Author: Michael Ursu
If you walk into any Guitar Center or Sam Ash Direct you will probably encounter outrageous prices and salesclerks who will either push the most expensive items on you or just not care enough to help you.
This is a problem with most major chains. To an aspiring rock star, it often seems as though there are not many stores that sell string instruments or the materials needed for one, except for these aforementioned commercial places. However, Zeppelin Music, located in Highland Park, is a humble alternative to these monopolistic music equipment stores.
Located on York Boulevard, about four blocks away from Oxy, Zeppelin Music is almost akin to a musical version of the Goodwill.
It is a thrift store that contains a wide array of instruments, ranging from vintage guitars, electric basses, keyboards, cellos, various percussion pieces and a slew of strings, amps and pedals to satisfy the needs and pique the interest of any musician.
The equipment that Zeppelin stocks is frequently rotated, so you’re bound to find something new each time you visit the store.
Though Zeppelin stocks quite a variety of instruments and peripherals, guitars are easily the most abundant, and range widely in prices.
Friends of mine have purchased some of the cheaper ones and they work great as starter instruments. Most of the older guitars are still in good shape, and you can find some rare treasures – like an American- made Fender or an electric bass à la Paul McCartney.
Because Zeppelin is a used instrument store, the quality of its products fluctuates. Nevertheless, the guitars are in good condition, and a majority have only minimal problems (like fret buzzing and high action).
Unfortunately, not all guitars or instruments are on sale. Some very old instruments are for décor only, and it’s a shame that the store is not willing to part with them.
The store’s eccentricity is enhanced by its knowledgeable and interesting workers. Owner of the store John Leon repairs guitars right on the spot for reasonable fees. “We take care of our friends,” Leon said. “We’re good with people and we don’t charge tax!”
Store employee Ixtacoyotl Pena is similarly welcoming and easy to talk to while shopping for your guitar.
The employees won’t pressure you into buying anything and always do their best to make sure you get what you want. The staff at Zeppelin is very friendly, so feel free to browse and ask any questions you may have.
Whether you need some spare strings or are looking for a place to buy a used instrument, give Zeppelin a chance over Guitar Center. “We’re notorious and mafia-owned,” John joked. “But we’re one of the best and we love our customers.” You won’t get the same treatment anywhere else.
This article has been archived, for more requests please contact us via the support system.
