Whenever one of our customers from around the world gives us a compliment, it makes our day. Here are some of them:

I just wanted to take a minute to say thank you. I bought a J 45 TV that was great but not me. I brought it back and found the Hiatt 45 that you had and fell in love. You guys put me in my own room with 4,5,6 guitars and let me go to town on these things until I was happy! I picked the Hiatt and could not be happier. I am now in San Antonio playing at a little gig tonight on the river walk with that guitar. You guys are great! Thanks again for all that you did to help.

-John K., Mahomet, IL

I had been looking for a Les Paul Signature bass for quite some time- one of my favorite bassists Brad Jones had used one- and I used Patrick Sansone's on many tracks on Wilco's The Whole Love. Due to the fact that there were only 500 or so made, they weren't around like they used to be- none were coming up on Gbase or anywhere else. I contacted Dan Wean at CME and they found one in less than 24 hours! They seem to have an ear to the ground for pieces that aren't necessarily for sale yet... anyhow, if you're looking for those hard to find guitars, it's a natural place to start.

-John Stirratt, Wilco/Autumn Defense

I just ordered a hand-painted ZVEX Box of Rock pedal which arrived today. I am very impressed! Not only was the shipping extremely fast, the box came with some extra 'goodies' such as a guitar pick, postcard for the shop and a sticker! I love the pedal but I've got to say kudos for going the extra mile and including the other items. It was a nice perk after a long day at work. The pick is going in my collection and the sticker is going up on the wall at my repair bench to join some others. Thanks again and I'm definitely going to purchase from you folks in the future!

-Mike S., Fort Dodge, IA

I just dealt with Chicago Music Exchange for the first time and couldn't be more pleased. After waiting for a backorder from musicians friends for five months I canceled the order and ordered from Chicago Music Exchange. I recieved the item in 2 days. Chicago Music Exchange I will be back.

-Dennis W., Downingtown, PA

I just wanted to thank you for your prompt and friendly customer service. That's important to me when I buy items online. I will be telling my friends about Chicago Music Exchange, and when I look to buy any music related items, I will be checking your site first.

- Craig S., Grantville, PA

Daniel; I am pleased to let you know the 73 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Goldtop was a major hit. 100% success by any measure. The CME t-shirt happily worn right away. For some reason his amp is louder and played more frequently now. Love it.

Best regards and thanks again for your help on the purchase.

- Shawn B., Devon, PA

Now that I've had my Strat back for a few days and have had a chance to reacquaint myself with it I realize what a fine job you did setting it up. my friend.  It plays like a dream! It's spooky how well that guitar and I know each other. I almost forgot what a good guitarist I used to be! and once again am, now that I got my baby back!  (I got my baby back, baby back...)

I noticed that in the accessory compartment of my Bo Diddley case was a polishing cloth. I think that was pretty cool to include an extra like that. Granted it's not like it's made of gold but most other music retailers don't give you any sort of extras.

Thanks for the time you took to help me with my purchase.

- James J., Warren, MI

I just received my 1962 Gibson ES 140T ¾ guitar. CME spent more than an hour with me over the phone, being my eyes, ears, and hands. They meticulously described this instrument to me, answering all of my “collector” questions, pointing out minor “flaws” on the guitar that most dealers would never see, let alone even mention to a customer. Thanks for the dedicated time you spent with your “fellow guitar brethren”,  thanks for your unmistakable appreciation for fine vintage instruments, and thanks again for your personal touch in detailing my guitar before shipping….

I also need to give kudos to CME for the “over-the-top” packing job that they did to get my guitar ready for shipping. In my over 45+ years as a player/collector, I’ve had a whole lot of guitars shipped to me. I must admit that I have never seen any of my guitars packed with such meticulous detail (wow…..the rosewood bridge was even removed and bubble wrapped separately!). Thanks CME…. your “grand-slam” efforts are much appreciated.

Lastly, the “Quality Certification” included with the guitar was an unexpected bonus. Thanks to CME Master Technician!

Bottom line: My guitar purchase experience was top-notch, and the folks at Chicago Music Exchange have clearly exceeded my expectations!

PS....CME has been “Bookmarked” on my laptop, and their site will now be visited regularly…Thanks CME!

-Ron , Lusby, MD

Your restoration experts have made me very happy. My 1966 Fender P Bass and 1971 Gibson J-50 were in mothballs for 20 years and now play like new again. Astonishing job.

- Dana, Chicago, IL

I greatly appreciate the incredible customer care that I received from you at Chicago Music Exchange: taking the time to call and refund the shipping charge, making the shipment signature required, and even including the guitar pick and bumper sticker. You really care for your customers and I will definitely do business with you again in the future. Thanks for everything.

- Glenn O., Bayonne, NJ

The Starfire arrived last night. It sounds amazing - better than I had even hoped for. Looks beautiful too! Thanks for all of your help - it's been a real pleasure dealing with you guys. I will have to stop by the store in person next time I'm in Chicago.

- Dave A., New York, NY

We had a show at the Riviera and our Fender Rhodes quit. No one in town wanted to touch it. The guys at CME helped haul it in from the car, trouble shot a cold solder joint and it fired back up. Wow.

- Matt M., Champaign, IL

A quick thank you for the outstanding customer service with my new Takamine. When I played it a few weeks back on a weekend trip to Chicago, I was as equally impressed with the facility and selection at CME as I was with the completely unpretentious vibe I encountered. A little shocked, actually, at the no pressure/play anything you want attitude (who does that anymore??). Allowing my family to hang out on couches and page through coffee-table books while I found my next acoustic made a tremendous first impression.

I'm proud to be part of the CME family and look forward to adding more to my collection over the years.

Thanks again to all for a fantastic experience. You guys are the best.

- David P., Madison, WI

My Jazz Bass stopped working a few hours before our gig, so we brought it in. The staff was very knowledgable and repaired it on the spot in time for sound check.  That's what keeps us coming back.

- Mike G., Chicago, IL

Good afternoon. Just wanted to let you know that I am completely satisfied with my purchase of the Fender Jazz Bass. It is better than awesome!

I really like the way you guys run your business. I am a first-time buyer from CME, but will definitely use you again the the future and will recommend you to my friends, as well.

- Blake S., Falls Church, VA

Alex Chadwick, the sales representative who helped me realize my longtime dream of owning my very own Rickenbacker Bass Guitar, is a phenomenal example of what an outstanding customer service team member should hope to become... Mr. Chadwick certainly knows how to please a customer, especially myself, because it is evident that he genuinely cares about pleasing the customer... Initially I thought that Mr. Chadwick worked on a commission because of his eagerness to sell me this bass at a reasonable price, but to my joyful surprise this was not the case... I am now certain that Chicago Music Exchange will be the first choice when and if I consider to buy another instrument.

- Oscar C., Laredo, TX

Hi Daniel!  Got the Bass!!  It's amazing!!!  Thanks for everything my friend!  I'm saving some money to buy a Gibson ES very soon with you!!!

- Fabio B., Brazil

The guys let me in early before business hours so that I could get my guitar repaired. You just don't see that kind of thing nowadays. Darryl was very knowledgable and set up my classical just right. He even got the pick up system working again at no charge. Impressive.

- Dean A., Chicago, IL

The Chicago Music Exchange went way beyond the call of duty to make me happy. I almost feel a bit guilty... but more than that I feel grateful. This was one of the best customer service experiences I've ever experience in my life and I will definitely be giving them my business in the future. Two thumbs up for sure. You can trust this seller.

- John A., Kilauea, HI

Thanks so much for the great service! Being a first time buyer from CME, I asked a lot of questions about shipping and packing. Just to let you know, I have never received a guitar so meticulously packed and cared for that your store provided. The Gibson V arrived flawless and in mint condition. Over the top service with the inspection sheet, polishing cloth, picks, and other goodies! Top notch company all the way around from my initial e-mails, phone conversations, and delivered product! Thanks again.

- Todd T., Honey Grove, TX

...I just wanted to tell you I received the bass on Friday and it's everything and more than you said. I have played thousands of shows and the two sets I played on this bass on Saturday, I am not lying when I say I had goose bumps and the hair on my arms stood up the whole time I played it. It plays and sounds truly amazing. Again thanks so much for making the whole deal so easy. I have and will tell anyone I know that wants a vintage instrument to go to you're store. The next time I go to Chicago I will bring the bass by and have you guys give it the once over.

- Mike D., Linden, MI

Just wanted to let you know that the Strat arrived and it's beautiful. The quality is great as Fender's always are, but I was really blown away by the high level of service you gave me. The Strat setup was right on, the t-shirt and magazines were a cool touch, and your communication throughout the long-distance sale were fast and professional. I'll definitely be ordering my next gear through you.

Thanks a million

- Lyric R., Williston, ND

The guitar is just terrific... I think it just totally cool and am very pleased with the ease of purchase, the accuracy of the description of the guitar...

Thanks for this follow-up note, the great packing job and the ease of purchase and delivery - thanks for the USPS ship -very quick and very affordable and no COD surprises at the door.

Thanks Joel, it was a great first experience with you folks and I will come back when something shows up I like...

- Ross D., Peterborough, Ontario, Canada

I received the guitar and it is great. Just played it live the other day and it was exactly what I expected. Thank you very much for the perfect setup and the good package.

Chicago music exchange rocks ;-)

- Michael G., Kriens, Switzerland

Wanted to thank all of you who helped me out.  I came in about a month ago with a limited budget to put a down payment on a spare guitar.  At that time I was leaning toward a (Squier) classic vibe tele... but for me picking out a comfortable guitar that sounds nice is not a decision i like to make quickly.  Anyway, after playing dozens of guitars, while taking hours of your staff's time and even though it is only a $400 dollar guitar you guys helped me out along the way.  Now i know considering some of the high end clients like Brad Paisley who u guys said was in a few weeks ago, a $400 sale means little to you, but i sure wasn't treated like that.  Your whole staff was awesome allowing me to take whatever time i needed plus your techs worked with me to make the guitar exactly to my specs.  So, just wanted to tell you guys your all badass, and it as always was a pleasure.

- Dan D., Chicago, IL

Customer service is a fading concept and I appreciate the level of concern you have with your customers at CME and I am very pleased with the purchase. I'm sure we'll have more business in the future. Your help on the phone was key though, I'm always uneasy about buying used guitars without calling and chatting with someone who knows a lick about anything.

- Patrick L., San Diego, CA

I did receive the Gretsch today, and I have to say new guitar's don't come packed that well! Also they don't come with picks and wipe down cloths either! And it is as beautiful as you said it was, but I will have to wait a few more days to really be able to play it, my guitar guru has to swap the strings over for left handed play. The joy's of left handedness. Thanks again for the superb service, you guys created another customer!

- Jeff M., Ridgecrest, CA

the guitar is here finally!!.....thank you very much.....is gorgeous!.....it plays great....it sounds better!......i'm very happy...thank you for the strings....and everything.....it's a real beautiful piece......i'll make some pictures during this next weekend as promised........thanks again! YEAH!!

- Alessandro P., Scandicci, Italy

I just want to thank you for the guitar, I got it today and it perfectly meets my expectation. No, actually it’s beyond, because it sounds incredible on my vintage amps (jc120 and early 70’s bassman 100.)

And I did not remember that a case was included, so it was another good surprise. I’m also happy I took your advice for the shipping. Last, the condition of the instrument is even better than expected and the check-list shows you’re taking your business seriously.

I’ve put the CME sticker on the case , and of course I’ll recommend you to the musicians I know!

- Cyrille D., Phalsbourg, France

I recently purchased a 19XX Gibson EB3 via your Web site... I just wanted to let you know how happy I am with my purchase. Between practice and a gig this past Saturday, I estimate I worked the EB3 for roughly seven hours in one day and it played and sounded beautifully the entire time. My bandmates commented on both how good it looked and sounded, and I couldn't be more pleased myself. 

Guitar aside, I also want to commend you guys on providing an outstanding customer service experience. From the call to go over the shipping/return policy/condition of the guitar, to the pre-shipping quality checklist, to the super fast shipping, to the incredible packing job for the guitar itself, I was very impressed by your obvious care and dedication to doing right by your customers. I've heard good things about your business through the grapevine in the past, and now I know what all the fuss is about. Given the chance, I'll definitely be doing business with you again, and I'm looking forward to stopping by your store the next time I'm in Chicago. I'm also recommending the Chicago Music Exchange to all my musician friends.

- Andrew F., Indianapolis, IN

I just wanted to say thank you again for the great service you all provide. The 62’ Jazz Bass Reissue I purchased arrived fast and in great condition...even the original tweed case was perfect! Thanks again to Dan W. for all of your patience and assistance, and also to Dave D. for the documentation and nice setup. Very happy with the entire transaction and I am hoping to purchase from you again in the future.

- Tom S., Albany, NY

Just have to say, this thing is pristine. There's absolutely no flaws on it. Not even the slightest gap in the neck pocket - which is a nice change, and I notice you check for that too! Very cool! The action is perfect, and the neck is fast! Also LOVE the jumbo frets... wow. This has been an awesome experience for my first brand new guitar and that's owed to the quality of service there. I've been telling people left and right how great you guys are. You folks really exceeded my expectations! And thanks for the cloth and picks!!

- Paul M., East Windsor, CT

I ended up getting the Angry Troll, but I went through trying a bunch before settling on that one. I just wanted to say thank you for all the help and being so nice and helpful. You guys let me try all the pedals I wanted until I found the one I wanted and even pulled down a Gibson '53 GT just upon hearing that I love P-90s. Also, thanks for just letting us hang out and jam with your gear, you guys have the greatest inventory! I just wanted to say thanks for everything, I really appreciate it and had a great time. I'll definitely be back next time I'm in Chicago!

- Evan S., Los Angeles, CA

I have to say you have your business together! Inside the box I found a business card, pick & a sticker...  it's good advertisement but, it says more about your customer service! I worked 30 years in new home customer warranty management & it took them that long to figure out their customers matter... a small token says more than ANYTHING!!!  I've ordered so many things through the internet with barely any sign of someone actually on the other end... I will recommend your business to all my friends scattered across the country.

- William S., Forked River, NJ

I just wanted to thank you for a great sales experience.  My Fender ukulele arrived today and I'm thrilled!

I'm particularly impressed with the quality certification signed by Dave Ducasse.  It's fantasy that you guys care enough about your products to individually inspect each instrument before it ships - speaks volume about your professional attitude and attention to detail.  The uke arrived earlier than expected and the price was right.

Thanks again, I'll be using you in the future... 

- Arnie E., Fort Worth, TX

Thanks Brian, this is great ! i'm very happy.  The thoughest will be to wait for the beast now.  Thanks again for all your efforts.

- Christophe G., La Réunion, France

I usually don't make it a point to send emails like this but I wanted to thank you again for all of you're help today. The strat and that Vox sound fantastic together. I haven't been this excited about gear in a LONG time. You were right the vox takes pedals like a champ, and those strings you suggested are awesome. The icing on the cake was having the tech (sorry forgot his name) float the bridge and do a quick setup, most places usually make you leave the the guitar which is the last thing you want to do when you drop $2000 bucks. I have to say this was the best expierence I have had making a guitar purchase ever and I have prob bought 20-25 guitars over the past 15 years. Show this to your boss, and angle for a raise....

See you in a few weeks when I get my tax refund

- Doug P., Hainesville, IL

This is great news!  You have been exceptionally nice in all of your correspondences and I greatly appreciate your focus on taking care of my order.  Chicago Music Exchange will definitely be top of my list for future purchases and I'll be sure to share my positive experience with my friends.  GREAT JOB!!

- John B., Jackson, TN

Picked up the Gibson on Tuesday and couldn't be happier with the sound and the feel.  what I was also very happy with was my entire CME experience. Polite and knowledgeable staff, top notch selection.  Bullseyes all around.

- James M., Ann Arbor, MI

...very sorry that I haven't got back to you sooner.  Please count me as a very happy, satisfied customer.  I received the EDS 1275 a couple of weeks ago and have played it everyday.  It is everything and more than I could have asked for.

- Keith N., La Habra, CA

Your store has a tremendous vibe, I love the unpretentious attitude by yourself and your team – a great way to attract and retain customers.

- Steve L., Charlotte, NC

This was my first time ordering with you guys and it was an absolute pleasure. I placed my order and chose free shipping thinking that with the holidays that it would be at least a week before I would see anything. Then within minutes of my purchase I was notified that my order was confirmed and the next day it shipped and I got my order a day after that. With service and very reasonable prices you have gained a customer. You guys are awesome!

- Brandon B., Selmer, TN

Thanks again for all your help and extra attention to this order. With great service like this, I’ll definitely be recommending your site to others and using it again in the future!

- Damien C., Minneapolis, MN

The Jazzmaster rocks Bavaria!

When I was too late with the Jazzmaster sonic blue, I asked myself, what does it mean? It´s a sign... but for what... Since some hours I could interpret it: I had to wait for this black one!

What a great guitar: The mint green pickguard is really more mean than on the pictures! The relic styling is incredible. This piece of Fender is fantastic! And it´s like you said, Daniel, the neck is a dream, I didn´t found any other Jazzmaster I tried the last years with this feel of playing!

Everything went right with the transport. This morning I called my region´s UPS driver, who I know from other deliveries, to be really carefully with these package from Chocago! (I took it from his car by myself...)

Super deal! And of course, it´s not only the guitar, it´s the whole handling with your CME team! Best instrument from best shop! I know, this wasn't the last deal we make! thanks you all very much! all the best 

- Mark P., Munich, Bavaria, Germany

The Thunderbird arrived today, safe and sound and in one piece, thanks to very good packing. I have tested it just a little bit, and it sounds and plays awesome... It is truly a marvelous instrument, and I am very happy with it. Thank you both for extremely good service, and I hope we can to more business in the future. I know who to recommend when someone here wants instruments... :-) Best regards from your friend in Norway.

- Tor H., Oslo, Norway

The guitar arrived today safe and sound in meticulous packaging, which I greatly appreciate. It is everything you guys described and more. A beautiful, wonderful, instrument, certainly the finest Jazzmaster I've ever played. I already own a '66, which is nice, but this one is in another league entirely. Maybe there is something to that whole pre-CBS thing after all! And I'm sure glad that collectors hate refins! Thanks again for the great service, the great experience, and the unbelievable guitar. I wouldn't hesitate to buy from you guys again in the future.

- Tim O., Houston, TX

Ever since my old rock and roll group reformed for a reunion gig the bug is back and I play in two little rock bands, living the dream of an old guy. Because I fell back in love with playing a guitar, I so longed for my old strat... I went to Chicago and found my youth at The Chicago Music Exchange. Like a candy store, the guitars were available for one to play with no restrictions other than removing my belt so as not to damage the merchandise. Private rooms with every kind of amp to try was made available. Unlike the Guitar Center, the Exchange was comfortable, with large couches for my family to relax on while old Dad strumed out tunes...It was there that I again had the opportunity to play a 1963 strat. Its feel and comfort was as sure as any trip back home. Its sound still lingers now that I am back in the office. The service at the Exchange reminds me of the outstanding service that my wife receives when shopping at Norstroms in Seattle.

- John P., Washington DC.

I'm happy to let you know that I'm very very very happy with the guitar. It plays and sounds absolutely great. also through my acoustic amp it sounds perfect!

- Larry VdL, Netherlands

"I'm a working musician and this place is like I died and went to heaven. It's like a shrine to guitars. I was stunned by their selection and attention to detail. This ain't no Guitar Center! I bring my famous and soon to be famous touring musician friends here to impress them. This place never fails to deliver. The staff leaves you alone to browse and try guitars out. They don't try to "sell " you on something that you don't want. Highly Recommended!

- John W., Canton, OH

"I have loved coming to your store over the weekends, and the new website is fantastic.  That was the one thing that used to bother me was it was hard to use the website, but the new one has met all those needs.  In the past, my dad and I have bought amps, t-shirts, pedals, a 12 string guild, and an american made stratocaster.  Right now I am looking at buying a Taylor acoustic.  I love your store and I look forward to meeting you soon. Thank you."

- Nick B., Pittsburgh, PA

"That's the best showroom I've ever seen. It's professional yet homey at the same time. It's spacious yet well-stocked. Also, the 360 degree presentation is the best introduction to a site I've ever seen."

- Darryl H., Phoenix, AZ

"I think the store is great and the staff very helpful. I bought a Hofner bass and Rick 12 from you and had two other guitars setup by your techs who also do a great job. Sooooooooooooo...the answer is "YES" put me on your list and thanks for not being a "franchise."

- Jeffrey M. - London, UK

"I'm the guy who did the trade-in Saturday the 7th of an Epi Sheraton II and an American Standard Strat for a gorgeous 1969 Cherry ES-335TD. Lemme just say: I LOVE IT. You guys are the best, I felt like I was treated really well, and got a very fair trade in deal. I'm telling all my guitar friends to check you guys out. "

- James K. - Chicago, IL

"Just to let you know I received the Guitar in Cape Town. South Africa today. What a beauty. Was playing it the whole evening!!!really love it and the neck and fretboard is just great... Helps me a lot with my On-Line Course at Berklee College!"

- Andreas M. - Capetown, South Africa

"Thank you very much. You guys ROCK!"

- Mike M. - Kokomo, IN

"I have loved coming to your store over the weekends, and the new website is fantastic...In the past, my dad and I have bought amps, t-shirts, pedals, a 12 string guild, and an american made stratocaster.  I love your store. Thank you."

- Nick B. - Normal, IL

"I’m delighted with my purchase. Many thanks for your attentive and exemplary service."

- Simon L. - London, UK