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