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Friends

For over twenty five years, we've had the pleasure of making friends all over the world with some sweet old guitars, painstaking workmanship, and free advice (a bargain at half the price.) We pack fanatically, ship internationally, and insure completely, door to door. Below are some unsolicited comments from a few of our farflung pals and correspondents. For letters from our successful consignment sellers, click here. If you'd like to share your experience here at archtop.com, please email your comments to info@archtop.com. Thanks to all for your kind words and unflagging support. -Joe Vinikow, archtop.com

"Nice guitar. It passes!"

-Joe Pass, placing his benediction on a 1964 Gibson L-5CN

"These guitars sound amazing! Don't let me come back, or I'm gonna have to buy one."

-Larry Coryell, cheerfully coveting a 1953 Epiphone Emperor Regent

"My father owned an old Epiphone Deluxe, and I still play it. I've never seen this many nice guitars since Epi had the shop on West 14th Street."

-John Pisano (second from right), with four blondes, two brunettes, a big grin, and another pretty good picker. Life is good.

-Howard Alden, (at left) sharing a tune with Julie, in the company of a 1933 Epiphone Broadway. Why is this man smiling?

"Hi Joe, Just stumbled into your website and had to drop you a quick note. I haven`t seen so many beautiful "F" holes in one location in a long long time...Bravo!! Wishing you continued success" - Bob Benedetto, Benedetto Guitars

"Dear Joe, Love the Epi! Looking forward to doing business with you in the future. All the best" - Duke Robillard, Swing Blues Monster

"Hey Joe, That blonde '53 Epiphone Triumph Cutaway is my new best friend!" -Whit Smith, Western Swing Hotshot

"Just a quick note to say congrats on the great site and incredible lineup of archtop guitars! I really appreciate what you are doing for the folks who love these instruments!" Tom Ribbecke, Ribbecke Guitars

"I enjoyed your web site. Now whaddaya mean that blonde Broadway is on hold? I gotta have it!" (It took a year, but we finally found him his very own. Thanks, J!) J. Geils, J.Geils Band

"That 1935 Broadway I got from you has more pepper than all my other guitars combined!" Marty Grosz, Chord Melody Maestro

"Light makes right. The singing high end can't be beat! .... Very refined and suavecito." Ry Cooder, on the 1939 Prairie State archtop we were pleased to find for him.

Joe, Thanks again for all your help in getting me the Epiphone Triumph. That guitar really speaks. I've played it with Wynton and the Jazz at Lincoln Center band doing a week at City Center this past Dec. playing Duke Ellington's Cotton Club music, and again w/ him doing a couple of tunes duo this past May... Thanks again, James Chirillo, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra

Hi Joe - I can't thank you enough for reuniting me with a guitar of my younger years. I owned the twin of this ES-335 when I was 16 years old. The condition of this 1966 is incredible. It is such an amazing instrument to hold and play. I am attaching two photos. One of me when I was 16, and one today.Thanks again. Alan Mowry, St Pete Beach Fl

I have long recognized your high quality work while I have viewed your website in the past and have read what you've written. Now, after placing my guitars with you to sell for me, I am doubly impressed. You are good AND you are quick. Thanks, Mark Newberry, Paris, KY
Hi Joe, The guitar (Redentore) arrived on Thursday safe and sound. I tuned it up let her acclimate to the new environment. This guitar is an absolute gem to play and hear. The note separation and sound on a scale of 1 to 10 is a 10+. I don’t think it could possibly be any better. The playability is effortless, a joy to play. I love the guitar Joe, thanks, Ernie Burkhardt, Forked River, NJ
Hello Joe, I just want to let you know that it has been a pleasure working with you on the sale of my Gibson guitars. You have followed through with what you said you would do and have gained a customer for life. It's refreshing to know that their are still places that sell guitars without all the hype and b.s. that is often associated with such endeavors. Thanks, Brian O'Connor, Ocean Park WA

My experience in selling my guitar through archtop.com with Joe was nothing short of the most pleasant and quick experience of any instrument I have sold. From the thorough packing instructions to the constant feedback from Joe on the status of my instrument was most professional. To say that is was a pleasure doing business with Joe and archtop.com is an understatement! Thanks, Joe and I look forward to doing business with you in the future! Paul Unger, Sylvania, OH
Joe, Let me extend my thanks for a seamless, professional experience consigning my L7-C. Within a week of listing, you were able to find a happy new owner. This speaks volumes not only to your website's reach, but the classy, efficient manner in which you conduct business. Your reputation as the go-to guy in archtops is well deserved and your inventory is enough to tempt even the most disciplined guitar devotee. It was a pleasure doing business with you, Joe. I'll spread the word. Best Regards, Marty Mahre, Seattle

Joe, I wanted to send you a quick note to let you know how much I am enjoying the Santa Cruz OM-42. I have owned two other Santa Cruz's over the years, a Brazilian Tony Rice, and a Pre War D. The OM-42 is one of the finest guitars I have ever played. I have owned and own many vintage acoustic instruments, and the Santa Cruz exceeds many of them. It is truly a wonderful instrument. Thanks so much you made it an excellent transaction from beginning to end. I look forward to doing business again. Take Care, Jeff Heeney, Burke, VA
Hi Joe, Holy smoke!!! I love the Epi ('53 Triumph)!!! Set it up late last night and was immediately blown away. It is hugely articulate, super responsive, and has a huge dynamic range. And it is excellent for finger style too! Thanks for helping me get the right guitar! Cheers, Joe Francisco, Boulder, CO

Joe - Having had several transactions with you I can say you are the consummate arch top venue. Whether buying or selling, I have had a wonderful experience. Excellent work, great instruments, and fine transaction speed. Thanks for the services. Matthew Hunter, Alexandria, VA

Joe, Just to let you know that I appreciate your professionalism and quality at archtop.com. I love my new DeVoe Florentine! ... This is a "lifer" guitar for me and one that I'd been searching for for years...all the right appointments. I wanted an understated look...naked fingerboard, beautiful tone woods, xlnt hue to the tint, Kent Armstrong pickup...it was all there on this axe, plus a classy case! Again, thanks for your prompt service and integrity...I can't put this thing down. When I get time, I'll record something and send it to you. All the best, Joel Henderson, Crown Point, IN
Joe, I just want to say, it's been a pleasure doing business with you. The guitar was sold in a very timely manner and all went very smoothly.Thank you, Bob DiNardo, Ft. Myers, FL

Joe, I got my Ibanez "lawsuit" L-5 today and I love it. I put some new strings on her, adjusted the bridge and she's good to go. Very impressed with the quality of this instrument!! I can't think of an arch-top made this well in this price range. Now I know why people hang to this things when they get them. Thanks again and hope to do business with you again down the road...Joe Restivo, Memphis, TN

Hey Joe, Just wanted to say I got the Campellone yesterday and it sounds fantastic. Thanks for all the help. Jack Radsliff, Eugene, OR

Thanks again Joe...another fantastic guitar! - Tom Vergona, Idaho Falls, ID

Dear Joe, I would like to inform you that the florentine Gibson Super 400CES safely arrived to me. Thanks for the great packaging! The guitar looks, plays and sounds fine. Thanks for the deal again! Kind regards, Laszlo Pintye, Hungary

Hi Joe, I have recieved the Borys 120. Thank you for your excellent service: the instrument is everything I expected and more. Regards, Campbell Atkins, Melbourne, Australia
Joe - Just received the '49 L-7 and she plays great - fantastic neck and the best action I've ever seen on an acoustic archtop...unbelievable for a 60+ year old guitar - more than pleased with my purchase - looking forward to doing business again - Thanks Much - Tom Vergona, Idaho Falls, ID

Joe, Thanks again for your great work. To date you and your crew have sold three guitars for me, helping me to change my collection when the inspiration strikes. You do a great job with the tune ups and display of your guitars as well as the exhaustive descriptions. My only misgiving is how well you demonstrate the beauty of the axes, making it slightly harder for me to say goodbye! My best to you and the folks at archtop.com. Skot Veroczi, Monroe ,CT

It has been a pleasure dealing with Joe, both when buying and comissioning an instrument. The service and response time has been top notch and the description of the condition of the instrument has been comprehensive and accurate. Thanks, Johannes Lehmann, Hong Kong

Hi Joe, I picked up the SJ yesterday. It is a beauty--really good shape for it's age. Sounds great too...it seems like a really good one. You made this transaction easy. It has been a pleasure doing business with you. Thanks! Hank Reisen, Cambridge, MA

Big sound, remarkable build quality. My decades long dream of a Big Band axe com true! Ernie Pugliese, on his new Epiphone Emperor ImperialBravo Joe !!!! Thank you so much for selling my Gibson ES-175. You are such a important asset in my guitar life. Got another guitar on the way as soon as my new one shows up in a couple months. It is always a stress free sale with you and it is much appreciated my friend. Thank you !!! Vince Kowski, Redwood City, CA

Hi Joe, Just wanted to drop you a note to let you know I love the guitar. The ES 175D arrived in the condition described on your website (immaculate), and I couldn't agree more. After a few days of settling in the play-ability of the guitar is amazing, you did a wonderful job setting up this guitar... Bill Foster, Scotch Plains, NJ

Dear Joe, Thank you so much for your help in selling my D'Aquisto Jazzline. Your guidance every step of the way including shipping was invaluable. I wouldn't hesitate to sell through you again or recommend you highly. You certainly are a class act. Anand Bhat, Marysville, PA
Thanks Joe for helping me find the gorgeous 1930s 16 inch L-5. It's in amazing condition and sounds as good as it looks. The transaction went smoothly and the guitar was incredibly well packed. Look forward to doing business again in the future. Best, Paul Alcantara, London

Thanks Joe for the great service and help in purchasing the Dale Ungar American Dream 16. This guitar truly lives up to it's name! The box and guitar were expertly packed and arrived on the day desired. Sincerely, Chip Gulbro, Huntsville, Alabama.

Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the ES-150-D arrived today. It's a beauty! It's in great condition too, and it plays wonderfully. Thank you so much! I appreciate your quick service and attention to detail...and of course I'll keep an eye on your website. Thanks again -- and happy spring! Bill Bartosik, Easton, CT

Thanks, Joe, for a pleasant selling experience from the nation's archtop experts! Ron Hoffman, Eden Prairie, MN
Hi Joe, Just sending a note to thank you. The ES-355 looks and sounds incredible. As described, the range of sounds it produces is amazing. The setup of the instrument is perfect. It plays effortlessly with excellent action and intonation. It arrived quickly and in great condition thanks to your careful packing. I really appreciate the excellent customer service that you provided. Thanks for answering all of my questions and for making the guitar available to me. I’ve been searching for a guitar like this for years and I will really enjoy playing it. I will definitely recommend archtop.com to all of my guitar-playing friends. Best Regards, Mike from Florida

Hi Joe, The L7C arrived. The guitar in the flesh looks much better than it did in the photo so it exceeds my expectations visually. It looks like it is brand new...I got the bridge installed and it is a treat to play. archtop.com is fantastic as it shows the world what is out there in terms of archtop guitars. I didn't know what an L7 was before looking at your website. I don't think I could get a quality L7 in Australia but you've got them in spades. If I ordered a new one from the factory I probably would have paid at least double. Once again many thanks. If I ever have the cash to afford another archtop I know where to look. Regards Terry Costello, Melbourne Australia
Joe, I received the (Martin) today in good condition - it's an exceptional instrument. Thank you for the attention to careful packing and moreover your efficient and constructive approach to this transaction. I look forward to the prospect of doing business with you again in the future. Best, R.R. Leon, Texas

I received the Trenier yesterday afternoon: it's a wonderful instrument and even better than I thought it would be both in sound and appearance. I don't think I could have done better for the price but I might even say, because of what I was looking for, that I might not have done much better at any price... Thanks again for great service and an all around great experience. All best regards--Tony Wallace, Boston

Joe, I just opened the case and assembled the bridge (on the Ibanez L-5C) and tuned her up. Wow! Perfect neck. Perfect action. Perfect frets. Perfect body/ case.Perfect tone. I can't image a better value in the archtop world... I will be enjoying this guitar for many years. Once again, you have proven why you are the best person in the country (world) for quality archtop guitars. Many thanks, Richard Marsh, No. Apollo, PA

Hey Joe - the Epi Emperor plays like and dream and sounds even better. It's getting rave reviews from some of the jazzers here in Charleston. Chris McKee, Mt. Pleasant, SC
Hi Joe..Thanks for your efficient transaction on my beautiful John Walker Petty Creek..its a dream guitar at an even dreamier price..Rich Robinson, Easton, PA

Hi Joe, Thanks for working with me on the Es-175, the guitar is absolutely beautiful and resonates and sounds so warm and rich, a great find! I am so happy to have found it through you guys....I check in on your site often and will continue to do so. The guitar is awesome and makes me want to practice, so that's a good thing... Thanks for being a dealer of such fine instruments. Robin Stone, Associate Professor, Berklee School, Boston
Dear Joe… It has been a pleasure to have your expertise involved in finding a new home for my '43 Martin 000-21. Your extensive instrument knowledge, research, and combined understanding of what the current market is doing, fully satisfied what I received for this sale. I was impressed with your wonderful customer service, comprehensive description of this instrument and its presentation to the market. I am very sure that this guitar will fill the new owners life, with many years of joy… Thank you again, Rick Ahrens, Monroe, WA
Joe, Thanks again for selling another one of my guitars. I knew it would find the right buyer with your excellent and informative website. With your wide selection of fine instruments and attention to detail, anyone should also feel confident in finding that special "axe". Anne Kutchins, Chicago
I've worked with archtop.com to sell two different guitars and my experience has been great. They listed my guitars promptly and professionally and found them good homes. I'm thankful for their great service. William Wilhite, Henderson, NV

Thanks for providing a trusted place to buy and sell vintage archtops. If you are a buyer, you know you will get a great playing guitar that has any of its issues resolved. As a seller, you know you will get the most for your guitar. Thanks, Michael Tachenko, Fairview, NC

Hi Joe, My new Super 400 arrived today, as scheduled. Thank you for your quick service. I put the bridge on, and tuned it up, and then immediately left to take it and show it off to some of my friends at a local music store. They all loved it. And the more I played it the better I liked it... I bought it, mostly because I've never had one and wanted one for my collection. But, that idea is rapidly changing. It may well become my regular player...Thanks again Joe. I look forward to seeing what comes through your shop in the future. George Head, Salem, OR

Joe, Thanks again for helping me find a happy home for my "Tal". I know they'll enjoy it as much as I have. As always your a consumate pro and easy to work with .I always look forward to opening your website and seeing what " goodies " are available! Dennis Easter, Lebanon, PA
Dear Joe, Just a long overdue note to tell how I appreciate the incredible job you do. You should change your name to "The Amazing Vinicini" for the way you make my guitars disappear! ...You always take great care of me as both a consigner and as a customer. You're stuck with me for life! Most sincerely, Lee Haldorsen, Seattle

In their return policy, archtop.com states that they want to be sure that each guitar they sell is absolutely right in every respect for the customer. I can attest that Joe really means this. Recently I purchased a very nice guitar from archtop.com but discovered that... this particular guitar, though a fabulous instrument, was too big for me to play comfortably. I phoned Joe, explained my problem, and with no hesitation, he allowed me to return it. He even placed a smaller bodied guitar on hold for me while the first guitar was on its way back. I was so pleased with the smaller instrument and with my dealings with archtop.com, that two weeks later, I purchased a second guitar as a Christmas gift for my wife. From start to finish, all my dealings with Joe and Julie at archtop.com have been characterized by courtesy, professionalism, and by an obvious level of personal care and concern that is not often seen in today's market place. I would not hesitate to recommend archtop.com to anyone looking for a great instrument and with the added benefit of a knowledgable expert to help you make an informed decision. Thanks Joe, Paul Moore, Topeka, KS
This is guitar #3 you've sold for me, and each sale has been easier than the one before it. Thanks, and happy holidays. Paul Pinkham, Washington, DC

My sales at archtop.com are exceptional. I've been on the buying, selling, and restoration side, all through Joe and archtop.com. In every case all trasactions go smooth and sales get done fast and all repair work exceeds a normal, quick fix up. Joe and his staff treat the guitars as if their own and handle with extreme care and skill. My problem is to stay away from the site as its very tempting with all of the fine guitars. Its always difficult to sell that great guitar, but archtop.com handles it all. I look forward to a few special guitars currently at your shop under restoration and a few more sales in the future. Mike Binder, LA
Joe, Thank you for the quick reply. I am astounded at the high quality sales effort at archtop.com; the web page for my L5 made me briefly reconsider selling it! In approximately ten days from the date you received it, you had produced an insightful web page for my L5 and it had a "hold" on it. In about three weeks from the date you received it, it was sold. To state that I am amazed with your reach, knowledge of product and sales capability is an understatement; fortune truly smiled upon me when you accepted my instrument on consignment. Many thanks, Joe. Al Helm, Corpus Christi, TX

Dear Joe, The ('69) Gibson ES-175 that you sent me really does sing. Whilst I could have bought a vintage 175 in Australia, you provided a far superior range of guitars to choose from and provided expert advice, that was well worth purchasing from outside Australia. This guitar has found a new home nestled amongst the palm trees. I have no hesitation in recommending archtop.com to all my friends. By the way the guitar made it door to door in 6 days. Cheers, Ian Goodwin, Newport, NSW
Joe, I received and deposited the (consignment) check today...I am so pleased and will definitely return to you to handle my high end instrument issues. Thanks again. Al Helm, Corpus Christi, TX

For anyone interested in buying or selling a jazz style guitar, I unreservedly recommend archtop.com. I have sold and purchased guitars on consignment through archtop.com, and from both sides of the transactions I was 100% satisfied. Joe's huge network of prospective buyers made it much easier and quicker to sell my guitar than I could have managed on my own. And when looking to buy a new (old) guitar, Joe's knowledge of the various styles and models combined with the variety of instruments he has lead to the perfect match for my needs. Thanks and cheers, Chris Gratham, Vancouver, BC
Joe, archtop.com is THE place for players, luthiers and collectors. I can think of no other store that has offered the consistent high level of quality, service and the knowledge to back it all up. Then there are the guitars.....scroll down the page and experience the how, the why, the if only, the I will and passion that is the archtop guitar. They are glorious things, vintage or modern. I am SERIOUS about my music, and if any of you know of As Serious As Your Life, then you'll know the all of the above matters when dealing with the instrument you use to express yourself. I love my ES-175. Thanks, Joe. Sean Parker, Sydney, Australia
Hi Joe, I’ve had the Gibson L5-CES for a few days now and haven’t been able to put it down. It’s a wonderful guitar with a beautiful voice, and is a treat to play. Guitars of this quality never appear in my prairie city so when it was time to finally get the instrument of my dreams it was a relief and a pleasure to have someone so knowledgeable and trustworthy on the other end of the phone. Thank you Joe, I’ll definitely be back for the next one. John McRory, Calgary, Alberta
Good morning, I have been shopping for the perfect guitar for awhile, now, and I visit your site daily. Though I haven't found exactly what I'm looking for, just yet, I wanted to take a minute to thank you for being there. It may seem like a bit of an overstatement, but I speak the truth when I tell you that my life is better because your site exists. Thank you. Have a great day! Kenny, Madison WI

JHi Joe, I just wanted to let you know that I really love the 1935 Gibson L-7. This purchase was a couple of firsts for me. It was the first time that I purchased a guitar sight unseen. This was in no small part the glowing commentary I have read about you and your business, not only on your website, but from across the web. Another first, this is the first big body jazz guitar for me; Joe and this website were a great source of input for which one to choose. This was a ( not inexpensive ) leap of faith, seeing that I have only had western or small blues guitars up to this point. I am so very much not disappointed. The big warm honey tone out of this prewar Gibson is quite impressive to anyone first hearing it. Thanks Joe, John Arthur, Santa Clara, CA
Hi Joe, just a quick note to say thanks for all your help and expertise in finding a happy home for the L-7. Much appreciated and thanks again, Roy Marshall, Seattle

Hi Joe, This is a quick note to say thank for for the terrific job you did finding a new owner for my L-7C. I'm impressed with everything from the instructions for packing the guitar to send, the way you quickly answered all phone messages and emails, the beautiful photos and description of the guitar and then of course the quick sale. I thought it was first class all the way and I look forward to doing business again in the future. Many Thanks! Jonathan Schiele, Richmond, CA

Hi, I am very impressed with your entire set-up and the incredible standards you have in stock, information and, from the excellent testimonials, customer service.... Many thanks and keep up the good work - you play an important role in modern musical heritage! Will Starling, Colchester, UK

Hi Joe, I wanted to write and thank you for your help with my recent purchase of the 1949 ES-175. The guitar arrived today and, thanks to your careful packaging and the enclosed instructions, I had the guitar unpacked, set up, plugged in and playing in about 20 minutes ! I am delighted with the guitar, very playable and when you consider that it’s 63 years old the condition is very good. Your help, and willingness to answer all of my questions during our phone conversations made this a painless buying experience. I especially appreciated your willingness to answer questions on unrelated issues, such as how to clean decades of built up grime from my ES-335 ! Thanks again. Cheers. Richard Burford, Sandy UT

I have been playing this ES-175 everyday, for several hours a day. It is without doubt one of the nicest of its type I have ever experienced. It plays superbly and makes even me sound good! Thanks for a great guitar Joe! John Goble, Dublin, OH
Joe, thanks for the check for my old L-12. You did a terific job of setting out its unique (and historic) character in the write-up and pictures, and I'm really pleased that you found it a new home so quickly. I am also grateful (as always) for your help in dealing with pick-ups for my old L-4, and it is humming along nicely -- with a body size that is a little more comfortable for me than the L-12. I'm sure we'll talk again, and in the meantime, I will continue to enjoy scrolling through your website just to look at the fine guitars.
Best, Earl Weed, Houston
Joe, OMG. What a guitar. ('53 Epi Triumph Regent). It's incredible. The sound is astonishing. I guess you may have heard better but neither I nor my colleagues have. Its a very special instrument. As you may have gathered it has arrived (in 4 days door to door) safely. Thanks once again. I couldn't be happier with it. Regards, David Watts, Melbourne, Australia

Joe, Thank you very much for helping me sell my archtop guitar. I appreciate your excellent communication and instructions on preparing my precious archtop for shipping. It's good to know that once it's in your hands it's in good hands. Until next time thanks again. Steve Masui, Honolulu, HI

Joe, The (D'Angelico) arrived last night. It is absolutly beautiful. First I have to tell you I have never recieved an instrument .. no, I have never received ANYTHING packed as well as this guitar. Excellent! The guitar is everything you said. Virturally brand new. I can't thank you enough. I will enjoy it the rest of my life. Ron Imbimbo, Stamford, CT

Hi Joe just wanted to let you know how much I am enjoying my Epiphone Byrdland (now known as the "Byrdphone"). The guitar is great and is now my main gig axe. It came exactly when you said it would... It looks, plays and sounds exactly as you described it on your site and in e-mails you sent me. It's amazing... I bought the guitar of my dreams simply by picking up the phone! Anyone looking for a vintage guitar need look no further. Will Cramer, Edmonton, AlbertaDear Joe, the ('34 L-4) guitar continues to reveal her sublime mysteries as days pass! doing business with you couldn't have been better, btw. but the guitar seems almost a living thing, how she sort of wakes up and starts giving. It has inspired my playing; a thing of beauty and a constant joy. Reg Barnes, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

I couldn't be happier with my recent purchase of a Gibson Tal Farlow from archtop.com. I can't imagine a better selection of archtop guitars anywhere. All are expertly set-up, and very clean-regardless of vintage. Exotic instruments and standard models all receive the same attention to detail. Since Joe is also a fine player, one would have a great representative for a consignment sale. Thanks Joe! Sincerely, Sandy Carter. Seattle, WA

Joe: I have purchased and sold several guitars with you the past several years. My experiences with our business dealing have always been exemplary -- and this transaction was tremendous. You have the best clientele. You are knowledgeable, quick and reliable. My sale of my Dan Koentopp exemplifies the best of all characteristics. Thank you for the smooth transaction. Thank you for every consideration. Matthew Hunter, Alexandria, VA
Joe, The Gibson (TG-50) arrived at my office yesterday. It sounds fantastic and the setup and intonation are perfect. I'm very happy with this purchase. John Woodard Jr., Louisville KY

Hi Joe, Thanks for your expert help selling my ES-330. The process was effortless on my part and went without a hitch. I heartily recommend Archtop.com to anyone who wants to sell their instrument. You priced it so that it quickly sold, yet was more than I expected. The small amount of work you did on the instrument enhanced its value and increased its appeal for a very reasonable cost. The photos and description on your site showed the guitar at its best. It was definitely a pleasure dealing with you. Best regards, Steve Ogden, Seattle

Hey there, Joe, Thought I'd drop a line to thank you again for finding a new home for my much beloved Epi Deluxe. You made the whole transaction simple and pleasant. Have and will continue to refer friends and clients to your site. Yours, David Magliari, Long Beach, CA

Hi Joe, Once again I am amazed. Whether buying or selling an archtop there is simply no one else who can provide your level of expertise and service to your customers. You remove all of the stress which can be significant and make each transaction enjoyable. Thanks again, Steve Wagner, FineArchtops.com
I have had the pleasure of both buying and selling guitars through archtop.com - Joe has consistently been of great help. He is a wealth of knowledge and always treats me with the same patience and concern - whether I am trying to buy a pick up, or an archtop! His prices are very fair - his preparation of the instruments is excellent - his reputation is well deserved and speaks for itself. The true secret perhaps, is that not only is his merchandise the coolest stuff out there, and his technical service and prices equally the best.. but the most importantly, he loves these instruments ! And that telegraphs clearly to his many loyal and satisfied customers. archtop.com is the place - and Joe is the guy!! John Beth, Reedsburg, WI

Hi Joe, Couldn't be more pleased with your professionalism and no nonsense approach to a consignment sale. Everything was as promised right from the beginning, from the contract to the promised beautiful photos and description of the instrument. And as a bonus, a sale in less time than I expected. Highly recommended. Thank you. Jeff Hildreth, Williams, OR
Joe, it seems to me that there are few experiences in life that are actually better than what a person imagined. I want you to know that working with you to acquire my dream guitar – a 1957 Gibson Super 400 – exceeded my every expectation. From your attentiveness in demonstrating the guitar to me via Skype, to working out the details of the sale, to receiving the meticulously packaged instrument overnight, and to best of all playing this perfectly set-up instrument, your professionalism and kindness truly exceeded one of the dream experiences of my life. Many thanks, Joe, and all the best!!! - Michael Lizarraga, Los Angeles, CA

Joe, This was my first time doing business with your company. From our first contact to the final payment it was a great experience. Its always a pleasure dealing with people that know their business and are professional about it. Thank you for everything. Sincerely, Justin Wade, Medford, OR

Hi Joe, Thanks for a super win-win transaction, fast efficient delivery. The Triggs 16 sounds as good it looks, which is fantastic. Loved the pick you enclosed, Joe when it comes to archtops ‘You‘re the Man” Hope to do business with you again. Best wishes from Jim Keogh, Perth, Western Australia Hey Joe...From start to finish our experience with archtop.com was nothing but amazing. We didn't have a clue what we were doing and you held our hands throughout the whole process. You took the time to explain to us the pricing process right down to the marketing. We had several options to sell our guitar...ebay, Craig's list or an auction house just to name a few, but we know we made the best decision ever when we found you. We received a fair offer in a short amount of time all because of archtop.com. No hassle no fuss. Thanks for a successful sale! If you are looking for someone who is professional & honest, Joe's your guy! He's the best. J. Niemeyer, Milton, WA

Every year I either sell or buy at least one guitar with archtop.com. You DO have a friend in the archtop guitar business. His name is Joe Vinikow. Thanks again Joe for another smooth as silk transaction. Looking forward to our next guitar adventure. Sincerely, Vincent Kowski Redwood City, CA

Hi Joe, I see that my guitar is already on hold. That is the third guitar you are selling for me in 3 months. You are doing a great job and I truly believe that archtop.com is by far the best place to sell and buy first class instruments. I hope people who are trying to deal on ebay understand this one day. Best regards. JP Karcz, Montreal
Hi Joe, The Shelley Park Montmartre arrived safely last Friday. The instrument is meticoulously build with passion & "savoir faire ". The sound ranges from the subtle grace of a flower to the power associated with " la pompe", melodic lines are lively and inspiring. I'm sincerely pleased with the instrument. Regards. Pierre Cantin, Quebec.

Hi Joe, Just a quick note to say the ’40 Epi Deluxe has found a good home (mine). It’s a beautiful guitar, and has the guitardom trifecta covered, i.e., great looks, playability and tone. I had planned on just taking my consignment proceeds on your sale of my Spartan (thanks for the quick sale), but couldn’t help myself and had to look at the Deluxe pics. Your written and in-hand descriptions were spot on. I think this is about my tenth purchase and/or sale through your fine portal. Thanks for taking care of me on both ends of this transaction. Regards, Ray Gargiulo, NYC

Outstanding! Joe I want to thank you for the very fast selling of my DeVoe archtop. I am glad it found a new home. Your organization is highly professional, trustworthy and courteous. When I am purchasing a guitar, archtop.com is my first stop! Tom Scheira, Niagara Falls, NY
Hey Joe, What was a pleasure meeting you, It was so exciting opening up my new guitar yesterday, and what a professional packing job I must add, THANKS! You were dead on and gave a perfect demo, I appreciate you taking the time and I'll talk to you again real soon I hope! Great instrument and great service!!! Diamondave, Los Angeles
Hello Joe, Just a quick note to say that the D45 just continues to blow me away with its beauty of sound and appearance. It is magnificent in every way, the sound is huge and glassy, the tone is to die for, and the inlays and woods make it a work of fine art. I don't think you have ever had a more satisfied customer. Thanks again, and best wishes. Bill Van Vugt, Lowell MI
Well Joe, this is the 10th guitar you have sold for me over the years. All sold extremely fast and the payment has always been sent immediately. My hat goes off to you my friend. Thank you very much ! Vincent Kowski Redwood, Ca.
Hi Joe, That sold sign on my Gibson L-7 looks mighty fine. Thanks again for a quick sale. You truly are the best at what you do. Your friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, KS

Dear Joe, All I can say, is that I am so pleased I came to you first to look for an L4, its great. It's the first time I have purchased a guitar that I have not had to carry out a little work myself getting the action right. Whoever worked on this guitar did a great job, it came out of its case and was perfect. Do I recomend Joe & Julie at archtop.com? Sure I do...Best Regards, Tony Arnold, Loiret, France

Joe, This was my first time to sell a guitar using your services and I must say it was a complete pleasure to work with you. I have used other selling methods in the past; local consignment, ebay, craigslist usually ending up in less than desirable results. You are the ruler in high end archtop guitars for both buying and selling and I highly recommend your services to anyone wanting to sell or buy a nice archtop guitar. I will do business again with you. Thanks for your quick service. Robert Jackson, Edmond, Oklahoma

Hi Joe, I'm just writing to say thanks for sending along that grand piano (Guild Artist Award) I asked you about. This instrument has so much of its own identity in every way, I've been playing it for the past two days with a mixture of enjoyment and astonishment… simply majestic. …It makes me play better both in terms of how it sounds as well as its own precision.….It's a wonderfully alive instrument but with a sense of control and reserve. … The notes sound exactly as they should sound, both with pick and finger. In fact, the biggest surprise of this guitar is what a wonderful fingerstyle guitar it is: great shimmering three-dimensional melody notes with the touch of a fingernail, with no scratchiness or loss of projection or dynamic range. The chords also stand out in a way that is very piano-like, harmonically rich with just enough separation that we hear the notes individually as they chime together with one another to form the chord. … I've always wanted to play grand-piano-like, Keith Jarrett kind of stuff on the guitar--you know, like the Koln Concert improvisations--but I didn't have the instrument to pull it off with--until now…. Anyway, thanks for selling me a great guitar, Joe, and feel free to put any of this up on your very enjoyable website. …In the meantime, you can change the Hold to Sold! All best, Tony Wallace, Brookline, MA
Hi Joe, I got the Arrow Django today and am quite happy with it. It is a fine instrument and I think will make a versatile voice for me. It plays and sounds really nice, so she's a keeper for me.... Anyway, thank you very much for all the great service. I look forward to doing more business in the future. Cheers, Adam Cypress. Emeryville, CA.
Hi Joe, The '54 Gibson ES-150 arrived yesterday and she is amazingly clean and beautiful. The setup was spot-on.Thank you for the great customer service. You inventory is always like a candy store for my eyes. Mark Stultz, Hendersonville, TN

Hi Joe, The selling of my L5C was smooth, quick and professional. I had earlier consigned the instrument with a local shop near Boston, specializing in archtops, reputable and with a nice web site. I thought I would sell the guitar and save the shipping costs to archtop.com. Mistake. It languished there for 6 months. Then I sent the guitar to you and it sold before it left the "coming soon" list! The selling price was much higher than the local consigner and the check was here in a few days. Only now do I appreciate archtop.com's reach into the global guitar market. There must have been guitarists waiting for my instrument, knowing it you guys would eventually find one. archtop.com is now on my favorites list. It's fun just to window shop, and I may buy an instrument one day. Thank you for the good feeling of dealing with a great business. Sincerely, Lawrence Faria, Kingston, NH
Hey Joe, Received the check for the Gibson L-12 on Saturday. Thanks, again, for the professional service you provide. I am certain I will be contacting you again to sell and purchase more incredible archtop guitars. All the best, Ryan Durfee - Cedar City, Utah
Hi Joe, I received the proceeds on the sale of my Gibson L-4 yesterday. I just want to say thanks for selling it so quickly. I don't think there's a better place to buy or sell archtop guitars. I would definitely recommend archtop.com to anyone in the market for a jazz guitar. Darrel Williams, Tonganoxie, Kansas

Hi Joe, The guitar ('36 Triumph) came Thursday... I stopped myself from opening it until this morning and wow she's amazing you've done an amazing job with pick up I can't believe how good the electric sound is. It's huge, I have a modern epiphone and it blows it out of the water you did a great job on concealing the controls also very neat indeed! And the case! I'm absolutely made up. Thank you so much you've made the whole experience exciting and a joy....All the best and speak soon Martyn Nelson, Manchester, UK P.S. Thanks for all your advice!

Joe: I just wanted to say how much I appreciated the great job you did on selling my '39 L-7 and '45 Epi Deluxe recently. The quick turnaround, as well as realizing a bit more for the guitars than I expected, continues to reinforce my belief that you are definitely the "go to guy" for archtop guitars. I received the '39 Epi Emperor yesterday afternoon and - once I'd warmed it up and unpacked it, couldn't put it down until 2am this morning. The volume, tone and natural reverb of this magnificent monster puts a pipe organ to shame!... yet again, a real pleasure in doing business with you. As a professional quality auditor, I would have to give your outfit an A+ for both service and product! Many thanks again, and be assured that, when my next bout of S.A.A.S. (Severe Archtop Acquisition Syndrome) strikes, you'll get the first call. Best regards, Tom Murphey, ASQ CQA, Fairfield, CA
My experience with Joe at archtop.com has been superb. Whether you are buying or selling, Joe has the experience to make it happen in a quick and professional manner. I would recommend archtop.com above all others when it comes to getting an outstanding archtop at a fair price! Five Star Rating! John Goble, Dublin, OH
As I came back to playing guitar 3 years ago, many years after I set it aside for business reasons, archtop.com has become absolutely invaluable to me. Through Joe's business I've been able to buy and play some great jazz guitars. As I've gradually learned what works best for me, I've also been able to turn around and sell the ones that suited me less, good as they were. Just recently, I sent Joe 2 fine vintage Gibsons to sell, went out of town for 2 weeks, and by the time I was back, they were sold. Bravo, Joe! I don't know where else I could go to get this variety of fine guitars to play -- not to mention some excellent advice -- then so easily move the guitars that somebody else will no doubt enjoy better. Many thanks, Joe. Earl Weed, Houston, TX
Hi Joe, Just to say the guitar arrived in a wet Wales today and has totally brightened my day! The guitar plays even more nicely than I remember and now has pride of place in my collection. I still can't believe the condition of it given its 70 years history. Already after a couple of hours playing I can hear its voice beginning to develop and mature. I can't thank you enough, and for being so kind as to meet me in person and to show me your beautiful collection which has allowed me to pick the perfect guitar. Hope we meet again in the not too distant future! Stuart MacKinnon, Neath, Wales
Hi Joe! Yesterday I received the National Tricone from 1933 ...It's a great guitar in shape and sound! That's why I always prefer it to deal with you! It's my third guitar from archtop.com and everything worked in the way Joe was telling me before not only in archtop but also in flattop and resonator guitars. So thank you and I'm gonna call you in the future for very special guitars in outstanding condition, fairly priced! Best regards from Germany and happy holidays! Edwin Kimmler, Landshut, Bavaria

HI JOE, I GOT THE CHECK FOR THE SALE OF MY 1964 SUPER 400. QUICK SALE, FAST PAYMENT, ARCHTOP.COM IS INDEED THE BEST PLACE TO SELL FINE INSTRUMENTS. JP Karcz, Montreal

The (Dupont MC-50) guitar arrived late morning yesterday safe and sound. I patiently let it sit in the box for four hours, took it out of the box but left in case for another four hours, then finally took out of case and put on a set of Argentine 11's. Great guitar, as described, exactly what I was looking for in a gypsy jazz guitar. .. Thanks for the great customer service and quick shipping, I'll definitely recommend archtop.com to my friends!!! Peace, Jordan Sayers, Chicago
Hi Joe, The '47 ES 150 arrived safely. This guitar is in great condition! Very easy to play, and a beautiful acoustic sound. Many thanks--Bruce Brogdon, Houston, TX

.I've sold 3 guitars through archtop.com, the most recent my '66 ES-330... expert advice, professional presentation, easy, straight-up transaction - Joe is the best. Steve Peterson, Seattle, WA
Joe, Thanks for taking the lead in presenting and selling our dad's blond L5 Gibson vintage guitar. Thank you too for the great conversation my brother and I had with you about that guitar and the history of the instrument. The vast knowledge that you shared with us regarding our guitar, guitars in general, and the fun discussion about some awesome players, was very interesting and enjoyable. We felt comfortable with the fact that you would find it (our treasured family heirloom for over thirty years) a great new home, and it sounds like you did just that! Philip Snyder, Seattle, WA

Joe - I walked into work this morning to find that Father's Day had been moved to Thursday. She ('76 Artist Award) arrived in good condition. The bridge is on and the sound is fabulous... Thanks! Brad Smedley, Beachwood, OH

I know you must think I overdo the accolades, but I've been in the archtop world for over 35 years and I have dealt with many dealers. Sincerely, I have never been more impressed than I am with you. You are fair, honest and most of all, you know what you're doing. I trust your judgement and would recommend you to anyone who is considering the purchase or sale of a guitar. Best regards, Steve Wagner, Eden Prairie , MN
Hi Joe, I have a set of nickel 14's on the '43 Triumph now and it sings! The neck shape is just perfect for my hand. I really like the closer spacing from the narrow nut width on this particular instrument. The volume and projection from this guitar is very impressive with a nice chunky warm tone. The guitar is EXACTLY as described really and it plays perfectly. I really am very impressed. This one's a keeper! Thanks for your fantastic service, meticulous packing and for carrying the acoustic archtop torch! Thanks so much! Daniel Baston, Toronto, ONT
Joe, Many thanks for finding a new home for my Schaefer Swingmaster. I'm realizing now that I have about a decade's worth of experience with you and archtop.com when it comes to buying and selling guitars, guitar cases, and guitar pickups. From my point of view that record speaks volumes about trust and ethics and honesty. Keep up the good work. I look forward to doing business with you again and I always look forward to my many online visits to your website. Best, David Everett, Austin, TX
I bought a Palen 17 from Joe about six months ago and couldn’t be happier with my new guitar and the whole transaction. Then, I decided to sell my 1970’s vintage Ibanez “lawsuit” guitar and was very happy with that result as well. If you’re thinking about buying or selling a quality guitar, Joe is definitely the guy for you. Michael McDonald, Alamo, CA
Hi Joe, I received the ES 175 yesterday and finally got a chance to play it this morning. Thank you for an accurately described instrument. I’m a hard working player and each instrument takes a major commitment of resources for me. I was in real need of a quality working man’s guitar for use in a variety of genres and this ES 175 is the perfect fit. It’s in excellent condition, just as stated and I’m sure will instantly become my primary workhorse. Thanks again, Joe. I know where to turn for honesty and integrity in archtop world and I couldn’t be more appreciative. Sincerely, Chuck O’Connor, Stow, ME

Dear Joe, The 1962 Fender Deluxe amp is as clean and quiet as you said. The sound is wonderful and breaks up nicely at volume level 5. For the people who have ever wondered about purchasing a vintage amp, I can tell them it is worth the effort and money. I have played guitar for almost 50 years and have nice modern amps (Victoria, Fuchs), but this brown Deluxe will be my favorite. Thanks for a great sale and service. Bill Kaylor, Minneapolis, MN
The (Schaefer) guitar is everything you said and more. What a looker! What a player! archtop.com will be the first stop when I'm ready for another fine instrument. Mike Wong, Cupertino, CA
Joe, thanks again- I can't say enough good about your service, or how great the '49 Triumph plays, and sounds. Superlatives still will not do proper justice to either of these above; I will simply say "Thank you" for the best acoustic guitar I've ever owned, and the most facilitating service possible. Best regards, Marc McCord, Austin TX
Joe, I am delighted with the very fine '45 Epiphone Triumph! Your exemplary knowledge and excellent inventory made this experience positive in all ways. Thanks for the time spent with me on the phone and in your shop. David Austin, Seattle, WA
Hello Joe, The Le Grand arrived today and you made me very happy. Your description about the condition was totally correct and being made in 1993 the guitar was really as new. ...Maybe stored-under-the bed-18-years? This is hard to believe for such a beauty but finally it has found a good new home where it will not spend too many hours unplayed. I also like to emphasize that you do a great and very professional job and I would nor hesitate to buy again. Thank you, Dieter Staron, Herne, Germany
Hi Joe, Oh my GOD ...it's here ... it's stunning ... it's beautiful!!!!! I agree with you - it plays like butter! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!! Kathy Durante, Gold River, BC
Hi Joe, Glad you found a great home for the Le Grand....Thanks so much.... There's no other guitar site I love as much as yours. All the best, Marc Ratner, Camden, ME
Hello again, Joe. I can't tell you how much I like the Slaman 150-extra. It is my dream archtop. It really authentically gets that sound I've been hearing for so many years. Christian, Raney, Thomas. I am thrilled! (and thanks for the strap buttons, too) You are still a class act, and I will be in touch with you soon. Musically yours, Larry Camp, St. Petersburg, FLHi Joe, The Napolitano Jazz Box has just been delivered - many thanks for your great service and smooth communication - and above all it's a wonderful instrument! Very best Christian Richters, Munster, Germany

Joe: My Heritage 575 was my first "good" guitar - but since I had bought a '37 L7 a few years ago from you and stopped playing it as much as I used to; I knew you would deliver on your promises when it was time to get it a new home. The packing instructions and contract were simple and understandable. Put me down as both a satisfied buyer and seller from archtop.com...Scott Furbeck, Heyworth, IL
Hey, Joe --just pulled out the Andersen -- plays/sounds like a precision instrument. Already opening up fifteen minutes later... Thanks a lot for a great deal on a fine git-tar... I'm very happy -- David Yorkin, LA, CA
Hi Joe, Just letting you know I'm very happy with my (Eastman 810CE). I haven't had a chance to plug her in yet.... To tell you the truth, I'm not in any great hurry. I'm having a great time exploring this baby acoustically. The pickup job and setup are immaculate by the way. Plays great, sounds great. I'm confident that I have a quality versatile instrument here. Jarrod Wilkerson, Campbellsville, KY
Hello Joe: The Broadway has arrived. What a beautiful instrument. I can't keep my eyes and hands off of the guitar. What a great find. Once again I must commend you for your excellent customer service and quality merchandise. I look forward to dealing with you in the future and will not hesitate to recommend your company. Thank-you , Erik Scotney, Blue Mtns, OntarioJoe: Received it. (2002 Buscarino Gigmaster) Checked it out. Played it. Love it. Thanks, Wayne D'Amico, Centerbrook, CT
Dear Joe, I was very pleased to see that my 1948 Epiphone Triumph, as well as the 1946 Emperor and the 1961 Goya C80 had all found suitable new homes with lovers of vintage archtop guitars. When it comes to buying or selling classic instruments such as these, nobody does it better. The quality of your service to buyers and sellers alike is always outstanding. As a serial buyer, I find the descriptions and are always highly detailed and accurate, the photography sharp and impressive and your willingness to “audition” over the ‘phone serves to build confidence in you and the trusted brand you have created and over the years. Your website should be saved by every serious player or collector in their “Favorites.” To put it simply, when it comes to archtops, you are the Holy Grail! John Young, Carmel, California

Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know that I received the (L-5CES) guitar this afternoon I am really happy! It's an absolutely beautiful guitar. Thanks for your outstanding professionalism in providing quality instruments with fantastic service! I would go nowhere else to buy an archtop overseas. Thanks. Tim Nikolski, Melbourne, Australia
I've bought and sold guitars at archtop.com and have been very happy with both transactions. Joe does it right. He respects the instruments and deals fairly. I have no doubt I'll be involved again both as a buyer and seller. Thanks, Joe!, Cheers, Paul McCallum,Westlake Village, CA

Having played for hours these past two days, find this guitar (2006 Gibson L-7C) has an intense, rich, woody, deep sound - it's the nicest acoustic I've ever heard. It'll bring a lifetime of jazz pleasure! Many thanks, Dr. Kathy Durante, Gold River, BC

I was very pleased with the great job archtop.com did in handling the sale of my vintage instrument. The whole experience couldn't have been easier. I originally bought the instrument from archtop.com as well, so I this is my second time, and I'm grateful for the trustworthy professionalism that archtop.com represents. Thanks again, Joe! Bob Campbell, Seattle

Joe, I received the Herb Ellis guitar this afternoon and I wanted to let you know that I'm very happy with it. I reinstalled the bridge and (noting the new flat wound strings that were installed at my request) tuned 'er up and pluged 'er in; plays and sounds great! I look forward to gigging with this instrument for a long time...Thanks again, Steve Jones, Jacksonville, FL

Good Morning Joe, The '44 Epiphone Triumph arrived this morning,I am very pleased with it. I fitted the bridge on it tuned up very easy, its got a lovely old sound to it. I must congratulate you on the service I got from you, it was first class in every way. I will certainly buy from you again and recommend you to people I know. Best Wishes Ian.McLean, Surrey, England.

I can't express in words how impressed I am with you service and the rapid sale of my instrument. Thank you will have to do! Matthew Hunter, Alexandria, VA

Thanks to Joe Vinikow and archtop.com for a grade AAA positive selling experience. He has been totally professional and quickly accountable at every level. I am a happy customer. Brent Hawley, Ft. Collins, CO

Dear Joe, Thank you for the professional consignment service for my McKerrihan archtop guitar. From our first meeting at your shop in Seattle I was impressed with the organization and personal service you offered. I especially remember finishing up some other work in your shop and overhearing how you relate to customers. You explained the instruments in detail and even played the guitars over the phone so the customers could really know the quality of the instrument. I enjoyed working with you as well through the sale process. It was simple and easy with no hassles. Thank you once again. I highly recommend your services to other archtop owners. Sincerely, John Brozovich, Mercer Island WA

Thanks for your help with finding a new home for my archtop. I debated whether or not to sell my guitar, but once I was ready, you took all the effort out of it. I was glad to be finding a new home for my guitar, not just selling it. Brett Romano, WA

Joe, The guitar arrived today. I`ve got to say that this is one of the finest guitars I`ve ever played. It looks and plays fantastic! ...So thanks a lot for great service. I`ll be sure to spread the good word about you and your business to all of my guitar friends. kind regards / med vennlig hilsen. Michael Aadal, Norway

Joe. The ('95) Triggs guitar that was owned by Mundell Lowe that you sold me is a real beauty! Thanks for the great experience! I swear my chops are better already. Must be Mundells DNA....Just the sound I've been hearing in my head. Thanks, I love it. Joe Cupani, NY
The check for the L7 arrived Friday and I was floored. It was for several hundred dollars more than I'd been expecting. I can't thank you enough...As I tell my friends: say what you will about the wavering economy and the ambivalence of modern life, if there's one thing you can strike in stone, it's that Joe Vinikow can sell a guitar. Mark Baker, PA

Thanks for the great job in selling my '49 ES-175. Although it was a difficult decision to let her go, the decision was made easier because I knew what to expect from my sales experience with you. Having done business with you several times before, both as a buyer and a seller, I didn't hesitate in deciding you were the right person for the consignment...great pictures, a wonderful and accurate description of the instrument, and your personal attention to the entire transaction from start to finish. That's why I keep coming back. Regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY

Hey Joe... The guitar (Triumph Regent) arrived yesterday morning, and I'm thrilled with it... The frets and action are truly amazing! The voice is clear and big! I really dig it,.. it's a special guitar that I will play for many years to come. Well, back to more "breaking in" with my new girlfriend. Regards, Sean Daly, Brooklyn, NY
Thanks for the great job in selling my '49 ES-175. Although it was a difficult decision to let her go, the decision was made easier because I knew what to expect from my sales experience with you. Having done business with you several times before, both as a buyer and a seller, I didn't hesitate in deciding you were the right person for the consignment...great pictures, a wonderful and accurate description of the instrument, and your personal attention to the entire transaction from start to finish. That's why I keep coming back. Regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY

It's true what they say- archtop.com is a great place to consign an instrument. Thank you, Joe and staff. Your professionalism (particularly helping with the often difficult task of selecting the ideal asking price) made this experience almost too easy. Not only that, but your photos and description almost had me wanting to buy my guitar back! All the best, James Rowan, SF Bay Area

Joe, I finally have had the chance to really play this (Trenier Magnolia) at length, and I must say, this is a really great example of a well-planned, well-executed design. It is very versatile with great presence, and is an easy playing guitar as well. The neck is a pleasure and the tone is to die for. It does lots of things extremely well in my opinion...I am very pleased to have had the opportunity to acquire this instrument at this price, and appreciate your making these types of instruments available. Kudos to Bryant. Thanks again. Rob MacDonald, Ft. Collins, CO

Joe, Having now both bought from and sold through archtop.com, I can vouch for the fact that you are the best at what you do. Thank you again! Norm Ayotte, Altadena, CA
Dear Joe, Thank you so much for helping me get the guitar of my dreams (1949 Epiphone Emperor) its looks and sounds beautiful! The only problem now is that everyone in the family is fighting for who gets to play it! So I look forward to you helping them to get their own dream guitars soon! Thank you for your in depth knowledge and speedy service...! All the best, Grace Degey, France

Joe, Thanks for selling a second Ibanez "lawsuit" guitar for me. Your website attracts buyers who are knowledgeable and motivated and your pricing and assessment were spot on. The first guitar sold before it was even listed and the next, very soon after. Hands down the best outlet for fine archtop guitars. Jon Dalton, Los Angeles

Thanks again Joe, for selling the Trenier. You're the greatest! Mark Condran, Bow, WA
I've bought two guitars from you and both of them have been excellent. You run an honest outfit and you're just a pleasure to deal with. Kevin Connelly, New Bedford, MA

Thanks, Joe - you really do have the classiest presentation of any guitar site I've seen. Wish I could buy them all. Herb Avery, Atlanta, GA

I bought my first Epiphone from Joe in 1990 then a second shortly thereafter! When it came time to selling my Epiphone collection I sent them all (5) to Joe without hesitation. Joe was amazing, selling 2 of my guitars in less than a week, with a third on hold a week later!!! If you are going to buy or sell an archtop, there isn’t a question…..call Joe V. at archtop.com. Marty Jacobvitz, Wimberley, TX

Joe, Thanks for your help with my vintage Ibanez L-5C replica. A world renowned local vintage dealer had, in my opinion, vastly underestimated the value of my guitar and worse still didn't even seem interested in helping me sell it! His loss, you got a great price for this super-rare guitar and just as important a happy and satisfied buyer. Jon Dalton, Los Angeles
Joe- In my personal experience, buying a guitar is usually fun. Selling... not so much. However, I couldn't be happier with the recent fast and easy sales of three of my guitars through your consignment services. Your website- and professionalism – is obviously trusted by serious players and collectors. My guitars were beautifully displayed and accurately described. All in all- a great experience ! Thank you! Forrest Newton Seattle, WA

Hi Joe! Just a note to tell you I received the (Campellone Standard) guitar yesterday in perfect shape, and have been playing it more or less non-stop since I got it!:-) ... the instrument is absoludely amazing! The intonation is perfect, the neck and playability is really smooth, and the sound is just what I hoped - classic jazz guitar, smooth but still with that nice rawness to it. Finest jazz guitar I have ever played! ....I must say it has been a pleassure dealing with you, everything from customer support, fantastic website with really good information, how fast you sent the guitar, and how fast it arrived safely to me, and of course the shape and quality of the guitar. All in all really outstanding shopping experience, and I will definitely be shopping with you more! By the way, my new Campellone went to work with me on the musical "La Cage aux Folles" the day after I received it, and it performed just as beautifully as I had hoped it would! (as well as causing dropping the jaw of my fellow musicians from it's stunning looks.... :-) Thanks, Morten Faerestrand, Bergen, Norway

Hi Joe! Today I've received your Gibson southern Jumbo (1952) and what can I say: It's the best Vintage Jumbo guitar I've ever heard and played! Even better than my beloved Gibson J-45 from 1950 which is also a great guitar! The SJ is loud with incredible strong middle and bass notes! You immediately hear every note you play and also the higher notes are clear, fat and loud enough! It's a great guitar for strumming but......it's much more better when you pick it! I play Blues, Ragtime, Swing or Folk tunes on it and for sure will play it on my next album as my leading Jumbo guitar! Thank you very much! You again did a great job! The guitar was packed very well and is exactly as good as you described it! Best regards! Edwin Kimmler, Landshut Germany

Dear Joe, Dec 3 the pick-up and stealth kit just arrived. I couldn't wait (you know us old guys). I just twist wired the pickup to the end pin and let her rip. BOOYA BABY! The sound is so retro its FANTASTIC. The pickup is like it's custom made for my guitars. I have a Gretsch G400 and a G400C. I did the measurements, but I never expected this. The pickup snugs under the guard like the cord plugs in the end pin. PERFECT! The guard is held on by 3 screws when 2 will hold it fine. The 3rd hole will be prefect for the micro toggle switch. Again PERFECT! With the end pin grounded to the tailpiece the hum is marginal. I really want to keep both these guitars stock, yet I want to amp. them to keep up with piano and drums etc and have them sound great, and now thanks to you, Joe, I can. THANKS JOE, YOU'RE THE BEST ! Gordon Jones, Vancouver, BC
Joe did a great job of handling the consignment of two family legacy guitars. In particular, the web page for each instrument was well done and provided the potential buyer with an excellent description and photos of the instrument. The process of following my consigned instruments on the website was convenient and allowed me to track the progress of the sale. I highly recommend archtop.com. Susan Huntley, Olympia, WA
I have both bought and sold guitars with Joe Vinikow at archtop.com, and I am an extremely pleased and satisfied customer. Joe is a pleasure to work with. He's very knowledgeable, efficient, and willing to share his expertise. In short, Joe is the consummate professional, and you could not possibly do better in your search for a great archtop guitar than to utilize Joe's wonderful services at archtop.com. Cheers, Neil Shopshire, Fort Collins, COHi Joe - The Triggs guitar came through the shipping well - ...It works very well and is a great instrument. I've played guitar all my life (I'm 58) and that guitar has the best "set up" / neck angle / action etc.. ever ! Great electronics too ! I'm very pleased with the value and service - and wanted to thank you for all your help Joe. Best of success to you - this guitar has a good home !! :~) John Beth -Reedsburg, WI
Joe, A thousand thanks for your support in the sale of my 7-string oval hole Borys achtop. That guitar is a very special instrument and I'm glad that its found a new appreciative caretaker... All is well. Thanks again Joe for what you do. Best regards, Michael Biller, Sound Island Music, Mercer Island, WA

Joe-Another successful sale! Your program is the best in the industry, bar none. Both sellers and buyers get top-notch service and value. When you can't put your hands on a guitar before buying, having your preparation and expertise in evaluating guitars is highly valuable. Thanks again, let's keep it up., Grant Castle, Southwest Harbor, ME

Joe, thanks for the quick sale of my Super 400. The page layout was excellent, and all my dealings with archtop.com were handled with care and professionalism. I'm especially pleased to know that the guitar I took pride in has found a new owner who is delighted by its qualities. Keep up the good work! Don McDowell, Arnold, CA

Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the Tal Farlow arrived this week. It looks and sounds great. Thanks again for shipping so quickly.This is a terrific instrument! Regards, Paul Wurster, Eugene, Oregon
Hi Joe, Thanks again for your help in allowing me to acquire this brilliant instrument (1932 Epiphone Deluxe), it won't stop barking on or off the bandstand! All the best, Ted Gottsegen, NYC

Joe, Thanks for handling the adoption of my Benedetto - your ad photos were beautiful as was the description. I look forward to selling more with you! Thanks, Herb Avery, Atlanta, GA

Joe, The 1968 ES-345TDC has arrived safe and sound and what a beauty it is too, a real classic exactly as descibed playing wise and look wise. This is my third purchase from you guys and as ever the service was impeccable. Keep up the great work. Best regards, Graham Sandford, London

Hi Joe!, Thanks for your advice! ...You're absolutely right, the 1931 Gibson L-4 is a great guitar! I am very surprised how much volume and bass this guitar has. And it's very versatile! Comparing to my Gibson LG-2 from 1951 the L 4 surprisingly sounds fatter! And I really have a great LG-2! I've never expected these effects from an archtop guitar! I really love to play old swing- styles but also Blues on it! So I hope you'll soon get another one of these fantastic archtop guitars to make all flat top players believe in the Gibson L 4 as a very fine acoustic guitar! Thank you very much and best regards from Germany! Edwin Kimmler, Landshut, Germany

Joe, The '34 Gibson L-5 guitar has arrived and I like and will enjoy it. Thanks again, T. K. Haruki, Kobe, Japan

Joe, I got the guitar ('05 Cardona Elegante) early this afternoon. After leaving it in the box for an hour or so, I opened it up. It's a winner! Well-packed and in one piece. You can't beat that. Thanks! G. W. Keyl, Anchorage, AKThis was my third sale with archtop.com. All three went for the asking price. Ed Hagen, Columbia SC
Joe, You found a new home for my Cardona Elegante in record time. I'm sure she'll take to the new owner's Alaskan clime. Thanks for the quick and professional results. In my book, you're the top purveyor of fine guitars on the web--thus in the world! Mike Lang, Sherman, Il
Joe, I was pleased to see you found the right home for my Devon. Your personal service is unmatched. I'll continue to recommend archtop.com as the place to buy or sell quality instruments. Len Carson, San DiegoHi Joe, The (Everett) Celona is keeper, a fine instrument, especially for the money. It is stunning both aurally and visually....That sound port makes it sound like its almost amplified. Thanks, Matt Hazeltine,Shorewood, WI

Hi Joe, Thank you again for such a smooth process for buying and delivery of my new guitar ('53 ES-150). The ebony finish on aged cream bindings is unique and the finish is fantastic for a 57 y/o guitar. I cannot be more happy and you are always so friendly on the phone it is clear you love your work. I have attached a photo showing the new guitar settling into home here in Australia and meeting some distant cousins. Thanks again - now just need to save up for my next purchase from you. Graeme Cross, Gosford, Australia.

Joe, You've got a deal with the '08 Palen, a great box for a good price! Be well, John I. Dale, Washington, DC

Joe: The Super 400 arrived, as well. Words cannot express........ After having played it for a couple of hours rehearsing with my swing band last night, I must say it exceeds expectations. It feels like an old friend (I've played a 1998 Gibson ES5 for past 8 yr - same neck feel). I got the action raised to where it needs to be, those big band chords really cut through. I have to raise the volume pretty high to get electric output louder than acoustic. The electric tone for soloing is "sweet as sweet potato pie" - the sound I have always sought but could never attain. Ray Joesten, Storrs, CT

Joe, The sale was so easy that the hardest part of the process was finding a box to put the guitar in. The rest of the process was fast, efficient and resulted in a win / win for me and the customer. Regards, Ed Gilbert, Houston, TX

Good Afternoon Joe, The '46 Triumph arrived in excellent condition and exactly as advertised. The guitar is loud, clear and as you mentioned, without any doubt, "the most bang for the buck". It was a pleasure doing business with you. Russ Bishop, Lincoln, RI

Joe, I received the (2008 Benedetto Bravo) yesterday. The guitar is in good shape and nothing broken in shipping. Just wanted to let you know you were right, it is a beautiful guitar in immaculate condition. I really Love it. It has great voice, a real sweet tone. I would like to commend you and your staff for your professionalism regarding this transaction. Thank you for your time and patience. Thanks again, Bobby Rambo, Dallas, TX

Hello Joe. I picked up the ol '36 Super 400 yesterday. What a fantastic guitar in excellent excellent condition, better than expected. If you ever want to buy a top notch archtop through a great dealer, Joe is the man to talk to. The 1936 Gibson Super 400 is a fantastic guitar in fabulous condition, worth every penny. Eric Harding, Saint John, New Brunswick Canada

Hi Joe, The '52 Gibson L-7N arrived on Monday ... Wow!!!!!! was my first impression. First off, thanks for the fantastic packing job and the way that you had the strings was pretty amazing. I've never seen that before but I can see that you really put thought into how to safely send an archtop!! I strung it up and tuned it up and adjusted the bridge a bit and away I went. I LOVE IT!!!!!!! It's everything I hoped for. Pure appealing tone, easy to play, drop dead classy and gorgeous. Add me into the "Extremely Happy Customer List"!!!!! all the best, Randy Fullmer, Woodland Hills, CA

Hey Joe, The west wind gently floated in the Zephyr Deluxe to me yesterday, and I didn't get around to letting you know until today, BUT that's because I spent all last night getting acquainted with this fine instrument. It's truly a beautiful unique object 'd music/art.. To whoever put the work/time/moola into constructing this fine guitar to its present state, I am VERY grateful, as well as to any previous owner(s) that kept it in such excellent condition. It's just as you described, Joe, and I thank you once again for taking the 'time-out' from your busy schedule to describe, play, and ship this to me in record time. As always, the setup instructions you send along make it so easy to get the guitar in hand and playing right away. This is definitely another keeper! Thank you!!!!! Brad Cornwell, Casper, WY

It was a pleasure doing business with you . The honest and great presentation that you gave my 1939 Broadway and 1922 Gibson A-3 white face mandolin, shows the care and professionalism that you take in your work. I highly recommend your service to anyone to sell any vintage or classic instruments. Thank you for the great prices you got for me. Mike Tweedy, Buffalo, NY
Joe, You sold our son, Vinnie, the Gibson L-5 Wes Montgomery this past Febuary. Vinnie loves the guitar, only plays it with a long sleeve buttonless tee, washes his hands before playing and wipes the guitar down after each use... All the best, Russell Johnson, Port Townsend, WA (You can see Vinnie and his guitar in an original ballad here -jv)

Joe, Your patience in the turnover of the Sadowsky Jim Hall Prototype was the key to a successful sale. I appreciate, as always, your persistence to get the job done. This was my second consignment with archtop.com, and I hope it won't be the last. Bob Perrey, Deerfield, IL
Selling my '45 L-5 was fast and easy. I am very impressed with your business setup, and your marketing skill. There is no way that I could ever reach the same amount of serious buyers via ebay or any other sort of dealer. The amount of trust that you have built up with your customer base is admirable. I really appreciate that I can use your consignment service and fair fees to sell my guitars that aren't getting the playing time they deserve. Kamlapati Khalsa, San Jose, CA
Dear Joe: Just wanted to let you know that the (1922 Gibson A-3) mandolin arrived safe and sound and on time. I could not be more pleased with the everything about it. Thank you for making it available and your professional help. ...I'm so throughly pleased, thank you. Ted Marshall, Berkeley, CA
I have always found your website to be a beacon of integrity and an invaluable mainstay of reliable information and wisdom regarding these grand old archtops. I have had the pleasure of receiving a '40s blond Epi Deluxe from you and have directed friends your way, which resulted in your guitars finding new homes and my friends acting like proud new fathers! As always, thanks for your dedication in keeping these guitars in circulation and making sure they continue to live on and do what they were designed for-making music. All the Best, Don Summers, Nicasio, CA

Joe, Just a quick note to tell you how much I love the ’46 Gibson L-7. As you know, she arrived two weeks ago and having spent her entire life in the dry air of Montana, she continues to settle-in down in this hot, humid climate in Houston. This is my third archtop from you and I couldn’t be more pleased. Once again your set-ups are impeccable…she truly plays like a dream. But, most of all I have to say that this guitar presents beautifully that elusive vintage acoustic sound from that era, warm, woody… authentic. My search is Over. Thanks a Kagillion !!!, Johnny M. Boatright, Katy, TX
Dear Joe, 1935 Gibson L-5 "Advanced Model" arrived today, It was safe with swiftness. This guitar satisfied me immediately, I played it at once. It is splendid low tone and balance. Many thanks !!!!!!! Tohru Seya, Ibaraki, Japan
I played an archtop about 30 years ago for about 15 minutes at a friend's house and never quite forgot it. I was a perennially broke music student at the time, and eventually set the guitar aside to do other things for a living, though I never completely quit playing. Some months ago I had an opportunity to trade for a somewhat beaten (but not broken) L-12, and that began my archtop journey as an adult. And, as I imagine most of us figure out, not many folks know as much as Joe does about archtops, and he has a fabulous collection of all kinds of the best of them for sale. ... I bought a Holst semi-hollow body from him, and then, finding that quite satisfactory, a Moll Workingman's Hero. Now I'm selling, through Joe, another instrument, and in all these dealings, I've found Joe to give the first rate attention, advice, and commentary that is not easy to find elsewhere from anybody. Having been bitten by the archtop bug, I know that next time I've got the resources, I'll get on a plane and go to one place -- archtop.com in Seattle -- to play guitars, visit, and figure out what my next gem of a guitar will be. Many thanks, Joe. Earl Weed, Houston, TX
Joe, Thanks for another quick and hassle free sale of one of the archtops from my collection. There is no doubt that you have the largest and consistently highest quality archtops in the business for sale. Whether you are buying or selling, you set the standard. Your Friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, KS
Joe exceeded my expectations of the sale of my guitar ('52 Devon) as well as my purchase ('53 L-4). The Gibson I bought has become my most prized possession and I play it almost every day. His description of the condition and sound was a very accurate representation of the facts. Packed and shipped in a very professional manner, I received the guitar in perfect condition. I was able to use Joe's packing materials, along with his instructions on the web site, to send my guitar to him confidently. My guitar was presented in the same excellent manner as all the other instruments on the site. Joe has a great grasp for market value and my guitar sold at a price that made me feel good. Now if I could just stop looking at all those beautiful guitars on his site. Richard Chapman, Mechanicville, NY
Hey Joe, Thanks so much for handling “absolutely everything” with the sale of my 1938 C-50 Vega. I would like to say to anyone reading this… that Joe Vinikow with archtop.com is the consummate professional. This is the guy we wish everybody would emulate in business. I had the unusual good fortune to meet with Joe personally, to set up the consignment sale of my guitar. As with anything new, I was initially a bit concerned about how it would all come together. This was my Dad’s guitar before me and it had never left our care and custody for 72 years. Amazing! After meeting Joe and spending about 30 minutes with him, I was completely at ease and convicted that this was absolutely the right choice , the right place, the right guy. Trust Joe V. and archtop.com ….you will be amazed and delighted. I thank you and my Dad thanks you Joe …Great Job !! God Bless ! and keep up the good work. Rich Salvaggio, Salem, OR
Joe, I'd be happy to add my kudos to the many listed on your site. It appears that your business is a success because so many of your customers have said the same thing I'm going to say. First, your marketing works: Your website is dominent when using a search engine to find archtop guitars, collector guitars, vintage instruments, etc. So, you deliver the type of customers that appreciate a good instrument and know it's value. Second, your advertising copy is the BEST: - The description is absolutely on target to build desire among customers and provide historical facts that build preceived value. I too, like others have stated, wanted to buy my Epiphone back after reading about it on your site. Third, your reputation for superb customer service and integrity is legendary. I came to you because a friend recommended you. And, when I listed with you I heard from many others saying, "Hey, I say your guitar on archtop.com" and "That guy know what's happening and will sell your guitar." OK Joe, I'm a happy customer and will be glad to recommend you to any buyer or seller... And I wish you the best. Not just because you sold my guitar. But, because I want to come back, as a potential buyer and look over your amazing inventory and read the beautiful descriptions of the instruments you offer. It's clear you share the passion for guitar that so many of your customers have.... THANK YOU for doing such a great job to sell my Epiphone! Sincerely, Gerry Grooms, Sioux Falls, SD
Hello Joe, I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for the great service. I love my Epiphone Olympic: it is everything you said it would be. Thanks again, Carmine Rocci, San Marcos, CA
Dear Joe, The (1940) Emperor (you restored) arrived in great shape. I am in the process of playing it in and letting it settle. Pretty amazing transformation.... from a pile of lumber into a functioning note cannon. Thanx for all the help and for rescuing this fine old piece from the brink of oblivion. I hope this finds you well and enjoying the springtime. Sincerely, Bruce Reynolds... Guam USA
Hi Joe, Great job on selling my L-5. The web page presentation was outstanding, and like many others may have stated made me want to buy it myself! Don McDowell, Arnold, CA

Joe made (selling my L-7) easy, has the knowledge, knows guitars like nobody else and I feel like my guitar selling experience with archtop.com was the best, absolutely pleased. Roy Schwilke, Omak, WA
Hi Joe, The 1940 Gibson L-37 arrived yesterday as described and in good shape. Nice guitar, I will take good care of it. Thank you Joe. Regards Torbjørn Stølen, Larvik, NorwayHi Joe, Thanks so much for finding my ES 150 a new home, it was a very low stress experience. Your description and pictures of the guitar made my me want to buy it back. I also want to thank you for the great experience when I came and picked out my 36 L 7. I played many great instruments and all of them were perfectly set up and played beautifully, that is an experience I have never had at any other guitar shop. I will be back. Thanks, Jay Somers, Portland, Oregon
Joe, I was thoroughly pleased with my archtop.com experience. Your written copy describing my guitar was excellently done and professional--the photos gave me pangs of remorse over selling it. In my opinion, another dealer would not have done quite as a good a job as you did in marketing the instrument. Best, Alexander Abruzzo, Hicksville, N.Y.

Hi Joe, Well I've had this beautiful blonde now for three weeks and she sounds better every time I pick her up. The other blonde in the house, I've been married to for 12 years and even as my staunchest critic, says the chords sound heavenly. You were absolutely right, for a 62 year old guitar, she is in exquisite condition and plays like a dream. This 1946 Triumph is my second archtop from you and I am way beyond impressed with both the quality of the guitar and the professional way you conduct your business....As always, my very best regards, Johnny M. Boatright, Katy, TX
Dear Joe, I received the Andersen 15 this afternoon, and have been playing it for the past half hour. I had to pause to tell you that it is such a wonderful instrument - beautiful to look at and it really sings. I really appreciate your assistance with this purchase. Your kindness, care, and knowledge certainly made the decision to buy much easier. I have been dreaming of owning a guitar of this quality for a long time. You've helped that dream come true. Thanks again, Neil Shropshire, Ft. Collins, CO

Joe, Took delivery of my 1963 Epiphone Deluxe "Black Beauty" archtop today and am thoroughly impressed with the whole experience that I've had with your shop: from the quality packing job to the well written "care and feeding" suggestions that you sent with the guitar its obvious to me that you care about your customers. Since I received the guitar at work little touches such as including a pick for me go a long way! Well done! Thanks a million. Edward Lott, St. Louis, MO
I've sold two guitars through Joe's shop. Both sold quickly even though the market for them was pretty thin. For the type of instrument that Joe tends to sell, I can't imagine sending a consignment to any other shop. This is THE place for archtops and jazz boxes. Thanks again, Mike Wilkins, College Station, TX
Thanks for the quick sale ('97 Unger American Dream.) I have been buying , selling and trading guitars for decades and your care and straightforward handling of consignments on your website is first rate. Thanks again, Bob Belmont, Saluda, NC
Thank you very much! Selling my guitar through archtop.com has been a very good experience. You have been very helpful, easy to deal with and very professional throughout the whole process. It has been a pleasure doing business with you. Rest assured, if I am in the market for an archtop, or have one to sell, I won't be going anywhere else. Thanks again! Greg Broadbooks, Claremore OK

Efficient and effective. Joe delivered on the price he suggested we sell my baby for, which was way more than I expected. Kudos to archtop.com! Thanks again--Robert Alexander, Madison, WI
Hi Joe, I received the guitar ('46 L-5) safe and sound yesterday. I set it up, and played it all evening. I love it. I am very satisfied as usual with archtop.com, as it is SO unusual the way that every guitar I see from you exceeds all my expectations. Will play out with it tonight, and I owe you a more thorough review in a few days. Kamlapati Khalsa, San Diego, CA
Joe, Just wanted to thank you for the speedy sale of my Lehmann gypsy jazz guitar. I had tried for quite a while to sell it, but consigning the guitar with you was definitely my best move. You had a very detailed description and a great picture up on your site pronto and the Lehmann sold amazingly quickly, and at a very good price. So, thanks again. archtop.com is a professional operation all the way! My best, James Mumm, Amherst, NY

Joe thanks again for selling my '47 L-7. All aspects of this transaction have been handled with concision and with class. I appreciate your expertise and the way you do business - always a pleasure. Steve Petac_45spartan_408erson, Seattle, WA
Joe, Thank you again for your thoughtful approach and deep knowledge of the art of the archtop in helping me select a "new-to-me" 7-string guitar. She's a very special instrument and I'm honored to be her next caretaker. archtop.com : highly recommended! Michael Biller, Sound Island Music, Mercer Island, WA (FYI: Sound Island is the #1 source for jazz amps worldwide. Thanks, Michael!)
Just before Christmas I decided that I would sell my beautiful ES-350. I Googled "Gibson Archtop Guitars" and found Joe Vinikow at archtop.com. Here I am, at the end of January and my beauty has found a new home. And at a good price. This was the smoothest online transaction I've ever done. I want to thank everyone at archtop.com. Thanks, Mike Curtis, Vallejo, CA
Thanks again for another great consignment ('53 L-12). I can always count on you for a definite sale!!! Thanks again, Steve Bravante, Paso Robles, CA
Joe, I just reviewed the list of guitars that we have collaborated on (for consignment sale) and the '49 Emperor makes eight, one per year since 2002. This one didn't get past the preview list. Len Carson, San Diego, CA
Hi Joe, I cannot express with words how much I appreciate the salesmanship and courtesy when dealing with you on the sale of my guitar. I now realize why you have such a good reputation for moving guitars that are consigned with you company. I've heard of musicians working for musicians, you and your employees truly a musicians friend. The contacts that you have worldwide, are loyal customers. I love the sound of the GypsyKat amp and the lightweight that I purchased from you company. If I ever need to sell or buy, I will check your website first. Good! Good luck in the future. Herman L. Thompson, Morris, OK
Hey Joe, Having concluded multiple transaction with your company I feel I am in a position to comment on the level of service provided by archtop.com. First , I would say I the communication was great and the process of selling moved along quicker than I expected. The exposure from your website is huge. I even had a couple of friend call me and ask if that was my guitar for sale. The web traffic ,photos and descriptions are second to none. I think when I list a instrument with Archtop.com I avail myself your unparalleled reputation for knowledgeable accrete descriptions of instruments which allow potential buyers to have more confidence when buying from Archtop.com any other dealer(or private party). Thanks, Greg Saer, St Peter, MN
I'd got in touch with archtop.com in order to sell an early D'Angelico Excel. I packaged it to their instructions and sent it over by courier. They very quickly located a customer who bought the guitar. I felt a great deal of friendship from archtop.com during our email exchanges regarding this transaction. Mike Robins, Bristol UK

Joe, You've designed an outstanding process for those wanting professional consignment service and should be proud! All looks good to me. Thanks! Edward Lott, St. Louis, MO
Joe, Everything about this New Yorker is superlative and beyond! When you said 'time capsule' condition and yet vibrant and open voice, you surely meant every word and still managed to understate how exceptional this guitar looks and, better, plays and sounds! I am more thrilled than I can possibly say. You are the Mensch! Thanks a million times for finding this glorious instrument for me -- and please pass on my gratitude to its previous owner for being such a respectful curator of this extremely fine example of D'Angelico's genius. Happy new year to you and Julie, and long live archtop.com! Elie Kleiman, Paris
Joe, thank you for finding a new home for my ES-175. This is now the second time you've located a buyer before my guitar even made it to your online gallery- very efficient and professional work! -Erik Barnes, Cambridge, MA
Hi Joe, Happy NY. (The '59 ES-175DN) arrived and I have had it set up. It plays beautifully and is as described by you. My guitar teacher - who has been around for a while - says it's the best he has ever played. Good to do business with you. Thanks. Cheers! Geoff Crewe, Toorak, Australia
Hi Joe, I haven't had a moment to sit down and write you a message since the Eastman 803-15 cleared Customs and arrived about 10 days ago. She really is a beauty! looks even better than in the photos. Plays great - never had 25" scale neck on a guitar before: gives great definition, but still allows for many of the extended chords that a 24.75 neck provides. The compact body is just right for me - also making it not too loud acoustically - so I won't disturb the neighbors with my night owl sessions. The 1 & 3/4 nut is the icing on the cake - being a finger style player on flat-tops, I feel right at home. Saw on your site: we've got Johnny Smith to thank ( among other things ) for bringing that Pre-War feature back to modern archtops. Never knew that! The packing as well as the instructions for fitting the bridge were first rate - extremely well done. I also noticed a set of Fender flats in the case - not without their own value - that's most appreciated. I'll definitely recommend your service to anyone I meet who's looking to buy an archtop. Many thanks, Best regards, Matt MacManus, London
Dear archtop.com: The 2003 New Yorker arrived in perfect condition, and was exactly as described on your website. At long last i have an instrument with a voice. God bless Jimmy D'Aquisto for the life he lived, and the living designs he left us with. The High Art of Inspired Design. Many thanks to the people of archtop.com for such a pleasantly elegant, wonderfully understated, and artfully designed website. It is a testament to the character of the people whose lives comprise archtop.com, who seem to understand, in the words of the Great & Recently Late Brother Blue (of Boston Radio fame) that; "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice", to which I would like to add, "and it's nice to know there are still people who care"...An especial thanks to Mr. Joe Vinikow for helping realize a dream of thirty years. Ray Fitzpatrick, Gainesville, FL
Hi Joe.... Just a brief note to say 'thanks' for all your efforts in getting my Byrdland sold. I appreciate the extra little push knowing that the outcome of an important family matter was riding on the sale of this guitar. .. The fact that you were able to sell it in a timely manner AND able to get the price I needed is just what the doctor ordered! In short... thanks for a job well done. Roger Kelley, Seattle, WA

It was an absolute pleasure working with archtop.com to find a new home for my prized Gibson '56 ES-175. From the detailed packing instructions (that even told me where to find a free shipping box) to the beautiful and detailed on-line presentation of the instrument, every detail was as promised with no exception, I could not have asked for more. I highly recommend archtop.com and would encourage anybody looking to buy or sell a fine instrument to trust in Joe. Lance Broell, Placentia, CA
Thanks a lot for finding a new home for my Ibanez Johnny Smith. The listing on your web site was excellent and the turn around was fast. I think the detailed and knowledgeable descriptions of the guitars on your site along with the top notch photography go a long way to giving potential buyers confidence that they will be making a good choice. It was a pleasure doing business with you and I look forward to doing so again in the future. Thanks again. Jay De Rocher, Bothell, WA
Joe, Guitar ('51 ES-175) bloody great, arrived in good condition, well packed. Many many thanks for your efforts and good communications. Hopefully not the last time I deal with you. Cheers, Dave Brinsden, Subiaco, West Australia

Hi Joe.....Wow, the '41 Broadway is amazing! She sounds great, is set up perfectly, and is beautiful as well. She's a keeper. Thanks for all your help....regards, Edwin Bomer, Corpus Christi, TX

Working with Joe and archtop.com is one of the easiest experiences you can have -- and one of the most enjoyable. I wouldn't hesitate to sell or buy from archtop.com, no matter what instrument you have to sell or are looking to acquire. They come highly recommended for their expertise and credibiity. And, Joe's got some smokin' deals! Try him out sometime: you won't be disappointed.- Bob Hess, Portland, OR
Thanks Joe! This is the third time we have done business, and I have nothing but admiration for the way you run your consignment shop; the web site is smart and fun, and the way you conduct business is straight forward and up front. I'm sure we will do business again; there are a couple of guitars on your list right now that are calling out to me! Don't tell my wife! Los Angeles, CA
Dear Joe, Many thanks for the excellent service. The little Eastman guitar (905CE) sounds great, now that it has had a fresh set of strings and a workout. They are fine guitars and are amazing value for the money. Keep up the good work with your endlessly entertaining, educational, and effective web site. Best wishes, Roy Lyness, MD, Belfast
Hello, Joe! I received the ('79 ES-175CC) guitar, today. It plays like butter and smooth!!!! You have really given me a great guitar. Thanks a whole bunch for the instructions on the bridge set up. You took the extra step in helping me get started on this super duper instrument. I was very impressed with how you took care of the packaging so the instrument arrived in pristine condition. You definetly deserve much praises for your extraordinary services!!!!!!! Thank you, Victor Hsiao, Huntsville, Texas

Dear Joe and team, Thank you for your superb sales interaction, information, prompt and correct delievery of my wonderful new/old (!) guitar ('48 Super 400). In a wildly overcrowded internet world you are setting a standard that most will never meet. I, for one, will return to your site regularly and when funds allow will certainly give the highest priority to working with you again. Many thanks, Christopher Mark de Groot, Greenville, NC

It's hard to imagine an easier and more pleasant buying and selling experience than working with Joe. When I purchased a guitar from him, he worked hard to get it just right; when I sold a guitar, he did all the heavy lifting to get a quick sale. Very nice! Johnny Calcagno, Seattle, WA

Dear Joe, Thanks a millions times for the expert packing and swift shipping, as ever. Not the least surprisingly, the Borys B-120 is a MASSIVE success. It basically exhausts a long quest for a first-class 17" electric jazz guitar in the same league as D'Aquisto made electrics. This guitar has it all, playability, tone, even acoustically it is surprising while notably feedback resistant. And the gorgeous looks come on top. I know that Roger Borys is to be thanked for his wonderful skills but you're coming a close second for sending that wonderful guitar my (very happy) way and fulfilling my quest. Thanks also to the previous owner for taking good care of that instrument. All the very best to you and archtop.com! Elie Kleiman, Paris
Hi Joe, Thank you so much for making the purchase of my new Victor Baker such a pleasurable experience, for welcoming me to your office and for jamming with me while I tried it out. Thank you also for your responsiveness to all my queries no matter how small. I am thrilled with my new instrument and would strongly recommend anyone purchasing a guitar to put archtop.com at the top of their list. Dick White, Winthrop WA
Hi Joe - I received the check today for the Special Series - thanks for the straighforward and hassle free service - all went very smoothly and I'll be happy to do business with you again should the opportunity arise. Regards meanwhile, Mark Campellone, Greenville, RI

Hello Joe, Thank you again for handling the sale of my guitars (Sadowsky, Unger, Gibson L-7.) I was very pleased with the help that you gave me in getting the instruments to you safely, and with the speed in which they were sold. I won't hesitate in buying or selling through you again. Two thumbs up for archtops.com. Luck and health, Frank McCrea, Victoria, BC.

Hey Joe: Got the 1937 L-75 back today and just wanted to say what a wonderful job you did on it. It's like a new guitar only with 70+ years of character.Can't wait to hear it after it has seasoned in. This is a very handsome instrument. I've got a 1934 L-5, player, I would love you to take a look at some time maybe early next year after I save a little up. Best, Dan Curran, Salinas, CA
Joe, Thanks much for spending the time with me and letting me play those nice guitars. Been playing the Benedetto Bambino all weekend, love it bunches. It really is a unique instrument, so light and resonant. Visiting you is hard tho - I fell in love too many times! Thanks again, you'll be hearing from me. Cliff White, Portland, OR

Hello Joe, I received the Heritage Super Eagle safely today. Thank you. It's a beautiful guitar. My customer will be pleased with it. I look forward to doing business with you again in the near future. Thank you again, Toshi Fukamori, Guitar Trek, Osaka, Japan
Thanks very much to Joe at archtop.com for a smooth and pleasant transaction. From start to finish my consignment deal was handled professionally, with prompt and straightforward communications, and a speedy sale. I look forward to working with Archtop.com again in the future. Peter Jung, Hudson, NY

"I think archtop.com is the best way to buy or sell a guitar. I couldn't present it to a buyer in a more professional manner, nor could a buyer get such a guaranteed perfectly set up and reviewed instrument. It is a wonderful service to both sides of the transaction. Grant Castle, Wilton, CT
...Every time I've visited Joe, he has been a true professional and gem of a person. A generous guitar lover and aficionado.. I'm certain we'll do business again, buying or selling, in the future. Dr. Peter Gouzouasis, Vancouver, BC
Hi Joe, The Borys Nylon arrived safely on Thursday and meets expectations! Sweet voice, perfect/durable construction, incredibly comfortable to play, consistent with the other Borys' I own. All the best, Patrick Bertholon, Versoix, Switzerland

Hey, Joe. the L-5 arrived about 2 hours ago and, as predicted, I can't put it down... I couldn't confirm its arrival to you without saying that, out of the box, it is the warmest archtop I've ever played, acoustically; and the pickup only adds to it. Neck feels amazing; and to my surprise and delight the refinished maple body looks authentic and lived in. More to follow, Joe Henry, S. Pasadena, CA
Heya Joe ! Man, am I glad I stumbled across your website ! The '64 Gibson L5C arrived safely, extremely well packed. I must say that our transaction was as smooth as one could hope for ! Thanks again ! Rob Greene, West Branch, MI
Hi Joe, Well, the 1940 Vega C-66 arrived safely, beautifully packed, I must say -- and has been settling in to the new environment. Played her a little this morning and wow, what a beauty. I can only assume she'll get even better, though it's hard to imagine Many thanks, Hanna Richardson, Syracuse, NY
Joe, This past Saturday I brought my new ’39 Broadway to one of our local jazz guitar icons, Dave Roos. Dave has been a fixture in the jazz scene here in Minneapolis for years and is very well respected player, teacher and general guru of all things jazz. Over the years, he has owned/played countless archtops ……he said that he felt this Broadway was probably the best sounding vintage Epi he has played!!! He really loved it... Michael Frederickson, St. Louis Park, MN

Joe, The '68 Barney Kessel arrived safe and sound and have been having fun with it ever since. It sounds, plays and looks great. Perfect through a little '66 Fender Princeton Reverb as well as a '65 2 x 15 Dual Showman. Another EXCELLENT guitar! Thanks again. Seth Kaplan, New Rochelle, NY
Hello Joe: The 1936 L-75 arrived safely. What a great guitar. You know, I have prized the ’29 L-4 that you sold to me a few years back for its open, woody tone. At the same time, I have always thought it would be great to find the same ‘vibe’ with a little more volume and midrange. Well, with its carved mahogany body and big round soundhole, the L-75 makes it happen in spades! Add to that the stunning original condition and the original GEIB ‘red stripe’ case, and we have ourselves a keeper. Thanks as usual for the great guitar, fast shipping, and sound advice. Best Regards, Scott Palmer, Santee, SC

Hello Joe, The guitar has arrived today in excellent condition, professionally packed - and for the first time since I order guitars, it was with the strings unstrung, to protect the guitar from anything that might have happened during transportation - thank you, Joe, for taking so much care in preparing the instrument before sending it to me !!! The GUILD X-700 STUART looks amazing, almost untouched, exactly as advertised on your site [ it looks maybe even a little better than in the photos posted on the site] ...Thank you again for the high standard of your company, and for the beautiful guitar I now own !!! All the best, Alexi Andries, Bucharest Romania
I own a Bose Pro sound system installation/contracting business, and have been in sales and service for about 30 years. My experience with Joe V. was thoroughly professional, like I would like to be treated, and how I like to treat our clients at Roth Electric Sound. Steve Roth, Mt. Pleasant, MI www.rothsound.com

Hi Joe... Thanks so much for selling my Epi Broadway for me! Even though I have been an eBayer for over 10 years, I felt that you would be able to handle the sale of this guitar better than I would be able to. Because of your unmatched expertise and passion for vintage archtops, I was right. Thanks again! Paul Murphy, Sutton, MA

Dear Joe, Thanks for selling my Epiphone Emperor for me recently. And while I’m at it, thanks for selling the Blonde Barney Kessel, the Epiphone Blackstone, the Epiphone Ritz, and other archtops of mine over the last five or six years. Thank you as well for all the beautiful archtops I’ve bought from you, that you later sold for me when it was time for me to part with them. Are we ever really the owners of these beautiful instruments, or are we simply their caretakers for however long we choose to keep them in our possession? We play them, record with them, or just hold them and look at them, to enjoy the beauty of their lines, their finish, their feel in our hands. And when it comes time to pass them on for another person to cherish, it is you that we choose, to find the next appreciative caretaker. You are truly doing God’s work for us archtop lovers and we appreciate your dedication to the guitars of these master builders and to us. I look forward to future dealings with you. Peter Corrigan,Ballston Spa, N.Y

Hi Joe, I was a little bit nervous when I opened the package. How was this guitar that I had just seen on pictures and heard on the phone ?? In fact, the guitar is in an incredible wondeful state for a sixty years old guitar. The sound is really clear and strong with a fantastic projection. The ideal instrument to play in big band. Playing this beautiful 1947 Epiphone Broadway is a real pleasure. Thank you joe for your friendly demonstration and your great professionalism. Laurent Petit, Toulouse, France
Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know the '56 ES-175 arrived safe and sound in London and is an absolute pearl in every aspect. It's exactly as described and plays beautifully. It's the second guitar I have purchased from you and I am sure it will not be the last. Kind Regards, Graham Sandford, London

Hello, Joe, What a beauty!!! I had seen so many photos of the D'aquisto Solo in the net, I knew every detail, but when I opened the case... wow!!!! You have to feel it, play it, touch it to believe what an incredible axe it is... The guitar arrived safely, just the day I expected, everything it's allright, very professional shipment, Like-new condition, just the same you said! Get me in your fully satisfied customer list. Thanks for all, Joe. Pedro Ledesma Ruipérez, Malaga, SpainI

received my funds for the sale of my D'Aquisto New Yorker . It appears the person who purchased the guitar is quite happy as am I. I would recommend archtop.com to anyone interested in buying or selling a quality instrument. The customer service is better than excellent!! I am delighted that I decided to have this great company handle the sale of my guitar. Keep up the good work Joe. Take care, Paul Farkas, Hoosick Falls, NY
Hi Joe, Thanks so much for finding my guitar a new home. It literally took less time to sell it than it took to DECIDE to sell it. And you made the process absolutely trouble free and easy. I'll certainly recommend your services to anyone without hesitation. I had no idea it was even possible to sell a high dollar archtop this easily. Thanks again. Jeff Messinger, Lake Oswego, OR
Dear Joe, Thank you for selling another archtop (Gibson ES165) for me. Over the years archtop.com has been extremely valuable to me. Being a complete archtop fanatic I like to buy new archtops gig them for a year or so and then sell them to buy another. Your great service affords me that luxury. You have sold every archtop I sent you in a very short time frame and you always send proceeds lightning quick. I wish you and archtop.com much continued success and look forward to our next transaction. Sincerely, Vincent Kowski, Redwood City, CA
Joe, I received the 1955 Epi Deluxe Cutaway last Friday and I have to say that it the best instrument I have owned in the past 30 years of playing...after hearing it played, you convinced me that I had made the right decision. It is a fantastic instrument and one that I will never part with. Thanks and I will do business with you again. Robert Jackson, Edmond, OK
Hi Joe, Thanks for your email. I'm glad the guitar arrived safely. I sincerely appreciate the way you treat your customers at archtop.com. You really live up to your fine reputation. Most sincerely, Fulton Yee, San Francisco
Dear Joe, The guitar (D'Aquisto New Yorker) arrived in perfect condition. Now when I say perfect condition I mean specifically that. It is better than you advertised. As you know I was on the fence about this guitar. You played it for me over the phone, A-B'd it with a similar guitar and repeatedly assured me that I would really be happy. I am. I realize this isn't our first transaction but you continue to amaze me. I guess it's possible I'd buy a guitar from someone else, but, there may also be a day when popsicles don't melt in hell. Thanks for pushing me in the right direction. As usual "Joe knows best". I'd wholeheartedly recommend archtop.com to anyone, anytime. You are the best, Thanks, Rick Weiss, Palm Desert, CA
Joe, Many thanks for selling my '92 Emperor Reissue. It's always been great dealing with archtop.com as a customer, and now, having you handle the sale of one of my treasured pieces, well, I knew the guitar would be in good hands and go to a good home. Well done, I know the new owner will treasure the guitar as much as I did. Thanks again and best wishes for continued success in finding and making available these great instruments. Paul Mimlitsch, Evergreen, CO
It's been a real pleasure to work with you on selling my Tal Farlow. It was a tough decision to make, but I knew from the first contact with you that it was the right thing to do. Your presentations are impeccable, the pricing is right on and the follow up service is outstanding. When I'm ready to get back into a serious archtop, you'll be my first and only stop. Thank you again for making this such an easy transaction. David Robinson, Sherwood, OR
Joe, I appreciate your help in finding the Epi (Devon) a new home. I knew that with your care and expertise it would all work out, and I look forward to working with you on future archtop sales and acquisitions....Thanks Again! Brian Delaney, Ann Arbor, MI
Thanks, Joe. I was very impressed with the manner in which my selling experience was handled. The pictures and descriptions were top-notch and the guitar ('53 ES-175) sold very quickly. Couldn't be happier. Mike Wilkins, College Station, TX
Thanks Joe, Just wanted you to know that I appreciate your quick response and refund. I'm sure you know that buying a guitar is an emotional as well as a practical purchase. You always offer the best in archtop guitars...as your correspondents illustrate with their happy responses. But, on the rare occassion where the guitar/human interaction fails to materialize, it is very good to know you have a problem free return policy. I'm sure all your customers appreciate this, as do I, and is another reason why I will continue to be a faithful customer. Your friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, KS
Hi Joe, Once again thank you selling another one of my instruments. I know you found a good home for my Guild Artist Award where it will be appreciated. I wish you all the best and hope to continue to depend on your expertise, help and assistance in the future. Sincerely, Lee Burton, Fox Lake, Il
Hi Joe, Love the guitar (1953 Epiphone Devon). You were right, this one won't be making a round trip. It looks, plays and sounds great! Thanks again for all of your help! Jeff Pecca, Lakewood, NJ
Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the 1953 ES-175 arrived safely in London – I’ve owned several 175s in the past but as you described, this one is a true gem and I won’t be letting go of it. Many thanks again and best regards, Steve Kardar, London
I've been playing, buying and selling guitars my whole life. I am grateful to Joe and archtop.com for impeccable service, responsiveness and, integrity combined with care and passion for fine instruments. Highly recommended. Rep. Paul Hodes, Concord, NH
Hey Joe, Noticed my guitars sold. Thank you so much. When I saw the presentation you did for the guitar I almost bought it myself! Any way dealing with you has been a very positive experience and all the praise you guys receive is well deserved... Thanks for everything. Sincerely, Omar Ahktar, Chicago, IL

Thank you a million times Joe, for another wonderful guitar. This 1928 L-5 is truly a fantastic instrument. When I opened the case, all I had to do was rub the venerable rims gently and repeat Kalamazoo three times... The genius of the guitar immediately appeared, looking every bit like Eddie Lang, clad in his tuxedo, with his carefully combed jet black hair... OK perhaps I should not have had three glasses of fine French wine with my lunch! But let me tell you what you already know: this instrument is killer. Best, Elie Kleiman, Paris Hi Joe, VERY HAPPY with the guitar (American Archtop 7 String), has a nice sound and plays well and for the price ya can't beat it. Please keep me posted if any high end 7's come up and I book marked the site to keep looking. Thanks Tom McDermott, Burbank, CA

Joe -Thanks, again for marketing my guitar. I was thrilled by the quick sale. I have received the proceeds and the money will be recycled into another quality archtop. It's been a pleasure dealing with you, and I look forward to future transactions. Greg Richards, Germantown, TN
I have been fortunate enough to live in proximity to Joe in the Great NW and have gotten to know him over the last several years. I have purchased a few guitars in the past and recently I had him sell another one for me. Every transaction has been positive, flawless, personal, gratifying and productive. What you the reader may not know about him is that he is also a player. Not a casual one, but a hard working, out on the scene, feet on the ground and hands on the frets everyday player. He teaches and performs as a living. Important to you as a potential buyer or seller? You bet. Any other player knows that what sets apart a good transaction or purchase from a great one is whether or not the guitar is understood as an instrument of trade, cared for, set up and scrutinized for playability and tone. To purchase a guitar without ever seeing it, hearing it or holding it, one must put tremendous faith in the words of the seller. Having intermittently played a few of these grand instruments over the years, the descriptions on his site are always spot on. Aesthetics, feel, tonal qualities, and overall gestalt are all accurate to a tee. How can you not feel the love of his trade and see the hours of research in the historic descriptions he shares? Before I conclude, let me share a few words to the person behind these beautiful boxes. I assure you, Joe is one of the nicest, most gracious and real people you'd ever be fortunate enough to meet. He is honest, sincere and dedicated, organized and thoughtful. His shop is impeccably maintained. Joe is not a nameless faceless guy pumping merchandise. He is a tremendous individual and a skillful artisan with an avocation for instruments and music. The archtop world is fortunate to have him and his site as the place to go whether for casual window shopping, serious purchase inquiries, historical review, selling or setting up your prized guitars. Mark Colombo, Arlington, WA
Dealing with Joe and archtop.com has been a most pleasurable experience. Not only did he describe the guitar accurately, if a little conservatively, he shipped it out ASAP... Now, if he'd only expand into high end flattops..Brad Little, Hamden, CT
Hi Joe, I recently purchased a Wes Montgomery L5 guitar from you. Thought I'd let you know the guitar was in my hands in less than 24 hours after finalizing the sale. That's a pretty quick journey from Washington to Southern California! I would describe the guitar as... perfect !! That's the only word that really covers it. I plan to keep this one for as long as I'm able to play guitar, and maybe even after that! As I expected, the tone is very nice, and the guitar is extremely easy to play, a bit of a surprise. ( Thanks for the help in placing the bridge on the guitar. )... I really appreciate the professionalism, integrity, and craftsmanship you have at archtop.com. I'm sure all serious musicians do, especially if they have had to deal with one of those big chain music stores. Hopefully, I'll do business with you in the future, perhaps when I restore my very worn but much loved 335. Thanks for your dedication to the art. Peter Bent, Goleta, CA
Hi Joe, I finally picked up the (Foster 7) yesterday from my local depot, who have been very helpful. It arrived in perfect condition, so thanks for packing it so well...Everything is exactly as you described on your website and it is in immaculate condition. Given it is four years old there isn't a mark on it. It certainly has a beautiful acoustic sound, which will only get better with playing and it sounded great through my amp too. So I am very happy and would like to thank you for all your help and excellent service. If you ever get any more interesting 7 string guitars, it may be worth letting me know. Thanks again for everything. Tony Marshall, Nerwton, UKDear Joe, I’m writing to thank you and archtop.com. I think your business is the best. My experience has been that archtop.com is top of the line in every aspect from service to selection. I’ve been accused of being a purist and I’ve always envisioned the archtop trade to be a “bricks and mortar” industry. This idea just doesn’t seem to exist anymore. In fact few if any cities have stores with such a great selection of top-value, top of the line guitars as archtop.com. What makes archtop.com really shine is the service and attention to detail. When a friend asks me where can they go to sell their archtop guitars I tell them “archtop.com, they’re the best’. Ned Boynton, San Francisco, CA
I had picked up a 1953 Epiphone Broadway in pretty rough shape, but saw the potential. I brought it to some prominent luthiers and shops here in Connecticut, and was frankly disappointed in the inconsistent diagnoses and estimates for repair. I took a leap of faith and sent the guitar to the west coast and to Joe at archtop.com. Joe was a pleasure to work with. The guitar was professionally and beautifully restored at a very reasonable cost. I enjoy finding the hidden treasures in the guitar world and getting them back into circulation. I've been at this for about 20 years now and have worked with many shops around the country and would highly recommend Joe and archtop.com. I have a new secret weapon for archtop restoration! Thanks again Joe - I hope we'll be talking soon, Doug Sager, Southington, CT
Joe, The (Super 400) has arrived. I am very very satisfied, it's a wonderful guitar with great playability and sound. Many thanks for all. Guy Barboutie, Paris

Dear Joe, I have two words for you.... Thank You. Now, let me expand on that... THANK YOU ! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! and THANK YOU ! After having the Broadway for 4 days, she had opened up so beautifully...warm, even and fretted like a dream. I thought then that if she stopped "playing-in" at that point, I had made a wonderful acquisition. However, much to my neverending delight, she is getting better by the day. Taking in mind that I play for hours each day, we have had ample time to get to know each other voer the last week or so. I just have one question for you...."How in the world do you part with guitars such as this?". Thank you for pointing me in the right direction. A VERY Happy Customer, Johnny Boatright, Katy, TX
Hi Joe, The Ibanez (L5) has arrived and it's so beautiful; both tone and appearance! Thanks again for the job you do. Best regards, Alex Mateu, Barcelona, Spain
Joe just sold my Ibanez L5, and I am impressed with his high caliber operation. His presentation of the guitars for sale is as intelligent and professional as any dealer anywhere, maybe more so, and his consignment policy is fair and efficient. Nice doing business with you, Joe....Thanks again. Next time I am in Seattle, I'll drop by. John Barton, Duarte, CA
Dear Joe, It's been a couple of days since I received, here in Paris, France, this wonderful Lacey Argonaut. It makes me such a happy and lucky guitar player, and there's two people I need to thank for that: Mark Lacey, for building an outstanding guitar that couldn't have been better to me if it was made for me, and Joe Vinikow, who made it possible the guitar to be mine. Joe, you're doing a great job, I would definitely recommend you to any one looking for a great archtop, and I'll keep my own eyes on your website in the future. Best, Fabian Daurat, Paris
Joe: I wanted to write to tell you how thoroughly impressed I have been with my experience in selling a vintage guitar through your company. Recently, I placed a 1969 Guild Artist Award with you on consignment. I had owned the instrument for 33 years. Despite the current economic recession, you had arranged its sale for the asking price within only a few weeks. Your pre-sale appraisal of the guitar proved to be experienced and dead-on accurate. The presentation of the guitar on your website was extraordinarily detailed and well-informed, emphasizing the instrument's unique features with insight and specificity. Also, your pre-sale refurbishing of the guitar was expert, and was accomplished at a very reasonable cost. I should mention, for the sake of comparison, that some years ago I placed the same guitar on consignment at a top Nashville guitar store, but did not receive appropriate offers, and ultimately had to take the instrument back. What a difference it made to present the instrument in such a professional manner to potential purchasers who could appreciate the rarity of its characteristics! If I ever sell another vintage guitar, I would be delighted to request your services again. Jonathan Rich, Winter Park, Florida

Dear Joe, I got the proceeds for my guitar sale today. You must have sent it by lightning bolt. Thank you for the super fast payment. Always a pleasure to do business with you. You will be hearing from me again very soon. Sincerely, Vincent Kowski, Redwood City, Ca.
Hi Joe, Good morning. My D'Angelico has arrived safe and sound. She is a beauty and far outweighing my expectations. She will be much loved and well played this side of 'the pond'. I knew instinctively when I read the many testimonials on your website that I would, at some time, be posting my own. Thank you so much for your kindness and help. Kindest regards, Bob Greenhalgh, Greystoke, Cumbria UK
Joe did a great job helping me select the perfect instrument to compliment my playing style - the Fender-D'Aquisto Ultra is truly magnificent, and the transaction was a breeze. Thanks,Mike Caldwell, Norcross, GA
Joe, Many thanks for selling the Hofner for me. The pictures and description were so great that I wanted to buy my own guitar. I didn't realize it was such a nice archtop: your research is topnotch. I will certainly return again to consign my guitars and hopefully to buy one of my dream guitars: if I can find the guitar of my dreams anywhere, it will certainly be on archtop.com. David Aline, Portland, OR
Joe, The '49 Gibson L-50 arrived in perfect condition, and I am ecstatic. I love this guitar, and even with medium guage strings it is a breeze to play. This was a great deal, and I thank you! Given my guitar mania, this may not be the last you hear from me...
Regards, Bruce Brogdon, Houston, TX

Hey Joe, Having concluded multiple transaction with your company I feel I am in a position to comment on the level of service provided by Archtop.com. First , I would say I the communication was great and the process of selling moved along quicker than I expected. The exposure from your website is huge. I even had a couple of friend call me and ask if that was my guitar for sale. The web traffic ,photos and descriptions are second to none. I think when I list a instrument with archtop.com I avail myself your unparalleled reputation for knowledgeable accrete descriptions of instruments which allow potential buyers to have more confidence when buying from Archtop.com any other dealer(or private party). Thanks, Greg Saer, St. Peter, MN
Dear Joe, I collected the (1934) Gibson L-7 today, from my local post-office. The word "awesome" is much overworked, but there are times when a rose should be called "a rose" and a guitar described in such seemingly hyperbolic terms. In fact, to prove I'm not adjectively challenged, let's call her: "bloody awesome"! I'm in love with both the guitar and your packing department for making sure the 5,000 mile journey treated my new-found with the respect she deserves! Please add my name to your ever-growing catalogue of admirers, and please accept my heartfelt thanks for all your help in making this a remarkably painless transaction. Speechless, with just the strength to type these few words! Kindest regards Andrew SJ Stoddart, Barnet, UK
The '46 Emperor arrived safely today, thank you for the careful packing and quick shipping. It's beautiful, just as you described. This was my first purchase from archtop.com but not my last. I'm already squirreling away funds for the next one. Thanks, Jay Van De Velde, Seal Beach, CA
Hello Joe & Julie, A note of thanks to both of you for all your kind help and the time you took with the purchase of the Super 300. Being able to compare a guitar from your current inventory (the '36 L-12) that is very similar to my '35 L-12 with the Super 300 and the two Emperors there was incredibly helpful and very illuminating. I'm definitely a "Gibson Guy". The buttery power and resonance of the Super 300 compliments the warm, open sweetness of the L-12 perfectly and your suggestion of dividing the chord chores up as fingerstyle and plectrum is a good one. I now know why they're called Super 300s ... they are that. I don't know where the maple in this guitar came from, probably Michigan, but it'll be living among the maples of northern Vermont for the duration. Many thanks, Ryk Loske, Glover, Vermont

Hi Joe, Thanks for the great job on the (1940) Epiphone Broadway. Really a great old guitar which plays remarkably well and seems to have a built in reverb! Old spruce does matter! Best regards, Jim Silvestri, Woodcliff Lake, NJ
Joe, the condition of this 1989 Gibson ES-175, which arrived so lovingly packaged, is just as wonderful and immaculate as you described on your Web site. And its playability is a thrill every time I pick it up! What really amazes me is that it's completely free of dents, scratches, checking or any kind of wear. It's almost as if this 19-year-old guitar has never been played, except maybe on Sundays by a little old jazz-lady, who never went faster than one whole note a measure. As a first-time customer in such a rush that I didn't even read a sampling of the Friends' comments before ordering, I have been immensely gratified to discover that you treat your customers with the same first-class professionalism that you give the guitars for sale. Your regard for buyers is shown, on the telephone and in your shipping, to be utterly gracious, friendly, helpful, and honest. You're truly a class-act of the first degree, Joe! Thanks! David Baker, Georgia
Hello Joe, The blonde 1940 Gibson L-7 arrived safely today and exactly as described. I am a VERY satisfied customer. Thanks so much. Best of luck and continued success. Captain Allen Ross, Highland Heights, OH

Hello Joe, Today I received the Polytone Amp in my home. I´d like to thank you for the sale and the shipment. Every thing is OK. Was a pleasure to me buy the Amp from you. I will recommend Archtop to my friends.Thank you one more time. Regards, Clayton Roger, São Paulo, Brazil

Joe, This (consignment) experience was just stellar. All my questions were answered quickly. I would not hesitate to sell another guitar through you in the future. I will also make archtop.com my first stop when it comes time to purchase another instrument. The depth of knowledge and care afforded are unparalleled. Best regards, Glen Hall, Costa Mesa, CA

Joe -- The guitar got in this morning. It's in one piece, it's a beauty, its neck profile is to die for, and its acoustic voice is awesome. All expectations exceeded! Many, many thanks again for faster-than-lightning shipping and super safe packing as always. I understand why this Gibson Johnny Smith was Chuck Wayne's choice. Every word you wrote was true. This guitar clearly has it all and more. In a world where guitars are sometimes traded like second-hand cars, you do make a huge difference: professional, knowledgeable, reliable, trustworthy and ever enthusiastic and friendly. This is the third first class instrument I purchase from archtop.com and certainly not the last one. I know I'll also rely confidently on you to sell some of my vintage guitars and I look forward to our restoration projects. All best, Elie Kleiman, Paris
Hi Joe, Just to let you know I received the Dupont MD30 today. No issues, exactly what I hoped it would be. It will probably be even better with a new set of Argentines. It looks like it was hardly played-- apparently somebody bought it and kept it in the case (which is also in great shape) for a decade and a half.... Thanks again. Best, Barbara Daniels, Bethlehem, PA Hi Joe: I can't believe you sold the '34 L-10 already...you are unbelievable! Regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY
Joe, just e-mailing you to let you know how pleased I am with your work on my McCormick archtop. The ebony bridge really opens up the sound and it looks great too. Thanks for doing such a great job on the setup as well. You really are the archtop specialist. Best regards, Steve West, Columbus, GA
Dear Joe, Thank you so much for the experience! I was able to come into your shop, strum your inventory and talk guitars with you. You sold my L-4N in only a few weeks and met my target net gain, while making my old baby shine like new. I am so pleased to know that my little blonde will be traveling the world, perhaps on stage, and strutting her stuff. It sure beats staying home Saturday nights! Perhaps, should our roads cross again, I'll get to see her shine one day. Thank you, again, Ron Moore, Longview, WA
Joe, The ('57 L-5CES) has just been delivered to me without problem. It is just how you've described it, very accurately indeed. Perfectly clean. Altogether, a great old L-5 that plays and sounds superb. Thank you for a perfect business! Roland Goerg, Switzerland

Joe, I received the American Archtop guitar today and I must say it's in wonderful shape. The directions and attention to detail in regards to packing is amazing. Thank you again for the great service. Dennis Cox, Austin, Texas

Joe, Thanks for finding new homes for my two 1936 Gibson round-hole archtops: the L-4 a couple months ago, and now the L-75. It has been a pleasure doing business with you, and it's good to know that both guitars are now in the hands of faithful archtop lovers, and will continue to make beautiful music for decades to come. If I ever have other vintage guitars to sell, or am in the position to buy, I will certainly contact you. Thanks again!" D.D. -Michigan

Joe, This '39 Super 400 is fantastic! It's everything I've ever wanted in Gibson guitar and it has a sweetest, richest tone these ears have ever heard from an archtop. Thanks so much for finding this treasure. As usual your packing job was top notch. Warmest regards, Don Tycholis, Tampa, FL

Joe, Thank you for your assistance in helping me sell my Patrick James Eggle guitar! My experience consigning my guitar was great! You were very helpful and thorough throughout the entire process. It was just like I read it would be like on the website. I would highly recommend going through archtop.com for any consignment needs. - Andrew Paterik, South Holland, IL

Dear Joe, thank you very much for selling and wonderfully packaging this Trenier 17 Special to me. It is a wonderful guitar, as I expected it to be, and your customer service was top-notch. Keep up the good work, all the best. Felix Majou, London

Hi Joe, I just received your check for the proceeds from the two guitars ('46 Emperor, '88 X-500) you sold for me. Thank you so much. I had a good friend who recently passed and his wife asked me to liquidate the instruments. I tried on ebay but I found I knew very little about marketing high end guitars. I put my trust in archtop.com and you handled the sales in prompt, equitable and professional manner. Thank you again. Chuck Preston, Spokane, WA

Joe, I just want to tell you how much I love this guitar (1945 Epiphone Spartan) that I got from you a few months back. Nothing matches its sound or playability. If I had to pick one guitar for the "desert island" scenario, this would be it. Thanks again, Norm Ayotte, Pasadena, CA

Joe, This '38 ES-150 ROCKS! (Ok, JAZZES!) Exceeded all expectations. Ultra resonant and easy to play. I've wanted one since I was 19 and never found one until now with this fine example. Needless to say, a few decades have passed in the interim but I'm making up for lost time now. The practically mint original hard shell case is an added bonus! Again, a pleasure doing business with you. Your knowledge, dedication to detail and excellent customer service are much appreciated. Seth Kaplan, New Rochelle, N.Y

Dear Joe, Just a quick note to thank you for your great work in selling my Benedetto. I was amazed that you were able to sell it before you had a chance to fully list it on your website. The entire transaction was perfect. You told me what would happen. The you made it happen. Then you told me it happened and sent me a check before I could say thanks. So.... Thanks. E commerce without losing the personal touch. The world would be better with more people like you, Regards, Rick Weiss, Palm Desert, CA Hi Joe, the Moll Express is with me since Monday... The real fact is that the guitar is exactly what I would like it to be and that's a really good thing. A set of fresh flat strings and the thing just booms. I love the tone, the sustain, the volume, the evenness along and across the fingerboard and of course the playing ease. Thanks a lot. Regards, Antony Tsetsos, Halandri, Greece

Joe, I was very pleased with the whole (consignment) process. You were very helpful with shipping recommendations, and the listing page, historical info, and photos were very professionally done. You made it easy for me to find a new home for my L5-S. I will definitely be back in touch when it's time to sell (or buy) another vintage guitar. Thanks very much.-Erik Barnes, Cambridge , MA

Joe, The '46 Emperor (+ cutaway and humbucker) arrived as promised and once strung up, has me chanting the they don't make 'em like this anymore mantra. The neck does in fact sit smartly in the palm and the guitar sounds so good I'm going to put off re-stringing it with new. Thanks to your cleverly marked masking tape the intonation is strobolicious on the first try. I get it now. Please re-designate as "sold" as sworn by me, one satisfied customer on this day, June 4, 2008. Ralph Mason, Salt Lake City, UT

Hello Joe, 1936 L-7 arrived! SO GORGEOUS I AM STUNNED.!!! Even case was very fine....Many thanks! Patrick Smith, Stockholm, Sweden

Thanks so much for that FAST sale (Gibson '34 L-5 RI). You didn't even give me enough time to change my mind. Thanks again, and all the best. Clint Oakley, Miami, FL

Thanks again Joe, I knew that someone in your knowledgeable clientele would appreciate my guitar (2002 Rumley Custom). This completes our fourth transaction together, in a seamless, effortless, expeditious manner! Ernie Pugliese, West Chester, PA I found archtop.com to be unique in its scope of instruments, customers and service. This is one stop shopping. I both purchased and sold an instrument through archtop and couldn't have done nearly as well by myself. I was able to purchase a genuinely excellent vintage instrument that is now used daily and gigged with weekly. The instrument that I no longer had a use for now has a productive new home. All is well. You get what you pay for. Allen Jones, Beaufort, NC

Joe, Just a quick note to thank you once again for another highly satisfying transaction. I've been buying by phone and over the Internet for 30 years and I continue to be impressed with the consistent level of quality you deliver to the guitar buying experience. The choice guitars, your detailed writeups, the spot-on setups and restorations to make the guitars right, timeliness of communications, and commitment to customer satisfaction are some reasons why I keep coming back to archtop.com. Warm Regards, Don Tycholis, Tampa, FL

Hello Joe, I wanted to write and say my experience using the services of archtop.com to sell my guitar (Foster St.Charles) was truly a remarkable one. Your description of my guitar was right on the money, the photos were excellent, and the on-going communication superb. I have the archtop.com web site saved into my favorites and I look at it several times a day. Next time I want to buy or sell a guitar I will definitely contact you first. Best Regards, Don MacArthur, Spokane, WA

Thanks Joe, I just realized I've bought 2 guitars and sold 8 through archtop.com over the years. It's a true must-have resource for any guitar lover. Even when I'm not looking for a new instrument, I browse your site just for a history lesson. Rik Wright, Seattle, WA

Joe, I can hardly stop smiling as I have just managed to put down this awesome guitar (1951 Emperor Regent) in order to write you this note. I consider myself very fortunate to own this wonderful instrument. As you said, stunning looks aside, this Emperor plays itself. Not only is the instrument in perfect condition (great job, very accurate description) but the neck is truly too good to be true... The neck is unbelievably comfortable, fast and easy. The mother of all comfy and fast necks I would call it... The voice of course is classic Emperor at its best. As powerful as my 1940es full body, same marvellous reverb, and wonderfully open. This is the second über-archtop that I buy from you Joe. You rightfully can call archtop.com the most trusted market place for the finest archtops! Enough said... The Emperor is begging to be played... Merci beaucoup et amitiés de Paris, France!, Elie Klieman, Paris

Joe, The '53 Triumph Regent is a corker! And to top it off, a guitar of mine sold the day after. Thanks for the great service. Regards, Sean Parker, Sydney, Australia.

Hi Joe, Just a line to say thanks for your help,and how pleased I am with my purchase.Everything about the deal was great,from the initial conversation,to the arrival of my guitar. I would recommend anyone to deal with you. The service you gave me was superb. Cheers, Richard Ball, Bradford, UK

Hello Joe .... This '34 Gibson Round Hole L-4 is just a phenomenal guitar! I can't keep her out of my lap .... and as light as she is ... you barely know she's there. A voice to die for with looks to match ... what's not to like? The old Gibson archtop with the round hole is just an all around winner. Along with her '35 L-12 sister, purchased from you, I now have all the bases covered for trad jazz ... ragtime ... old timey .... swing ... whatever. Many, many thanks. I may not be your biggest customer with three purchases and two sales thanks to your great efforts ... but I sure as hell am the happiest! All the best, Ryk Loske, Groton, VT

Hi. Joe, The Benedetto Bambino arrived today in perfect condition..after the setting the bridge I played it through my Deluxe Reverb and an AER alpha. Such great tone. From great jazz/blues to acoustic like tones it really does it all. My teacher thought it is such a light and perfectly balanced instrument. Really impressive .After all the guitars I have sold with you it was really great to purchase one from you! Thanks again Joe. Best regards..Dennis Easter, Lebanon, PA

Selling my guitar on archtop.com couldn't have been any easier. After shipping my guitar Joe took care of the rest - the great photos of my guitar; the detailed description; and all interactions with potential buyers". Joe immediately responded to my e-mails and phone calls. Thanks for the great work! David Bernstein, Phoenix, AZ

Joe - I picked up the guitar (Ibanez L-5CN) from UPS. Everything was shipshape. It strung right up no problem and now we are in the groove. Thanks very much. Next time I am in Seattle, I will drop by. Thanks. John Barton, LA, CA

Joe,...Your website is outstanding. Many guitar websites don't supply even the most basic information that one needs to know in order to decide whether or not to buy. Your verbal descriptions provide all pertinent details that a prospective buyer could want and are extremely well put besides. Regarding my experience in consigning the Petros, you have been easy to get along with and pleasant to do business with. I wouldn't hesitate to contact you again about buying or selling a guitar. Ross Miniter, Valley Center, CA

Hey Joe, The check (for consignment proceeds) came in the mail yesterday. Thanks for the quick turnaround. Hope to have business with you again. Best, Adam Ackerman, Boston, MA

Dear Joe, Thanks again for selling my L-5. As always, it was a pleasure to work with you. Whether buying or selling, you provide an amazing service and a great website. Best, Mike Rovine, State College, PA

This is my second purchase from archtop.com and again Joe was extremely friendly and helpful in completing this sale. My new addition the Fender D'Aquisto Ultra, far exceeded my already high expectations. I have played it for about a week or so pretty much nonstop!!! ...this ULTRA is nothing short of amazing!!!!!...The light build and superior open resonance is remarkable. I can easily compare it anything I own... I love it Joe!!! Thanks again and best of luck. Hope to buy another from you if you come across one again. Let me know if you do as we would have another great and easy sale. George Trksak, Watertown, MA

Hi Joe, The Magnolia is sounding better everyday - it's a gem here's a few words in support. When I looked over the Archtop.com website it seemed almost too good to be true - an oasis of beautiful guitars sold by a heck of an honest, extremely personable and super knowledgeable guy (at least according to the satisfied customers). With a bit of incredulity in my heart I gave Joe a call - ordered a spectacular archtop by the super talented Bryant Trenier (maybe the finest young luthier to come along in a quite awhile). A few weeks later after I had paid the guitar off - it came in the dead of winter perfectly packedand in perfect condition. I can't recommend Joe And his wonderful Archtop.com enough - if you are looking for a special guitar look no further, this is one of the best places in the world and THE best place on the Internet to make such a purchase. Joe thanks again look forward to speaking with you again soon, Best, Jon Wang, Scotch Plains, NJ

Joe, The AI amp is in my home in Denmark now. The transaction (I think number six or seven between us) went as always quite troublefree. I have tested the amp with my Gibson Johnny Smith a few hours now and everything seems to be as splendid as I have been told or even better. Thanks a lot. Greetings, PeterMoefelt, Horslunde, Denmark

Thanks Joe, Thanks for selling my '51 ES-175; I'm sure it went to a good home. This was just another very favorable experience! I've been on both sides of the transaction with you - several times now - as a buyer and a seller, and each time has been a very comfortable experience. It's easy to see why you continue to be successful! Best regards, Ray Gargiulo, Massapequa, NY

Hi Joe, Thank you, sir! The guitar (1945 Epiphone Zephyr Deluxe) is everything I had hoped for. It sounds amazing and plays like a dream. Thanks for all your help! I look forward to doing business with you again. Until then, take care! Best, Sam Raver, LA, CAJoe, I was delighted with the experience of working with archtop.com and would not hesitate to sell or purchase a guitar through Joe in the future. Andy Cowan, Portland, OR

Dear Joe, Just wanted to express my appreciation for your fine effort in finding a new home for my vintage archtop. The entire experience was enjoyable, and handled in a totally professional manner. My hat's off to you! Larry Moser, Lake Havasu City, AZ

While I hated to part with the Gibson ES-165 Herb Ellis, your prompt and professional service has made the process as painless (dare I say convenient?) as possible. Plus, it's reassuring to know that the guitar has found a new home with a satisfied customer at the other end. Many thanks, Joe. Best, John Rodrigue, North Easton, MA

Hi Joe, ...the blonde lady (1953 Epiphone Zephyr Deluxe Regent) has found her new home in Parma's quiet countryside and looks ready for a new active happy life. She looks very sweet and sings very well. There is no doubt that, beside her beauty, her mellow and woody voice will enchant all my friends and maybe make them jealous. She arrived yesterday, I don't know her very well yet but I am already sure that she will make me even happier and she will feel comfortable with her sisters Gibson ES-150 and Vega E-201 ... since they come from your place...and are all about the same age......ciao amico, a presto, Christian Laurent, Parma ,Italy

Thanks so much for your great service. After years of buying and selling serveral guitars through your company, I feel I have found a wonderful resource that I can easily go to with confidence for buying and selling the coolest guitars ever. It's truly been a pleasure dealing with you and I look forward to calling on you again soon. Thanks again, Dave Blair,Vero Beach FL, p.s. That little Bourgeois OM Custom continues to blow my mind.....thanks for turning me on to it.

Hi Joe, Thank you for moving my Dunn Mystery Pacific into a new home in short order! I highly appreciate the trusted service you provide. You have a great site and it's one of the first places I look, when I'm looking for an addition and/or change with instruments I may be using. I highly recommend your site to any Jazz guitarist looking to buy and/or sell. Again Thank You, Lee Burton, Fox Lake, Il

Hi Joe, Thank you for your assistance in selling the ('97 L-5CES). Your professionalism is exemplary, and it is easy to see why archtop.com has maintained such a high reputation. Best regards - John Nunnari, Covington, WAI'm delighted to learn about the quick sale of my Albanus. Much quicker than I expected! Every part of the whole experience was first-rate, from communication, to preparation, to presentation, to sale. I've been around music and guitars since Truman was President, and believe me, archtop.com, and your attention, are the best. Many thanks. Bob Perrey, Deerfield, IL

Hi Joe, I actually ended up getting the ('33 Epiphone Olympic) a day early on Thursday. Wow... what a guitar! The volume, tone, and playability all surpassed my expectations. It appears to be in really good shape as well, given that it is 75 years old. Thanks again for your help in getting the guitar to me. Thanks again! John B. Everhart, Nashville TNHello Joe, The '46 Epi Spartan arrived without any hitches. It looks and sounds great, and is everything I hoped it would be. Thanks, Michael Connors, Plain, WI

Joe...I'll tell you now, when people are leery and somewhat mistrustful of doing business over the net, archtop.com is the absolute prime example of trust, professionalism, and a complete understanding of its customer's needs--all without a single meeting face-to-face, or even a phone call! Best, Tom Hughes, Upper Jay, NYDear Joe, The Gibson L5CES arrived safely yesterday. I'm absolutely delighted with it. It seems like it's hardly been played ...Will give it the love and attention it deserves. Thank you so much, Antony France, East Sussex, UK

Joe, This (Tele Custom) is a great sounding guitar...it has a lot of chime and this is super light weight ...hot PUs and great neck... ...thanks a lot for being patient and cool on all questions and getting back quickly...I would deal with you and your store anytime Best of luck and long life to archtop.com Sincerely, Michel Pepin, Canada

Dear Joe, My "new" '46 Epi Blackstone was delivered on Thursday as expected. Well packed as usual, and when unpacked it tuned right up. The condition is everything you said and more. You really could of talked up the great condition of this guy more than you did. When I order a 1946 "sort of low end model," I really don't expect anything this pristine, so this guy is really a treat. I appreciate that the words and the pictures on your website describe the guitars so well but tend to understate their condition and their greatness. You are my first choice of all on-line vintage guitar dealers. It was well setup, and the .013 strings feel lighter than expected. Right out of the box, the first chord said that this guitar was a beauty. Sweet, warm, smooth, great articulation and string balance, but not quite the attack of my L-5. Its character and voice are unique and this is what will keep it near the front of my lineup. I see why you extol the virtues of these 16" Epiphones. Other than the simple trim and aesthetic, it is hard to see these guitars as low end models. The wood and finish compare to much more expensive models, as do the construction techniques and quality. I especially like the suspended neck, which puts this guitar in different class than the comparable Gibson's that I have played. Although the art of high end archtop construction seems to have been revived in recent years, I would love it if modern builders could learn some lessons from this model. Finally, thanks for the Pick-Up-the-World Powestrip pickup installation too. Even through my Fender Deluxe, the pickup is remarkable in capturing the true acoustic sound of the guitar. Again, I was pleasantly surprised, this is no ordinary piezo sound! Keep up the great work and keep those great guitars coming. Kind regards, Kamlapati Khalsa, San Jose, CA

Hey Joe, I love that '46 Epiphone Spartan! It's everything and more than advertised! Thanks for the easy transaction and wonderful headache free purchase. Shipping from Seatle to Massachusetts can be mentally stressful, but the guitar was nicely packaged and the tracking number made the wait fun to watch with anticapation. I can't wait to get another guitar from you guys! Thanks again, Matt Robbins,Worcester, MA

Dear Joe, Thank you for selling my guitar ('05 Cushman Trophy) and finding a happy home for it. You provide a great and professional service for us archtop lovers. Looking forward to doing business again with you. Keep up the fantastic work. Vincent Kowski, CA

As you have skillfully and successfully sold a number of guitars for me in past years, I am confident that there is no other company that I would choose to work with. Thanks for your professionalism Joe. George Rubaloff, Ashland, OR

Joe, Just received ('39 Triumph sent by owner to archtop.com for restoration) She is BEAUTIFUL!!!!!! I can't tell you how impressed and happy I am. (Pause while I string her-up) SOUNDS AMAZING!!! You're the best!!! Warm regards, Don Howard, Louisville, KY

I had an expectation, based on past experience with archtop.com, that the experience of selling my guitar ('30s Bacon and Day Ramona) would be a pleasant one all 'round, but I must say I was a little shocked at how quickly and smoothly it all went. Thank you so much! Best wishes, Chris Wilding, Calabasas, CA

Joe -- Thanks so much for selling two great guitars for me ('47 L-5, '33 Broadway). I've bought, and now sold, multiple items through archtop.com and know I can always count on you for handling the coolest gear! Many regards, Gretchen W. , Bakersfield, CA

I am thrilled to say that this wonderful looking (1971 D'Aquisto) Excel looks and sounds as wonderful as I dreamed it would - it has already pushed the limits of my wildest musical dreams. I cannot wait to get to grips for good with this intimidating beauty. Thank you for being such a friendly and reliable ressource in Archtopland: I thoroughly enjoyed dealing with you. Shipping was very fast and very safe - by far the best experience I have had with purchases overseas and I have had a few. I that there will be more and I do hope that you will be involved. You are settling a very high standard. Thank you again and all best! Longue vie à archtop.com! Elie Kleiman, Paris

Thanks Joe for selling my 1955 Vega E-202! Your site is the best on the net! Fast sale, great contact and service! I bought a 1942 Epiphone Triumph from you years ago and since then I have watched archtop.com get bigger and better. Keep up the good work! Donald H. Young, Schuylerville, NY

Joe, I can't thank you enough for delivering me a true beauty yet gig-worthy beast in that Guild X150! Your photos truly did it justice and I'm really enjoying it now in person. Thanks again!! Eric Koessler, Amherst, NY

To all you out there considering dealing with archtop.com, whether buying or selling........do it. I was a little apprehensive sending my Gibson L5 through the air to have it sold by Joe. One never knows. But after always being greeted on the phone with a pleasant and friendly attitude, and having all my questions answered, I had my fears relieved. Joe has sold 2 nice Gibson archtops for me and the service and payment has been prompt and professional. Thanks Joe. John Allemond , Wellsburg WV

Dear Joe, I wanted to thank you again for finding a new owner for my 1947 L5-E. You offer an important service, I enjoyed working with you and was really impressed with your professional approach. I would highly recommend that anyone buying or selling a vintage instrument use archtop.com. Regards, Jeff Davison, New Castle, DE

I recently offered to help a close friend whose husband died; he had collected some very nice guitars over the years, (including) a 1946 Epiphone Emperor... I spent a few days thoroughly researching the best way to sell the guitars and the advice I got from several knowledgeable sources was archtop.com That is the route I took and Joe Vinikow and crew did a fantastic job, I recommend them unhesitatingly to anyone looking to sell a vintage archtop guitar. -Andrew Schulman, NYC

Joe: Thanks! The recent sale of my ' 36 Epi Deluxe went so quickly and smoothly that you deserve the highest accolades for your excellent service. May you continue to amass the positive feedbacks you so richly deserve. Again, thanks! George Knoblauch, Pleasant Hill, CA

Thanks, Joe. The '85 Guild X-170 is the second guitar you've sold for me, and I'm really pleased at the price and the short time it took to sell, and more than that, the careful attention you give to the instruments. I'm fortunate to have found archtop.com--I have high praises for your experience and friendly placing of guitars into the hands of those who love to play them. Jeff Smith, Oviedo,FL

Joe: It's a keeper (1950 L-50). I use the entire neck, but I guess I tend to camp out between 5 and 12 a lot. I liked the tone and volume O.K. with the action around 5/64" 12th fret according to your tips and loved the feel & speed of that action. It felt like I had to baby it a little bit, though. I was fine with it, compared to my Martin flat top, but I finally got around to experimenting with a higher action and ended up around 7/64" or so and....WOW. Did this baby find itsvoice! Wooo Ha! Not really that much difference in speed either. Now, I really love it. A good tip for all might be to "Try the action a little higher than you think it should be". What a pay-off in volume, and you can chop hell out of it and maintain a clear ringing bell tone. This is why I wanted an arch top. Thanks for a great player's guitar. Send the fiddle player on a coffee break - Sweet Jawjah Brown! Jim Hays, Mackay, ID

Dear Joe, Just like to say, after scouring the world and drawing a blank I sent you an email and you had what I wanted. I would advise any one looking for difficult to obtain parts for rare guitars to do the same. Thanks, Mick McKeown, Bath, England

Joe, I am truly impressed with the honesty, professional atmosphere, and the world wide following (of archtop.com). A current feel for the prices and salability that impresses both the seller and the buyer, amazing. And to top it off you take the time to email personally with a friendly style that allows us non specialists to feel your care and hands on experience with our instruments. Thank you Joe for making this a human experience. Jeff Myers, Finger Lakes Region N.Y.

Dear Joe, The guitar (1946 Epiphone Blackstone) arrived safely on Friday via UPS. Many thanks for the fast shipment. I love the guitar. It is exactly what I wanted tone-wise. You can count me as another very happy customer. Thanks again, Erik Kundreats, Belmar, NJ

Joe, I love this guitar (1974-5 Gibson Howard Roberts) it is just what I wanted. The instrument arrived in perfect condition, very impressed with the excellent packing job. Was able to string it right up and intone it perfectly. A beautiful clean guitar, especially for a 30-year-old instrument. It has a wonderful arch-top jazz tone. It is a pleasure to do business with you, thanks for your availability-prompt correspondence and very professional service. Good job, hope to do business with you in the future. Happy tunes, Terry Sharp, Shasta Lake, CA

Hey Joe, Received the '47 Triumph yesterday at work. Had time to set it up after work and couldn't hardly put it down. Finally decided I'd better eat something... Very responsive guitar with great projection and fast comfortable neck. Had time to plug it in today and I love it! Thanks for all the care you take with your customers! I'll keep watching your site for more gems. Brad Cornwell, Casper,WY

Joe, Thank you so much for the amazingly fast sale of my Harptone 920-S archtop. I hope the buyer is really happy with the guitar! I look forward to doing future business with you, both in consigning and purchasing from your incredible selection of instruments.David Fleminger, SF, CA

Hi Joe...early afternoon I arrived at my office and I had the following message : a package to my attention has arrived .... Once the package open, I discover the hardshell case and open it ! ...I had in my hands a wonderful guitar (1948 ES-150) in more than mint condition. As you may imagine, I have played it all the weekend acoustic and plugged in ... A pure sound of smooth jazz....Like a kid, I took a lot of pictures of it like if it was ...a kid. Therefore, I am going to treat it with respect and care and enjoy its magic sound. Thanks to you for this nice adventure, I realized, that it is the fourth guitar I have bought at archtop.com...Ciao amico, a presto e grazie per la bella chitarra. Ora, devo organizzare un concertino a la casa e farci ascoltare la sua musica. Christian Laurent, Parma, Italy

Joe, We have had many successful transactions over the years but this month's experience is the pinnacle. In less than a month's time, you took two of my treasured Martin flat tops, took beautiful photos and found new homes for them. It's hard to give up a great guitar. You made the process quick, easy and with very appropriate compensation to me. Flat tops!! This isn't your father's "archtop.com" anymore. Many thanks, Joel Tepp, Seattle, WA

Hi Joe, Guitar ('47 Epi Zephyr Regent) arrived in good condition this morning. It is now 9pm and I have only just found time to e-mail you to tell you I love it. Must get back to my picking! I shall keep watching your website for my next guitar. Thanks a lot, Best regards, Ian Pickering, Hockley, UK

Hello Joe, A quick note to say that the Devoe has arrived safely, very well packed and exactly as described (except that the appearance of the guitar is even better than your excellent pics). It's staying. Best wishes Tony Chennells, Southampton, UK

Hey Joe, What can I say, you sold my guitar while it was only on the Coming Soon list. It only proves you have a lot of guitarists watching your site. It's very hard to sell a expensive guitar on ebay due to fear of fraud. This same guitar was on ebay with no takers, you sold it in 3 weeks, great job. Thanks John Parizo, NYC Archtop.com did a fab job getting the word out about my beautiful Epi. I wouldn't hesitate to trust them to the sale of any of my instruments! Michael Andriaccio, Lancaster, NY

Hey Joe, Received my '38 Epi Broadway yesterday. She's as beautiful as you described. Her tone is remarkable. The Walnut body brings out a brightness in the tone that Maple just can't match. And the look, absolutely gorgeous. Then there's the neck, slim & comfortable. A true pleasure to play. Needless to say she's here to stay. Thanks for all your help & patience. Look forward to doing more biz. Paul Avery, Rocklin, CA

Dear Joe, Thank you for placing the Super Eagle. Your check for the transaction proceeds arrived Saturday. Thank you for your excellent service and for upholding a high standard of business practice. Best regards, Jason Goff, Floral City ,FL Joe, Thank you for selling my D'Angelico NYL-2. It's been a great experience working with you. I learned a lot about packing archtops from your website and through our phone conversations. Keep up the fine work of matching great guitars to players who appreciate them. All the best, Jim Richardson, Yucaipa, CA

Dear Joe, ... I am enjoying the Eggle immensely and that your appetizing description of the guitar was in fact quite modest. This guitar drips with tone and sustain thoughout and is probably the most versatile acoustic guitar - flat- or archtop - that I have ever had the pleasure of playing. It is also flat out drop dead gorgeous. Many thanks... M. Lee Wolfe, Oviedo, Spain

Joe, The PRS Archtop is here and is a dream come true! I have been looking for this model for years. It is in perfect shape. Thanks so much for the great service and I look forward to more business with you in the future. Best, Robert Dean, Huntington Station, NY

Thank you Joe. It has indeed been a pleasure dealing with you and your company. You are most knowledgeable of the archtop and all guitars as far as I am concerned. Most impressive are your descriptions of the guitars with specificity of what is being put on the market. I was so impressed with the description of my Eggle archtop, I almost bought it myself. -- Thank you for your fast responses to my emails, questions, etc. This was comforting since you are over 2000 miles away. --- In short, a great experience. We shall do business again. Thank you. My best to you and your staff..Bill Witt, Hudson, OH

Joe, Just a note of thanks for selling my 1947 L-48 Gibson archtop. I've been watching at least 20 websites for the last year...yours is the best. The best pictures & accurate descriptions of the best archtops at a fair price. I will continue to follow Archtop.com, to add to my personal collection, or to make a hassle-free sale. Thanks, Joe. Your friend, Randall Shike, Wichita, Ks

Joe, Just wanted to let you know that the '68 Guild X-175 traveled well and I'm very happy with the sound and condition of the instrument and the Schertler David amp. Thanks very much for matching me up with this guitar. Jack Price, Meridian, ID

Dear Joe, Many thanks for your usual care in the packing and shipping of the Gretsch G-450 which arrived yesterday afternoon and was ready for play within 10 minutes... Thanks also for the check relating to the sales of the Epi Triumph and Guild X500.... As I make further decisions about the instruments in my collection whether adding to it or reducing it I will continue to place the same high level of trust in archop.com that you have earned with all our prior transactions. Best regards, John Young, Carmel, California

Dear Joe, It was a privilege working with you in acquiring my 1997 Guild Artist Award. You are very knowledgeable about your instruments and helped me with your advice. For many of us a purchase of an archtop is a once in a lifetime experience and a great deal of money is at stake. It is obvious you and your company have a solid reputation. You gave me honest and thorough suggestions and making the purchase from you put me at ease. In the future, should I buy another instrument; you will be my first consideration. I wish you the best, Thomas R. Scheira, Ph.D, Niagara Falls, NY

Hey Joe! The Triumph arrived today. Man, I love it! About a 30 second approval period was enough. :-) Well packed. As described. And awesome! You've answered my questions very helpfully by phone and by email regarding several guitars over the last 6-9 months. And everything about this buying experience has been positive. Thanks very much. I am already recommending you to all my player friends. Thanks again, Phil McWilliams, Atlanta GA

Joe, The Guild X-500 just arrived and I've had a chance to set it back up and give it some play time. Very very nice!...I'm delighted ! Gotta run now and get some new strings! Thanks for your followup call and all the fine service ! Chris Gander, Portland, OR

Joe: The Shelly Park Encore makes 4 instruments I have purchased from your great company in the last year. I am not only pleased with the exceptional quality, playability, and condition of all of the instruments, I am also very satisfied with sales policies you offer a guy 1500 miles from your location. I can plug it in, play it, and primp it, and if I am not elated with the instrument I can package it and send it back. Obviously I have never NOT been completely satisfied...what a good feeling to know that when the mood strikes me and your web site has something I might really like to own and play I only need to send you and email.....ps the work your guys did on the '41 L5 I sent in was equally satisfying....thanks Joe...and when I am in Seattle again I'd love to visit your operation. John Castronovo, Burr Ridge, IL.Joe, UPS dropped (the '56 ES-175) off around seven. I don't think I have ever seen anything so carefully packaged. And everything was exactly like it was described on your site... The action was perfect with the bridge just like it was when I put it on. I didn't really have to do anything but put the strings on and tune it up. The guitar plays very nicely. It even sounds good acoustically, even better than my carved top Heritage. All I can say is that it sounded just as good as I hoped it would.... And what I got was the sound of a fine old guitar, like an old Jim Hall record. ...Thank you very much. I have been looking at vintage guitars on a plethora of websites for the past several months hoping to find something really nice that I would feel comfortable spending that kind of money on. I was very impressed with your selection and attention to detail. ...This one is in really great shape and the case is in even better shape than some of my much more recent cases. Well worth the money I paid. It might be awhile before I buy another archtop because I have some good ones. But when and if I do I hope to do business with you again. And if any of my musician friends want to get an archtop I will send them your way. ...Take care. Roy Brooks, North Charleston, SC

Joe, just wanted to let you know the guitar (Guild X-700) arrived in perfect shape and is fantastic! It's pretty rare these days to find someone who does everything right. I consider myself very lucky to have found your business, and look forward to future purchases. Thanks so much. Kevin Bayless, St. Louis, MO

Joe, the ES-175 arrived !!!! First let me say your packing job is with out a doubt the best I have ever seen !!!!! The guitar arrived in perfect condition... I am very happy...and will enjoy puting some music into the guitar...Thank you agin for your site... Michael Law, Rhinebeck, NY

Joe, I received the Fender D'Aquisto Deluxe on Friday as promised, pro-packaged and not a mark on it. To say I'm thrilled with the instrument would be an understatement. The tone (plugged or unplugged) is outstanding, playability is excellent, and even the setup is spot-on. For me it is the perfect jazzbox for fingerstyle or flatpick playing, and thanks to you I didn't have to break the bank to get it. It must be very rewarding to make a living matching up quality guitars with people who love them! I'm sure we'll do business again. Many Thanks, Harry Haltman , San Antonio, TX

Joe...What a wonderful guitar!!!! My 1997 L-5CES is absolutely the most stunning, visually and tonally, of any of the 15 guitars that I presently own. My brother came down from Austin to check it out. We tried every guitar I had against it... all my other axes are fine guitars, but they're not even in the same tonal universe as my L-5CES. Just a great guitar!!! Arrived, very well packed, and was everything that you advertised it to be. Joe. The setup was absolutely magnificent. Some of the best I have ever played..I think you have finally cured my GAS that I've had for years with this wonderful guitar. (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome, a chronic affliction of the plectrum. -jv) I just hope my other guitars don't get too lonely sitting in their stands and cases. It's just like the top of your home page says..."WHAT A GUITAR!!!!". Thanks Joe for giving us archtoppers a place to to shop for quality vintage instruments. Rolland Harrison, Seabrook, TX

Joe, received your check (for the consignment sale) today. Thank you so much for your prompt response and for working with me. Always a pleasure! Warm regards, Dennis Easter, Tell City , IN

Joe, I just wanted to thank you for that 1966 L-5CES...I have not put it down in 3 days. Really!!! My wife is wondering when I`m going back to work! It`s so warm and smooth, I can`t believe the texture, and response. I`m going straight into my Vibroking and I `m speechless. I asked (my luthier) to check it out for me thoroughly and he was amazed. He's built guitars for some pretty big names in rock...(meaning-hard to impress...right? ) He said that this is an exceptional L-5, ...one of the nicer ones he`s seen, and heard. He`s seen and heard a lot! I`ve played quite a few also, from different years, and... this is my new baby !!! Just thought I`d write, and say thanks again and I`ll be looking for that D`Angelico... (- the next on the hit list-) on archtop .com Regards... MJP. Boston, MA

Hi Joe- I LOVE the Trenier Broadway. I can't take my eyes off it when I'm not playing it. (Of course, I'm playing it as often as possible.) It's opening up beautifully and I'm most pleased that the tone is not strictly suit-and-tie...there's a raunchy edge too when I push it that way. Thanks again for the great selection and service! Best, Gretchen Wenner, Bakersfield, CA

Dear Joe, I am just contacting you to confirm that I received the (1948 Gibson Super 300) from you in perfect condition...I am sorry I have not contacted you before but I only had just enough time to unpack the guitar and reset it up (I commend your expert packing by the way) before completing last minute work and packing before we were off on our summer holiday...I had to wait till I returned to really play it in - the suspense ruined my holiday!!? Let me say that on opening the package this guitar made a very impressive impact. Now that I have really had a chance to play it the sound is just as impressive - I have to say I am thrilled to bits with it, I am sure it will give me many years of pleasure; it is one of those few guitars that has almost as much presence acoustically as it does amplified even with its DeArmond pick-up. I can't wait to take it on the first gig with my band. Once again it has been a pleasure to do business with archtop.com, thanks Joe for your time, your honest and very accurate description of the guitar, and for fitting the DeArmond pick-up which works very well. Till the next guitar! All the best, Jerry Alexander, Essex, UK

Joe, The Melo EM3 arrived yesterday, a day early! I took it home on my lunch hour and damned near didn't go back to the office. This is the finest instrument (of any kind) I have ever played. You were right about the neck -- it is ideal for me. The guitar plays and sounds great, even through the small practice amp I am running it through at the moment. Thanks for all your help. This baby will not be making a round trip. I've got it now, and it ain't going nowhere. It was a pleasure doing business with you. Best regards, Jim Rowell, New Orleans, LA

Dear Joe, The (1996 ES-165 Herb Ellis) arrived safely. There's no way you're getting it back!! Seriously it's exactly as you described and, while I've had little chance to play it today, it seems user friendly, on first acquaintance. My next acquisition will be an L5C, as soon as I recover from a recent guitar buying binge! I will check the site regularly. Very best regards Garry Polled, Goleta, CA

Joe, My sales experience with you has been great. (Obviously, or I wouldn't keep coming back). Without a doubt the finest site on the web. Regards, David Rabinowitz, Berkeley, CA

Joe, My 1944 Epiphone Olympic arrived safe and sound. Wow. I just have to keep buying guitars as every one from you keeps getting better. Chris Bayer, Carson City, NV

Hi Joe, I just wanted to tell you that I got the guitar yesterday, thank very much by the way to upgrading it to 2 day air, it was very thoughtful. I am testing it out and so far so good:) I like the L5 because it is a closer fit when shifting between the classical and an electric... I don't think this guitar will be returning to you, it truly is a beautiful instrument, and I love the neck, archtops are such a work of art:) All the best, Robert Pierson, Roseville, CA

Joe, Thanks for the fast sale of my 1976 Ibanez L5CESN. It sold so fast that it never made the photo board. Definitely a testament to your status as the No. 1 site for Vintage Instrument sales! Many thanks,Brian Keith, Beaverton, Oregon

Joe,WOW. The '45 blonde Epi Emperor is a fantastic instrument; the workmanship is incredible, the tone sublime, and the action is like SUPER butter...As usual, you are a pleasure doing business with; that's why I keep coming back for more and more :>) Appreciate your maintaining high standards for what you sell. You are my go-to connection for superior guitars and no-hassle transactions. Best Regards, Don Tycholis, Fountain Valley, CA

Hello Joe. I received my '53 Guild X-350 "Stratford" this morning. What an amazing unique guitar. Sounds and looks fabulous. Absolutely nothing like it. The pickups and switching are outta sight! This guitar sounds seriously good. Next gig, it's coming with me. Once again, oustanding service. Always a pleasure. Regards, Sean Parker, Sydney, Australia

Joe, I appreciate the service you provide. Your professionalism and aptitude (not to mention great instruments) caught my attention. I pushed to have my Dupont MD30 sent quickly, I needed it. Your playing the guitar for me over the phone to the moment it shipped took three days and I used it on 6 gigs and two recording sessions in the week that followed, thanks for honest answers. I will spread the good word. Regards, Robert Bell, Minneapolis, MN

Joe, Just want to say that the 1941 Gibson EA-185 amplifier is way ahead of it's time, you guys really did a great job tweaking it into a very compatible amp. Not only does it have a smooth vibe with my arch tops, but also works very well with my Martin that has an added pickup. Thanks again for offering such a unique product! Steve Tickes Campbell, Calif.

Joe, The '36 Triumph arrived safe and sound. Many thanks for another great one of a kind instrument. Looks and plays great/ sounds fantastic - nice warm tone with fine projection. The Emperor style inlay along with that big Triumph pre-frequensator tailpiece really adds a unique touch of class to an already fine instrument. Keep up the good work on finding and making these "guitars for grownups" available. Thanks again. - Paul Mimlitsch, Evergreen CO

Hello Joe, The ('46 Epi Triumph) made it just fine. I was happy to see it so soon after talking with you. I am very pleased with the guitar. It is everything that I hoped it would be....It has been a pleasure doing business with you all. Michael Connors, Plain, WI

Joe, Got the guitar (1967 Gibson Southern Jumbo) extremely pleased with its look and sound just as you described it. Many thanks, Graham Sandford, London

And thanks to you, Joe, for making this a very pleasant experience. Given the horror stories you hear and read about purchasing "remotely", one can't be too careful these days. Your written descriptions and availability for questions via phone - plus good things I'd heard from elsewhere - convinced me you were a very reputable dealer. This was confirmed when the guitar arrived - on time and as you described. The 335 is excellent - plays and sounds exactly as it should - and is in great condition to boot. Can't ask for any more than that. It's definitely a keeper. Will look forward to doing business with you again! Bill Auld, Ra;eigh, NC

Joe , Looks like on your site some smart dude scooped (my consignment guitar) up fast. It has an incredible neck!... That was incredibly fast, you're the standard everyone else looks at. Brian Keith, Portland Oregon

Hello, Joe! Two lines just to tell you the guitar (Fender D'Aquisto) has arrived and is in mint condition. Thanks again for your help. Take care! Fiorenzo Roncoroni, Ticino, Switzerland

Dear Joe, Thank you very much for selling my 1945 L-5. I enjoy looking through all amazing guitars on your website. Thank you for your kindness and help always. Kenji Seki, Seattle

Hi Joe, Just a short note to let you know that the ES-346 arrived safely this morning and is a keeper. Great packaging and beautiful set up. I like the fact that I can take it straight to the gig without having to mess with it ! Take care for now, Skip Moy, Hong Kong

Joe, I got hold of the (1947) L-5 on Friday and am happy to confirm it as sold. Very pleased to have found this guitar through you and delighted that its tone, resonance and playability have lived up to both my high hopes and its beautiful looks. I will be recommending you strongly to students seeking quality instruments from a real archtop expert. Many thanks. Best Regards, Steve Kardar, London

Hi Joe, I just received my Shelly Park gypsy guitar. Wow ! !! What a beauty! Your description was spot on. The spruce top, the Koa binding, everything about this guitar is exquisite...Your input was very helpful, ....I don't think I've ever had anyone play a guitar over the phone to let me hear it, but once you had, I couldn't get the tone out of my head. Many, many thanks. Jeff Bailey, San Francisco, CA

Joe, I recommend your consignment service all the time. I sell stuff on ebay a lot for for high quality archtops, archtop.com is the only way to go. Ed Hagen, Columbia SC

Joe, Just a note to let you know the guitar (Fender D'Aquisto) arrived Friday afternoon. It is truly as advertised, and after only two days, it already feels like an comfortable "old shoe." Many thanks, Larry Quinn, Christiansted, US Virgin Islands

Hi Joe, Just wanted to let you know we got home okay and could hardly wait to start playing the Epi (1933 Blackstone). It felt like the hands and years that touched her before me came out in full force. She has a beautiful voiceand great classic lines...You set it up perfect. I have never played a guitar that was so easy to play. The balance is what I have been looking for all these years. Normally I had a difficult time holding up the guitar and moving around the neck. The Epi rests as though it was made to rest there. It felt strange at first not to struggle to keep it upright. Please tell the former owner that I plan on growingold with "Lil Epi Blackstone". She will not be sold, she will be passed on to other family members. I always trust that all is in highest and best interest. Gifts like the Epi just reinforce it all the more to me. Thanks again, Patrick Madsen, Blaine, WA

Joe, ...It was a pleasure doing business with you (selling our Gibson Howard Roberts). Hope things continue to go well for Archtop.com. The world needs an outlet like it. --Paul Madden, Acton, MA

Hi Joe- Thanks for all of your time and great advice. I put big bronze strings on my new Triumph - it has a great resonant tone, just as you said, plus a very sweet upper register. It is an elegant and powerful old guitar. The 2D pickup is spectacular on my guitar even with bronze strings. It is very easy to get the actual acoustic tone of my guitar and is also very capable of going from fat to funky. The 2 D is far superior to the Johnny Smith pickups that I have played for most of my career. Thanks again for being so easy and professional to work with. We will do more business. Very best regards- Tracy Pfau, Casper, WY

Dear Joe, Thought I'd send an update pic of me and the Olympic. I was in Santa Barbara over Easter visiting my parents (my mom played and taught guitar which is how I got into it in the first place). I'm really digging the archtop sound...so different from flattops. I've been playing more than 35 years but never had an archtop before! It's like a new dimension. I didn't have a strap so am barely hanging on...Thanks again- Gretchen Wenner, Bakersfield, CA

Hi Joe, The L-5 arrived safely. It's a great guitar, just as you described. I'm extremely happy with it. It's exactly what I was looking for. Thanks very much! Best, Mike Rovine, University Park, PA

Joe, It was fantastic doing business with you. I will recommend your site to every guitar player looking for an honest place to buy an instrument. Lee Barbara, Medford, OR

Joe, The Michael Dunn Belleville arrived today, thank you. I am shocked! What a magnificent piece: I am so pleased. Thanks for organizing everything...I am going to call Michael Dunn tonight and tell give him some praise. He really builds a terrific guitar, the finishes are immaculate. Regards, Mark Kornhauser, Mermaid Beach, Australia

Joe, thanks so much for doing such a nice job selling my 1948 L-50. It's nice to know this good old guitar is going to a loving home...Best regards and many thanks for a very professional, thoroughly competent job.-Ruthie Werner, Seattle, WA

Hi Joe, Thanks again for your selling the Shelly Park Encore so quickly and easily...it's always a pleasure to do business with you. Talk to you soon....Neil Andersson (Pearl Django), Tacoma, WA

Joe, The (Shelley Park Encore) guitar plays beautifully, is gorgeous, and sounds wonderful; so sweet and responsive. I love it!... Thank you for the top notch packing job and excellent communication from beginning to end. It was a pleasure to buy from you again, as always. Best Regards, Don Tycholis, Fountain Valley, CA

Hi Joe, What a gorgeous guitar! You will not be getting this one back. It has found a good home. ... This (Fender D'Aquisto) Ultra is light as a feather with incredible volume and sustain. The Kent Armstrong pickup is smooth and fat....So you can probably tell that I'm very pleased with my purchase. Once again, I appreciate the way you handled this entire transaction. You have an extremely satisfied customer and I will be back. Feel free to use any part of this email on your website. Steve Wagner, Minneapolis, MI

Hi Joe, The newly developed callouses on my fingers are a testament to how much I am enjoying the 1934 Epiphone archtop I purchased from your shop. It's the musical love of my life! Thanks for helping me discover the wonders of vintage archtops. I'm a convert--for life! Best Regards...Mike Lang, Sherman, Il

Hi Joe. Received the 59 Epiphone Triumph cutaway and all I can say is WOW! Truly one of the cleanest vintage archtops I've seen and a great player to boot. The guitar truly matched your description. It was a pleasure to have such a professional transaction, from the first phone call to final delivery. A great site and great guitars. Thanks again. Kurt Dietrich, Corvallis, Oregon

Joe, She (1939 Vega C-56) arrived yesterday as planned. Set her up after giving her time to acclimate to the New Jersey environment. She is beautiful and sounds incredibly unique ...Thank you very much. John Sterling, Moorestown, NJ

Hi Joe, Sorry it's been such a long time but i wanted to thank you again for the 56 Epiphone Harry Volpe you sold me last year. I absolutely love this guitar. It is everything i was shopping for at the time and more. It is a tone machine that i can comfortably play for hours. Blown away by the quality of setup. The guitar is simply a joy to play. Please let me know if you ever get another one of these in stock. Regards, Peter Joseph Burtt, Kings Beach, CA

Thanks, Joe! The tone from this guitar just grows on you. Clear and articulate. And I haven't even talked about that maple on the back, sides and neck. Just stunning. A fine work of functional art. Last but not least, the deal. ...this one was thousands less than any of the several other X-braced Super 400s that I was able to find (there are not many around). Thanks again. Scott Palmer, Santee, SC

Joe, Many thanks for making the purchase of my L-7 such a pleasure. Choosing a guitar online and over the phone is no easy thing, the logistics of getting it overseas in such good shape is difficult. These things don't seem to be a problem for archtop.com. In fact, the whole process was too easy! So easy that I'm in danger of becoming addicted! archtop.com's service goes above and beyond. Which leaves the guitar. My '47 L-7 is a beautiful instrument; craft is the key word here. But these guitars were meant to be played - and play this L-7 does. It's fabulous. Sean Parker, Sydney, Australia

Joe, I just wanted to say thanks so much ..The 1944 L7 is the best. It sounds better than most L5's I have played. Your company is great, professional all the way. Any way thanks again, I love it...Pete Brown, (the Acousticatz), Benton, AR

Hello Joe, (The New Yorker) arrived just this afternoon. Great packing job as always. Could not wait to get this one out of the box, and it really lives up to its reputation. Wonderful patina and overall feel but, best of all, this sound! ...a most appealing mixture of power and sweetness in tone that is just wonderful. And the bottom end is simply overwhelming. Just as you described it. This really is one of the best buys in the many years of my collecting fine guitars, and this is why I cannot recommend archtop.com warmly enough. Especially when you are, as I am, a tone freak from over the big pond, you are bound to lose much in endless trial and error purchases before the "one" instruments comes up. Of course, they will all tell you "this guitar sounds great", but if your have raised the bar over the years and are looking for the truly exceptional musical instrument, then there is nothing like a real expert who knows how to assess quality and takes his time to describe it in some detail. I knew I could trust your great expertise and even though you won't talk any guitar down that you're advertising, if you marvel about an instrument's exceptional sonic quality, it can be taken for real. So many thanks, Joe, and keep up the good work. Bernd Wannenwetsch, UK

Joe, ...The overall strength of sound, richness and balance (of the Park Montmartre), seem to be rather intoxicating to me. All of this adds an unexpected dimension that is rather intriguing, so I am not willing, or interested in, sending it back. Yep, I really like it.... I have to say, you have to have one of the most well thought out series of polices of any retailer/dealer/shop I have ever dealt with. I appreciate your service and will check back often. Thanks, Greg Cooper, Greensboro, NC

Hi Joe, I just sent the guitar back to you today...I want to thank you for being so easy going about the return, I really liked the guitar and thought it was in fantastic shape, just as you described but I was looking for something more in the overall tone. I'll keep my eye on your website and if I see something of interest I'll contact you with questions. Thanks again for the first class service. Regards, Don Bruno, Manchester, NH

Hi Joe- Just wanted to drop you a line and say hi from Kyoto. I just got in a few days ago after a stopover in Hawaii for some business and a couple of days of r+r. I am enjoying getting to know my Vega C-66, both in it's acoustic form as well as plugged in state. Those Armstrong pickups really make it a jazz guitar. I am... thrilled with the range of sounds I can get out of this guitar between picking styles and positions and the unplugged and plugged states. Very sonically adaptable, I think this guitbox can work it's way through the country, swing and jazz stuff I will be doing no problem.... Joel Stewart, Kyoto, Japan

Dear Joe, I received the Gibson L50, all OK. My congratulations for the packing, for me very important due to the distance from Seattle to Italy. Very important also the instruction for re-positioning the bridge and care and maintenance. Precious information! The sound is very good, clear voice, the right sound for playing jazz. I am satisfied for the guitar and for your competency. Many thanks and regards, Claudio Zibetti, Gallarate Italy

Joe, Greetings. The '45 Triumph arrived safe and sound. Well you've done it again! She's a beauty and what an acoustic tone - well rounded and even up and down the fretboard - nice set up. Thanks again for the "on the phone/ in hand" description and your work in making these fine instruments available. (thanks also to my wife for convincing me to buy "the pretty one" :-) ) Best of luck, take care. - Paul Mimlitsch, Evergreen, CO

Dear Joe, I have received, set up, and enjoyed the '94 Tal Farlow... Absolutely, positively, overjoyed. Thank you so much, Joe. A fair price for an outstanding guitar. It's already worth more than I paid. It is my hope that you achieve all the success you desire. What a wonderful business you have! Thanks again! John Sullivan, Beaver Creek, OR

Joe, Thanks for delivering a wonderful instrument (1937 L-7) that exceeded my expectations. Honestly, the instrument is quite a handful and it took a couple of days under my belt to get a feel for the instrument. It has a huge, well balanced sound, great projection and the X braced top gives off a wonderful reverb and overtones without being too punchy to play in the house. I never had a guitar that could stand up against a piano before.. now I do. My wife summed it up for me yesterday afternoon she told me "you might as well get rid of the other ones". Well, while I won't be doing that any time soon, I do hope to spend many years enjoying this instrument. Thanks a lot Joe, I'll try to wear it out. Scott Furbeck Heyworth, IL

Hi Joe, After playing the guitars for two weeks, I just wanted to drop you a line to say that the 1934/35 D'Angelico Exel and the 1949 Gibson L12 Premier Cutaway are two exceptional guitars that I purchased from you. The best part is not only am I enjoying it, but my family as well. My four year old daughter especially likes the DA and asks me everyday to play the "D'-An-geli-CO!" so that she can sing songs that she makes up. Now that's priceless. Thanks again! David Christopher Choi, Los Angeles

Dear Joe, My 1953 Epiphone Triumph Regent arrived safely, and I was immediately impressed with guitar's condition, set up, tone and amazing volume. You made the buying experience a complete pleasure. Although our telephone conversation was the first contact I had with you, I felt as though I was speaking to a friend as well as a lover of fine guitars. That initial telephone conversation resulted in an on the spot sale. I expect the Epiphone to be the first of many more friend to friend business dealings. I dealt with many excellent guitar shops over the past 30 years, but none surpasses yours for quality service. Thank you for setting an example of The Golden Rule of how to treat a customer. Best wishes, Joe Butler,Birmingham, AL

Dear Joe, Thank you sincerely for your kindness.This beautiful guitar (1942 Epiphone Triumph) has reached in my house today. I thank you for your nice and great guitar you sent me! I cannot find enough words express my gratitude to you. I take care of this guitar. Best wishes for your health,wealth and happiness!! Faithfully yours, Hajime Miki, Tokyo, Japan

Joe, I finally had a chance to open and string the (1936 L-7) last yesterday. It's very nice looking, well packed and prepped, in great shape - just as you described it and very comfortable for me to play... I am really happy with it. Thanks for making this such an easy and pleasant transaction. (FTR, I am usually very cautious with mail order. But you must have a way of telepathically communicating honesty because I had about twenty seconds of doubt about my sanity in sending a cashiers check based on a website, a couple of emails and phone call.) Thanks again, Joe. Valerie Coushaine, NY

Hi Joe, Just letting you know I got the Epi pickguard, tailpiece and hardware just a couple of days after we spoke. Both the guard and tailpiece are fantastic. The guard looks just like the original and has the weight as well. The engraving on the Frequensator tailpiece makes it look right too... I will be using the guitar at Capitol Records on Thursday, so going to put it right to work. Thank you for your expertise with these wonderful guitars and providing folks like me interested in these guitars ways of keeping them being heard and played. Best Regards, Mitch Holder, Thousand Oaks, CA

Dear Joe: It is reassuring to know that the beauty and art of the archtop guitar will be carried forward through archtop.com. Best regards,Vic Bell, Tulsa, OK

Joe, maybe it is just new guitar infatuation but the Gibson ES-346 is a real beauty. It doesn't appear to ever have been played! The workmanship is stunning, the design makes it a real player's guitar, and the tone is killer. Your website is a dangerous place to peruse. -Patrick Imbimbo, SFC

Hello Joe, This is a letter of thanks for selling my Johnny Smith guitar. It was the easiest business deal I have ever had. You sold the guitar before it arrived at your shop, that's what I call fast. And your payment to me was just as prompt. I wish there more people out there doing business the way you do. Good luck to you, we in the music business need your kind of straight dealing. Thanks again! Best Regards, Peter Tye,Westchester, Illinois

Dear Joe, I received the (1943 L-50) on Thursday, March 17th. I'm very happy with it. Thank you for your professional service. It was a pleasure doing business with you. Sincerely, Terry McGill, Closter, NJ

Hi Joe, Just a few words to tell you that my friend Jean-Denis is totally happy with his 1951 ES-150 he bought from you...He is just "transformed" and even the way he plays is much more extended, he goes all around the neck more often than before....it is a pleasure to see his happiness. Christian Laurent, Liege, Belgium

Joe, The Gibson Johnny Smith '66 arrived yesterday in great shape. I got the same thrill unpacking it as with the last old Gibson I bought from you. You are truly a master in describing the guitars, shipping the guitars and giving written advice about taking care of the wonderful instruments. As I expected the JS has a very fine acoustic voice and it has indeed got pickups. The JS pickups are fantastic. And by the way these early JS guitars look extremely beautiful: fiveply binding around head and fretboard, classic highend truss-rod cover and lots of other refinements. I'm fully satisfied. Please change the word HOLD to SOLD on your website. Keep on the very good work of yours. Kind regards, Peter Moefelt, Horslunde, Denmark

Hi Joe -- I'm just letting you know that the Fender D'Aquisto I bought from you arrived yesterday and I opened it up today and it all looks great... I'm way impressed with the packing job and the accompanying instructions and info on guitar upkeep...I won't hesitate to buy from you again. Hope business is going well and that I find myself being a customer again. Thanks, Tom Flowers, Annandale, VA

Dear Joe, This is a special day for me because I received something I dreamed about for a long time, an archtop from the Gibson custom shop. This has been possible due to your efficiency and reliability; the guitar is exactly as decribed (as new), and was perfectly packed to avoid bumps and other bad things. I put flatwound strings as I like and it plays and sounds like a real true beautiful genuine Gibson. As you say in the States, I got what I paid for. This is most precious. If you're OK I'll put your site adress on french jazzmen sites.Many thanks and, who knows, 'till the next archtop...Take care, all the best, Cluse Petit, Pibroac, France

Hey Joe, Just wanted to tell you how sleep deprived I've been since the '46 Emperor arrived. It's such a sweet guitar, everything you described and more. I really find it dificult to put down and my playing is noticably improved and inspired. Such a beautiful instrument with a tone I've never heard from an archtop. Thanks much! This incredible new arrival (is) beckoning me from across the room. O.K.! O.K.! I'm coming. Gotta go! Thanks again, Michael Cuneo, SF, CA

Dear Joe, You have the best guitar site on the web. I recently played an 1952 Epiphone Zephyr at (a major retailer) in NY. This particular guitar was in pretty rough shape and was being offered for sale "as is", without benefit of setup or attention to the well worn frets. Despite its flaws I spent most of an hour playing it. I loved the feel, the size, the neck. And then I plugged it in. It took me back to T-Bone Walker time. I came close to buying it. But the general condition of the guitar and the money I would need to put it right just didn't balance out for me. But it peaked my interest, and in my web search I came upon your page. Thank you for that. I would like to be notified when you have a late 40's, early 50's Zephyr. I am convinced that this is my next guitar. The quality of your site and the the guitars you offer has convinced me that I need to buy my next guitar from you. Best, Bob Raposo, NYC

Hi Joe, I received the L 10 on Monday. This was the day I was selling, buying, and moving into a new house. Consequently I haven't had the time to tell you how pleased I am with the guitar. I'm not sure whether the house or the guitar is more exciting. This is truly a beautiful instrument and I couldn't be happier with it. Thanks again, Bill Richmond, Duxbury, MA

Dear Joe, It was truly a pleasure to receive my 1937 Epiphone Triumph after many years looking for a suitable quality replacement for its 1937 brother, stolen by a burglar in 1982. As with my prior purchase from you (a 1994 Gretsch 450 Synchromatic) the instrument had been expertly prepared, carefully packaged and perfectly reflected the condition as described and depicted on your web site. After just over 24 hours, I can tell you unhesitatingly that the next owner will receive my Triumph only through my estate! I have become an avid visitor to your site as a result of the exceptional collectible archtops to which you gain access. Thanks for helping to preserve this great part of our musical heritage! Sincerely, John Young, Carmel, California

Dear Joe, I've received my ES-150 last friday. To be frank, it's not exactly what I was expecting... the guitar is much better than I thought!!! It's splendid. The acoustic sound is beautiful. And when I plug the guitar to my amp, the P-90 pick-up gives warmth, fat, but precise jazz sound. For many years, I was searching a good sound. This ES-150 has simply THE SOUND. (I guess that, now, I'll must tell my three year old daughter that Santa Claus has moved from Scandinavia to Seattle!) Thanks again, Jean-Denis Tourneur, Liege Belgium

Hello Joe, When I stumbled upon my '32 Epi Hollywood Masterbilt Tenor at an auction in a tiny northeastern Vermont town a few years ago, I was instantly enthralled by the voice of the black walnut gem I had found. As luck would have it, I had an Epiphone catalogue from the same period, found my tenor it and spent a lot of time day-dreaming about six-string versions of the instrument. The '34 Broadway you sent to me more than meets my expectations. It's utterly gorgeous, is effortless to play and sounds magnificent. Like many players, I've gone through many guitars over the past 30+ years, but none have captured my heart as the Broadway has done. Many thanks for making this possible... Regards, Peter Mix, Rigel Instruments, Cambridge, VT

Joe- The '92 "Imperial" '30's Emperor arrived last night (pleasant surprise - a day earlier than UPS tracking had indicated). Unbelievable! The guitar looks like it was made yesterday - you were right on with your description of a "basically unplayed instrument". The workmanship/ detail/ wood selection that went into this "re-issue" Emperor is stunning. Strung it up and it plays/ sounds great - fits like a glove. I had been looking for this guitar for years but after much research, given the number that were actually produced and that no one I had talked to had ever seen any, had given up on finding one. I couldn't believe it when this one showed up on your "coming in" list and was just lucky (fate?) to be the first one to call you on it. Many thanks for providing a great resource. PS: Kindly relay my thanks to the previous owner for the exquisite care that was taken of this instrument and for making it available - it will be well taken care of and well played, and hopefully "Played well" - Paul Mimlitsch, Southhampton, NJ

Hi Joe, The 1937 L-50 (Sweet & Lowdown) arrived hours ago and I've finally put her down to write and let you know she's here safe and sound. I really want to thank all the guitarists that made the mistake of taking a pass on this instrument; you described the guitar accurately as a terrific pre-war archtop. Warning to those who read the site's descriptions: Joe was understated. Bouncing back and forth from the L-50 to my '28 L-5 has been both fun and a delight. The PUTW pickup works great, too, and the proper pickguard looks fine and makes the guitar all the more a stealth tone machine. Thanks .... and as a Governor to the south of you would say: "I'll be back." Ryk Loske, Barton, VT

Joe, The 1945 Spartan arrived safely on Friday. It's a wonderful instrument and has already been such a pleasure to play. The instructions were helpful and it took little time to get it set up. Thanks for the great instrument and the care in packaging. Everything is as you said it was in the description on archtop.com. Your website is a great resource for anyone looking for a quality archtop guitar. Jason Glowatz, Mansfield, PA.

Dear Joe, The 1934 L-5 Reissue arrived last night and is beautiful. It was packed well and made the trip with no problem. You were right about the neck being nice and comfortable. A super guitar that makes me think of both Maybelle Carter and Eddie Lang every time I look at it. I really like the pick you sent along. Thanks again for taking the time to keep a "want" list. Great service and a great guitar. Charles Gandy, Columbia, SC

Dear Joe, Words just cannot do justice to the absolute beauty of this guitar! I received the '33 Masterbilt Triumph this past Thursday, and after stringing it up and playing it into the wee hours of the morning I finally had to put it down! The following night I brought it to the gig with my swing trio. I have never played an entire gig with a grin from ear to ear like that before! The bass player kept looking over at me and shaking his head, "man that guitar sounds good!" he kept saying. Using the Pick-up-the-World pick-up under the bridge through my Fender Deluxe, the amplified sound is wonderful. Acoustically I have never in my life heard such a rich, beautiful and clear voice! I am absolutely floored! Thank you Joe for giving me the opportunity to own this truly breathtaking instrument, it will bring much joy for years to come! Sincerely, Steve Jones, Collinsville CT

Dear Joe, Man, (the '38 Triumph) is just what I have needed all my life... Got her all tuned up after we spoke on phone and four hours later; I just put her to bed...The first number I played on her was [The Mills Brothers] "Paper Doll". Now you can't play that stuff on a flat top... My wife Ruth, said it sure sounds different than all your others for sure. Stromberg can keep their 400s. Tomorrow morning Joe, I hit the music stores around here and let them see what a 'Real Box' is. Happy Days.... Love it, love it. Have a nice weekend Joe...and thanks a million for your great service to True Lovers of Music. Sincerely, Jerry Vandiver- Cartersville Ga.

Joe, I`m happy to tell you the Gibson L 5 is now in my hands with no problems. The international transfer has been very quick...guitar`s sound is beautiful ,I`m very satisfied. Thank you for your politeness and competency and good luck to you and your team. Emilio Perlasca, Milano, Italy

Joe- It's been about two weeks since I received the (1936) L10 from you. I'm writing so late because I haven't put it down since. The guitar is everything you described it as and better. I am equally as impressed with the set up ; as perfect as possible. And the packaging, I won't even go there ; even if I hated it I would have kept it because of the work you guys out there put into it. I have 35 beautiful guitars and this one even got the thumbs up from my wife Valerie (who might I say thinks I have an obsession,imagine that)............Thanks again and keep in touch. Angelo Recchia ,NY, NY

The customer service at archtop.com is as good or better than anything I've encountered. Joe bent over backwards to get the guitar in my hands as soon as possible. The quality of the instrument I purchased (Dale Unger American Dream) was superb and the price was very reasonable. I'm just one of what I would suspect are many satisfied customers. David Virden, Lancaster, OH

Joe, I got the refund check, thank you for your promptness. I want you to know that even though I didn't purchase the instrument, I really appreciate the way you do business. You are professional, helpful, and you keep your word. My sincere thanks, Jim Geil, Reno, NV

Joe: Ronald was thrilled with the vibrola. Thank you so much . One of these days we'll make it to Seattle and you and he can swap tales. He has a million of them. He was Elvis' first guitar player. Have a great one. Mary Margaret Brasher, Hernando, MS

Dear Joe, The 1985 Fender D'Aquisto Elite that I purchased from you was everything you said it was and more. Far too often... guitar sellers will over rate their instruments, but when you said this guitar was "As New" it was just as you described it. If anything, you may have under rated the condition of this fine instrument. This was my first true arch top guitar but it will not be my last. And when the time comes to purchase my next arch top, and the next, I will purchase my guitars from you. Sincerely, Joey Garcia, San Diego, CA

Dear Joe: I was delighted to receive my "new" 1994 Gretsch 450 Synchromatic. Its condition and playablity are exactly as described in our telephone discussion and as shown in the photographs on your excellent website. The packaging was extremely careful and your "Care and feeding of your archtop guitar" piece was very informative and helpful. The whole experience of dealing with you has been exceptionally positive and I would not hesitate to buy through you again, or to recommend you to my guitar-playing friends. Sincerely, John Young, Carmel, CA

Joe, I'm writing to you after a period of several months spent playing the 1934/5 L-7 that I bought from you in August. The guitar continues to delight and I enjoy it more and more with each day I play. I have been very surprised and impressed with the lightness of the action that is all that is required to make a big, rich sound. Even more delightful is the warmth of tone, and the beautiful evenness of tone and volume across the strings and up the fretboard. I'm so very glad that I found your list and that through it I found this guitar...The only problem I have now is that I keep coming back to your site, and that is temptation of an extreme sort. But I'm grateful that you're there and providing access to these wonderful and all-too-neglected instruments. Thank again, and the blessings of the season to you and all there. Michael Ebsworth, Lethbridge, Alberta

Joe, Guitar safely received yesterday - superbly packaged ! It's a "beaut"; perfect description. Thanks for everything and particularly "attention to detail". It's a pleasure to do business with you - and I'll certainly pass on your good name to all my UK friends, if they don't already know you ! Best wishes - Malcom Craig, Barrow-in Furness, UK

Joe, The Super 400 arrived in the dark of nite. I looked up river and saw the UPS man riding her with the tide. He paddled her into the dock, dried her off with a towel, and handed her to me. I played her into the nite until my hands demanded I stop. She's a keeper and the best sounding archtop I've ever played. Thanks much, can't wait to record with her. Mark Beale, Wadmalaw Island, SC

Hi Joe, Yes, the Gibson Johnny Smith arrived today. And no, you can't have it back! A truly lovely guitar. I don't know if you're familiar with the English expression "chuffed to bits", but it basically means a very happy customer! Funny how things turn out. My rock days having long since passed, I sold a Les Paul Custom Black Beauty, to partly finance this Johnny Smith Black Beauty. The wife is going to think that I've a penchant for the man in black, Johnny Cash. Either that, or I'll have to be careful in case she shaves off all my hair while I'm asleep, and starts calling me Chris! Many thanks. The details about the guitar on your web-site were entirely honest and accurate. Not always a common occurrence these days. The packaging obviously took a great deal of time too. I'd say you went to a lot of trouble to get it here in the same condition that it left you. Although, I bet your family hate unwrapping any presents that you send them at Christmas. But as far as I'm concerned, it's all much appreciated...Again, thanks very much indeed for all of your help, honesty and care taken. Best wishes, Lin Flanagan, UK

Joe...I'm totally awstruck by this incredible guitar (1938 Epiphone Broadway). I can't believe my eyes nor my ears. If I would never have played it I would not believe it. Truly it was made by Epis vision at Heart... surely a prize to be cherished. What an impeccable guitar, the sound is so rich and warm. It projects so clearly and has a loud voice. It is everything you said it was. I have no regrets to be the new proud owner of this very fine instrument. Thank you so much for the pleasure of doing business with archtop.com, the best vintage guitar site ever. Miguel Garcia, NYC

Hello Joe, Just wanted to say hi and say I love the D'angelico NYL-4 18 inch archtop I bought from you... my oh my, what an exquisite sounding and playing guitar. It was just one of those "coincidences" that when I contacted you it wasn't even posted on your site yet. Guess it was supposed to come my way. Thanks ,there's a lot to like, paisan. Dennis Piecuch, Dublin NH

Joe, The "54 Dlx. Zephyr Regent arrived yesterday and what a beauty! Great job on the fretwork and set up - unbelievable action/ playability. And it's got "tone to die for" - a perfect electric compliment to the '36 Spartan I got from you last year. Many thanks. - Paul Mimlitsch, Southhampton, NJ

Hello Joe, The ES-300 and I are getting along quite well. Even with those "He-Man" strings, it plays wonderfully... The sound is right there for western-swing and early honky-tonk -- Grandad would approve! ...Thanks for presenting so many great instruments and providing fast, friendly and very knowledgeable service. This is a special guitar and I'm incredibly lucky it came my way. Cheers, Todd Myers, NYC

Joe, Just a note to thank you for this gorgeous instrument (Morgan Cutaway). I obviously had it checked out pretty thoroughly before I confirmed that I wanted it but hadn't played it very much. These last few days it is ALL I have played. The tone is so sweet and full, the harmonics are absolutely perfect and ring like bells, very unusual for harmonics at 5,7 and 12 all to ring so true to a string! I recorded this guitar for my most recent competition and was accused (in jest) of playing a piano, not a guitar! That is quite a compliment to the clean tone, the fretting and the volume of any guitar. Thanks again, Steven Ravitz, Fort Myers, Fl

Dear Joe, Archtop.com is an oasis for those of us who feel as if we're the only souls on the face of the earth who give a rat's (patootie) about whether there are any 60-to-70 year old guitars still around. Not only have you answered that question emphatically. but you've put a wonderful selection all in one place for consideration (at very reasonable prices, I feel) along with providing expert repair and advice. Hard to beat that. Thanks for your reply and good luck in the future. Sincere regards, Len Harp,Upperco, MD

Dear Joe, After a nearly a week with that beautiful (1945) L-5, I am ready to talk. Before this I was simply overwhelmed and at a loss for words. I play it as often as I can of course, which isn,t nearly enough. It is utterly fantastic, more impressive than I ever imagined it would be and it never fails to make me smile, and sometime to make my laugh out loud. Cosmetically it is nicer than any 60 year old guitar that I have ever played. The sunburst color is beautiful and the fine finish crazing gives it just the right amount of character. The sound is to die for. When played softly in the middle registers it is smooth and mellow. When played hard with big band style jazz chords it barks with authority. Carter Family bass runs and chords sound just like my old records. Aggressive Delta blues will cut through any barroom racket. It is instantly my most versatile and favorite instrument. Even the old case is way cool. Thanks for your service. You have the nicest selection of archtops that I have ever seen. I am occasionally up in Seattle and next time I am there I will let you know and try to arrange a visit. You can be sure that I am now permanently hooked on your website and I will be referring anyone who asks that way. Kamlapati Khalsa, San Jose, CA

Joe, The (1940) Triumph did not disappoint! ...I played "The Nearness of you", and My Funny Valentine", and when I played it right, the voicing was beautiful!! Thanks for all your help w/ my questions and I look forward to doing business again down the road...Guy Griffiths, Cincinatti, OH

Hi Joe, I just wanted to let you know that the '43 Epiphone Triumph arrived safely and it has all ready been put to work playing Panhandle Rag, Roly Poly, Blues For Dixie, and several fiddle tunes. Ya should have seen the fiddlers' jaws drop when I pulled the Triumph from the case! I can't wait to get back home from work so I can play my new/old Epi! Thanks! - the payment, packaging, shipping, and bridge setup instructions all worked out great. -Brian Buhman, Chicago

Dear Joe, You should know that I finished installing the guard, pickup and jack. Thanks for your help! It looks and sounds absolutely great. I will recommend your company highly. Best wishes, Peter Kessler, Woodstock, NY

Dear Joe, I've bought and sold 40 or 50 guitars in the last 15 years. ..I knew (the Michael Dunn Gypsy Jazz Guitar) would take a special effort and your clientele was where I needed to go....and you delivered quietly and quickly. Thank you for finding an appreciative home. I'm still pondering those Big Epis and hope to be purchasing soon. Ernie Pugliese, Jazz Improv Magazine, www.jazzimprov.com

Joe, Thanks again (for selling our 1930 L-5). It's been real easy. I'll definitely recommend you to both buyers & sellers. Scott Johnson, Pittsburgh Guitars

Joe, I just want to let you know, I have the PAF installed in my old 335... I've used it on an r&b gig and 2 jazz gigs thus far, and it sounds fantastic- exactly what I was looking for. I have a demo session planned for this Spring; I'll try to get you a copy of it (this pickup recorded) when I get it together. Thanks for being honest and easy to deal with. I hope to do business again soon...Thanks again, Joe Metzka, Peoria, IL

Joe, Thanks again for your help with my purchase of the '49 Gibson L-4. The action is so good, I have to make sure I practice with my metronome, because I keep ending my tunes faster than I start them. Russ Peissig, Anchorage, Alaska

Joe: Got the ('38 Triumph) on Thursday, and it really is a "BABE"!!! Thanks for putting up with my eagerness. I've been telling people about your web-site. Thanks Again, Steve Tickes, San Jose, CA

Joe, I got it and now I get it. The first "it" being the '52 Triumph Regent; the second "it" being that I now understand what all the fuss is about with your vintage archtops. The sound and action is simply stunning, best described by what I once heard someone say who had lived in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan - "Holy wow!!" After I played a few chords, my wife said, "It sounds amplified." Great projection and it rings like a bell. Speaking of amplified, the alternate pickguard with the PAF pickup produces a beautifully mellow sound with the bronze strings - just what I was looking for. The guitar made it to Abu Dhabi in great shape last night. I didn't get to bed until midnight and was up again at 5:00 a.m. this morning to play some more. Thanks for giving me an early Christmas and for keeping such beautiful instruments in commission. Please take me out of "hold" and put me in "SOLD." Mike Armour, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Joe, Thank you for being so understanding about the return. I really hated to return it as it is a very nice guitar.... Jeff Moore, Gallatin, TN

Joe, The new case for my '40 Blonde Epi DeLuxe arrived and it fits like a glove. Many thanks for recommending it as a replacement for the old, damaged case. And thanks for making the new owner of my '52 Triumph Regent a happy man. He sounds like he'll put some good mileage on a great guitar. As always, it has been a pleasure working with you and all the folks at archtop.com. Adios, David Everett, Austin, TX

Boy, have you had some nice guitars in the last few years, and I think you are responsible for the values on old Epis finally going up to a level equal to their quality... This due in large part to your terrific work with vintage Epis. You also have the hippest vintage archtop site on the web, I visit every day [often several times]. Happy Holidays, GregClayton, Dorval, Quebec PS: I should'a bought 'em ALL from you a few years ago.

Joe: I played my new (1945) Epiphone Spartan for several hours last night. It more than exceeds my expectations. My wife played it a bit too and she too was really impressed. It is most definitely a keeper. We both enjoyed embracing the vintage vibe of the guitar. It is just so cool looking. And the sound: it is round, full, and mellow, and not at all brittle. As a flattop player the challenge for me will be to learn some music appropriate for the guitar. Should be fun. Thanks again. Sincerely, Robert Forman, Gaithersburg, MD

Hi Joe, It's like falling in love all over again. The sound and the feel of the Vega (C-66) is really wonderful. So much so that it is really hard to put down when my family starts wondering where I have disappeared to. Absolutely no complaints. Thanks again for your time on the phone, sending me photos, etc. It is always a little unnerving dealing digitally, especially for this sort of purchase, but this has worked out well beyond my expectations.Thanks, Dave Cushman, Tualatin, OR

Wow! What an axe. I took it ('59 Epi Deluxe Cutaway) to my bench, slipped the bridge on and fell in love immediately. The intonation seems to be perfect and the action is as good as my Les Paul and ES347; light years beyong my Martin. In short I am a happy camper this week. Thanks for taking such good care of this great guitar and for having it to me promptly, without problems. I will be in touch as my wallet permits. I hope the holidays will be good for you and your family. Thank you again. Best regards, Jon Gary Branan, Macon, GA

Joe, ...My appreciation for all the time and care you have put into this transaction. The guitar is all I could ever dream for....I wanted you to know that I'm playing my new guitar every day and it feels so natural that it's like I've owned it all my life. It is truly all I imagined it would be and every day I look forward to coming home and practicing. I'll be recording with it over the holidays and I'll be excited to hear the results. Thanks again for everything, All the best, -Thomas Cray, Troy, Michigan

Joe-(The '55 ES-175) arrived safe and sound last delivery Friday-I have been playing all weekend. Its as smooth as a dream. Thanks, Casey Streich, Minneapolis, MN

Hello Joe, The refund check arrived today and I want to thank you for your understanding. I appreciate the way you conduct your business! Sincerely, Joe Gibson, Lititz, PA

Joe, The ('48 Triumph) guitar arrived yesterday morning. I can't seem to put it down. This might become problematic--finals week are coming up soon!! Thanks for the picture and for your fine restoration work! Neil Mattson, Detroit, MI

Hi Joe, Thanks again for the ('47) L7, I love it. I spent all weekend whomping out melody chords on swing tunes and it has the sound! Now I just need to stay away from your web site for awhile, too much temptation. Bob Murphy, Mountain Home, AR

Joe, The '36 Spartan arrived Fri. Beautiful guitar! Not only is it great looking but the playability and tone is fantastic. The fret dressing/ action are smooth as silk - kudos to your shop techs on a great set up. Best of luck and much success in your endevours in finding, restoring, and making available these musical works of art. Take care. - Paul Mimlitsch, Southhampton, NJ PS: Thanks for your patience in answering my many questions on the phone - I'm new at this "acoustic" stuff :-).

Joe,"The ('53) Triumph (Regent) has Landed"....Having been blessed over the years with the privilege of knowing and befriending many musicians, I have been witness to many a '' fine box" from those in Mark O'Connor's extensive collection to the gems that Dave Sebring would show up from Gruhn's to jam on. I have a few rather new custom guitars but I am certainly no collector... This guitar is "me"! From timbre and volume to neck action and bout, I sincerely could not have picked a better instrument to suit me. To say that I am a "satisfied customer" would be an understatement. I will echo John Bass's and David Staples's endorsement of your instruments and service. I am certain that this instrument will carry my music to a new level. Sincerely, Paige Martin, Memphis, TN

Joe - A few months ago, on your recommendation, I purchased one of your Pick Up the World piezo pickups. I needed to amplify my '48 L-5C, my working axe for big band rhythm in the Freddie Green style. I'm running it through a Fishman pre-amp, right in to the band PA, and it sounds terrific. None of the acoustic "chunk" sound has been lost, and I have no amps to lug or mic feedback to deal with. Even in small gigs, run through my Crate 60, it sounds wonderful. Thanks--you've made a working musician's life much simpler. Scott Foster, San Diego

Joe, A quick note to let you know I rec'd the (1946) Epi Triumph - Beautiful! Been having fun playing it for a couple of weeks now and enjoying every minute of it. Thanks! Walt Kalwat, Farmington, CT

Dear Joe, It's with much pleasure and satisfaction that I write to say what a beautiful 1940 Gibson L-7N you sold me. This is my 2nd instrument purchased from archtop.com and, as with the first transaction, everything was professional and customer oriented. I'm in the retail business and I appreciate your attention to detail at all levels. As to the L-7N, I told you over the phone "it just sings"--a wonderful instrument. Thanks and I wish you much success in the future. Regards, Richard Young, Staunton, VA

Dear Joe, I just want to say how pleased I am with Archtop.com. You were able to sell my guitar ('53 L-7) in just weeks, getting me an excellent price. I would highly recommend you to anyone out there. I've been a musician for 38 years, and it's really nice to see people out there doing an honest top-notch job without any bull. Thanks so much, Dr. David Williams, Louisville, CO

Whether you are buying or selling an archtop, archtop.com should be your first stop. Joe Vinikow is a pro, a straight shooter, and a pleasure to deal with. Every aspect of my sale was handled superbly. Peter Wojnar, Tarrytown, NY

Dear Joe, Late yesterday afternoon the guitar (1953 ES-175) arrived. It is more than I could have dreamed of. It is beautiful and everything you said it would be and more.Words fail me completely in trying to say how much it means to me. As you said - it is pristine condition - and sounds stunning. Thank you so very much for everything and the case and excellent packing. I will keep in touch. Thanks again, Very Best Wishes, Roshan Bharucha, London

Joe, The Tal Farlow arrived on schedule...It's a beautiful, artistically crafted instrument and it sounds so good I had trouble putting it down to write this! I have owned and played many guitars, and I have never acquired one, new or used, set up this well. The intonation is perfect and the action is set lower than any guitar in my collection with no buzzing at all. I may have to raise it, because I'm just not used to being this spoiled! I am looking forward to playing this at a gig in a couple of nights. The rest of the band will be picking up their jaws when I walk in with this! Thanks from a happy customer. Mike Baumann, Dayton, OH

Dear Joe, The DeArmond arrived in great shape and is beautiful. Put it on this evening and wow, what a sound! This old L-7 is incredible, and the new pick-up really brings out the great tones. Can't wait to take the instrument in for a tune up to bring it back to top playing condition. Thanks for your help, Dr. Richard Bostock, UC Davis, Davis, CA

Joe, The local luthier delux just dropped off my L-7 with the replacement pickguard and Kent Armstrong suspended pickup and stealth controls that I purchased from you, and he customized a non-invasive tailpin mini-jack. Lovely, lovely, lovely. My non-computer literate luthier extended glowing compliments to you and your website for the quality goods that you make available to us across the country. Thanks for doing what you do. Nick Buschmann, Carmel, IN

Joe, Received the (Dell'Arte) guitar today. The condition is, as described, excellent. Thank you very much for your attention to detail, patience and prompt service. Outstanding! Joannie Wong, San Leandro, CA

Dear Joe: I want to thank you for your honesty on both the description and the sale of the '62 Gibson ES-335 that I bought from you. I have a collection of about 30 guitars and the guitar that I bought from you is one of the finest playing and sounding guitars in the bunch. I am so glad I stumbled across you on the Internet. Sincerely, John Zinsmeyer, Newport Beach, CA

Joe, Great news! I appreciate your speedy service (on selling my L-5). ...(Y)ou obviously know how to qualify your customers. Now that I know how well your service works I'll be sure to tell everyone I know in the music business. George Keller, Floyds Knobs, IN

Hi Joe,The (L5CES) guitar was finally delivered at lunchtime today and seems to have weathered the journey unscathed! It really is as good as your web site indicates and I couldn't be more pleased...it is sitting in my office at the moment and has collected a good number of admiring glances already. You know what they say about blondes! Thanks again - it has been a pleasure dealing with you, and as a result I have now got the guitar I have coveted for a long time, and am well pleased. All the very best. Ian Ashworth, Manchester, UK

I'm enjoying using the (1964) ES-125TC that I bought from you... The guitar was a way of giving me an incentive to get back to guitar playing, since I spend most of my time composing classical music these days. Obviously I'm pleased since I haven't really played much guitar for the last 8 years - anyway thanks again for supplying the instrument to me - I haven't put it down since I bought it. Kind Regards, Malcolm Lindsay, Glasgow, Scotland

The 1951 ES 350 arrived today safely. Opening the parcel was a great experience: the first look at the case ..... and inside the case: the wonder...... true vintage: hatknobs, two P 90's, old wooden bridge in the casepocket, small marks of wear, extremely well kept, beautiful. Setting it up.........placing the bridge.......tuning up...........playing favorite jazz..... connecting the guitar to amp.........the P 90's are working great........switch is allright..........intonation fine.........frets are fine (unbelievable that they are original). Joe, I promise you I'll take good care of the guitar and play it very much. I'm very satisfied and happy. My very best wishes for you and your wonderful business. I'll keep studying your wepsite and recommend it to my friends. Greetings, Peter Moevelt, Horslunde, Denmark

Joe, I had the most amazing experience. When the guitar ('68 Johnny Smith) arrived, I had to wait for the temperature to regulate before opening it, but when I saw it, I recognized it immediately. Then, when I played it, it brought a big smile to my face. You see, when I was 10 years old I took lessons from a guy named Jerry Simms at Dale Music in Silver Spring, MD. He played a guitar that I always admired. It had a certain tone and feel. Occasionally he'd let me play it. I was so young that I didn't take note of the brand but I remembered the feel and the tone, and the headstock. Well, this is it! I didn't know that he was playing a Johnny Smith until yesterday. The neck is the best I have ever felt - very playable, marvelous acoustic tone. I even like the neck better than (my other guitar) which I never thought that I would say. But, there's something else. The guitar has resonance. When you strum it,the sound vibrates to your body. I am a happy guy! Well, enjoy the holidays. You know what I will be doing. Peace, Vince McKnight, Silver Springs, MD

Joe, The guitar ('49 Emperor) arrived today. Wow. This is a dream to play and it has a great voice. Amazing that a D'Angelico Excel sells for 3x - 4x that this does. Regards and Happy Holidays, Marty Jacobvitz, Austin, TX

Joe, Thanks you so much for consigning my '46 Epiphone Broadway archtop. Your wonderful site, quality guitars, excellent photos, in depth descriptions and great response to my questions made me very comfortable. Keep up the great work, I'll pass the good word about you and refer people to your site. All the Best, Mark Stultz, Austin, TX

Joe, The Gretsch arrived in fine condition yesterday. Thank you for the excellent packaging job.The work you did on the pick guard, pick up and stealth controls is just superb! I think this guitar will serve me well in the Big Band setting. Thanks Again! Jeffrey Barnes, Oakland, CA

Joe, The 1969 Gibson Super 400 arrived on Monday in perfect condition. I must say I am really enthusiastic about this guitar - I can hardly stop playing it. It is a real beauty (as you described it on your web site) and it has a wonderful tone, mighty and warm - this is what Jazz sounds like!! It is exactly what I have been looking for. Many thanks to you for your information and the perfect service. I´ll be happy to recommend you to my friends. And I´ll have an eye on your web site. Best wishes, Gerhard Meindl, St. Polten, Austria

Joe, I would like to extend my appreciation for your consideration and service. Thank you! Your professionalism is outshone only by your integrity and good manners... I love the (1933) L-7! Please keep me in mind...I look forward to doing business with you again. Best regards, Chris Moyer, Novi, MI

Joe, I've owned my new guitar for about a week. I am very pleased and would encourage any others to purchase here at archtop.com. The guitar was every bit as good as described, and sounds wonderful. A great way to find and buy a vintage instrument. Thanks, Joe. Tom Schwenzer, Portland, OR

Joe, I'm happy with the (1967) L-7C, loving the playability, warm tone. The neck is just right. I moved to a lighter pick and touch. I can wrap my thumb for the bass of a 13th. It's showing me how to play. Can't wait to take her out. Bruce Cowan, Port Townsend, WA

I received the guitar on Monday. It arrived in good condition and exactly as described . I appreciate the detailed discription and the additional photos that you provided . As a vintage guitar dealer and collector, I am impressed with your service . The guitar really honks . Monday night, I showed it to a couple of local players. These guys are famous, full time players and were impressed with this axe. Thanks! Jim Wood, Nashville, TN

The (Armstong PAF) pickup arrived here on friday. I put the pickup on my Sweet 16 that night and stayed up and played for a few hours and loved it! I played a gig from 5 to 8 tonight and another one from 8:30 to 10:30 at a different place and the guitar sounded so much better than before. It has more output, the strings are more balanced and even, and it is noise free. I really am glad I went for this model. Thank you very much for getting it to me so prompt. Iwant to stay up tonight and play it, but I will wait and give it a few hours tomorrow. Once again, Thanks a lot. Take care, Delbert Walling, Coldwater, MI

The guitar (1935 Triumph) has an amazing tone and my father loves the feel of the neck. The gift (to Dad) was a fantastic success. Thank you very much for your help and prompt service. I will be sure to recommend you to my musical friends. Keith Michel, Towson, MD

The guitar ('45 Triumph) arrived today and I have barely put it down. I went to a rehearsal with a University big band, and I had to hold back because the guitar was so loud. What a remarkable sounding instrument - I'm sold. Thanks for working with me. John Bass, Memphis, TN

The Gibson L10 arrived at my office, safe and sound. It's a beautiful instrument! Thanks so much for offering it and for making its acquisition such a pleasant process. I'll keep my eye on your web site... Who knows? I may once again get the urge to own another fine instrument. Best regards, Zoran Dragutinovitch, Chicago, IL

The L-7 arrived this evening safe and sound, and right on schedule. Simply put: It is magnificent! I don't know what to say, except THANK YOU! It is so beautiful. The action, intonation, set-up, frets, pickguard and pickup are all beautifully done. I love the neck, it plays like a dream. Very 50's, round and substantial, but oh, so comfortable. Beautiful, dark, amber-blonde finish, and sound! Acoustically deep, rich and LOUD! It sounds incredibly warm and fat and clear through my amp, too. You guys are the greatest! The guitar and your friendly, informative, helpful service surpassed my expectations. Thanks for the beautiful instrument, I will treasure it, and take good care of it, but most of all I'll PLAY it! Larry Camp, St. Petersburg, FL

The guitar (1952 Epi Devon) arrived yesterday in perfect condition. It's really beautiful and sounds very good: after a couple of hours I was playing it at the big band rehearsal!! I've been also playing some of Eddie Lang's and Carl Kress' of my solo repertoire and this is the sound I was looking for!!! It's incredible how good (is the) condition after almost 50 years, especially about the neck and fingerboard: the guitar it's easy and comfortable to play even with those hard strings. So thank you very much for everything. Let me know any interesting news as I'll do. Marco Parodi, Torino, Italy

The custom bound pickguard you made for my Gibson L-10 looks beautiful. What fine workmanship - thanks so much. I'm half tempted to ship my 2 archtops out for setups rather than take my chances here in the mountains of Appalachia! Tim Slaven, Staffordsville, VA (A few months later, he did just that. Thanks, Tim! -jv)

The Deluxe arrived Thursday afternoon... It is beautiful in every way. -- after playing electrics and even Johnny Smith all these years this thing is a revelation. So light, so loud ... I have played "April Kisses" over and over since the guitar arrived and it never sounded like this on my JS, in fact it seems to play differently, almost like the guitar knows how it should go. Thanks, and regards, Jeff Williams, Taipei, Taiwan

The Epi Deluxe arrived on 15 Nov. and last night I play this my new guitar at small party. I am crazy about the Epi. This guitar sounds very similar to Teddy Bunn's. Thank you very much. Tomotaka JIRO Matsui, Osaka JAPAN

Thank You. Got the guitar (1964 Gibson L-50) Friday afternoon. It's everything you said and more! I tried steel strings on it Saturday and went immediately back to the bronze. You had it set up just right. Many Thanks, Clint Oakley, Miami, Fl

I'm really pleased with your help and knowledge. I couldn't be more satisfied. And thanks again for your extra effort to get it (1944 Triumph) boxed up for my trip home. I'll send people your way whenever I can. Use me as a reference anytime. Regards, Jim Hennings, San Clemente, CA

My new guitar (1935 Broadway) is stunning...I haven't put it down all weekend. Thanks so much for finding it and selling it to me. The sound is completely unique...great thumping rhythm, clear as a bell single notes all over the fretboard. Plus it's lovely to look at. Take care, Doug McKenna, Seattle

I'm writing to say how much I'm enjoying the 1940 Epiphone Triumph I recently purchased from you. The rich woody tone and great volume are amazing! The set up work and polishing you did was a nice added touch and the price was fair. I'm looking forward to many years of playing this fine guitar. Best wishes, Dean Nissen, Seattle

Thank you for the beautiful 1933 Gibson L7. It's a real pleasure to play... (It) is wonderfully playable... the bright, clear sound and small body size makes it a great instrument for study of Eddie Lang's work. Your workmanship on the pickguard assembly is phenomenal - ingenious assembly, unbelievably perfect placement, and perfect ratio of hardness to flexibility in the pickguard material. The care you take with these sort of details really brings the instrument to life, and is so important, yet rarely encountered these days. Josh Gordon, NYC

Thank You. Got the guitar (1964 Gibson carved-top) Friday afternoon. It's everything you said and more! I tried steel strings on it Saturday and went immediately back to the bronze. You had it set up just right. Many Thanks, Clint Oakley, Miami, Fl

I received the "Broadway". I'm thrilled! This guitar is 100% in better condition than the local guitar I had been lusting after. The sound is wonderful and the children at school where thrilled with the first" music circle" we had with the new old guitar. Thanks "Mr Richard" Leavitt, San Mateo, CA

Thanks for sending the (DeArmond) pick-up so fast. It sounds great, very warm and vintage sounding. Thanks again, Ben Tyzack, London, England

I received the (L-7C) pickguard assembly Monday. You did a wonderful job, nice work... very nice. Thanks for the fine job. Looks great! Tom Cotter, Brattleboro, VT

Been playing the instrument (Yamaha Martin Taylor) a lot -- one of the things that is great about it is that it's so well balanced. I've never played an acoustic/electric instrument that had so a good high "E" -- firm but not shrill. The guitar is perfectly set up for me. It's the first instrument that let me play fingerstyle jazz with both the nuances and sufficient volume. Clyde Spillenger, Los Angeles,CA

The guitar and the DeArmond mike arrived on Tuesday. The description for this L-48 which you described on your web site is correct! I was excited to receive this clean and good playability L-48! Thank you for your kind assistance. I hope to have a relation with you continuously. Thanks again, Harry Takemoto / Stringphonic Guitar Company, Osaka, Japan

Just a quick note to let you know that my tech has finished installing the pickup I got from you (Kent Armstrong humbucker) in my 1950 blonde L-7C. I also got a refret and a bridge refit (to match the top contour). I've got to say "Wow!" The acoustic tone is better and the amplified tone is super... It has the sound I wanted...Lucky decision! Al Sato, Austin, TX

And thanks again to all our kind correspondents. You've made our mission a real pleasure! Best, Joe Vinikow, archtop.com

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