Frequently Asked Questions. Last updated: 2011.11.28

How do I order a guitar?

The wait list is currently closed, and the first builds from the list will start in January 2012.

When the list gets back down to a manageable number, it will be re-opened, at which point you can take a number over at our wait list page. When your number is up, you’ll get an email to start the consultation and build process.

What is the current wait time for orders?

This is hard to answer. I’m processing orders from the wait list 3 to 4 at a time, and i’m hoping to turn builds around in 6 to 10 weeks.

That said, since i’m still getting set up in a new workshop, my workflow is not operating at 100% speed. In addition to building for customers on the wait list, i may also be building one-offs, short series runs, prototypes and artist guitars in order to test new ideas and refinements as i go, so wait times may vary slightly depending on what else may be going through the shop at any particular time. Also, not every name on the wait list will turn into an actual order, so that also has an impact on how fast the list will get processed.

I’m starting slow, working at a manageable pace, so please be patient and bear with me while we get up to speed. I want the business to grow, but in a sustainable way.

How much do your guitars cost?

Pricing information is now available on the pricing page. Please note that this price list is currently for informational purposes only, and may be revised at any time.

I really like your [x] model, and would like to make some modifications. Is this possible?

At this time, no. I have a significant amount of research & development time invested in the current model lineup. My current building workflow involves using templates and jigs, CAD drawings and CNC programming that all take time to create in order to deliver consistent and high-quality finished instruments. Modifying any of my designs would require further R&D time, prototyping, testing and changes to tooling and template process that would not be efficient in terms of time, or the re-tooling costs.

Will you make me a copy of [insert guitar make/model here]?

The short answer: No.

The long answer: No. But here’s why: There are lots of outstanding historical guitar designs and talented luthiers out there… big and small companies and one-person operations alike. If you’re looking for a copy of something already out there in the world, you will likely be able to find someone to build it for you. Unfortunately, it won’t be Decibel.

One of Decibel’s core business principles is to only produce instruments we’ve designed ourselves. We feel design is a valuable differentiator in a marketplace that’s already filled with copies of one sort or another. We also feel that in order to be taken seriously and have our intellectual property respected, we need to respect the intellectual property of others by not making copies of established designs. That’s good design, and good business.

I’m in a band. I’m looking for a guitar endorsement. Can we work together?

I make guitars. I’m looking for money. Can we work together?

Seriously, though… Decibel is a small builder. While we do have big dreams, our number one goal is to grow in a manageable and sustainable way. Giving away guitars (or selling them at a discount) just isn’t something we can do and maintain the business.

So while we’re flattered to be considered, if you like our instruments, the only way to get one is to buy one.

That said, there are sometimes exceptions, so if you are a signed, touring artist who would like to be a part of the Decibel family, we can evaluate such relationships on a case-by-case basis.