The Guitar Shop in Columbia: What to Expect When You Walk In

A full-service guitar store in the heart of Columbia

The Guitar Shop sits on Main Street in downtown Columbia and carries new and used guitars, basses, amplifiers, and accessories. The store stocks instruments across price ranges—from student-level acoustics to high-end electrics—and staff can help you find something that matches both your budget and your playing level. They also handle repairs and setups in-house, which means you can bring in an instrument that needs work and often pick it up the same week.

The space itself is small enough to browse in twenty minutes but stocked densely enough that you'll find most of what you're looking for without a special order. The staff are musicians themselves, not just salespeople, so conversations tend to go deeper than "what's your price range." If you're deciding between two guitars or trying to figure out whether an amplifier will work for your space, they'll let you plug in and play before you commit.

Key Takeaways

• The Guitar Shop stocks new and used guitars, basses, amps, and accessories at various price points, from beginner to professional grade.
• Repairs and setups happen in-house, and turnaround is typically one to two weeks depending on the work needed.
• You can play instruments before buying them, which is especially useful if you're choosing between similar models or testing an amp in a real space.
• The staff are working musicians who can discuss tone, playability, and fit for your specific needs rather than just moving inventory.

What instruments and gear they carry

Acoustic guitars make up a significant portion of the inventory, ranging from budget-friendly student models to mid-range instruments suitable for gigging musicians. Electric guitars lean toward classic designs—Fenders, Gibsons, and similar brands—rather than boutique or ultra-modern shapes. Bass guitars are available in both four-string and five-string configurations, and the used section often has deals on older instruments that have been checked over and set up.

Amplifiers run from small practice amps (15 to 30 watts) suitable for bedroom playing to larger combo amps (50+ watts) for rehearsal and small venues. They also stock pedals, cables, straps, tuners, capos, and replacement strings—the consumables you'll need whether you're a beginner or a working player. If they don't have a specific item in stock, they can usually order it within a few days.

Repairs, setups, and maintenance services

The Guitar Shop's repair bench handles fret leveling, nut replacement, bridge work, electronics troubleshooting, and hardware repair. A basic setup—adjusting action, intonation, and truss rod—typically takes three to five business days. More involved work like a full refret or electronics replacement may take longer, and the staff will give you a timeline when you drop off the instrument.

Pricing varies by the work required. A simple setup costs less than a refretting job, and they can give you an estimate before starting. If you're unsure whether an instrument is worth repairing or whether the cost makes sense, the staff will be honest about that too—they won't push you toward expensive work on a guitar that isn't worth it.

How to find them and what to bring

The Guitar Shop is located on Main Street in downtown Columbia, with street parking available nearby. They're open six days a week, closed Sundays and Mondays. If you're coming in to look at a specific instrument or to discuss a repair, calling ahead isn't required, but it's a good idea if you want to make sure someone is available for a longer conversation or if you're bringing in a guitar for work.

If you're dropping off an instrument for repair, bring it in its case or gig bag and have a clear description of what needs work. If there's a specific sound or playability issue you're trying to solve, explain that too—it helps the technician understand what you're after. For a repair estimate, they'll usually have an answer for you within a day or two.

Playing before you buy

One of the main reasons to shop in person rather than online is the chance to play an instrument before money changes hands. At The Guitar Shop, you can plug in an electric guitar and run it through an amp, play an acoustic unplugged, and get a real sense of how it feels and sounds. This matters especially if you're between two similar models or if you're buying your first guitar and want to know what "good playability" actually feels like in your hands.

The staff will also let you test an amplifier in the store, which is useful if you're trying to figure out whether a particular wattage or tone will work for your space. A 50-watt amp sounds very different at low volume than it does cranked up, and hearing it in a real room beats reading specs online.

Used instruments and trade-ins

The used section rotates regularly, so what's in stock changes week to week. Prices on used guitars are typically lower than new, and the store inspects instruments before putting them on the shelf. If you're a beginner or you're not sure yet whether you'll stick with playing, a used guitar can be a sensible first purchase—you spend less money and you can always upgrade later.

The Guitar Shop also accepts trade-ins if you're upgrading to a better instrument. The amount they offer depends on the condition and market demand for that particular model, and they'll let you know what they can give you before you decide whether to trade or sell privately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I return a guitar if I change my mind?

Return policies vary, so ask about it at the time of purchase. Most stores offer a short window—typically 14 to 30 days—for returns on new instruments in good condition. Used guitars may have different terms, so clarify before you buy.

How long does a typical repair take?

A basic setup usually takes three to five business days. More complex work like fret leveling or electronics repair may take one to two weeks. The staff will give you a timeline when you drop off the instrument and let you know if it changes.

Do they sell strings and other consumables?

Yes. They stock replacement strings for guitars and basses, picks, straps, cables, tuners, and other accessories. Prices are comparable to online retailers, and you get them immediately rather than waiting for shipping.

What if I'm a complete beginner—can they help me pick a first guitar?

Yes. The staff can walk you through the difference between acoustic and electric, explain what playability means, and help you find an instrument that's comfortable to hold and play. They'll also discuss what else you might need—an amp for electric, a tuner, a strap—and answer questions about learning to play.

Do they buy used guitars?

They accept trade-ins and may purchase used instruments outright, depending on condition and demand. Bring the guitar in and ask for an offer. Prices are typically lower than what you'd get selling privately, but the transaction is immediate and hassle-free.