Buying a guitar on a music store
I am thinking about buying an american fender telecaster. The problem is that in music stores, you try a guitar in store but when you buy it, you don't take the guitar that you try but a guitar that is still boxed up.
My question : Is there any risk of deception while buying a new guitar that you don't get to see?
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Hardly a cheap guitar. Every guitar is subtly different, in the finish, colour, wood grain, feel, etc. Even two consecutively off the assembly line. You have a perfect right to inspect and audition that guitar - belt and zips off though!
If the store has several, you ought to give them all a try. As soon as the store guy refuses, show him the money, and walk away. I bet he'll come running after you! If not, see the manager, and/or take your hard-earned to another store, one which values its customers.
It's also in the store's interest to establish there are no problems with the new guitar out of the box, but I doubt there would be a scam. They could only do that once!
Having read the question again, if you are given an unboxed guitar then where's the problem?
I don't know of anyone who would do this in a shop - you always leave with the one you played. Unless you are buying a really cheap starter guitar, perhaps - where it maybe isn't an issue. A proper guitar, like a Tele, is one you don't want to get wrong.
Online is a little different, but you know there is an element of uncertainty online, especially when buying from an unknown source.
I PREFER TO BUY FROM LOCAL MERCHANTS INSTEAD OF ONLINE.
But the merchant has to be competitive. Remember, they want long-term customers and repeat business.
Demand to try the actual guitar you'll buy. Any new guitar needs to be set-up, so that has to be a part of the price. Fresh strings in the gauge/brand YOU prefer (you might pay the cost of the set, but the stringing s/b free). If they charge you for set-up & stringing, walk out.
Demand also: a 30-day return guarantee (may be called 'on-approval'). You take the risk of damage, they take the risk you won't like it...
Are they including a case? You'll need one, unless you plan to use a pillowcase.
When you buy, also purchase (your expense) a strap, picks, a tuner, a stand (I like Hercules). For a package with guitar and case, the store ought to work with you for a deal.
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