The reports of my death are premature

fronobulax

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"People started buying guitars, like crazy"

Would be interesting to see more speculation about Why? and some real numbers about Which Ones?
 

fronobulax

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Probably due to self isolation?
The last time I researched guitar sales they were declining. The reasons were fewer idols who played guitar and the acceptance of "being a DJ" as a creative outlet. So a couple years later - were those not the cause of the decline? Are there more idols, perhaps because of isolation and non-concert venues? Does "being a DJ" no longer count as "making music" for people? Is it an increase in "leisure" time being filled with music?

It is pretty common for someone to buy a beginner instrument and progress to the point that they want something they see as an "upgrade". Is this uptick driven by beginners or upgraders or a balanced mix? When society decides being indoors is acceptably safe so people return to working in person, go to concerts, etc. will there be a glut in the used guitar market?

Just speculation. I think at LTG we like having GC in business, we like Guild being able to sell new instruments but we still put most of our energy into the used market.
 

walrus

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That is interesting news. I agree with from - I like having them around, although I don't buy much from them. Apparently, they don't need me!

walrus
 

Brad Little

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.... Does "being a DJ" no longer count as "making music" for people? Is it an increase in "leisure" time being filled with music?....
My guess is that DJing requires a venue and an audience, at ;home it's just playing recorded music for an audience of one (or a few more). Playing an instrument, or learning to play one, does not need that outlet. I'm not a follower of "American Idol" and other shows of that kind, but maybe the guitar has become more prominent there and that's sparked uptake in interest.
 

Boneman

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I don’t mind GC so much, and while I do my share of buying online, it would be sad to lose more brick and mortar guitar stores. More reason to support the mom and pop and other small guy’s shops.
 

JohnW63

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The problem with that is that many of the Mom and Pops have already closed down, so if GC closes, a great many have only online or Sam Ash.
 

fronobulax

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I am hard pressed to call DJ's "musicians."

I'm quoting the article as I recall it. I will say there must be some truth to it since it was believed DJ equipment was robbing sales from traditional musical instruments, such as guitars. Maybe there is a better characterization than DJ?
 

beecee

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Maybe there is a better characterization than DJ?

CD-J?
F(lash)D(rive)-J?
USB-J?

I believe sales will plummet with the cessation of the $600 per week Fed boost, easing of restrictions, (the ability to go out in public), and plain old losing interest.

Two indicators: 1. SPCA's are seeing a rash of pet returns, 2. A friend manages a Salvation Army Thrift distribution center and is seeing loads of little used camping gear hitting the donation bins.

As the disclaimer on the GC IPO prospetus will say: Prior results do not guarentee a similar outcome.

I for one am looking forward to the upcoming glut on the used market...not that I have a need for another canoe, kayak, sleeping bag, guitar or a sub 3 lb. tent.
 
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DrumBob

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Somehow, I knew GC would survive and come through COVID in better shape. At one point, I had hoped they'd go away, but now, I think it's probably a good thing for them to stay alive, as a place where beginners and hobby players can shop. I also see mom & pop indie music stores opening and thriving. It's good for the industry.
 
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