Made a trip to Ranking Sports and Music instrument store at Bras Basah Complex today. I have been wanting to acquire a dreadnought to be used primarily in church but undecided about particular brand or model. Having surfed the internet and EBay, and seen several Larrivee D-03 on sale, I’m thinking of bidding for it. To be on the safe side, I should try Larrivee guitars that are available locally first. Thus the trip down town.
The store only has 5 models. the 03 series and another two that are higher end. I tried only the former models. I like the spritely sound of D-03 though the strings were highly oxidized. One can only imagine the sound if newer strings were on it. The downside is that all the 03 models are fitted with electronic pickups. I’m not a fan of that and didn’t want to pay extra bucks for something that I’m not going to use for a long time. Since the store didn’t carry any rosewood dreadnought, thought I’d compromise and get this D-03.
Tested the pickup but it didn’t work. I suspect the 9volt battery was flat but can’t confirm since the sales guy claim he couldn’t change it but have to wait for the technician to do it (and he wasn’t due for work until afternoon). I decided that it’d be good for them to check out the item and then call me since I reserve this guitar.
Good thing the sales guy also pointed out that the guitar has a slight cosmetic flaw – slight scratch on the surface. Tried to bargain for a lower price but the female boss didn’t budge. She finally conceded to the point of discussing the price after having the guitar tested.
The lady boss left for lunch subsequently and another guy (i presumed her husband) was at the counter. I asked if there’s another batch of Larrivee guitars coming with rosewood models. He answered brisquely that they don’t bring in one piece just for me and moreover they have yet to clear the current inventory. I kept quiet though unhappy with the mindset, but whatever.
So I left for home but having two-minds about it yet I’m glad I finally get to try Larrivee guitars. I would buy it given Malcolm’s recommendation as well as reviews from the internet.
By the time I got close to Amanda’s school I decided to call Ranking and canceled my reservation. Why? I can justify spedning extra dollars on B-band pickups I’m not going to use. Maybe the guy’s answer didn’t go down well with me.
Anyway, I figured that it might still be cheaper to get it online and the total cost could still be lower than retail prices here. I’m pretty sure about that.
