Quote:
Originally Posted by JayFreddy
I don't understand why a MIM Strat that sells for $400 in the US costs $690 in France... What are prices like on European made instruments?
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Sales tax is more than twice what it is in the States. But you'd think American goods would be cheap right now with the exchange rate. Anything made in Europe is expensive because labour is so expensive (the worker has a very good wage and benefits).
Quote:
Originally Posted by JayFreddy
I know there are some good luthiers in Eastern Europe
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There were a lot of Czech-German luthiers who were forced across the border from the Czech Republic into Germany after the big war ended. Many of them settled near where I live and continued to make excellent instruments. Those brands command high prices in the vintage market. Some are not in business anymore, but some are, like Hofner.