I've been going to this shop since I was a teenager. He always had the most obscure old parts for those of us that couldn't afford a brand new kit. He would spend the time finding these parts, so you could piece together your ailing kit, and continue to play, and always treated you with respect, even if your sale was only a whopping $20. I made a vow to myself, that when I could afford a brand new kit, I'd pay Sam back for all his toil by buying it there. Bought my 1st deep red Ludwigs from Sam. Sold 'em and bought a Pearl kit in forest green [also from Sam] All these years later, I still go there. Just bought one of his personal snare drums. A pearl floating model, with steel shell. I don't play as well as Sam, but his drum will grace Philadelphia clubs for years to come.
Pros: If it wasn't crammed into that store, he could get it quick
Cons: Wish there were more places like Sam's to shop
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