We have run a number of surveys over the last year regarding advice, service and support in the music retail sector.

Here’s the rub, to offer a decent level of service requires money, to invest in stores, staff and after sales. Take a great UK dealer Absolute Music, they have just made a significant investment in a new store, with lots of value added services such as rehearsal rooms and a full blown studio.

We all like a bargain, I’m like a shark when it comes to buying things and seeking out a great deal - but even the picture above depresses me from Guitar Centre. It’s an advert for a brand new product, which is bound to be in high demand, yet already before being in stock it’s discounted.

I’m no fan of price fixing, but if dealers are just trying to race to the bottom of the pond on price, then our desire to get the service we want and often need is far less likely.

There will always be those trying to win our business by offering discount, but be warned, often the cheapest dealer is not the best. If we just buy on price then we get the service we deserve. Discuss.