Do I have to pay sales tax when I buy from you?

If your order ships to an address outside California, we do not charge sales tax. We are a small, independent California-based retailer and only collect sales tax in California, where we have a physical presence. Orders shipped within California are charged California sales tax.

Why do large retailers like Sweetwater, Musician's Friend, and Guitar Center charge sales tax?

Large national retailers have economic or physical nexus in nearly every state, so they are required to collect sales tax on most orders. Online marketplaces such as Reverb, eBay, and Amazon collect sales tax as "marketplace facilitators" regardless of the seller. Because we are a small independent shop with nexus only in California, out-of-state customers buying directly from us are not charged sales tax.

Sales tax rates generally run about 6–10% depending on your state and local rates. On a $1,000 purchase that is roughly $60–$100 kept in your pocket; on a $2,000 purchase, about $120–$200.

No. It simply reflects how U.S. sales tax works for smaller sellers. A retailer is only required to collect sales tax in states where it has nexus. Note that some states ask buyers to report "use tax" on out-of-state purchases; please check your own state's rules.

No Sales Tax — Outside California

Buy direct and skip the sales tax. We're a small, independent California-based shop. If your order ships outside California, we don't charge sales tax — an instant 6–10% saving versus the big national retailers and online marketplaces, which now collect sales tax in nearly every state.

What this means for you

Outside California: no sales tax on your order — you keep roughly 6–10%.
In California: standard California sales tax applies (we're based here).
Pair that with free continental-US shipping and a 30-day return window, and your out-the-door price is hard to beat.

Why the big stores charge tax and we don't

National retailers such as Sweetwater, Musician's Friend, and Guitar Center have nexus in nearly every state, so they're required to collect sales tax on most orders. Marketplaces like Reverb, eBay, and Amazon collect tax as "marketplace facilitators" no matter who the seller is. Buying directly from us avoids both — for now. As we grow, we may be required to collect in more states, so enjoy the edge while it lasts.

A quick, honest note

This is about what we're required to collect. A few states ask buyers to self-report "use tax" on out-of-state purchases — please check your own state's rules. We're happy to help with any questions before you buy.

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