Woodwind and Brasswind

Full review
Disregard this opinion if you can speak to a live person through the WWBW sales line at 800-348-5003 in under 30 minutes.

(Granted,) I ordered during the Christmas rush...but that is no excuse for what followed. Okay, I ordered a Uke, top of the line, in a certain color on a rush basis around the 12th of Dec. I was told it would take no more than 2 days. It took 6. I had someone walk me through the cases for the Uke given that this was a present for someone else (i.e., I hadn't a clue about Uke cases). Of course, all but the most expensive ones were sold out (no biggie). I was guaranteed that the case I chose would be "perfect". So, the Uke arrived 4 days late...and CRACKED! The front/top section of the Uke was completely shattered. I was all ready to call UPS when I noticed that the box it came in was completely intact - no dents. Oh, and guess what, the Uke did NOT fit in the recommended case - even though both were advertised as tenors.

At this point, I call the service department, wait about 30 minutes and finally talk to a live person (ask for their extension, you can then call their line and only wait about 20 minutes on hold). The person I reached admitted that their merchandise is in a warehouse in South Bend, Indiana - both of which are subjected to freezing temperatures...they've received these types of complaints in the past...well, that's comforting. Moral #1, don't shop at this place during winter. At this point, I let them know that I need another one shipped ASAP (next day) so that I can wrap it before Christmas. One problem, there aren't any left...at all. I asked three times, "There are none left at all?" Each time, they respond in the negative. Right before I'm about to explode, I ask, "So, no Ukes, in any color?" The response, "Oh, we'll there are a few in black". I'm glad this person was not within reaching distance. I had them send the new Uke and another case, one that would definitely fit the Uke on an overnight basis...at MY expense. They did send labels to send back the broken Uke and wrong case...how nice. I did receive the merchandise in time (but another item remains on back order)and sent the other merchandise back (LAST month). I have yet to receive a refund of the initial purchase. I've spent over 3 hours on the phone with who knows how many representatives. I have never, ever had this type of experience with an online vendor, or otherwise.

Moral #2: I will never shop here again and warn others to stay far, far away from this online blackhole...it's not worth the $10 you save from other retailers' prices.