Help!! Where do I start to find a luthier to commision in this section!!!!

[taz2822]

This is the first time I've popped into this section and I'm loving going thru the posts looking at the great work getting produced. I've posted a thread the other day in the discussion forum about how I've been thinking of getting a custom job done and buying some Braz Rosewood and getting a Mcilroy built. After being convinced it was a stupid idea and letting the luthier choose the wood I agree. I was advised check this section out, and now I'm amazed at the variety of work that's getting done in this section.

I know nothing about the variety of luthiers on here, my situation is after many guitars I like Lowdens, but prefer Mcilroy. So, How can I choose a luthier to commission when I have little knowledge or ever seen or played one.
I guess I need pointing in the right direction as to who or where to look.
Want - something special in the woods, don't like fancy over ornate dressing or bling, a mid size jumbo, cutaway that I can install a saddle and gooseneck pickup system. Prefer bright celtic tone that are very Lowden/Mcilroy.

Hope someone can point me in the right direction.

[Joel Stehr]

I would recommend that you go through the sponsor websites (links on the right side of main page) and pick a handful that stick out to you, then have some conversations with them. There are many great choices out there, and many of them support the AGF community by being sponsors.

[Larry Pattis]

FYI, there are builders represented here (by themselves or by customers) whose prices range from about $4K up to $10K (and beyond), with extra-special woods and other appointments.

Plenty of us have our "favorite builders", who might or might not fit what you're looking for.

Rather than make an overt recommendation, I would ask that you consider posting the range of your budget first. This will likely help narrow things down right from the start.

[Marley]

Originally Posted by Joel Stehr

I would recommend that you go through the sponsor websites (links on the right side of main page) and pick a handful that stick out to you, then have some conversations with them. There are many great choices out there, and many of them support the AGF community by being sponsors.

Great advice from Joel. In fact maybe start with him

I was in your shoes, although I did have about a 15 year headstart on about 10-15 luthiers. Then with this site I went down the list just as Joel suggests as well as the presenters list from Healdsburg Guitar show. I was able to narrrow it down according to my criteria. Then I sent emails, PM's, made phone calls etc... and narrowed it down more. Then I took the plunge and should have the results next Thursday. Enjoy the experience! One Love--joe

[jhchang]

If you really prefer McIroy, why do you look elsewhere? No other luthier could build you a McIroy other than himself.

[Sage97]

Originally Posted by jhchang

If you really prefer McIroy, why do you look elsewhere? No other luthier could build you a McIroy other than himself.

I thought the same thing. I'm not sure why it is a "stupid idea" to talk to McIlroy if a McIlroy is what you want.

[taz2822]

Originally Posted by jhchang

If you really prefer McIroy, why do you look elsewhere? No other luthier could build you a McIroy other than himself.

McIlroy is the best guitar I've played so far but we don't have that many good luthiers in the UK, The desire to get a unique one off and the choice makes me want to explore other possible options.


I'm looking to spend from $4k-£8k on a guitar, been over to the sponsor list and I'm drooling already - so many great looking stuff there, but also trying to find sound files too.

[Haans]

Go see Trevor and try a bunch.

[taz2822]

who's Trevor?

[Marley]

Originally Posted by taz2822

I'm looking to spend from $4k-£8k on a guitar, been over to the sponsor list and I'm drooling already - so many great looking stuff there, but also trying to find sound files too.

so roughly your looking to spend $4-13,000 US?

your options are great in that range. so many incredible guitars are a your disposal

[taz2822]

Originally Posted by Marley

so roughly your looking to spend $4-13,000 US?

your options are great in that range. so many incredible guitars are a your disposal

Sorry.. mistype - $4k - $8k US dollars - if the exchange rate gets better I'd consider $10k US max.

[Larry Pattis]

Originally Posted by taz2822

Sorry.. mistype - $4k - $8k US dollars - if the exchange rate gets better I'd consider $10k US max.

You will have many choices.

Go to The Acoustic Music Co....I believe that this was the reference that Haans made about Trevor:

The Acoustic Music Company
39 St. James's Street
Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1RG, United Kingdom
01273 671 841

Your head will either be spinning, or you'll have some concrete ideas about some VERY high quality guitars.

[taz2822]

Originally Posted by Larry Pattis

You will have many choices.

Go to The Acoustic Music Co....I believe that this was the reference that Haans made about Trevor:

The Acoustic Music Company
39 St. James's Street
Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1RG, United Kingdom
01273 671 841

Your head will either be spinning, or you'll have some concrete ideas about some VERY high quality guitars.

Spinning....

[Larry Pattis]

Originally Posted by taz2822

Spinning....

Sure...but go there in person, and get a true hands-on experience with a bunch of this guitars.

That will either remove or exacerbate the spin!

[taz2822]

A 800 mile overnighter trip to Brighton - gotta think how I can spin this past the wife!