Renting Stuff

     Our decades of experience have shown us that most people can't learn to play on a junk instrument. Contrariwise, a lot of folks thinking about an entry-level guitar (or uke, violin, banjo, what have you) are reluctant to make a big investment.

"Maybe I just won't get the hang of it."

"Maybe our little genius will be happier taking ballet."

"Who's got that much cash, anyway?"

     You get the idea.

     One common belief is that the answer lies in finding a "previously owned" model. But, instruments at the entry level are not much cheaper used than unused. And once you change the strings, fix the odd crack, get it properly set-up, etc., you're back up to (if not over) the new price. Our answer to this oft-encountered dilemma is to offer quality, entry-level instruments for rent, with an option to buy.

     It works like this:

• We will rent just about any instrument or outfit in the store, new or used, that's priced under a certain amount ($500, at the moment).
  
  
• We charge 10% of the merchandise's list price per month.
  
  
• You need a credit card, and you have to rent for a minimum of 3 months.
  
  
• You pay for the 3 months in advance, and then you get to take the stuff home (don't forget to practice).
  
  
• See you in 3 months. We'll even send you a reminder (because, as we all know, time flies when you're having fun).

     At this point, you have a choice to make:

1. Return the stuff and say goodbye, no tears.
   
2. Continue to rent for as long as you like, provided you keep sending us the monthly rental (the 10%).
   
3. Buy the stuff. You get full credit for the 30% you've already paid, and owe only the difference.
   
4. Buy a different instrument or outfit, of equal or greater value. You still receive 30% credit.

     Now, here's the fine print:

• If you trash the stuff, or don't return it, you are liable for the full price. There is no charge for normal wear and tear.
  
• Only the first three months' rent can be applied to purchase. Extra rent is just rent.
  
• If you bring it back a few days late, it's cool. We're not what you'd call sticklers about that stuff. More than a few days, though, and you'll have to pay for another month.
  
• There are no refunds on that first payment, pro rata or otherwise. "Three month minimum" means three months, minimum. If you need an instrument just to digitally sample, or for a photo shoot, or a gig, we can refer you to a specialized rental house.
  
• We may choose not to rent out certain irreplaceable, rare or incredibly fragile instruments.
  
• Renting is a taxable service in California, and there are some subtle points about the conversion of use tax to sales tax, if you decide to buy something other than what you rented — but it's really no biggie.

     And that's pretty much it. You can get the maximum instrument for the minimum investment, while exploring your bizarre desire to play guitar, dulcimer, or whatever.

     Enjoy.