Boutique guitars

**jono** · #1 11-19-2007, 04:06 AM

Tom Anderson used to be the king of the hill when it came to boutique superstrats, but now a lot of folks seem to think the John Suhr is the guy to go to.

Which do you think is the best. I've included a couple of othe brands that I've tried as well just in case I'm way off the mark

markg5150 · #2 11-19-2007, 04:39 AM

John Suhr all the way !!!!

The attention to detail is astonishing, the best maple tops around and awesome build quality.

James Tyler would be my 2nd choice

DavyH · #3 11-19-2007, 08:13 AM

Everything you know about boutique guitars is.......

Seriously, Zachary should probably be on the list.

What would I know about boutique guitars anyway? That's yet another thing that is never - not 'rarely' - seen here.

**GilkyBear** · #4 11-19-2007, 09:52 AM

I have been incredibly impressed with most of the Suhrs I have seen. McNaught's look quite tasty too without the gaudy inlays.

**jim777** · #5 11-19-2007, 10:22 AM

To be honest, I think there's only so much you can do with a solid body guitar. I've played a few Andersons, and they are pretty nice, but not exactly a religious experience. I've played Suhrs, Tylers, Zions, and a few others as well. I think the big payoff in hand detailing comes in the archtop arena. I honestly wouldn't trade my VWH for an Anderson or a Suhr. The VWH is perfect once you swap out the pickups.

But I have played some spectacular PRSs, though. A good PRS is a wonderous thing.

**GilkyBear** · #6 11-19-2007, 11:25 AM

Very true Jim. I am GASing hard for a rosewood necked McCarty or even better a Modern Eagle. A hollowbody with piezos is on the short list too.

markg5150 · #7 11-19-2007, 12:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jim777

But I have played some spectacular PRSs, though. A good PRS is a wonderous thing.

True, but there are some duff PRS's out there too.

As well as playability, build & tone a key part of the "boutique" maker is appearance - which often means figured maple tops. IMHO PRS tops are very variable in quality. Modern Eagle's and Private Stock are great but other's aren't, even some 10 Tops.

**jaxadam** · #8 11-19-2007, 03:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jim777

A good PRS is a wonderous thing.

Yes sir, it sure is. I have played quite an enormous amount of PRSs all through the 90's, and there really weren't any I could complain about.

**jaxadam** · #9 11-19-2007, 03:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by markg5150

True, but there are some duff PRS's out there too.

As well as playability, build & tone a key part of the "boutique" maker is appearance - which often means figured maple tops. IMHO PRS tops are very variable in quality. Modern Eagle's and Private Stock are great but other's aren't, even some 10 Tops.

This is very sad but true nowadays.

**jim777** · #10 11-19-2007, 06:19 PM

I wouldn't pay extra for a 10 top; it doesn't affect the sound. It might look pretty, and I'd take one if given to me free, but I generally don't pay extra for that kind of thing.

**jaxadam** · #11 11-20-2007, 02:27 PM

Especially with some of the 10 tops I've seen on them lately. My '96 CU22 doesn't even have a 10 top on it, but I would put money down saying that it is just as good if not better than some of the "10 tops" I've seen on the '06's.

supermau · #12 11-20-2007, 03:03 PM

I've only tried Melancon's from what's on your list. Melancon's are less "SuperStrats" and more regular Strat's (with an original twist) the blow away the common Fender Strat. His workmansip and attention to detail are absolutely top and his necks are killer. Can't say anything bad about 'em.

I have a Melancon on order that should be here before the end of this month. I can't wait to start my second "new guitar day" thread!!!

I should add that Suhr looks like a great builder though I've never touched one. They look top.

540s · #13 11-29-2007, 05:48 PM

My old Pensa/Suhr is one of the few that got away that I regret letting go of... It was a very well crafted guitar.

OLIE_ROCKS_THE_80'S · #14 11-29-2007, 06:06 PM

I have never been big on Boutique guitars!!! They are nice but they don't give me anything other guitars wouldn't and their price tags are quite hefty!!!

The Euphor · #15 11-29-2007, 06:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by OLIE_ROCKS_THE_80'S

I have never been big on Boutique guitars!!! They are nice but they don't give me anything other guitars wouldn't and their price tags are quite hefty!!!

Well, you can get it in the color you want. Unlike Ibanez.