, in Manhattan. Great deals and friendly folks. Really good vintage stuff. Talk to Marco, behind the pedal counter. He's a cool guy and knows his stuff. He will give honest advice and he won't try to sell you something you dont really want.
- Guitar Center on 14th Street Union Square. Lots of cool stuff, good prices, but a big chain and lousy service. Beware of pushy sales people.
The worst:
- Any store on 48th Street. Don't let anyone tell you any differently, they are all owned by the same people and they are all price inflating, con-artists that prey on unsuspecting people. Say no to 48th Street! Seriously, don't waste your time.