who's the best custom guitar builder??

My choice would be Nik Huber.

www.nikhuber-guitars.com

Stunning attention to detail, top shelf materials and perfect ergonomics.

But that's just me.

 

Fixed. Raisin Bran and links in the moring, something's gotta give!!!! LOL

 

Welcome to the forum.

I don't know many custom builders who will give you your guitar "now". Most are at least a 3 month wait. Are you talking about buying one that is already made by a small builder/luthier? If so, what are your requirements? What kinda' guitar do you want?

Asking for "the best" is pointless, since opinions vary so widely.

Good luck finding what you want.

Dave

 

I like the one with the dark myrtle top and chevron Korina back .. but what a shame to put such a plain neck on it ..

Volutes are interesting but since he is doing Lam necks you shouldn't need a volute at all I think.

 

Getting one by x-mas for most builders shouldn't be too hard, though there are some who have longer lead times.

Check out Scott Heatley's guitars here. I'm GAS'ing for one of his bad. I think he's got a 3-4 month lead time too.

 

Check out Ron Thorn. You will have to get in line though.
http://www.thornguitars.com/

Interesting. Nik Huber's would be worth a look.

 

Many thanks for the heads up matrixx, I had never heard of Corey James. Some original ideas there, like the critter volutes (those are cute, I want a spider!) and the variable fretwire thing, awesome woods and nice body shapes. The prices look reasonable too. God help me, serious custom GAS attack!

 

I have to confess, I had my first trip to the Thorn website. WOW!
Talk about craftsmanship. Those are some of the coolest guitars I have ever seen. I love the "hidden" pickups.
Only just internet met Ron and he is a very cool guy.

I may have to look in to one of these.

How do you guys like the sound/playability of them?

 

Q. What's the "best" ice cream flavor?

A. The one you like best.

I.e., you have to tell us alot more about what you're looking for in your custom axe before we can offer truly serious advice.

 

Chafin!!Ben is a great guy and makes incredible guitars.I have an Ember and am waiting for a Targa and Helios.

http://www.chafincustom.com/index.html

 

Add Terry McInturff to the list!!!!!!!!!


and if your wallet's REALLY fat: Bob Benedetto, Kim Walker, Jim Olson, Mark Campellone.....


so many great luthiers...I need to win the Lotto!!!!!!!!!!!

 

IMO, Ron's guitars are the ultimate "Total Package" instruments. They sound and play every bit as unreal as they look.

 

Add Roger Giffin to the list www.giffinguitars.com. Absolutely amazing guitars.

 

Likely Brian May and his dad...