Robot Monsters Guitars has been a go-to destination for musicians and music enthusiasts since 2008, located at 609 E Dewey Pl. San Antonio, TX 78212. Co-owner Joe Cutthroat, who started the business with his partner Chris Smart, shared the history and services that have made Robot Monsters a beloved establishment.
“I started working at guitar shops in 1998, right after high school,” Cutthroat commented. “Before that, I was always hanging out in guitar shops. It’s always been a passion of mine, and I fell in love with the business.”
Initially, the duo focused on guitar shows before opening a brick-and-mortar store in 2013. Robot Monsters specializes in buying, selling and trading a wide range of music items, including vintage guitars, amplifiers, vinyl records and more. The business specializes in guitar servicing and repairs.
“We offer a full range of guitar repairs,” Cutthroat explained. “We have an in-house guitar workshop with a couple of repairmen working all week. We handle everything from replacing electronics and changing pickups to full restorations.”
The store’s inventory includes new and used gear, featuring a variety of guitars from well-known brands — like Fender and ESP custom models. In addition to guitars, Robot Monsters Guitars stocks a selection of amplifiers, effect pedals and accessories, including guitar straps, cases and parts.
For those new to playing, Robot Monsters Guitars is a welcoming place with knowledgeable staff, who can recommend high-quality beginner gear. The store is also known for its flexible pricing, helping newcomers enter the world of music without breaking the bank. Whether a seasoned musician or just starting out, Robot Monsters offers a friendly environment where shoppers feel supported.
Staying connected to the San Antonio community is an essential part of the store’s ethos. “We do a lot of local conventions,” Cutthroat said. “We’re involved in the Tattoo Convention and have participated in events like the Maverick Music Festival. If there’s a music-related event in town, we’re there. We also host local pop-ups and random events, just to get the name out and have a good time.”
Robot Monsters Guitars has plenty to offer even for those who may not play an instrument. The store features a curated collection of vintage and rare band t-shirts, which appeal to both music lovers and collectors. The vinyl section is another highlight, with records spanning a wide range of genres.
On why shopping local matters, Cutthroat said, “First of all, our shop is a lot cooler. Shopping local is important because we’re a part of this community. I was born and raised here, and we started this place right here. Who better to buy from than someone who’s from the area? Plus, we’ll treat you better than a big chain like Guitar Center.”
In addition to musical items, Robot Monsters Guitars caters to collectors with a selection of novelty items — including action figures, Funko Pops, classic horror movie statues and vintage band posters. Robot Monsters Guitars offers a wide variety of items and services to choose from.