Would you like a new guitar with that?

This series of posts deals with Contractors and Consultants. The first company, group or guy you need to watch out for is the Music Store sound expert. Almost all music stores have a "PA" department or sound room, so why not what is the difference? Music Stores generally deal with a different crowd that most audio consultants or contractors. Most of the time they deal with Garage Band's, not even large or semi pro bands. The gear they peddle is typical of this type of customer. A typical garage band system will consist of a mixer, amps and speakers like a system for a church, but they may not be the best choice. In my experience these guys push whats the best margin, and what they know...portable stuff. I have also found that music stores notoriously under-estimate churches and their needs. "It's only a church"

"I'll install it for you after work, for free" if you hear this RUN! Most of the salesmen at music stores are just that, salesmen. They don't install on a regular basis, they don't have the tools or experience to do a neat clean install.

An experienced contractor generally has access to more professional product lines that will serve your church for a long time, not cheaper junk. Yes, you may pay a little more to have a pro do it, you may not get the free guitar, but do you really want them to run a snake cable across your floor.