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Professional Music Center

"Iowa's only SPECTOR Bass dealer!"

About Us

Since 1955, Professional Music Center has offered new & used, acoustic and electric, stringed musical instrument sales, service, and instruction, to thousands of customers and students, in the Central Iowa area.
Our dedicated team is here, to assist you in finding the ideal instrument at a great price; whether you're looking for guitars, ukuleles, banjos, or bass guitars.
Need a tune-up or repair? Our expert technicians provide top-notch service, to keep your instruments in perfect harmony.
Explore our extensive array of instrument accessories; including strings, maintenance supplies, cases, and amplifiers. We offer both new and gently used instruments, and even provide a consignment option, if you're looking to sell your own.
Our commitment is to continually enhance our service to Des Moines, and our surrounding communities. At Professional Music Center, we’re dedicated to helping you discover and create music your way.

Our Story

Welcome to Professional Music Center, where Iowa’s musical soul comes alive through every string, note, and chord. Since 1955, we’ve been the premier destination in the Des Moines area for musicians of all styles and skill levels. As Iowa’s only SPECTOR Bass Dealer, we proudly offer instruments that set the standard for tone, precision, and innovation. Fred, our founder, created Professional Music Center not just as a store, but as a home for Iowa’s vibrant musical community—a place where players can explore, connect, and bring their musical visions to life.

Step inside, and you’ll discover a carefully curated collection of instruments to suit every musician’s needs. From the warm resonance of a Taylor or Larrivee acoustic guitar to the electrifying edge of a Charvel, Fender, Ibanez, or Strandberg electric, we carry both new and used instruments to fit every style and budget. Banjo enthusiasts will delight in Gretsch, Guild, or Washburn models, while bass players can experience the exceptional craftsmanship of our exclusive SPECTOR bass lineup. In addition, we offer ukuleles, consignment instruments, and a full spectrum of accessories—including cases, strings, amplifiers, and parts—so every musical dream can take shape.

But Professional Music Center is more than instruments; we are a workshop of creativity and care. Our repair and upgrade specialists bring tired or broken gear back to life, from electronics and hardware replacements to full restorations. For those seeking something truly unique, our customization and modification services transform instruments into personalized masterpieces. Whether it’s a signature finish, specialized setup, or performance-enhancing modification, we make sure every instrument reflects the musician who plays it.

Music grows even further at Professional Music Center through our lessons and instruction programs. Whether you’re strumming your first chord on guitar or refining your bass technique, our experienced instructors tailor each lesson to your goals and skill level. Technique, theory, and performance are blended to build confidence, creativity, and expression. Every session is designed to inspire, challenge, and nurture musicians of all levels.

At the heart of our business is community and customer service. From the moment you step through our doors—located in the same building as Barr Bicycle—you’ll find a clean, professional, and welcoming environment. Our team listens, understands, and supports every musician, whether you’re shopping, learning, repairing, or customizing. Every interaction is an opportunity to share our passion for music and ensure you leave inspired, confident, and ready to create.

Rock, strum, pluck, or play: Professional Music Center is your stage, your workshop, and your creative home. We’re here to help you discover, build, and perfect the music that moves you. Let us tune your instruments, guide your lessons, and transform your musical dreams into reality. Because at Professional Music Center, every note matters—and every musician belongs.

Instruments We Feature: Guitars, Ukuleles, Banjos, Basses, Accessories, Consignment Instruments
Brands We Carry: Charvel, Fender, Gretsch, Larrivee, Martin, Taylor, Washburn, Ibanez, Guild, Squier, Strandberg, Strymon

Areas Served

Our Certifications

Central Iowa's only Strymon Effects Dealer
Iowa's Only Spector Bass Dealer
Iowa's Only Strandberg Guitars Dealer
The U.S.A's FIRST Revv Amplifiers Dealer

What We Offer

Our Specialties include:

At Professional Music Center, customer service isn’t just a department—it’s the heart of everything we do. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll find a team that listens, understands, and goes the extra mile to make your experience exceptional. Whether you’re here for lessons, repairs, or a custom build, we treat every interaction as an opportunity to build trust and share our passion for music. Our goal is simple: to make sure you leave not only satisfied but inspired.

Our Services include:

Music Lessons: Learn from experienced instructors who tailor lessons to your skill level and goals. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced musician, we offer personalized instruction for guitar, piano, drums, and more. Our lessons focus on technique, theory, and performance to help you grow as a musician. We currently do not offer Piano or Drum lessons.
Instrument Repairs & Upgrades: Keep your instruments in top shape with our professional repair services. From fixing broken strings and electronics to restoring full functionality, we handle all types of repairs for guitars, keyboards, and other instruments. Looking to enhance your sound? We also offer upgrades like new pickups, hardware replacements, and performance enhancements.
Customization & Modifications: Make your instrument truly yours with our customization services. We specialize in creating customized and modified instruments that reflect your style and sound preferences. Whether you want a unique finish, personalized setup, or advanced modifications, our team will bring your vision to life.

Our Brands include:

Charvel
Fender
Gretsch
Larrivee
MARTIN
Taylor Guitars
Washburn
Ibanez
Guild
Squier
Strandberg
Strymon

Our Products include:

Guitars
Ukulele
Musical Instruments
Instrument Accessories
Banjos
Instrument Parts
Consignment Instruments
Basses

Testimonials

On 11/8/2025 Hannah Alberts had this to say:
Super knowledgeable and supportive staff. All my guitar needs were met with care. Highly recommend!

On 9/14/2025 Chris Kendall had this to say:
Stopped in a few times just to try out some guitars before buying. Friendly, helpful staff that understands it's a process. Not the biggest acoustic inventory in the area, but a wide range of shapes and styles to try out in a climate controlled room. Settled on a used guitar I kept coming back to. Good price and came with hard case (used so YMMV). I'll be back when it's time for the next "the one".

On 8/25/2025 Pineapple kid LoL had this to say:
Pretty cool shop also nice employees

On 8/11/2025 Sam Smith had this to say:
I took my 17 year old grandson in to get new strings on his electric guitar. Tristen was there to help us out, and I wanted to say what an excellent job he did! He did the new strings and applied some TLC to my grandson's guitar. Way above average service! My grandson has only been playing a year, but Tristen asked some questions of him to get an idea which strings to use. He didn't care his skill level, he just did an awesome job making us feel comfortable. BTW, my grandson said he is a customer for life. He was just in awe of all the guitars at your shop and talked about it a lot!! Thanks Tristen for doing such a great job. Testimonial written by Sam Smith on this site.

On 8/7/2025 Katie Cooke had this to say:
Amazingly nice and knowledgeable staff that truly will chat it up with any level guitarist. Out of this world selection that's worth stopping by to see!

Contact Us

Professional Music Center
1710 NW 86th St Clive, IA 50325
Phone: (515) 440-1820
Email: professionalmusiccenter@gmail.com

Located in the same building as Barr Bicycle

Where To Find Us

Payment Types Accepted

American Express, Personal Checks, Debit Cards, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Our Hours

Holiday Hours May Vary. Please Call For Details.

Monday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

News

FAQ

What types of music lessons do you offer?

Led by Tim Beachey, an esteemed music educator with over 35 years of experience, we provide private guitar and bass lessons. Catering to beginners through advanced musicians, Tim’s personalized approach ensures the best learning experience. For lesson inquiries, please contact Tim directly at (515) 553-2661.

What brands of instruments do you carry?

We proudly stock a diverse selection of top-quality brands, including Fender, Gretsch, Charvel, Larrivee, Martin, Taylor, Washburn, Ibanez, Roland/Boss, JHS, Vox, Aguilar, DarkGlass, Marshall, REVV, and Guild, among many others. We are proud to be Central Iowa's only Strymon dealer; and the only Strandberg Guitar dealer, in the state of Iowa.

Do you provide instrument repair services?

Yes, our skilled technicians are equipped to handle repairs and maintenance for most acoustic and electric stringed instruments. From setups and tune-ups to string changes and complex repairs, we've got you covered.

What is your return policy on instruments?

New Instruments and electronics may be returned within 30 days of purchase for a full refund, provided they are in their original condition and accompanied by a receipt. We do not offer returns on used gear, gear purchased in transactions involving traded-in merchandise, or merchandise that has been abused or neglected since it has left our care.

Do you offer gift certificates?

Absolutely! Gift cards are available for purchase in-store and make an excellent gift for any music aficionado.