I'm not sure how a small local music retailer can compete on any level with Guitar Center when it comes to pricing. While I'm certain Cassp's deal from his local retailer was a good one, I highly doubt it was cheaper than GC's price could have been had he negotiated a bit.

Guitar Center is the Wal-Mart of musical gear and as such they often dictate how much they will pay for a certain product to carry it in their stores. What that means is they buy the product from the manufacturers at a much lower price than any mom and pop store can (typically 10%-15% or more cheaper). That gives GC the ability to sell at much lower prices if they choose to which isn't always the case. Of course you can negotiate the price at GC and if you're a good haggler, you'll get a deal that few if any other stores can match except maybe Sam Ash.

FYI... Only GC managers have the ability to override their computer pricing system and give you the lowest pricing available (salesman don't get to see the true cost GC pays for the item). Unless you have a favorite GC salesman you always deal with, bypass them and go straight to the store manager. Also, bear in mind that many of the sales employees at the large chains don't know much if anything about what they are selling to you. If you require help or extensive customer support after the sale, pay a bit more and buy from your local music store and you'll be better off. You'll spend more but in the end you'll get good service. Service is something seriously lacking at many stores these days, GC not excluded.