15 Best Online Shops for Music & Instruments in Canada

Looking to score some killer music gear without the hassle? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, these top Canadian music stores have everything you need to take your sound to the next level. From guitars and drums to pro audio and lighting, we’ve covered you with the best deals, brands, and expert advice. Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to finding your next musical treasure!

In this post, you’ll learn:

• Why online shopping for music gear in Canada is convenient and budget-friendly.
• What are the top online music & instrument stores in Canada.
• How to find discounts, rent-to-own options, and special deals.
• Expert tips for saving on music gear.
• What to consider when buying instruments online.
• How to pick the right store for shipping, service, and variety.
• The benefits of comparing prices and checking for used gear.

Why Shop for Music Gear Online?

Online shopping for musical instruments is a game-changer. Not only can you browse through hundreds of options, but you can also access exclusive deals, compare prices easily, and read reviews from fellow musicians. Plus, the convenience of having your dream instrument delivered to your doorstep makes it all the more exciting. Let’s explore the list of Canada’s best 15 online music & instrument stores.

1. Long & McQuade

Long & McQuade is Canada’s largest chain of musical instrument retailers, offering a vast range of products for musicians of all skill levels. They are renowned for their flexible rent-to-own programs, making high-end gear accessible to everyone. With a wide selection of top-tier brands, they are a trusted resource for musicians nationwide.

Website: long-mcquade.com
What They Offer: Guitars, drums, bass, keyboards, recording gear—you name it, they’ve got it!
Special Offers: Monthly promotions and killer financing options, including rent-to-own.
Notable Brands: Fender, Yamaha, Roland, Gibson.

2. Steve’s Music Store

Steve’s Music Store is a cornerstone in the Canadian music scene, known for its various instruments and professional audio gear. Whether you’re looking for a new guitar or outfitting a studio, Steve’s offers competitive pricing and frequent sales. Their educational discounts make them a favorite among students and teachers alike.

Website: stevesmusic.com
What They Offer: Electric guitars, DJ equipment, and pro audio gear.
Special Offers: Frequent flash sales and educational discounts for students and teachers.
Notable Brands: PRS Guitars, Alesis, Shure.

3. Cosmo Music

Cosmo Music is a massive hub for musicians in Canada, offering not only a wide selection of instruments but also live workshops and events. Their user-friendly website and free shipping on orders over $99 make them a popular choice for online shoppers. Cosmo Music’s frequent garage sales allow one to grab gear at unbeatable prices.

Website: cosmomusic.ca
What They Offer: Musical instruments, recording equipment, sheet music, and live event workshops.
Special Offers: Cosmo Club Membership with exclusive deals, rewards, and garage sale discounts.
Notable Brands: Martin Guitars, Casio, Audio-Technica.

4. Canada Music Academy Store

Canada Music Academy Store caters to budding musicians and students, offering lessons and instruments. Their bundle deals with lessons and gear, making learning and equipping yourself easier. This store is perfect for beginners looking for guidance and quality instruments.

Website: canadamusicacademy.ca
What They Offer: These musical instruments and lessons are perfect for students. They offer flutes, violins, and more.
Special Offers: Discounts on instruments for students combining lessons and purchases.
Notable Brands: Suzuki, Steinway, Jupiter.

5. LA Music

LA Music is a top spot for serious musicians and sound engineers, offering professional-grade instruments and sound systems. Their Price Beat Guarantee and free shipping on orders over $199 make it a great choice, backed by excellent customer service.

Website: lamusic.com
What They Offer: Professional-grade instruments, PA systems, and sound gear.
Special Offers: Price Beat Guarantee and free shipping on orders over $199.
Notable Brands: Behringer, Epiphone, JBL.

6. Music City Canada

Music City Canada is your one-stop shop for all things related to live music production, offering pro audio, DJ gear, lighting, and instruments. Whether you’re planning a live event or setting up a studio, they have the equipment you need. They frequently offer pre-orders on the latest gear and limited-time sales.

Website: musiccitycanada.com
What They Offer: Pro audio, DJ gear, lighting equipment, and musical instruments.
Special Offers: Pre-orders and limited-time sales on trending gear.
Notable Brands: QSC, Chauvet DJ, Korg.

7. Tom Lee Music

Tom Lee Music is a household name in Canada. It provides a comprehensive selection of instruments and accessories, including pianos and synthesizers. Known for its competitive pricing and seasonal sales, it is a go-to for musicians looking for top brands at a discount. It also offers music lessons and free shipping on larger orders.

Website: tomleemusic.ca
What They Offer: Grand pianos, digital synthesizers, sheet music, and music lessons.
Special Offers: Free shipping on orders over $200 and seasonal sales with hefty discounts.
Notable Brands: Kawai, Nord, Moog.

8. Archambault Music

Archambault Music has a long-standing reputation for catering to classical and modern musicians. It offers various instruments and sheet music. It is particularly well-known for its selection of orchestral instruments, which makes it a favorite among classical performers. Student discounts and regular promotions make this a budget-friendly option.

Website: archambault.ca
What They Offer: Musical instruments, recording gear, and sheet music for classical and modern musicians.
Special Offers: Student discounts and regular promotions on instruments and sheet music.
Notable Brands: Selmer, Hohner, Conn-Selmer.

9. St. John’s Music

St. John’s Music is a staple for band and orchestra musicians, offering a wide range of brass, woodwinds, and percussion instruments. They have a reputation for working closely with schools and educators, providing competitive deals and a rent-to-own program for students. If you’re outfitting a school band, this is your go-to store.

Website: stjohnsmusic.com
What They Offer: Band instruments like brass, woodwinds, and percussion for professionals and schools.
Special Offers: Regular promotions and a rent-to-own program for students.
Notable Brands: Selmer, Jupiter, Pearl.

10. Just Drums

Just Drums is a drummer’s paradise, offering everything from acoustic drum sets to high-tech electronic kits. Whether you’re just starting or a seasoned pro, their extensive selection will meet your needs. Their frequent bundle deals and promotions make it easy to get all your drumming essentials at a great price.

Website: justdrums.com
What They Offer: Acoustic and electronic drum kits, cymbals, and percussion accessories.
Special Offers: Bundle deals, regular promotions, and free shipping on many orders.
Notable Brands: Ludwig, Pearl, Roland.

11. Merriam Music

Merriam Music is a well-respected name in the music industry, specializing in pianos and keyboards. They also offer a comprehensive music education program, with discounts on lessons when combined with instrument purchases. This makes it a great choice for those who want to learn while investing in quality gear.

Website: merriammusic.com
What They Offer: Pianos, keyboards, other instruments, and a music education program.
Special Offers: Discounts on lessons when paired with instrument purchases and limited-time promotions.
Notable Brands: Kawai, Steinway, Roland.

12. Rufus Guitar Shop

Rufus Guitar Shop is a Vancouver-based store known for its guitars, basses, and amps expertise. It offers a carefully curated selection for guitar enthusiasts, from beginner models to high-end collectibles. With occasional discounts on setups and clearance deals, it’s a popular spot for gearheads.

Website: rufusguitarshop.com
What They Offer: They specialize in guitars, bass guitars, amps, and accessories.
Special Offers: Occasional clearance deals and discounts on guitar setups.
Notable Brands: Gibson, Fender, PRS.

13. AXE, and You Shall Receive

AXE and You Shall Receive is a specialty shop dedicated to guitar effects pedals, offering a wide array of boutique and rare options. This is where you can expand your pedalboard or experiment with new sounds. With regular discounts and hard-to-find pedals, it’s a must-visit for enthusiasts.

Website: axeandyoushallreceive.com
What They Offer: They specialize in guitar effects pedals and accessories.
Special Offers: Regular discounts on boutique and rare pedals.
Notable Brands: EarthQuaker Devices, Strymon, Electro-Harmonix.

14. Riversong Guitars

Riversong Guitars, based in British Columbia, is known for its innovative and handcrafted acoustic guitars. Their patented adjustable neck system offers players unparalleled control over the instrument’s sound and feel. With frequent custom sales and limited-edition models, they’re a top choice for severe guitarists looking for quality craftsmanship.

Website: riversongguitars.com
What They Offer: Handcrafted acoustic guitars with a unique adjustable neck system.
Special Offers: Special sales on custom guitars and limited-edition models.
Notable Brands: Handcrafted Riversong guitars made in British Columbia.

15. Gear Music

Gear Music offers a wide range of guitars, drums, sound equipment, and recording gear. It’s ideal for budget-conscious musicians with price matching and frequent clearance sales. The store features top brands like Fender, Gibson, and Shure, ensuring quality for all.

Website: gearmusic.net
What They Offer: A well-rounded selection of guitars, drums, amps, and recording gear.
Special Offers: Frequent clearance sales and price matching on various products.
Notable Brands: Fender, Gibson, Shure, Pearl.

Expert Tips for Saving on Music Gear

Here are some pro-level tips to help you save big while shopping for musical instruments and gear online. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, these strategies will help you score the best deals.

1. Shop During Major Sales Events: Watch for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Boxing Day sales, and Back-to-school discounts. Music retailers often slash prices during these times, making it the best opportunity to get instruments and gear at a discount. If you’re patient, you could save up to 50% off high-end items.

2. Sign Up for Newsletters: Most online stores like Long & McQuade, Cosmo Music, and Steve’s Music offer exclusive discounts to their email subscribers. Signing up will give you access to flash sales, secret discounts, and early access to deals before they’re gone.

3. Check for Open Boxes and Demo Deals: Some stores, such as Axe Music or Tom Lee Music, offer discounted open-box or demo models. These items are often as good as new but come with significant savings, sometimes up to 30% off.

4. Consider Used or Refurbished Gear: Check out platforms like Kijiji, Replay Guitar Exchange, or the Long & McQuade Clearance Store for used or refurbished gear. You can find fantastic deals on gently used instruments, often priced at a fraction of the original cost.

5. Bundle Up for Extra Savings: Many stores, like Gear4Music and Axe Music, offer bundle deals. These deals allow you to buy multiple pieces of gear together (e.g., guitar + amp, drum kit + cymbals) at a reduced price. This is an excellent way to save while building your kit.

6. Look for Financing Options: High-ticket items can be a heavy hit to your wallet, but stores like Long & McQuade, LA Music, and Cosmo Music offer 0% financing options or rent-to-own programs. Spread your payments to keep things budget-friendly while scoring the gear of your dreams.

7. Price Match Guarantees: Don’t settle for the first price you see. Stores like LA Music and Steve’s Music have price-match guarantees, meaning they’ll match or even beat competitors’ prices if you find the same item cheaper elsewhere. Use this to your advantage for maximum savings.

8. Follow on Social Media for Flash Sales: Follow your favorite music stores on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook for flash sales and exclusive online promotions. Often, stores like Rufus Guitar Shop, AXE, and You Shall Receive post-time-sensitive deals only available to their social media followers.

9. Take Advantage of Trade-In Programs: Some stores, like Replay Guitar Exchange and Gear Music, offer trade-in programs to swap your old gear for store credit. This is a great way to upgrade while reducing the cost of your new instrument or equipment.

10. Use Student Discounts: If you’re a student or a music educator, stores like Steve’s Music and Archambault Music offer student discounts. Don’t forget to ask for these discounts when purchasing. They may not always be advertised, but they can lead to serious savings.

What to Look for When Buying Instruments Online

Shopping for musical instruments online can feel like diving into a sea of endless choices. But how do you ensure you get the right instrument without physically trying it out? Here’s a handy checklist to help you make an informed decision and get the best value for your money.

1. Sound & Build Quality: When buying online, you can’t strum the strings or tap the keys, so you must rely on detailed product descriptions, sound demos, and customer reviews. Look for stores that offer audio or video demos of their instruments to get a sense of the sound quality. Also, pay attention to the materials used, such as tonewoods for guitars or metal alloys for brass instruments, which impact sound and durability.

2. Warranties & Guarantees: A good instrument should have a solid warranty that gives you peace of mind. Whether it’s a lifetime warranty on craftsmanship (like those offered by boutique brands) or a 1-2 year manufacturer’s guarantee, ensure you’re protected against potential defects. Look for stores with repair services or extended warranties. These can save you big in the long run.

3. Return Policies: Even though the descriptions and reviews sound perfect, there’s always a chance that the instrument won’t fit you. Ensure the store offers a hassle-free return policy, ideally with no restocking fee. 30-60-day returns are standard for many top music stores. This gives you enough time to test the instrument and return it if it doesn’t match your expectations.

4. Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Other musicians are your best source for honest opinions. Check out reviews from real customers on the store’s website or third-party review platforms. See comments on shipping experience, instrument condition upon arrival, and customer service. It’s also worth checking YouTube reviews for in-depth demos from musicians who have tried the instruments.

5. Shipping Costs & Packaging: Musical instruments are delicate, and the last thing you want is a damaged guitar arriving at your door. Make sure the store provides safe and secure packaging. Check for shipping costs; some stores offer free shipping on larger orders, while others may charge extra for bulkier items like pianos or drum kits. Be sure to look into how instruments are insured during shipping for added protection.

6. Availability of Accessories: Consider any additional gear you’ll need, like strings, amps, cases, or tuners, when buying an instrument. Some online stores offer bundle deals that include everything you need to get started, saving you time and money. If the store sells accessories alongside the instrument, that’s a bonus, as you’ll be able to get everything in one go.

7. Price Comparisons: Before you make a purchase, do a quick price comparison across multiple online stores. Many retailers, like LA Music or Steve’s Music, offer price matching, so it’s worth checking if you can get a better deal elsewhere. Tools like Google Shopping can help you compare prices easily across different sites, ensuring you don’t overpay.

8. Customer Support: Buying from a store with excellent customer support is crucial. If you have questions about an instrument or issues with your order, being able to reach a helpful customer service team is invaluable. Look for stores with live chat options, dedicated support lines, and email support that respond quickly.

How to Choose the Right Online Music Store

When shopping for musical gear online, picking the right store is crucial. Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Product Range and Specialization: Choose stores that match your needs—some specialize in guitars, and others focus on pro audio gear. Stores like Riversong Guitars and DJ Depot offer niche expertise, while broader stores like Cosmo Music cover all instruments.

2. Shipping & Delivery: Look for free or affordable shipping, especially for larger instruments. Check if they ship to your location and offer fast delivery. Stores like Cosmo Music offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount.

3. Return Policies: Ensure the store has a hassle-free return policy with at least 30 days to test out your instrument. This is important in case it doesn’t meet your expectations. Long & McQuade is known for their flexible returns.

4. Customer Service: Excellent customer support is essential. Look for live chat and phone support, and check reviews to ensure they’re responsive. Stores like Steve’s Music have a strong reputation for assisting customers.

5. Deals & Financing: Find stores with sales, price matching, or financing options. For example, LA Music offers a price-beat guarantee, while Axe Music has 0% financing.

6. Reputation: Choose stores with solid customer reviews and ratings. Check Google Reviews or Trustpilot to read about other shoppers’ experiences. Stores like Cosmo Music are highly rated for reliability.

7. Expert Advice: Look for stores that offer buying guides, tutorials, or workshops to help you choose the right gear. Tom Lee Music provides learning resources to enhance your buying experience.

8. Local vs. International: Opt for Canadian-based stores like Gear Music to avoid customs fees and extended shipping times. Supporting local businesses also helps grow the Canadian music community.

Comparison Table for The Top Music & Instruments Stores

Store	What They Offer	Special Offers	Notable Brands
Long & McQuade	Guitars, drums, bass, keyboards, recording gear	Monthly promotions, rent-to-own	Fender, Yamaha, Roland, Gibson
Steve’s Music Store	Electric guitars, DJ equipment, pro audio gear	Flash sales, educational discounts	PRS Guitars, Alesis, Shure
Cosmo Music	Musical instruments, recording equipment, sheet music, workshops	Cosmo Club Membership, garage sale discounts	Martin Guitars, Casio, Audio-Technica
Canada Music Academy Store	Musical instruments and lessons	Discounts on lessons and instruments	Suzuki, Steinway, Jupiter
LA Music	Professional-grade instruments, PA systems	Price Beat Guarantee, free shipping	Behringer, Epiphone, JBL
Music City Canada	Pro audio, DJ gear, lighting equipment, instruments	Pre-orders, limited-time sales	QSC, Chauvet DJ, Korg
Tom Lee Music	Grand pianos, digital synthesizers, sheet music, lessons	Free shipping, seasonal sales	Kawai, Nord, Moog
Archambault Music	Musical instruments, recording gear, sheet music	Student discounts, promotions on sheet music	Selmer, Hohner, Conn-Selmer
St. John’s Music	Band instruments (brass, woodwinds, percussion)	Rent-to-own, promotions	Selmer, Jupiter, Pearl
Just Drums	Acoustic and electronic drum kits	Bundle deals, free shipping	Ludwig, Pearl, Roland
Merriam Music	Pianos, keyboards, music education program	Discounts on lessons paired with purchases	Kawai, Steinway, Roland
Rufus Guitar Shop	Guitars, bass guitars, amps, accessories	Clearance deals, guitar setup discounts	Gibson, Fender, PRS
AXE, and You Shall Receive	Guitar effects pedals, accessories	Regular discounts on boutique pedals	EarthQuaker Devices, Strymon, Electro-Harmonix
Riversong Guitars	Handcrafted acoustic guitars	Custom guitar sales, limited editions	Riversong
Gear Music	Guitars, drums, amps, recording gear	Clearance sales, price matching	Fender, Gibson, Shure, Pearl

Conclusion

Choosing the right online music store can make or break your shopping experience. Focusing on product range, shipping options, return policies, and customer service will ensure you get the best deal and the perfect gear for your needs. Whether shopping for a specific instrument or building a home studio, this guide will help you make informed decisions, save money, and find reliable stores supporting your musical journey. Happy shopping!

FAQ