Shop local people. Good place, good selection. A fixture of the community.
Was passing through town and needed some audio gear for my film crew.
Corson Music is one of those go-to locally owned type of places. I like it because it’s not like your typical hard sell chain place, where the guy behind the counter has no clue about the products he is selling. At Corson’s you deal with experienced staff that are helpful and professional.
Their guitar walls are full of classic vintage stuff you won’t find in a chain either. I wasn’t shopping for one, but had to stop and look at few, just because. 🙂
When I buy gear, I always make sure to support a local store, because they always support me.
Thanks guys, our audio was seamless thanks to your full selection.
The s place was a big help been to a few other guitar store and they couldn’t help but this place could I’ll be back!!!
Got a bass bag and some strings. Still using the 4 channel mixer/amp I got from them a few years back.
Very knowledgeable
Stinky, dirty place, and not friendly at all.
I called today to ask about get the action lowered on my guitar. Keep in mind that I am a beginner and don’t know a whole lot about this type of stuff. The person who answered the phone was far from helpful. He was condescending and rude and didn’t answer my questions. Instead he just cackled when I asked clarifying questions and responded with sarcastic answers. I will absolutely NOT be taking my business here and did not appreciate the customer service or lack thereof.
Nice products but bad service. The gentleman at the counter obviously didn’t want us in the store even though it was empty.
Tried to make small talk and the guy wasn’t having it.
3. The Music Shoppe Inc.
Address: 27 E Marketview Dr, Champaign, IL 61820 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
Our band director recommended The Music Shoppe. We had a wonderful experience! They answered all our questions in a timely manner, shared both the rental policy and purchase options, plus checking out was easy and efficient online!
Wonderful staff…
Great inventory…
We have used the music shoppe in Champaign for all three of our kids and been very happy with the quality and service. But our last experience was truly exceptional. We purchased a nice clarinet for our son. He was very happy, but it played flat. The people at the music shoppe immediately ordered a new one, but my son really liked the first one best. So they ordered a new barrel (slightly shorter) from the company for us! Definitely well above and beyond.
We will definitely continue to buy from them and encourage everyone in the area to support them as well!
The Music Shoppe has always provided quality service. We have purchased one instrument from them, but had other instruments serviced. They have knowledgeable staff and I have never been disappointed with any repair or maintenance work they have completed. They bent over backward once to help us in a pinch.
My only complaint is that they are so busy with schools, it is hard to get personal instruments in. (They told me 3 weeks before they could even look at my daughter’s instrument.)
These people are consistently quality professionals. Over the last 5 years I have trusted their service and have not been disappointed.
It’s a good place for renting and buying instruments. They repair and provide loaner instruments.
Nice staff, wonderful selection, higher end of the usual price range though.
I went in to have my saxophone serviced. The saxophone I play is pretty nice. I mentioned that I played it in marching band and the woman belittled me for playing a nice instrument in marching band. Sorry I don’t have an unlimited supply of saxophones.
Absolutely the most unprofessional shop around ! Straight garbage
Looked at stuff for over 20 minutes without getting attention of any staff members on a very slow day. I literally was carrying a list of items I needed. Prices were way out of line. Selection was slightly better than Guitar Center.
4. Old Delhi Music
Address: Contact, Urbana, IL 61802 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
This harmonium arrived safely and well packaged, which I was worried about being that harmoniums can be delicate, yet there was absolute no issue in shipping. I requested tuning to A-440 which was done expertly. The harmonium itself is absolutely beautiful with an amazing tone and incredibly sustain.
Overall,the entire process of calling Nic to order the harmonium to receiving it was seamless.
Anyone looking for a harmonium should consider Old Delhi Music as you are guaranteed to get a true top notch instrument that is sure to last for years and years to come.
I cannot say enough good things about Old Delhi Music. I ordered a harmonium from them and it was about the best experience one could hope for. I first became interested in this instrument while reading about its history. Today, these instruments are handmade in India by crafters who take a lot of pride in their work. The loving care that Nic and his team take with choosing these instruments from India and then providing you a quality instrument is beyond words. Nic walked me though step by step from which harmonium I wanted to purchase to how to fix buzzing reeds when the weather changes. There is a lot of pride in these instruments and in maintaining them. It is wise to purchase one from Old Delhi where you will be adequately instructed how to appreciate and care for the instrument. Nic is extremely respectful of his customers. He is helpful and his advice on the instruments he sells can be trusted.
I recently bought Paul & Co 9-Scale 3-Reed Harmonium from the OldDelhiMusic and very satisfied with my purchase.
I wanted to get this harmonium for my vocal support and was so much concerned about tuning and quality of the instrument. there are multiple shops across the country selling Indian Harmonium but finally I chose OldDelhiMusic!
The quality of work and support I received from these guys is phenomenal!!
Very highly knowledgable folks and delivers on their promise with exceptional quality.
I am glad that I chose OldDelhiMusic, I have been playing this instrument for a week now and literally falling in love more and more as I play.
Nic/Jacob were very supportive on answering all the questions I had before this purchase and also educated me a lot about this instrument.
If you are planning to buy Harmonium from USA then I will highly recommend OldDelhiMusic, you will not repent on your decision!
Thank you OldDelhiMusic for making my purchase so smooth and delivering fantastic piece of Paul & Co Harmonium.
I received a faulty instrument from these people and when I asked to return it they denied my request. Even though it was kept in a hard case which I also purchased from them. They were entirely at fault and chose to steal from me instead of being accountable.
NEVER BUY FROM THESE PEOPLE. They will steal if given the chance.
5. The Upper Bout
Address: 723 S Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
In my experience, music shop staff are usually condescending and unfriendly. You get the opposite at this shop. Knowledgeable and courteous would be the best way to describe them.
The store itself is clean, great guitar selection. Basses, not so much.
Anytime I’m in the area I like to stop by and will eventually buy something. Highly recommended.
Everyone working here is not only extremely friendly, but also very knowledgable about both the merchandise they sell and habits they promote. However, my music knowledge and guitar expertise would be generously labeled “basic”. The best thing about The Upper Bout is that even though they are experts at their work, they cater their explanations and recommendations to each customer as the musician (or lack thereof) that they are. It is clear that this business’ goal is not simply to be profitable, but to promote music in the hearts of its community. Great experience, thank you very much.
Such an amazing place with the most helpful, caring staff. Thank you for everything you do!
Very nice store for guitar players. Not a lot of options for bass players. Store is very clean and the store has a very classy look and vibe. Very nice selection of effects pedals. I will go there again. I would like to have seen more high end 5 string basses. But, I think everyone should stop by.
Good place to buy guitar stuff in a convenient location.
It’s kind of expensive, I paid $25 for two sets of strings when I go through them like crazy. This being the only place I buy strings nowadays I am now scared to break one!
They have loads of guitars and amps to try out, as well as mandolins, banjos and other stringed instruments, makes it a great place to learn about instruments.
I will purchase my next guitar here for sure.
Brought in a broken guitar hoping to fix it. They were quoting me 4 times the value of a new guitar to fix it and kept pushing me to just buy a new one. I ended up leaving and getting the guitar replaced elsewhere
I put a guitar here on consignment that had a synth pickup and they straight up lost the synth. When I came in to pick up my stuff they just shrugged their shoulders like “so what?”
Be forewarned! If you are anything but an accomplished or professional guitar player they may not have the time of day for you! They WILL talk down to you, and make broad assumptions of you. Without asking me any further questions, because I said I traveled a lot, had a sentimental instrument that I didn’t want to see damaged and didn’t presently have a place to store it: the assumptions changed to me being homeless and I couldn’t be pushed out of the store fast enough. Even when I asked about a simple $15 item. Oh and let’s not forget the whole the salesman is talking down to me, he grabbing expensive guitars off the wall just playing them instead of listening to my questions. Nice job Upper Bout
6. Yoder’s Lamps Antiques & Collectibles
Address: 214 S Vine St, Arthur, IL 61911 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
Fantastic customer service! I purchased my first guitar from them
Glad I was told about this place. Great people. Great service. Jordan is extremely knowledgeable in all areas of sound and eletronics. This will be my go to place for any of my guitar or amp repairs or upgrades. Just by talking to him, I could tell he knew his stuff.
Helped us get what we needed
Great shop for all your musical needs
Bought mixer and the Employee went out of his way to find some used XLR Cable’s with 1/4 in male ends.
I brought a saxophone in to have cork replaced on the neck. The job was mediocre at best. I redid it myself
I like Jordon but hes always to busy to get to my stuff needs to hire help
8. Redbox
Address: 825 E Columbia St, Arthur, IL 61911 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
The owner and sole employee keeps irregular hours, asks that you come “by appointment only,” and hardly even responds to texts and phone calls. Friendly guy, good wares, and authentic atmosphere otherwise. He can repair broken instruments for a cost, and makes his own for you to buy. Various types of guitars are available, but the selection is small. Wouldn’t recommend anyone to go to this store, honestly. Probably cheaper than Guitar Center, but it isn’t worth the inconvenience and hassle of getting in touch with the owner just to visit his shop.
Not open on a Monday 2:30
10. House of Guitars
Address: 802 N Keller Dr, Effingham, IL 62401 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
Awesome shop , if you need anything for a string instrument then house of guitars is the place to !
Pretty rad spot. Have bought guitar amplifiers here, a few pedals, looper, etc.. The list goes on lol. But yeah, everything always works great and its a friendly spot to shop. Check it out.
Great little shop top notch ownership.
One of only two places that I know of in Effingham to purchase guitars and sound equipment. Even though the shop is small, they have a lot of quality guitars at reasonable prices. I was also impressed with the ukulele selection, an instrument that is becoming more and more popular. They also have some sound equipment and sound accessories at decent prices for performing musicians. If you are in need of anything for your guitar, this place is worth a visit.
Have bought accessories and have had tech/set up work done here. Owner’s always been nice, and even cuts ya the occasional break on the price. Definitely recommend.
Have been coming here for five years and spent thousands of dollars in this store. The owner has never acted like he recognized me or knew my name. Today in the store he falsely accused me of scratching a guitar in the shop, and told me I was lucky he “didn’t shake me down for money.” The guitars in the shop are high quality, but I am never bringing my business back here.
11. River’s Piano
Address: 2207 Rebecca Dr, Champaign, IL 61821 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
Excellent business for buying, selling, repairing, and getting parts for guitars. I went in the other day looking to sell two guitars, fix one’s output jack, and then source parts such as a whammy bar, strap screws (as in the unit that’s screwed into the side that you hook a strap onto), straps, and pickup switch covers for two other guitars, and accomplished this with a bunch of great help (and a surprising amount of patience) from one of the guys working here. I got $40 for each of the entry level guitars I sold (and I’d only paid $50 for one and $60 for the other used in the first place!), the guy helping me fixed the output jack by reinstalling the washer and nut onto the receding line for free, and he showed me around the store to exactly where all the parts I wanted for my other guitars were located. I couldn’t ask for better service from any music store than what I received from these guys, and I’ll certainly be buying all my guitars and guitar equipment from them in the future.
Staffed by local musicians and very knowledgeable!
Very professional salesman
Good store for all your music needs. Good selection and prices.
Friendly,has most anything
Nice store plenty of gear in stock , staff was pleasant , prices were reasonable and they even had some used instruments for cheapskate s like me hahaa I will go back and give them some business, even though online shopping may save you a few nickel s or couple bucks shopping local and having our local business s right down the street is well worth it to me .
Ignored from the time I walked into the store until I left.Walked a circle throughout looking for help only to find employees chatting it up. Both looked up at me and quickly turned away and continued talking to each other. Will never get my business.
Took in a brand new bass to get a pickup replaced. Not a scratch on it, never played once. The supposedly simple pickup replacement took a week and a half only for them to give me back my new bass with the back of it covered in scratches and a huge glob of dried glue stuck to the fretboard that won’t come off. They absolutely wrecked my new bass before I even had a chance to play it. Worst possible experience. I am sick to my stomach about how poorly they treated my equipment and would recommend avoiding this place at all costs.
I’ve been to a lot of music stores, and let me tell ya, avoid the this at all costs. Prices are High, equipment is below average, and the customer service is a joke. If you don’t mind paying top prices for sub standard gear and having to staff look down at you like you owe them something well this is the place for you . Two thumbs down
13. Atwood
Address: Illinois 61913 , Atwood , Illinois , United States
John is the best. Wonderful work on my guitars every time!
John is extremely knowledgeable and does the best work of anyone I’ve known through the years. He’s the man for the job and he does it right, guitarists in the surrounding area will be very happy with John’s expertise!!!
John does great work at prices that are more than fair . I’ve had him set up several guitars for me to date. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Fender, Rickenbacker or Gibson; when he’s done with it, the guitar is at it’s best! Thanks for opening in Charleston!
