TerriG wrote:they really are, and they do have a tendency to overprice and screw people over
True, but the one near me isn't that bad. The sales associates I've interacted with have all been friendly and helpful, and they haven't acted like typical music store employees (who tell you that your opinions on music are wrong and try to steer you towards expensive gear).
I've also gotten some good deals on gear there. Got a new Les Paul for $1600 and a gently used SG Faded for $450, as well as a floorboard for my Line 6 amp. Of course, the last time I was there they had five amps on the floor that didn't work...