software

Would you prefer a mass produced guitar (like a PRS) or a guitar built like you want it by a small builder (Like PRS used to be)?

Tell me why...

Doesn't matter to me, as long as it's a quality instrument

^^ 1

saying that, if it was something like a strat copy, i'd want it made to my specs from the ground up.. we're talking number of springs in the trem, types of screws in the strap buttons.. hehe

tom

I've gone both ways, and both have their advantages. Big names hold resale value and demand, and small builders can give you exactly what you want.

for a production guitar, i like companies that aren't too big to put email adresses and phone numbers on their website. Ones that aren't too busy to answer my questions.
From any custom shop, I want to talk to the builder directly, not refer me to the dealer. I want to be able to choose anything, not 'pick one from a standard set of options' or a custom shop that just makes reproductions of old guitars (that isn't custom, it is a repro shop). I don't care much about resale value- by the time I get done with the odd options I like, no one would want it!

I think if I can find a production instrument from ANY company that satisfies all my needs, then that's fine. But if what I want isn't found in a production instrument, then I'll go custom shop. The only thing I worry about is whether or not the company cares about their customers. In some cases big companies do, and they stand by their product. Same goes with small ones.

I think I missed answering the question

What I meant was that the size of the company is irrelevant. The only thing that is important is a quality product and top notch customer service.

I go for the small builder!!!! Of course most of you know why!!!!!!! LOL!!!!

Generally its more practical to go with big brands...but If theres a good local builder I would definitely get as many as I can from them because I can get the guitar EXACTLY how I want...and Im pretty picky...

I would prefer the small builder to get a guitar exactly the way you want it and may have more attention to detail them some of the big companies that mass produce many guitars. Also the resale value wouldnt matter because if it was built just the way i wanted then i wouldnt even think of selling it

I'd definitely prefer a small builder - one where you can spend time talking with them about exact specs, maybe even meet them in person to make sure you're on the same page. I probably won't buy many ultra-mass produced guitars.

That said, everyone needs a Fender Strat.

i've lusted for a Thorn for over a year now and just can't justify that much coin on a guitar. Also if i buy a guitar I want it right away, I would go nuts if i had to wait 6 months for a guitar to get built

I don't normally sell instruments, and I kinda like small-name instruments, so that would be the way I'd generally go.



I think the ONLY advantage to using a bigger quot;KNOWNquot; company is resale value.

Aside from that, a small builder hand-building a guitar to your specs at a decent price can't be beat.....IMHO

And again, if it's custom built the way you want it....it won't be getting sold to anyone!!!!

I'm pretty much a traditional kind of guy, and I really haven't got that vivid of an imagination or a flair for design. A lot of the ideas I've had or wanted in guitars or basses are pretty much mods. I don't want a locking nut, or trem options, or Balthazini Flamed Maple, or endangered Guano enhanced Rosewood Fretboard...

The one thing I did talk to a builder about was a 54-57 style Precision Bass with a RW fretboard and 1.5quot; nut.

Next thing you know the Mike Dirnt bass comes out...


Originally Posted by Bob ZombieGenerally its more practical to go with big brands...but If theres a good local builder I would definitely get as many as I can from them because I can get the guitar EXACTLY how I want...and Im pretty picky...

1 There's no company that would've made me the guitar in my avatar. A local builder did it for me. It took a looong time and lots of discussion, but the end product was a perfect guitar.