Brought in one of my beloved guitars that had sat around for a dozen years. It was completely unplayable, it was nearly firewood as bad as it was. They were able to repair it for a very reasonable price and I could not be happier with the results. If for any reason I need anything new, used or repaired I will go here first before anywhere else.
This music store, in the same location in Alameda for 30 years, was created in 1977 by the current owner's father to cater to the needs of musicians, not to the interests of a corporation. Rylan, the son of the original owner, is very professional, impressively knowledgeable about musical instruments, and absolutely one of the best at instrument repair. I have been a customer for years and am more satisfied than ever with the new ownership, which is why I have given it my highest rating. Since I moved from the Bay Area, the service has remained excellent through phone, website, and mail orders. Years ago there was an employee who was sometimes not so helpful, but he is long gone.
With most small, independent music stores disappearing since 2008 under pressure from big corporate-interest stores like Guitar Center (really terrible service!), The Thin Man String Co has remained true to its original mission statement to serve musicians. If you need custom-gauge string sets, this is your place; they will package custom sets just for you. And no one hassles you if you just want to browse, pick up an instrument and play if for a while to see how it feels.
The store has new and used instruments, amps, and carries musician supplies. With the son's recent take-over, the store seems to be returning to hunting down good used instruments, often collectible ones, that it sells or sometimes takes on consignment.
There is 2-hr metered parking directly in front of the store, and there is also a metered parking lot behind the store. Have change in your pockets! (This is the City of Alameda's doing, not the choice of businesses along Webster St.)
They also offer musical instrument lessons on-site or referrals to good teachers in the Bay Area.
I have purchased two guitars and three ukuleles from Thin Man in addition to some string repairs, bought sheet music and my husband took lessons. All experiences were great with awesome customer service in a genuine manner. A string instrument shop for players and lovers of string music. So happy to have them in Alameda! They take trades as well which is totally cool and sell used equipment. Will keep going and will return again and again.
A wonderful local music store that deserves support. Repairs are always reasonable, and Rylan is completely reasonable on trade-ins and the group over there is overall extremely friendly and helpful. Thin Man is a valuable part of the community and should be supported and treasured!
I love this place. Funky, fun, informal. Stop in, pick up an instrument and play for a while. No one bugs you. New owner, Rylan, is a sweetheart of a guy. He's really good at instrument repair. And he tries to give you the best deals he can. They could use a bit more staff: it's kinda old school here, which I like, but may have to wait for them to get to your phone call or wait on you if they're swamped. Honestly though, this is a biz musicians should feel really good about supporting.
Everyone's really cool and nice, haha ALWAYS good deals
This location is closed and they have moved to a new location in North Oakland
AMAZING! Everyone must go here. I brought my banjo in, and Ryland (spelling?) fixed it in a second. He was a dream, and i'm going to do whatever i can to support these guys. You should too!
