Jfreak wrote
Ok I just did some calling around about an exact same model Mexican strat that I really want and saw on MF.
Mexican stratocaster at 3 different stores(dont want to mention names) in JHB
Store 1 : R9999 best price 8500
Store 2 : R9500 best price 9000 with case
Store 3 : R10000 best price 8500
Musicians friend brand new $499 plus shipping $120 = roughly R5200
Theres a few mint conditions which some people on this thread say is virtually like new : $434.99. Shipping over $500 is free so I can add a few smalls like some strings maybe a case to bring it up to $500. So for $500 I'll pay roughly R4250. Free shipping.
R4250 vs the prices above. Thats almost half the price ?
Think I will go for one. Just a bit scared buying online
Add customs and tax to that and you will get close to R5000.00. That is what 2nd hand MIM strats go for in South Africa as well. If you're patient the model you want will eventually pop up.
There is one in the classifieds right now for R500 bucks more than that but it has already been upgraded with a set of prima prima pups. (and remember everything on a strat can be changed or modded, like for example , that pickguard ? ) Plus you get to deal with an actual flesh and bone person with whom many folks, myself included, has had good dealings with - so no worries about buying online there.
As for stores not calling you back... it was my being ignored by stores when I requested quotes that initially drove me to by online and I have not looked back since. Mind you I probably would have eventually, but that sped up the process and lead to me buying a lot of stuff I wouldn't have otherwise. Turnkey music being the pleasant exception to the rule. I bought a Vox Amp from them from a guy named Hilton (I can even remember his name so strong was the impression their service made on me) and will reccomend them to anybody living in the Platteland looking for gear they might stock.
