Has anyone done this and how easy was it. I am in the market for another PRS and am off to California soon. I note that PRS guitars are somewhat cheaper in the states and thought i may get one out there. Now I have brought expensive goods home from places like Hong Kong and it was just a case of putting them in my luggage. However a guitar (with case) if a different proposition.
First of all is anyone aware of any decent guitar shops in the LA /San Fransico / Vegas area that sells PRS guitars.
Secondly any tips for making the purchase and journey stress free.
Comments
Studio: https://www.voltperoctave.com
Music: https://www.euclideancircuits.com
Me: https://www.jamesrichmond.com
Have also flown with BA long haul with a strat in a soft case and they allowed it into the cabin.
If you ask TGP or the PRS forum they'll have lots of recommendations of dealers in California.
Studio: https://www.voltperoctave.com
Music: https://www.euclideancircuits.com
Me: https://www.jamesrichmond.com
If you get it from Thomann you can't try before you buy. If you go to a big shop in the US they will probably have a really good selection and you can try them and find one that you know you will really like.
I've been in a couple of shops in Orlando. They have a realy good selection of high end stuff and they seem to sell a lot to English tourists. I bought a Fender Modern Player while I was there but that's under the £390 threshold for paying duty. I put the other stuff I bought into my infant daughters luggage!
£90 off is not worth the hassle of buying it and getting it home, the worry of the airport and the hold, the customs charge and duty and possible fine.
It's a PRS, so the quality control should be first rate and I have no problem buying a PRS online.
Get it from Thomann's.
The first time coming back from New York, the check in staff were great and let me take the guitar on board with me and put it in the First class storage/wardrobe (I was in economy I hasten to add!!) Was pain free.
The second time, on American Airlines from LA, they were arseholes. I had to check my brand new taylor despite my pleading, and when I got to the luggage carousel, they had left it in the middle of the concourse, with people stepping around and over the case! Never again.
I was lucky as it was when we got two dollars to the pound so the guitar cost me half of what it would have here in the UK. I sold it for nearly double what I paid for it. You wouldnt be that lucky now.
Both times I just walked confidently through the green customs channel at the airport and never got stopped.