[DoryDavis]

There are 2 sides of this, both stated well in the comments above.

Many of my purchases have come about like this: I sometimes go to a music shop to relax, and I go on off peak hours to do this. Sit and play several guitars, talk with anyone who is friendly, sales or other customers. Take my time. Yes it has happened, all of a sudden I'll be playing something and say I have to have this. Maybe not buy it then, but always buy it THERE.

Without trying out guitars, it'd keep me away from the stores.

Here is a novel idea. Is there some way to level the playing field between stores and on-line (I think sweet water and even MF are great by the way). Offer something (from the manufacturer) if you buy in a shop, that you can't get on line? That's half baked, but as a shop owner I'm sure I'd be royally ticked off if someone came in, tried (and even scratched) a guitar, then bought it at MF.