Shops selling musical instruments in Leeds are in decline due to the two-fold strikes of internet shops being cheaper and the current economic problems meaning people have less to spend on what is a luxury item for most people. All of the ones that are left however are the ones that were the good shops back in the day too.
Professional Music Technology
Professional Music Technology (yes, it’s called PMT) is one of the most stunning guitar shops around. The store also caters to drummers, keyboard players, and a variety of more classical musicians (there’s a badass red saxophone). With a wide selection of instruments, both electric and acoustic, and a system in place allowing payment in instalments, PMT is definitely a place any musician should investigate upon arriving in Leeds.
Where is it?
Google it – it will be faster and clearer than any directions anybody could give.
Price: 3
Overall: 5
Northern Guitars
Although small and badly decorated, this is one of the best Guitar shops around. The range of second hand guitars is pretty decent and the prices are a complete steal. There's also a wide selection of new guitars, but mostly of the lesser known brands. The guy that runs the Acoustic shop upstairs will do some repair and customisation work and the staff can let you put the contents of an almost empty wallet down on an instrument and pay the rest of as and when you can, and there's a student discount if you pay cash.
Where is it?
At the entrance to the Corn Exchange, head left towards the railway arch. It is on your left.
Price: 5
Overall: 4
John Scheerer & Sons
For those of you who play a classical instrument, this is the place to go with a decent selection of instruments and a good amount of sheet music available. If you are after an instrument of the more rock flavour, they do have a selection of guitars etc., but not as much as other places in Leeds, but it is still worth checking out if you are in the market for something. The big secret of this place their upstairs area, which is entirely dedicated to drum kits and accessories, meaning that this shop is probably the best place in Leeds to go if you are a drummer. Their prices are not the best but they are fair, and the shop staff know their stuff and aren't pushy if you want advice.
Where is it?
At the corner of Morrisons, head down the left road. It will be on your right, opposite Weatherspoons.
Price: 3
Overall: 3
Hobgoblin
Hobgoblin specialises in folk instruments, and has a great selection of mandolins, violins and the like. The staff are extremely helpful and can point you in the direction of appropriate learning material should you wish to start learning a new instrument.
Where is it?
At the entrance to the Corn Exchange, head left towards the railway arch. It is on your left.
Price: 3
Overall: 4
