Business Details
Your Trusted Source for Vintage Guitars & Amplifiers
Rumble Seat Music has been a cornerstone in the vintage guitar industry for over three decades, building a reputation as a trusted source for premium American-made vintage guitars and amplifiers. Founded by Eliot Michael, a seasoned touring musician with a passion for the golden era of American manufacturing, the business began in upstate New York and has grown into a globally recognized destination for collectors and professional musicians. Our expertise spans meticulous authentication, competitive pricing, and a commitment to ensuring every instrument meets rigorous standards of playability and authenticity.With a clientele ranging from legendary artists to discerning collectors, we maintain a focus on personalized service and industry-leading knowledge. Our expansion to Nashville, the heart of Music City, has solidified partnerships with iconic brands like Gibson, further enhancing our ability to curate exceptional instruments. Through consignment, trade, and direct sales, we prioritize transparency, flexibility, and customer satisfaction, ensuring every transaction reflects our decades of experience and dedication to the craft.
Services
Vintage Guitar Sales
Amplifier Sales
Instrument Repairs
Consignment Services
Trade-In Programs
Global Shipping
Expert Authentication
Vintage Guitar Appraisals
Guitar Set-Up
Vintage Guitar Restoration
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of expertise in vintage guitar authentication and sales.
- Our team provides competitive pricing with transparent, no-hidden-fee policies.
- Global shipping and consignment options ensure accessibility for international clients.
- Partnerships with iconic brands like Gibson enhance our inventory curation.
- Personalized service prioritizes client needs, from appraisals to repairs.
What people say
Straight and clear
Rare sought after guitars
Great vibe
Trusted by legends
Unbeatable prices
Services
Vintage Guitar Sales
Rumble Seat Music offers an unparalleled selection of premium vintage guitars, meticulously authenticated and curated for collectors and musicians. Our inventory spans iconic models from Gibson, Fender, and Epiphone, ensuring both investment-grade pieces and player-ready instruments. With decades of expertise, we provide transparent pricing, global shipping, and personalized guidance to meet diverse client needs.
Instrument Repairs
Our in-house repair services, led by veteran technician Doug Jarrell, specialize in setups, restorations, and advanced repairs for vintage instruments. Utilizing industry-leading skills from decades of experience, including work with Gibson, we ensure optimal playability and authenticity. Competitive pricing and a focus on preserving historical integrity make us a trusted choice for delicate repairs.
Consignment Services
Rumble Seat Musics consignment program offers zero upfront fees, flexible pricing, and global exposure for sellers. Instruments receive professional photography, showroom display, and listings on major platforms like Reverb. With tiered commission rates based on sale price, we maximize returns while maintaining full client control over offers and timelines.
Trade-In Programs
We facilitate trade-ins to help clients upgrade or diversify their collections with minimal hassle. By evaluating the fair market value of existing gear, we streamline exchanges for premium vintage instruments. This service combines our deep industry connections and inventory expertise to deliver equitable, efficient transactions for musicians and collectors.
Expert Authentication
Our authentication process leverages over 30 years of experience to verify the provenance and condition of vintage instruments. Clients benefit from detailed inspections, historical research, and transparent reporting to ensure confidence in high-value purchases. This service is critical for buyers navigating the complex vintage market, offering peace of mind and long-term value.
People
Eliot Michael
Owner
Eliot Michael founded Rumble Seat Music over 30 years ago, leveraging his background as a touring musician and vintage guitar enthusiast. His expertise in sourcing and authenticating rare instruments has made the store a global destination for collectors and artists. Eliots vision drives the companys commitment to quality, integrity, and customer-centric service.
Questions
What types of vintage instruments do you specialize in?
We specialize in premium American-made vintage guitars and amplifiers from iconic brands like Gibson, Fender, and Epiphone, including rare and collectible models.
Can I sell my vintage guitar internationally?
Yes, we accept instruments from worldwide clients with insured shipping options and consignment services tailored for international sellers.
Do you offer guitar repair services?
Yes, our in-house technician provides setups, restorations, and advanced repairs for vintage instruments, ensuring optimal playability and authenticity.
What are your consignment fees?
Consignment rates are tiered: 20% for sales up to $10k, 15% for $10k-$20k, and 10% for sales over $20k, with no upfront fees.
How do you authenticate vintage guitars?
Our team uses decades of expertise to verify provenance, conduct detailed inspections, and provide transparent reports on an instrument’s history and condition.
Are trade-ins available for vintage gear?
Yes, we facilitate trade-ins to help clients upgrade their collections, offering equitable exchanges based on thorough evaluations of your current instruments.
