Topeka has a tight-knit community of musicians and music lovers, and the local shops are a big part of what keeps it going. Whether you’re picking up your first guitar, upgrading your drum kit, or hunting for rare vinyl, these are the music stores in Topeka, KS, worth knowing about.
Manning Music
Manning Music (3400 SW 6th Ave) is the oldest continuously operated music store in Topeka and has been serving the area for over 35 years. They specialize in band and orchestra instruments, both for sale and for rent, and they run a full-service repair shop on-site. Manning also stocks a solid selection of electric and acoustic guitars, bass guitars, amps, drum sets, and keyboards. If you’re looking for private music lessons, Manning’s more than 20 instructors cover a wide range of instruments. It’s a family-owned operation with a reputation for honest, personal service.
Top City Music
Top City Music (5224 SW 17th St) has been locally owned and operated in the same Topeka location for over 13 years, formerly known as Live Music Institute. The shop carries guitars, keyboards, amps, and pro audio gear from brands like Fender, Gretsch, and Yamaha, and they also buy and sell used equipment. Their lesson program covers virtually all instruments, including guitar, bass, piano, voice, drums, strings, and more. Lessons start at $20 per half hour and are open to all ages and skill levels. On top of all that, Top City has one of the best vinyl record selections in northeast Kansas, with a large room dedicated to rock, jazz, country, blues, alternative, and more.
Supersonic Music
Supersonic Music (117 SE 6th Ave) is a downtown Topeka staple with a second location in Lawrence. Owner Derek Sharp started the business in 1998, and it’s grown into a go-to for drums and guitars, carrying both new and vintage gear alongside brands like DW, Mapex, Mesa Boogie, Fender, and Ibanez. Supersonic is also home to TreeHouse Custom Drums, a line of handmade drums built right here in Topeka and shipped to customers on six continents. The vibe is laid-back and browsing-friendly. They also offer lessons, repairs, and layaway, plus six months of no-interest financing on qualifying purchases.
Hayes House of Music
Hayes House of Music (2007 SW 6th Ave) is the place to go if you need an instrument repaired. Owner Jimmy Hayes has been fixing instruments since 1967, with over 50,000 repairs under his belt, and he can even manufacture parts for older instruments that are no longer in production. The store carries over 400 instruments in stock, mainly brass and woodwinds like trumpets, saxophones, and trombones, along with guitars and drums. If you need a quick, reliable repair, Hayes can typically turn it around within 24 hours.
Time Machine Records & More
Time Machine Records & More (1501 SW 21st St, Ste 108) is Topeka’s destination for vinyl collectors. Founded in 2012 by two longtime record collectors, they carry a wide selection of record albums, 45s, CDs, posters, and vintage stereo equipment, including turntables and speakers. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about music, and the inventory rotates often enough that repeat visits always turn up something new.
Nappy’s Place
Nappy’s Place (3310 SW 6th Ave) is a guitar-focused shop that also buys, sells, and trades all kinds of instruments. The store has an eclectic, treasure-hunt feel, with guitars, amps, and gear mixed in with antiques and vintage finds. Nappy’s is open Friday through Sunday, making it a solid weekend stop for anyone hunting for a deal on a used instrument or looking to stumble on something unexpected.
Tips for Getting Started with Music in Topeka
If you’re just getting into music or picking an instrument back up after a break, Topeka makes it easy to get started. Several of the shops listed offer private lessons across a wide range of instruments. Many of these stores also offer instrument rentals, which let you try something out before making a full commitment. Most of these shops buy, sell, and trade, so you can also easily upgrade your gear as your skills grow.
Once you’ve got the basics down, Topeka has a growing live music scene worth plugging into. Open mics, local shows, and community events happen regularly and give newer players a chance to perform and connect with other musicians.
Find Your Rhythm in Topeka
Topeka’s music community is welcoming and well-stocked, whether you’ve been playing for years or you’re just getting started. If you’re looking for a great place to live near shopping, dining, and the local music scene, check out Topeka Apartments. With 1, 2, and 3-bedroom floor plans in a convenient central location, it’s a solid home base for getting out and enjoying everything Topeka has to offer. Schedule a tour today and see the space for yourself.
