The Rise of Online Guitar Shopping: Insights from Siccas Guitars
In a recent episode of Ask Tatyana, we had the pleasure of interviewing Denis Pécaut, a representative from Siccas Guitars, one of the leading guitar shops in Europe and beyond. As online shopping trends continue to reshape the way musicians purchase their instruments, Siccas Guitars has successfully combined the physical and digital worlds, offering both in-person experiences and online expertise. In this interview, we explored the pros and cons of buying guitars online versus in-store, trends in the guitar market, and how Siccas Guitars has grown into a global brand.
The Balance Between Online and In-Store Guitar Shopping
As the world becomes more connected, many guitar buyers are turning to online platforms to purchase their instruments. However, the importance of physically trying out a guitar before purchasing is something Denis emphasizes.
“The best is always to have the guitar in your hands,” Denis says. “You can see if it fits your hands, if it feels right. But online shopping also has its benefits. We provide detailed descriptions, videos, and expert advice to help customers make informed decisions from anywhere in the world.”
While online shopping offers convenience for those in far-flung locations like Brazil, the Siccas Guitars Shop continues to see a steady stream of visitors who prefer the tactile experience of testing a guitar in person. For those who can’t visit, the shop’s website and YouTube videos serve as excellent tools for exploring the inventory.
Buying From a Luthier vs. A Guitar Shop
One of the common dilemmas for guitar enthusiasts is whether to buy directly from a luthier or from a specialized shop like Siccas Guitars. Each has its advantages, according to Denis.
When buying from a luthier, you get the unique experience of meeting the maker, understanding their craftsmanship, and perhaps even customizing an instrument to your preferences. However, as Denis points out, the waiting time can be substantial, sometimes extending to eight or ten years for a custom instrument.
At a shop like Siccas, on the other hand, you can try multiple guitars, compare them directly, and take your favorite one home on the same day. Plus, you have the assurance of knowing exactly what you’re buying.
“The beauty of buying from us is the ability to compare so many different instruments. You can be sure you’re getting the guitar you really want after trying it against 10 or 20 others,” Denis explains.
Trends in the Guitar Market
The guitar market is evolving, and Siccas Guitars is at the forefront of observing these changes. According to Denis, there’s a growing demand for easy-to-play guitars that offer both comfort and performance.
“Everyone is looking for a guitar that’s easier to play, especially for competitions and concerts. A guitar that projects well with little effort is very popular right now. But there’s also a strong trend towards appreciating old instruments with historical value.”
While many guitarists are drawn to modern innovations like double-top guitars, others are falling in love with the tradition and craftsmanship of older, well-respected instruments. Whether it’s a vintage Santos Hernández or a modern double-top guitar, Siccas Guitars caters to both ends of the spectrum.
Customizing Your Playing Experience
One of the most important aspects of choosing a guitar is finding the right fit for your style and body. As Denis highlights, factors such as the guitar’s string height, scale length, and the way the top reacts to your playing style can significantly impact your experience.
For those with smaller hands, a shorter scale length of 64 cm might be ideal. Players who use a more aggressive stroke may prefer higher string action. And the responsiveness of the guitar’s top plays a key role in making the instrument feel effortless to play.
Global Trends and Local Preferences
Though the guitar market is growing globally, there are noticeable differences in demand from country to country. In Germany and France, for example, customers are spoiled for choice with a variety of instruments readily available. Meanwhile, in countries further from Europe, such as Japan or Argentina, customers tend to look for European-made guitars due to their reputation for craftsmanship.
Interestingly, Denis notes that while the guitar market is thriving in many parts of the world, there are some regions, like Spain, where the interest in guitars seems to be shrinking. This contrasts with the growing enthusiasm seen in countries like Germany, where more and more people are picking up the guitar as a hobby or profession.
The Importance of Social Media for Guitarists
The internet has been a game-changer for both guitarists and shops like Siccas Guitars. With a strong presence on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook, Siccas Guitars reaches a global audience, offering not only a vast inventory of guitars but also content that educates and inspires musicians.
Denis believes that for modern musicians, having a social media presence is almost essential. Platforms like YouTube provide unparalleled exposure, allowing guitarists to reach audiences far beyond their local communities.
“The internet is the best way to reach people,” Denis states. “If your video gets a hundred thousand views, it’s like playing in front of a massive concert hall.”
For guitarists who may not be comfortable promoting themselves online, Denis suggests seeking help from friends or colleagues to manage social media accounts. In today’s digital world, visibility is crucial, and platforms like Instagram and YouTube offer a direct path to audiences.
The Success of Siccas Guitars
Finally, we asked Denis about the secret to Siccas Guitars’ rapid rise to success. While he credits the shop’s small, dedicated team and their passion for guitars, he also highlights the impact of their YouTube channel.
“We’re a small team, and we love what we do. The YouTube channel has been a huge help. It’s amazing how many people we can reach through it.”
Siccas Guitars has become a household name in the guitar community, offering a mix of traditional values and modern approaches to the guitar market. Their success lies in their ability to connect with both old-school guitar enthusiasts and new players alike, ensuring that no matter where you are in the world, you can find the perfect guitar to suit your needs.
