MikeM
Platinum Member
So I bought a cymbal bag the other day (to give me and my PITA Zildjian hardcase a much deserved rest). It was for my birthday and my kids wanted to see me with a present so it was kind of a hit and run job: into the store, find one that'll do the job, pay for it, and get out.
Great. I got a Meinl bag with a shoulder strap, separate hi hat pocket, and tons of padding. It seems sturdy enough.
Only the tag said 24" cymbal and it's really only good for a 22". I kind of don't care since I don't own any 24" cymbals and I'm not on the lookout for any, but whatever.
But then I go online to see if I can find it just for kicks. Wow! Did I overpay! $98 (incl. tax) vs. $65.
Here's the thing: I like the idea of keeping the little guys in business, especially the 5 stars since they offer lessons, clinics, tons of repair parts, and a lot of unique drum gizmo's you won't find at Guitar Center.
But I have to admit that when it comes to buying bigger ticket items like snares and cymbals, I'm going online. Why spend $600 for a Black Beauty when you can spend $475 for one online? Ditto for cymbals. I've got them to price match before, but not without a lot of grumbling. It's almost not worth it. I'd rather over pay on the cheap stuff and maintain a good relationship than have it go sour haggling over the big stuff.
As much as I want to help these guys stay in business, I have to get the most bang for my buck. What to do? Thoughts?
BTW: I kept the cymbal bag and my mouth shut about it -except for here, of course.
Great. I got a Meinl bag with a shoulder strap, separate hi hat pocket, and tons of padding. It seems sturdy enough.
Only the tag said 24" cymbal and it's really only good for a 22". I kind of don't care since I don't own any 24" cymbals and I'm not on the lookout for any, but whatever.
But then I go online to see if I can find it just for kicks. Wow! Did I overpay! $98 (incl. tax) vs. $65.
Here's the thing: I like the idea of keeping the little guys in business, especially the 5 stars since they offer lessons, clinics, tons of repair parts, and a lot of unique drum gizmo's you won't find at Guitar Center.
But I have to admit that when it comes to buying bigger ticket items like snares and cymbals, I'm going online. Why spend $600 for a Black Beauty when you can spend $475 for one online? Ditto for cymbals. I've got them to price match before, but not without a lot of grumbling. It's almost not worth it. I'd rather over pay on the cheap stuff and maintain a good relationship than have it go sour haggling over the big stuff.
As much as I want to help these guys stay in business, I have to get the most bang for my buck. What to do? Thoughts?
BTW: I kept the cymbal bag and my mouth shut about it -except for here, of course.