Why are two sets of strings sometimes required?

During certain repair work, it is not unusual for a string to break. Fabricating acoustic saddles is often one of those procedures. Since I only stock D’Addario EXL electric and EJ Phosphor Bronze strings in sets, there are no individual strings to replace one that might break. I prefer my clients to know this up front to avoid hidden expenses with the final invoice. Client’s are encouraged to provide their own strings and parts.

Do you offer rush or priority services?

No I do not. All of my clients are equally important and therefore I will not move someone to the front of the line.

To do so would require: working overtime, working weekends or holidays and (most importantly), giving other clients bad news. If that is mandatory for the client, I am happy to suggest other shops in the area that I know and trust.

What is your normal turn-around time?

The workflow is constantly changing and I find it impossible to offer a “date certain” completion for repair work. Obviously it is important to get the work done in a reasonable timeframe but, I cannot put excessive pressures on my time and still maintain the highest quality work. Each client, each instrument, and each process deserve 100% of my focus and energy to do the best work possible.

Why do you charge for an intake/assessment appointment?

The work is about more than fixing something that is broken. It is about building relationships through clear communication while documenting the condition of the instrument before any work begins. Often some of that fee can be applied to the final bill but, this is a minimum fee required for my time, knowledge and expertise. This intake is arguably the most important part of the process and helps to create a clear understanding for myself and my client.

Why do you have “add-on” services instead of including them into one service?

Not all guitars have the same needs. If I built in extra services as part of my fee, some people would be paying for things they do not need. For example, if you are getting a set-up but all your frets are securely in their slots, why would you pay extra for time to glue frets? If you have a guitar with well cut nut slots, why would the set-up price include time for work your guitar does not need?

Are you a factory authorized service center?

No, the process of handling warranty work involves an outside entity dictating what can or cannot be done in any given situation. While I have done this in the past, and I respect the importance of it for clients and colleagues in this industry, I choose not to do warranty work. If you have a warranty, definitely find an authorized service center, and know I am happy to answer questions along the way.

Do I need to have the amp re-biased when I change power tubes?

It depends on how the power tubes (also called output tubes) are biased. It is always a good idea to check the bias whenever changing the power tubes and have it adjusted as needed to extend tube life.