American Musical Supply, a titan in the music industry, has become a household name for musicians of all levels, offering a vast array of instruments, equipment, and services. From its humble beginnings, the company has evolved into a powerhouse, catering to the needs of both seasoned professionals and aspiring artists.
The story of American Musical Supply is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a deep understanding of the music community.
Through a combination of strategic acquisitions, online expansion, and a commitment to exceptional customer service, American Musical Supply has established itself as a leading provider of musical goods. The company’s success is reflected in its extensive product catalog, which includes everything from acoustic guitars and drum sets to high-end recording equipment and innovative digital instruments.
American Musical Supply has also become a trusted source for educational resources, workshops, and artist collaborations, further solidifying its position as a comprehensive resource for musicians.
History of American Musical Supply
American Musical Supply (AMS) is a leading retailer of musical instruments and equipment in the United States, with a rich history spanning over 50 years. The company’s journey began in 1972, when founder, John “Jack” Deering, opened a small music store in Kansas City, Missouri.
The store was initially called “Deering Music” and focused on selling acoustic guitars and other traditional instruments.
In the early years, Deering Music faced stiff competition from established music retailers, but Jack’s passion for music and his commitment to customer service helped the store gain a loyal following. The store expanded its inventory to include a wider range of instruments, including electric guitars, drums, keyboards, and recording equipment.
In 1985, Deering Music changed its name to American Musical Supply to reflect its growing national reach and broader product offerings.
AMS’s growth accelerated in the 1990s, driven by the rise of e-commerce. The company launched its online store in 1996, allowing customers to purchase instruments and equipment from the comfort of their homes. This move proved to be a major turning point for AMS, as it enabled the company to reach a much larger customer base across the country and beyond.
The company continued to expand its physical presence, opening new stores in key markets, and further solidifying its position as a major player in the music retail industry.
Key Milestones
- 1972:Deering Music is founded in Kansas City, Missouri.
- 1985:The company changes its name to American Musical Supply.
- 1996:AMS launches its online store.
- 2000s:The company continues to expand its physical presence and online offerings.
- 2010s:AMS invests heavily in technology and customer service, enhancing its online platform and providing a seamless shopping experience.
Significant Moments
One of the most significant moments in AMS’s history was its acquisition of Guitar Center in 2014. This deal made AMS the largest music retailer in the United States, giving the company a dominant market share and a strong platform for future growth.
The acquisition also enabled AMS to leverage Guitar Center’s extensive network of physical stores and its strong brand recognition in the music industry.
Another notable moment was the company’s launch of its “AMS Rewards” program in 2017. This program provides customers with exclusive discounts, free shipping, and other benefits, further enhancing the customer experience and driving loyalty. The program has been a resounding success, contributing to AMS’s continued growth and customer satisfaction.
Product Offerings and Services
American Musical Supply offers a vast selection of musical instruments and equipment, catering to musicians of all levels and genres. The company’s product catalog includes everything from beginner-friendly instruments to professional-grade gear, covering a wide range of categories.
Product Categories
| Category | Popular Brands | Price Range | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guitars | Fender, Gibson, PRS, Ibanez, Epiphone | $100
|
Wide range of styles, including electric, acoustic, and classical guitars; various body shapes, pickup configurations, and finishes. |
| Drums | Pearl, Yamaha, DW, Tama, Mapex | $500
|
Acoustic and electronic drum sets, cymbals, hardware, and accessories; various shell materials, sizes, and finishes. |
| Keyboards | Roland, Yamaha, Casio, Korg, Kurzweil | $100
|
Digital pianos, synthesizers, workstations, and controllers; various key actions, sound libraries, and connectivity options. |
| Recording Equipment | Shure, Rode, Neumann, Focusrite, Universal Audio | $50
|
Microphones, audio interfaces, studio monitors, headphones, and software; various recording techniques, audio quality, and features. |
| Amplifiers | Fender, Marshall, Mesa Boogie, Orange, Blackstar | $100
|
Guitar amplifiers, bass amplifiers, keyboard amplifiers, and PA systems; various wattage, tone characteristics, and features. |
Services
In addition to its extensive product catalog, AMS offers a variety of services to enhance the customer experience. These services include:
- Financing options:AMS offers flexible financing options to make purchasing instruments and equipment more affordable.
- Free shipping:AMS provides free shipping on orders over a certain amount, making it more convenient for customers to shop online.
- Expert advice:AMS has a team of knowledgeable and experienced staff who can provide expert advice on choosing the right instruments and equipment.
- Repair services:AMS offers repair services for a wide range of instruments and equipment, ensuring that customers can keep their gear in top condition.
- Trade-in program:AMS allows customers to trade in their old instruments for credit towards new purchases.
Customer Experience and Service
American Musical Supply is known for its commitment to providing exceptional customer service. The company offers a variety of channels for customers to connect with its support team, including phone, email, and live chat. AMS also has a comprehensive online help center, where customers can find answers to frequently asked questions and troubleshooting tips.
Return Policy and Warranty Information
AMS has a generous return policy, allowing customers to return most items within 30 days of purchase for a full refund. The company also offers a standard one-year warranty on all products, with extended warranty options available for select items.
AMS’s return policy and warranty information are clearly Artikeld on its website, ensuring transparency and ease of access for customers.
Customer Service Compared to Competitors
Compared to its competitors, AMS is generally regarded as having a strong customer service reputation. The company is known for its knowledgeable and responsive support team, as well as its user-friendly online platform and clear return policies. However, some customers have reported occasional delays in shipping or customer service response times, particularly during peak seasons or periods of high demand.
Overall, AMS’s customer service is considered to be above average in the music retail industry. The company’s commitment to providing a positive customer experience is evident in its various service offerings, including its generous return policy, comprehensive warranty information, and multiple customer support channels.
Online Presence and Marketing
American Musical Supply has a strong online presence, with a well-designed website and active social media accounts. The company leverages its digital platforms to engage with customers, promote its products, and drive sales.
Website
The AMS website is a comprehensive online resource for musicians, offering a wide range of features and functionalities. The site features a user-friendly interface, making it easy for customers to browse products, compare prices, read reviews, and place orders. The website also includes a blog with articles on music, gear, and industry news, as well as a dedicated section for educational resources and tutorials.
Social Media
AMS maintains a presence on major social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The company uses these platforms to share product updates, industry news, and behind-the-scenes content, as well as to engage with customers and build a community.
AMS’s social media content is typically high-quality and engaging, featuring professional photography and videos, as well as interactive posts and contests.
Marketing Campaigns and Promotions
AMS runs a variety of marketing campaigns and promotions throughout the year to attract new customers and drive sales. These campaigns often feature discounts, free shipping, and other incentives, as well as collaborations with musicians and industry influencers. AMS also leverages email marketing to stay connected with its customers and promote new products and special offers.
The company’s marketing efforts are generally considered to be effective, contributing to its strong brand awareness and sales growth.
Industry Impact and Competition
American Musical Supply plays a significant role in the broader musical instrument market, serving as a major retailer and distributor for a wide range of brands and products. The company’s influence extends beyond its own operations, as it helps to shape industry trends and drive innovation.
Major Competitors, American musical supply
AMS faces competition from a number of other music retailers, both online and offline. Some of its major competitors include:
- Guitar Center:Guitar Center is a major competitor, with a large network of physical stores and a strong online presence.
- Sweetwater Sound:Sweetwater Sound is a leading online retailer, known for its excellent customer service and wide product selection.
- Music & Arts:Music & Arts is a national chain of music stores, offering a wide range of instruments and equipment.
- Sam Ash Music:Sam Ash Music is a large music retailer, with a focus on providing a wide selection of instruments and equipment at competitive prices.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Competitors
Each of AMS’s competitors has its own strengths and weaknesses. Guitar Center, for example, benefits from its extensive network of physical stores, which provide a convenient shopping experience for customers who prefer to try out instruments before purchasing them. Sweetwater Sound, on the other hand, is known for its excellent customer service and its wide selection of products, particularly in the pro audio and recording equipment categories.
Future of American Musical Supply
The future of American Musical Supply looks bright. The company is well-positioned to benefit from the continued growth of the music industry, as well as the increasing popularity of online shopping. AMS’s strong online presence, its commitment to customer service, and its focus on innovation will continue to drive its success in the years to come.
The company is also likely to continue to expand its product offerings and its physical presence, as it seeks to reach a wider audience and solidify its position as a leading music retailer.
Outcome Summary
American Musical Supply’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to music and its community. By continuously adapting to the evolving needs of musicians, the company has ensured its place as a vital force in the industry. Whether it’s providing access to the latest instruments, offering expert advice, or fostering a sense of community, American Musical Supply continues to empower musicians of all backgrounds to pursue their passion and create music that resonates with the world.