Returning basses to Guitar Center - Are they strict?

[wisconsindead]

I'm currently trying out a jazz bass I bought there. Being a flats guy, trying a bass in store isn't ideal. So I'm trying to feel this one out and make sure I really like it but I am curious how strict they are about returns. I know you get 45 days but what if the pick up stickers get funky or you put a small mark on top of the guard sticker? Anyone have some input?

 

[DiabolusInMusic]

Trying out a bass you bought there? As in you purchased it without the intent of keeping it? Oh boy... you are about to fire up some TB flames.

But yeah, they'll return your bass.

 

[staccatogrowl]

In theory, full price refund is for return item that is in new, unblemished condition. Restocking fees sometimes get charged against returns that have wear. Tough to say what will happen when you return the item, and how they view the condition. If you know that you don't want the bass, returning it earlier rather later is likely in your favor.

I can usually determine whether to keep or return something on the same day I receive it. If I decide to return, I'll do so the next business day after receiving. It gets returned in the exact condition received, and full purchase price is refunded.

 

[1stnamebassist]

Shouldn't be a problem as long as you didn't go changing nuts, bridges, pickups or putting scratches and dents all over it. An interesting tidbit is I returned a Bass VI I didn't care for with no problems. Returned to the store the next day for something and the Bass VI was already out on the floor at the brand new price.

 

[wisconsindead]

Thanks guys

 

[willsellout]

I bought a bass recently and returned it. They were very up front about the fact that they didn't like my returning it. Too bad I don't care and they have a 45 day return policy that they have to honor.

 

[steve_ss]

Thanks guys

Please let us know how you make out with the return.

 

[photogdude]

I've never had an issue retur ning anyhting at GC. They've always been good to me.

 

[DeliriumTremens]

I bought a bass recently and returned it. They were very up front about the fact that they didn't like my returning it. Too bad I don't care and they have a 45 day return policy that they have to honor.

This sounds strange... Was it in the same condition as when you bought it? Clearance item?

 

[wisconsindead]

Please let us know how you make out with the return.

Will do

 

[Gorn]

Depends on the store and the manager. There's a wide spectrum of possible attitudes from "no problem" to an unspoken but clearly implied "you piece of ****. Who do you think you are?"

But as long as you're in the right (the bass is in like new condition), you fight till they give in. They will.

 

[willsellout]

This sounds strange... Was it in the same condition as when you bought it? Clearance item?

Yeah it was. Had it for a week and decided the weight wasn't something I could handle and returned it.

 

[jd56hawk]

I'm currently trying out a jazz bass I bought there. Being a flats guy, trying a bass in store isn't ideal. So I'm trying to feel this one out and make sure I really like it but I am curious how strict they are about returns. I know you get 45 days but what if the pick up stickers get funky or you put a small mark on top of the guard sticker? Anyone have some input?

I've returned basses even after putting on flatwounds. Pulled off the plastic from the pickguard at least twice.
One time I even replaced the output jack with a spring-load Ejecto-jack from Jack's Joke Shop...every time you hit an open E, your instrument cable pops out!

Seriously, they aren't very strict at all. I've returned basses the next day and the last possible day, and at least twice with different strings and the protective film removed.

 

[Caleb Mills]

This thread actually came in handy. Thinking about returning the Mustang PJ I bought from GC on Black Friday, but I've played it for a few hours and removed the protective film on the pickups.

 

[Wolfenstein666]

I bought a bass on impulse about 6 months ago and started regretting the purchase. I took it back about two weeks later and returned it, no hassle. The guy returning clearly wasn't super psyched about it, but there wasn't much he could do. I had my ducks in a row as far as receipts and all that.

TLDR : it shouldn't be a problem

 

[bassbully]

At my GC if you bring back an instrument they take you in the back into a very dark room. In there is a very large and strange man who degrades you, your musical abilities, and any reason why you would want to make the return. All while he shines a very hot light in your face.

 

[Ballin'bass]

Last time I returned a new bass to GC (a couple of weeks ago), they barely even looked at the thing and just refunded me. Honestly they didn't even take it all the way out of the case.

 

[MultiScaleMale]

I thought the return period was 30 days, 45 if you bought the extended warranty?

Personally, I keep everything stock including stickers until I know it's a keeper. I appreciate the generous return policy so I try to keep it good for everyone else.

 

[bassbully]

I bought a bass recently and returned it. They were very up front about the fact that they didn't like my returning it. Too bad I don't care and they have a 45 day return policy that they have to honor.

I've taken quite a few back even one the same day...never had a single issue.

 

[beaglesandbass]

If you ask to try a bass with a different set of strings at the store, would they say no?